ELLE Escapes: Porto

It’s not your imagination: practically everyone, it seems, has been Instagramming from Portugal lately. And while many checked out Lisbon for the capital vibes, or decamped to the Algarve for the beaches, others headed to Porto, the nation’s second largest city that has become a hub for tech, art, design, and, perhaps unsurprisingly, remote work. Geographically blessed with prime access to both the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean, Porto has some of the best seafood—and therefore some of the best dining—that you’ll find in Europe. And with prices cheaper than other major travel destinations like France and Italy, it’s quickly become a go-to place for younger travelers on a budget. Below, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Porto.

What to See

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Livraria Lello

This bookstore, dubbed “the most beautiful bookstore in the world,” is rumored to have been J. K. Rowling’s inspiration for Hogwarts. Whether or not that’s true, it certainly lives up to its “most beautiful” title, with floating staircases and books in every language.

Almada 13

Ignore the kitschy stands along the Douro hawking cheap ceramics and jewelry and head to Almada 13 for all your souvenirs. The small shop sells ceramics, art, jewelry, and other wares by local artists, and everything is well-priced and impossibly beautiful.

Douro River

For breathtaking views of Porto’s famous bridges, head to the banks of the Douro River. Take a bottle of wine and some delicious Portuguese sandwiches for the perfect picnic.

Where to Eat

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Vinha Restuarant

Portugal is known for its cod recipes, but the salted cod at Vinha, a beautifully decorated fine dining restaurant run by Michelin-starred Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, is the best we’ve ever tasted. That, combined with the ambiance and service, makes it a certified favorite. Make sure you save room for the famous Portuguese pudding.

Mito

Cozy wine bars serving gourmet tapas abound in Porto, but Mito is special. The restaurant serves high-quality food like octopus, bone marrow, and sea bass in a casual setting with affordable prices. As one Yelp reviewer put it, “I don’t think Mito has a Michelin star, but, if they keep this up, they’ll get one in no time.”

A Certain Café

A charming café filled with light situated outside of the busy tourist area, A Certain Café makes a mean brunch, whether you order the yogurt and granola bowl or the burrata croissant. It’s also great people-watching for local digital nomads.

Where to Drink

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Galeria de Paris

If you want a night out, Galeria de Paris is your place. Most evenings you can catch bands playing live music—everything from traditional Portuguese tunes to Oasis and Radiohead covers—and the crowd is a fun mix of locals and tourists, all drinking and dancing in harmony.

Genuíno

Small plates, local wines, and a cozy interior. What more could you want? Grab a glass of natural orange wine at Genuíno and team it with the can’t-miss Basque cheesecake.

Base Porto

For nights when the weather is warm and there’s no threat of rain, head to Base Porto, a large outdoor park and bar in the center of the city, with sweeping views of the Clerigos Church and Tower and weekend DJ sets.

Where to Stay

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Vinha Boutique Hotel

Vinha Boutique Hotel is the perfect hotel for anyone looking for a little R&R, Portuguese style. With a pool overlooking the Douro River, a restaurant run by a Michelin-starred chef and a Sisley Paris spa, it’s the perfect place to return to after a day spent trekking the hills of Porto’s downtown.

Torel Palace Porto

For a centrally located luxury five-star experience, Torel Palace is your best bet. With a spa, restaurant, and pool all within striking distance of the city’s most popular sightseeing destinations, you’ll feel like the queen of Porto.

Exmo. Hotel

For a hotel with a cozier vibe, check out Exmo. Hotel, situated in a traditional building across from the Infante Dom Henrique monument. Treat yourself to a suite with a balcony with stunning views of the river.

Beauty Picks

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