While planning my summer solo adventure in Portugal, I found myself torn between Lisbon and Porto, a dilemma that many travelers face. However, Porto’s laid-back medieval charm, vibrant culture, and incredible culinary scene ultimately won me over. The city’s historic streets, riverside beauty, and world-famous Port wine made it an irresistible addition to my itinerary.
Is Porto really the perfect city for Solo travel?
Based on my solo trip experience to Porto, the answer is a resounding yes! Porto is an excellent destination for both male and female solo travelers, thanks to its safe and welcoming atmosphere, walkability, affordability, and rich cultural experiences.
Porto is one of the safest cities in Europe, and its locals exude a relaxed and friendly vibe. Even if you don’t speak Portuguese, you’ll find that people are willing to help. However, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases like “Olá” (hello), “Obrigado/Obrigada” (thank you), and “De nada” (you’re welcome) can go a long way in making connections.
While Porto is known for its steep inclines, it is surprisingly accessible thanks to its efficient transport system and well-designed sidewalks. As a solo traveler with a mobility-related disability, I initially had some apprehensions, but Porto quickly proved to be more accommodating than I expected. For effortless travel around the city, I highly recommend getting the Andante Card, an integrated transport pass that provides access to buses, the metro, and suburban trains, making solo exploration even easier.
Porto’s charm, accessibility, and warmth make it an ideal choice for solo travelers, no matter your travel style or experience level!
Discover Porto’s Landscapes History and Architectural Charm
This city has plenty to offer and traveling alone in Porto is never boring. It boasts a unique combination of having the Douro riverfront and the 17 beaches by the majestic Atlantic ocean. Combining a laid back old world charm with formidable natural beauty, it will captivate any visitor with its stunning architecture, cobbled streets and the iconic monuments. The blue and white azulejo tiles that are ubiquitous in its monuments add a very unique hue to Porto’s charm.
It is also a paradise for shoppers with bustling shopping streets like Rua de Santa Catarina which combines street shopping with iconic global brands.
Beyond the natural beauty, sunsets and the rich culture and architecture, Porto boasts an incredible culinary scene. The city possesses a unique combination of fresh seafood delights along with an enviable selection of inland treats like Francesinha sandwich and Tripas à Moda do Porto. And when one is in the mood for dessert, Pastel de Nata is there to accompany you. Porto is also home to an enviable range of wine, including the famous Port wine which seamlessly blends with most of the dishes.
Let me share some solo travel tips for Porto with you.
Is Porto safe for solo travelers?
Porto is generally considered a very safe city with a low crime rate as compared to many other urban areas of Europe. It is currently ranked as the 5th safest city in Portugal for women to live, with an overall safety rating of 4.1 out of 5.
Coupled with a friendly atmosphere created by the welcoming locals, it makes for a perfect destination for solo travel. I never felt unsafe during my time in the city even when walking around at night. The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, and public transportation is reliable and straightforward.
However, please don’t throw your common sense out of the window. Avoid straying into deserted streets alone late into the night and stay a bit vigilant of petty theft in crowded areas like the Sao Bento transport hub or the Douro riverfronts.
Porto’s Must-Visit Places for Solo Adventurers
Let me help you with some of the best solo travel destinations in Porto, perfect for exploring alone while soaking in the vibes while exploring.
Things to do in Porto
[1] Ribeira District, for Scenic Strolls & Riverside Vibes
Porto’s historic heart is perfect for solo travelers who love walking along the Douro River, admiring colorful buildings, and unwinding at a café with cimbalino (espresso) and Pastel de Nata. Grab a drink at a riverside bar and enjoy the view of the Dom Luís I Bridge. I also suggest that you take a walk across this iconic double decker bridge, soak in the vibes of the riverfront and catch the scenic sunset. The bridge looks even more elegant once the lights come out.
[2] Clerigos Tower, For Breathtaking Views
Climb the 225 steps for a splendid 360° panoramic view of Porto. It is an ideal solo spot to take in the city’s rooftops, cathedral, and the Douro River. Although I gave this climb a miss as it was pretty challenging, I highly recommend you give this a go, the view at the top is worth the effort!
[3] Chapel of Souls: Porto’s Stunning Blue-Tiled Gem
One of Porto’s most breathtaking landmarks, famous for its striking blue-and-white azulejo tiles that cover its exterior and depicts many scenes from the lives of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine. A must-visit for solo travelers, it’s a perfect spot for photography and a quiet moment of admiration amidst the city’s buzz. Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds! I had ended up being lost in time here while clicking photos and admiring this masterpiece which reminded me of Goa in my home country.
