By Soren Rivero
Did you know the great city of Porto is also referred to as “invicta”, meaning “invincible?”
Porto is a charming city that captivates visitors with its rich history, intricate blue and white azulejos (tiles), majestic churches, and riverside cafés, offering many ways to explore without stretching your wallet. Here’s a guide to free things to do in Porto that let you soak up the city's unique atmosphere.
Ribeira
Situated near the banks of the Douro River, Ribeira is Porto's oldest and most charming neighbourhood. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Ribeira is a delightful blend of vibrant, timeworn houses, bustling cafés, and towering historic churches. Wander through its narrow, winding streets to immerse yourself in local life, or take in a panoramic view of the neighbourhood from a boat cruise along the river.
Museums
Porto’s museums offer free entrance on the first Sunday of each month from 10 am to 1 pm, perfect for discovering the city’s culture on a budget. Don’t miss highlights like the Port Wine Museum, which provides insight into the city’s famous export, or the Serralves Foundation, known for its modern art collections and beautiful gardens. For history enthusiasts, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis offers a glimpse into Portuguese art, while the Tram Museum explores Porto’s iconic transportation history.
Travel tip: The Porto Card provides free access to 11 museums and other discounts, ideal for culture lovers.
Crystal Palace Gardens
Overlooking the Douro River, the Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal) are a lush retreat within the city. Designed in the 19th century, these gardens feature a series of themed areas, including an aromatic garden, a medicinal plant garden, a romantic rose garden, and the peaceful “Garden of Feelings.” Enjoy free access to scenic walking paths, verdant spaces, and serene views of Porto from above.
Bolhão Market
Established in 1914 and located close to Avenida dos Aliados, Bolhão Market is a bustling spot where locals come to buy fresh produce, seafood, meats, and flowers. This market is a sensory feast and an excellent place to experience Porto’s authentic flavours and culture, even if you’re just browsing. It’s open every day except Sunday, making it one of the most accessible free things to do in Porto!
Beaches
Porto's coastline offers beautiful beaches along the Costa Verde, just a quick tram ride from the city. Matosinhos, Porto’s main beach, is famous for its wide, sandy shore and good surf conditions. For something a bit different, visit the striking Senhor da Pedra beach, home to a charming chapel set on a rock extending into the ocean, making for a picturesque and serene day out.
Fado Music
Portugal’s iconic fado music, with its melancholic melodies and soulful lyrics, provides a unique soundtrack to Porto’s streets. Originating as far back as the 1820s, fado captures themes of love, loss, and longing. Experience this expressive genre for free at cafés and public spots around the city, particularly in the Ribeira district, for an immersive cultural experience.
Dom Luís I Bridge
This iconic iron bridge, completed in 1886 and designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, is a marvel of engineering and a fantastic spot for those seeking the best views of Porto. Connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, the upper deck of the Dom Luís I Bridge is a popular pedestrian walkway that offers panoramic vistas of the Douro River, the terracotta rooftops, and the city’s rolling hills. Walk this bridge and enjoy not only a free thing to do in Porto, but also a very romantic and scenic one.
Portuguese Centre of Photography
Set within a former 18th-century prison, the Portuguese Centre of Photography offers both historical context and an engaging display of photographic works. Explore exhibitions spanning various themes and eras, and learn about Camilo Castelo Branco, a prominent figure in Portuguese literature, who was once imprisoned here. This cultural centre is free to enter and provides a unique perspective on both art and history.
A Note on Porto's Churches:
While Porto’s many churches are often free to enter, some of the most famous ones, like the Church of São Francisco and the Clerigos Tower, charge a small entry fee. However, the exteriors alone are worth admiring, as these architectural treasures provide ample photo opportunities and insight into Porto’s religious heritage.
