What to do in Porto in Winter?

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal and one of the most visited in the country. Although most people prefer to visit Porto in the summer and spring, winter is also an excellent time to explore the city. During this season, there are fewer tourists, and enjoying most of the typical summer activities is still possible.

The climate in Porto isn’t too cold, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F). The main challenge will be the rain, which can be abundant. However, even with rain, the city offers many attractions suitable for winter visits. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of things to do in Porto during this season.

We love Porto, and as locals from the “Invicta” (a nickname given to Porto due to its history of resistance), where we studied and lived, we know all the hidden gems, tricks, and what’s worth doing—and how to do it—in Porto.

An extensive urban landscape from Porto, Portugal, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings with red roofs. Remarkable milestones like a large cathedral and a bridge are visible. In the foreground, find out a vibrant art of graphite in a wall painted with bright colors — truly capturing the essence of
Porto rooftops in Winter

Why visiting Porto in Winter?

Porto is a beautiful city that is worth visiting all year round. In the summer, you can enjoy the warm and sunny weather, but coming in winter has its advantages. The main benefit is the lower number of tourists. While the city is packed with visitors in the summer and significant attractions have long queues (Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello, Majestic), this isn’t the case in winter.

Another advantage of visiting Porto in winter is that hotels and flights are cheaper. November, December, January, and February correspond to the low season in Porto, which means you can spend less money compared to the summer.

Additionally, traditional Porto and Northern Portugal food is especially appreciated in winter. Heartier dishes, such as “tripas” and “francesinha,” are perfect for enjoying on a cold winter’s day, providing comfort and satisfaction.

The elevated view of the Dom Louis I Bridge in Porto, Portugal, on a cloudy winter day. The two-story iron bridge runs through the Douro River, connecting the cities of Gaia Port and New Village. The bottom features colorful and cluster buildings and a cloudy horizon — one of the tender charming things to do.
View of Port, D. Louis Bridge, and Ribeira area in Winter

How is the weather in Porto during winter?

Winter is Portugal’s coldest and rainiest season. The minimum temperatures in Porto range between 5 and 10°C (41 and 50°F), while the maximum is between 12 and 16°C (54 and 61°F). Although it’s not too cold compared to other countries with harsher winters, the cold in Portugal is humid, which makes it feel like it seeps into your bones.

This humid cold is typical of coastal cities, which can make the perceived temperature feel colder than the numbers suggest. Therefore, we recommend wearing warm clothes and a good windbreaker.

December is the rainiest month, with possibly several consecutive days of heavy rain. Remember that the days are also shorter, with the sun setting around 5-6 PM.

Despite the chance of rain and shorter days, Porto also enjoys clear, sunny days during the winter, offering perfect moments to explore the city outdoors. These unexpected sunny days bring exceptional beauty to Porto and make walking through the historic streets even more enjoyable.

A large historical complex of monasteries with white buildings and red roofs is situated on a rocky slope under a cloudy sky. The foreground features a modern extension in the lower right, reminiscent of contemporary architecture seen in Porto.
The Serra do Pilar monastery in Porto in the winter.

Things to do in Porto in Winter

#1 Visit the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace)

The Palácio da Bolsa is one of Porto’s most beautiful monuments. Although the building’s façade is not impressive, its interior surprises every visitor. A standout feature is the Arab Room, inspired by Islamic decoration, with rich golden details and arabesques. Another highlight is the Pátio das Nações, an impressive area covered by a glass dome decorated with the coats of arms of various countries.

Palácio da Bolsa was constructed in a neoclassical style between 1842 and 1910. This space served as a meeting point for merchants to discuss business and as the headquarters for Porto’s Commercial Association. The building was designed to reflect the city’s prosperity and commercial importance.

Guided tours of the palace, lasting around 30 minutes, are available in several languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, French, and English. However, online reservations may not be available, so checking the official website for more details is advisable.

A historic building with a clock tower and symmetrical architecture is under a light blue sky. In the foreground, there is a statue on top of a white pedestal. Green trees and well-care gardens surround the structures, capturing the essence of the Winter in Porto
Palace Palace Building in Porto

#2 São Francisco Church

Close to the Palácio da Bolsa is the Church of São Francisco. This Gothic church, built in the 14th century, stands out from typical churches. Its Baroque interior is covered in impressive gilded woodwork (talha dourada), coating the walls, columns, chapels, and even ceilings, giving the impression that everything is covered in gold.

In addition to its lavish decoration, the church’s catacombs, which contain the remains of members of the order and Porto’s nobility, also include an ossuary with thousands of human bones, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Entry to the church and catacombs costs €7.50, but we believe it is well worth the visit. In winter, given the lower number of tourists, it’s especially easy to explore.

A group of people are near the entrance of a historic stone church with intricate notches and a large window of rose above the door. The building, one of the unmissable places when considering
São Francisco Church

#3 Casa do Infante

Casa do Infante is one of the oldest buildings in Porto, where Infante Dom Henrique, known as Henry the Navigator, is believed to have been born. This Portuguese prince was one of the main figures responsible for Portugal’s maritime expansion in the 15th century, encouraging exploration and the Age of Discoveries, which played a crucial role in world history.