[4] São Bento Railway Station, A Cultural Gem
No you don’t need to take a train! Visit this iconic station to admire its incredible azulejo tile murals, which depict Portugal’s history. It is a great place to snap photos and soak in local culture. Visiting a railway station without having a train to catch seemed odd to me as well, but I ended up spending 30 minutes here admiring the vibes and clicking photos!
[5] Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, A Peaceful Retreat
Perfect for solo travelers looking for a quiet escape with amazing river views and hidden gardens. Bring a book or a journal if you want! This place has plenty of rest spots, and I used this garden as a perfect spot to relax in between my Porto day trip!
[6] Foz do Douro, a Solo Sunset Spot
Take a tram to this coastal neighborhood, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Walk along the promenade, watch surfers, and enjoy a peaceful solo sunset by the lighthouse. If you are a beach lover like me, Porto has 17 beaches to choose from, with the most recommended being Praia de Matosinhos and Praia dos Ingleses. I had visited the Praia dos Ingleses to catch a memorable sunset by the North Atlantic!
[7] Vila Nova de Gaia, Port Wine Tasting with a View
A quick walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge brings you to Port wine cellars, where you can join a guided tasting tour or enjoy a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking Porto’s skyline. While I participated in a day-long guided tour to the wine district of Douro valley, you can choose your tour as per your itinerary.
[8] Hop on a Douro River Cruise or the cable car
Hop on a six bridges river cruise for stunning views of Porto from the water. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the city from its waters. You can also choose the Porto cable car if you want a bird’s eye view. While a popular 1 hour cruise costs around 18 Euros, a one way cable car costs about 7 Euros.
[9] Livraria Lello, a Must-Visit for Book Lovers
Often called one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is a must-visit in Porto. Founded in 1906, this neo-Gothic gem features an ornate red staircase, intricate woodwork, stained-glass skylight, and towering bookshelves that create a magical atmosphere. Its enchanting design is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s famous Harry Potter series while she lived in Porto!
[10] Serralves Museum & Gardens, for Art & Nature Lovers
This contemporary art museum is solo-travel friendly, with fascinating exhibitions, a pink Art Deco mansion, and lush gardens to explore at your own pace. Its modern art collection in minimalist white galleries, and performances of music & dance will captivate the art lover in you.
[11] Mercado do Bolhão, for Local Food & Culture
This historic market is great for solo foodies, with fresh seafood, pastries, and traditional Portuguese snacks. Chat with vendors and try pastel de nata with a coffee. If you want to immerse yourself in the local cuisine in a non touristy setting, then spare some time for this local market.
How to Meet Locals and Fellow Travelers in Porto
Solo travel in Porto doesn’t mean being alone! The city has a warm and welcoming vibe, making it easy to connect with both locals and fellow travelers. Meeting locals or making friends in Porto is easier than you might guess.
[1] Stay in Social Hostels
Porto has amazing hostels that foster a sense of community through group dinners, pub crawls, and walking tours. Some of the most recommended ones are Gallery hostel, The House of Sandeman Hostel & Suites and Yes! Porto Hostel.
Discover the best Hostels in Porto
[2] Visit Local Markets and Cafés
Strike up a conversation with vendors at Mercado do Bolhão or sit at a cozy café like Majestic Café or Combi Coffee, many locals love sharing recommendations if you ask! For example, while having lunch during my day trip, I made friends with a person working at the restaurant while asking for food recommendations. Turns out he’s a software engineer just like me and was working there alongside his studies at Porto! The world is surprisingly small!
[3] Visit Co-Working Spaces or Digital Nomad Meetups
If you work remotely or just want to meet interesting people, check out co-working spaces like Selina Navis or join a Porto digital nomad meetup.
[4] Say Hello!
The old school and maybe the easiest way to meet people! Just start a conversation when appropriate. Portuguese people are friendly, and fellow travelers are usually open to making connections. A simple “Olá!” or a question about the best local dish can lead to great conversations. I made friends with three of my tour guides while exchanging notes about the best places to visit in Portugal and India!
Money Saving tips for Solo Travelers in Porto
Traveling solo in Porto is not only enriching but can also be surprisingly affordable with the right approach. From local eateries to budget-friendly accommodations in Porto, here are some smart money saving tips to help you make the most of your solo adventure without overspending.
