Porto is a bustling tourism hub adored by locals, best explored sans rental vehicle to fully experience its vibrant charm. Traveling throughout this enchanting city is more enjoyable when you meander through narrow alleyways and view the cityscape from breathtaking miradouros (lookout points) and rooftops. The small yet hilly city boasts panoramic views for those who venture to the top. Anyone interested in witnessing the splendor of Porto from afar can venture over the Ponte de Luis I, one of the city’s six bridges. Occasionally, wheels are necessary. Public options include buses, trams, and the metro. Alternatively, hail a taxi or book a ride with Uber or Bolt.

One of the ways to truly transform your trip is to chat with locals. A naturally friendly and welcoming community, Tripeiros (tripe-eaters, as locals are called) hold the best advice for enjoying the best meals, entertainment, and other quests. While Portuguese will get you far, roughly 30% of the population speaks English fluently. Even with language barriers, you’ll find many people going out of their way to grace you with Porto’s famous hospitality. So enjoy those random conversations filled with smiles, pride, advice, and little-known facts.

From arroz de mariscos (succulent and flavorful seafood rice served in a hot pot) to the steaming plates of tripe or the famed francesinha, a cheesy, meat-filled sandwich topped with a tomato and beer sauce, you will find comfort food reigns supreme. Non-meat eaters can rejoice as the city’s international selections incorporate tasty vegetarian and vegan delights from brunch to dinner. 

While Porto is home to 29 Michelin-starred restaurants, the area features some of the best eateries at affordable prices, including the menu do dia or menu of the day featuring two or three courses and a beverage for as little as €7.50. For a truly local experience, sample savory or sweet pastries from one of the many cafes and pastelarias along with coffee.

Porto’s weather can be gloomy and rainy in the winter, and while not typically too hot in the summer, the city is filled to the brim with tourists. According to the locals, the best time to enjoy their beloved city is from March to May or September to November. The best part about touring the city during these times is you’ll have more opportunities to capture the stunning surroundings and popular sites without the need to crop out others.

Your trip to Porto would not be complete without sampling the libation the city is known for—Port wine, which ranges from a pale yellow, tawny, or ruby color. Take a wine tour along the Douro River and visit a winery in the Douro Valley, too. If you’re limited in time, you can also find many wineries in Gaia, just across the river. As you walk or ride along the 557-mile stretch, see if you can spot the rabelo boats, a traditional wooden cargo boat that, for centuries, transported people and goods, namely wine, along the Douro River.