The building has served various functions throughout its history, such as a residence for official royal visits, the city’s former Customs House, and the Mint. Today, it houses the Porto Museum, which explores the city’s history in an engaging and interactive way. It offers an excellent opportunity to learn about Porto and its role in global trade and the Age of Discoveries. The museum also offers guided tours; the entrance fee is €4.

After visiting the Casa do Infante, if the weather is favorable, we recommend exploring the Ribeira district, one of the city’s most beautiful areas. If it’s raining, consider taking the bridges cruise to admire the Douro River and its iconic bridges—an equally unforgettable experience.

A stone interior with arches and a staircase attracts you. The space features textured stone walls, a curved staircase that takes down and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
Interior of Porto Museum at Infant’s home in Porto

#4 Bridges Cruise

In winter, especially on rainy days, a great way to explore the Ribeira area of Porto is by taking a Bridges Cruise. This cruise sails along the Douro River, allowing you to admire the banks of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, passing by five iconic bridges: Arrábida Bridge, Dom Luís I Bridge, Dom Infante Bridge, Maria Pia Bridge, and Freixo Bridge.

The tour lasts 50 minutes and is usually done on a Rabelo boat, traditionally used to transport barrels of Port wine from the Douro region to the cellars on the river’s southern bank. Versions that include a fado show or lunch on board provide an immersive experience, combining the beauty of the Douro River with the rich Portuguese culture.

At other times of the year, we also recommend the Douro River Cruise, which goes upriver to Régua and offers stunning views of the Douro vineyards. However, this journey is not possible during winter, as the Douro dams close for maintenance due to weather conditions, preventing the route.

A traditional boat is moored to a calm river with a densely constructed city setting, with colorful houses and buildings stacked on a hillside. The prominent Caves Calem building with its red roof stands out on top of the hill. The sky looks cloudy.
Rabelo Boat, a typical Porto Boat carrying the Douro wine kites to the caves.

#5 Visting the Port Wine Caves

A visit to Porto isn’t complete without experiencing a Port wine cellar; winter is the perfect time to do so. During the visit, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the production of this wine, the different types of Ports, and their characteristics. Vila Nova de Gaia, where the cellars are located, has been the center for aging Port wine since the 18th century, making these cellars an essential part of the region’s long winemaking tradition.

In addition, you can explore the cellars where the wine is stored and aged in barrels. Ultimately, you’ll be treated to a tasting of several types of Port wine, all guided by an expert. In the tasting, you can sample everything from Ruby Ports, which are younger and fruitier, to aged Tawny Ports with more complex notes of caramel and dried fruit, making the experience even richer.

Tip

Buying a bottle of Port wine at the cellars is a great way to remember the day, giving it a particular sentimental value. However, if you prefer a more economical version of the exact wine, we recommend purchasing it at a supermarket, where the prices are generally lower. This way, you can bring home an excellent souvenir without spending too much.

The cellars are located on the south bank of the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia, and several companies produce this famous wine. The best-known are Calém, Taylor’s, Ferreira, Ramos Pinto, Real Companhia Velha, Sandeman, Offley, Churchill’s, and Cockburn’s. Almost all of them offer guided tours, and you can also take the opportunity to purchase a bottle of Port as a souvenir of your experience.

Visiting the cellars is not just a gastronomic experience but also a way to dive into the history of Porto, which has deep ties to Port wine production.

A street scene shows a white building with
Port wine cellars on the south bank of the Douro River

#6 Visit the Clérigos Tower and Church

The Clérigos Tower and Church are among the most iconic monuments in Porto, often seen as city symbols. Designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, who also created other important monuments in Porto, these constructions date back to the 18th century.

The complex comprises a 76-meter-tall Baroque tower and a small church with a Baroque façade. The church’s interior, with its gilded woodwork and marble, is an excellent example of the Portuguese Baroque style, known for its exuberance and attention to detail.

The tower, one of the highest points in the city, was once used as a reference for guiding ships. Today, you can climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Porto. To reach the top, you’ll need to climb 240 steps—a task that will certainly warm you up on a cold winter day.

Entry to the church is free, but you must purchase a ticket to climb the tower. However, the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.

A high stone tower with intricate drawings stands out against a cloudy sky. The structure is surrounded by vegetation, including large, leafy trees. A line of multi-colored buildings with traditional architecture is visible to the bottom, accompanied by the text
Tower and Cleric Church during Winter in Porto

#7 Shopping in Santa Catarina Street and going to Majestic Café

Rua Santa Catarina is Porto’s most famous shopping area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of stores, cafés, and restaurants. This pedestrian street is perfect for those looking to stroll and explore different establishments, ranging from international brands like Zara and H&M to small traditional shops selling crafts, haberdashery, and books. In addition, roasted chestnut vendors on the street corners add a unique charm, making it an ideal spot for shopping and walking around the city.

One of the best features of this street is the abundance of cafés and pastry shops, where you can taste some of the city’s most delicious sweets and snacks. If it’s raining, you can always take shelter in a café, enjoy a hot drink, and watch the world go by.