[1] Use ATMs Instead of Currency Exchange Booths
I would advise travellers to avoid airport kiosks and tourist area currency exchange counters. ATMs generally offer better exchange rates, but do check with your bank the foreign transaction fees that they levy.
[2] Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses
Porto has fantastic boutique guesthouses and hostels that offer affordable prices and a chance to meet fellow travelers. Some of the best ones are Gallery Hostel, Passenger Hostel and Selina Porto.
[3] Join Walking Tours
There are several “pay-what-you-wish” walking tours in the city. They are a great way to learn the history and get local tips. Porto is a pretty walkable city, and the vintage trams are a charming and affordable way to explore.
[4] Eat Where Locals Eat
Skip touristy riverside cafés and head inland for traditional tascas (local taverns) where hearty meals come at affordable rates. Some of the best localities are Bonfim, Cedofeita, Matosinhos and São Bento area.
[5] Free Entry Days
Some museums and attractions have free entry days, like the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis on Sundays and the Serralves Museum on the first Sunday of each month.
Solo Travel Activities in Porto: What to Do Alone
Whether you love getting lost in charming streets, enjoying local food, or soaking in breathtaking views, Porto has a plethora of activities for every solo adventurer. I suggest the below for memorable solo travel Porto experiences.
Best Walking Tours in Porto
[1] Take a Wine Tasting Tour
Head to Vila Nova de Gaia for a Port wine tasting. Many tours are group-based, making it easy to chat with fellow wine enthusiasts. Try Graham’s Lodge or Espaço Porto Cruz for a great experience. Did you know Porto is home to several varieties of wine like Ruby, Tawny, Rose and Vintage port, that are produced in Douro Valley and aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.
[2] Experience Porto’s Nightlife
Porto’s nightlife is vibrant, and bar-hopping in areas like Galerias de Paris Street is a great way to meet people. For a lively social activity, join a pub crawl or visit iconic spots like The Gin House or Capela Incomum (a bar in a former chapel!).
Best Spots to get your photos clicked
Whether you love riverfronts, marvelous architecture or verdant gardens, Porto is full of stunning backdrops to get your photo clicked. Let me share some unique spots with you
Dom Luís I Bridge
Capture the iconic metal arch with the Douro River flowing beneath. The view from the top level is epic during sunset. I had the privilege of witnessing the sun set by the Douro and the city kick into life with the lights coming on.
Ribeira District
The colorful riverside houses and boats offer a postcard worthy background.
Livraria Lello
A dreamy neo Gothic bookstore that inspired parts of Harry Potter. Early visits are less crowded and ideal for photos.
Clérigos Tower
Climb up for panoramic city views. Great for a proud solo traveler’s shot! Although I gave this climb a miss I strongly recommend that you go for it!
São Bento Railway Station
Its blue and white azulejo tiles make a beautiful, uniquely Portuguese backdrop. I have countless photos clicked at this spot.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Peaceful gardens with city and river views, ideal for nature plus skyline photos.
Why Porto is the Ultimate Solo Travel Destination
Reflecting on my solo trip, I would say Porto is more than just a city; it is an experience that invites solo travelers to discover, connect, and reflect. With its charming streets, historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and warm locals, Porto offers something for everyone, whether you are a food lover, an art enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a peaceful escape.
From wandering through picturesque neighborhoods like Rua de Santa Catarina to indulging in wine tastings, from soaking in stunning views at Luis Bridge to exploring Porto’s rich heritage, every corner of this city feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored. And the best part? Porto’s welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy the freedom and adventure of solo travel.
Besides its many charms, Porto also proves to be a base for popular day trips like ones to the verdant Douro valley and the enchanting twin cities of Guimaraes and Braga.
I never understood how time flew by during my time in the city and I was surely reluctant to leave. Whether you book yourself walking tours or choose to stroll along the cobbled streets like me, a Porto solo trip will surely keep any traveller captivated.
Remember that Porto is a city of inclines, so wear your comfortable shoes, and have a light backpack to keep your hands free! I would advise to carry a light jacket and an umbrella as it can suddenly get a bit cold and start drizzling. You should also have a refillable water bottle, power adaptor and a power bank with you. The incessant photography quickly wears down the mobile battery.
So pack your bags, embrace the beauty of Porto, and set off on your next unforgettable solo adventure. You will be delighted.
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