One of the most iconic cafés on Rua Santa Catarina is Café Majestic. This historic café opened in 1924 and is known for its Art Nouveau style. Café Majestic is not just a café but a cultural landmark. Intellectuals and artists used to gather there, giving it an essential role in the city’s social and cultural life. Majestic is a stunning place with marble columns, crystal chandeliers, and mirrors adorning the walls. In the past, it was a meeting spot for artists and politicians.

Although the drinks and food are more expensive than in neighboring cafés, the experience of having a coffee and admiring the splendor of the surroundings makes it worth the price.

A busy pedestrian street filled with historic shops and buildings is full of people walking and shopping under a clear and partly cloudy sky. Some carry umbrellas for shadow, while others walk quietly. Plates and displays are visible on both sides, suggesting popular areas Where to stay in Porto
Santa Catarina St. – ideally for shopping at Porto

#8 Bolhão Market

The Mercado do Bolhão, with its charming neoclassical style, is one of the most iconic markets in Porto. Located on Rua Santa Catarina, the market traditionally sold fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and flowers and served as a meeting point for locals doing their shopping.

After a significant renovation in 2022, Mercado do Bolhão modernized its facilities, becoming a covered and pleasant space. The renovation included preserving the neoclassical façade and modernizing the interior, making it a more functional and accessible space for visitors and merchants.

Today, in addition to being a place where you can buy a snack or fresh fruit, have a glass of wine or purchase a souvenir, the market has become a tourist attraction. Despite being more tourist-focused now, Mercado do Bolhão still plays a vital role in the lives of residents, who visit daily to buy fresh products and interact with vendors.

While it is more oriented toward tourism nowadays, it’s worth stopping by Mercado do Bolhão to rest a little and enjoy a light bite if you’re in the area.

A spacious domestic market section in the Port features product stalls with various fruits and vegetables exposed in baskets and binders. Buyers and vendors interact under bright lighting and a high ceiling. Plates above the stalls indicate different vendors, making it a perfect place for things to do during winter.
Porto Bolton Market – Fruit & Vegetable

#9 Casa da Música (Music House

The Casa da Música is a concert hall with a modern design and innovative shape. Its unique geometric structure is seen as an icon of contemporary architecture and a centerpiece in Porto’s cultural landscape. It was inaugurated in 2005 as part of Porto’s celebrations as the European Capital of Culture. Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas designed it.

You can take a guided tour of this contemporary monument or attend a concert. Casa da Música offers a diverse program ranging from classical music concerts to jazz events, electronic music, and world music, making it a dynamic cultural venue.

Although we haven’t yet had the chance to attend a performance, it is widely praised for the excellent acoustics of its concert halls. The schedule of events is available on the Casa da Música website, where you can check upcoming performances and events.

An angular modern building with large, irregular windows erects against a cloudy sky. The structure displays a combination of concrete and glass elements, creating a geometrical appearance reminiscent of Portugal’s monuments. A light pole is visible to the left, and there is signs spread on the front.
Casa da música in Porto

#10 Go to the Museums of Porto

The city offers various museums catering to different interests, from contemporary art to local history and culture. Whatever your preferences, Porto has museums that will surely enrich your experience in the city.

Please note that state-owned museums are free for Portuguese nationals and residents on Sunday mornings. Additionally, many offer discounts for seniors and children, so it’s essential to confirm this information when purchasing tickets. We recommend checking the opening hours and ticket prices on the museums’ official websites.

Here are some museums worth visiting in Porto:

  • Serralves Museum: A contemporary art museum with a significant collection of modern and contemporary art and temporary exhibitions by renowned artists. Located in the beautiful Serralves Park, the building was designed by Álvaro Siza Vieira.
  • Portuguese Center of Photography: This center is dedicated to photography and houses an extensive collection of cameras and temporary exhibitions. It is located in the former Cadeia da Relação, where the writer Camilo Castelo Branco was once imprisoned. Admission is free for everyone.
  • Tram Museum: This museum is focused on Porto’s public transport. It displays historical vehicles, such as trams and transport cars, with explanatory panels in Portuguese and English. Guided tours are also available upon request.
  • World of Discoveries: An interactive and playful museum that explores Portuguese discoveries and the history of Portugal. Although primarily aimed at children, adults can also enjoy the experience.
  • FC Porto Museum: This interactive museum is perfect for soccer fans, even if you’re not a supporter of Futebol Clube do Porto. It showcases the club’s history and trophies and offers a stadium tour. It’s a lot of fun for kids.
  • WoW Wine Museum: Recently opened, this museum explores wine production in Portugal and the country’s wine regions. The exhibit includes a wine tasting at the end. It’s in Vila Nova de Gaia, near the Port wine cellars.

Besides these, Porto has other museums and indoor activities for rainy days, such as the Planetarium, Sea Life, temporary exhibitions at Alfândega, Neonia, and the Printing Museum. There are plenty of options depending on your interests.

Penoramic view of a large, modern soccer stadium with a well-trenched green field, layered seating areas, and a partially covered ceiling. The sky is clear and there are several visible buildings in addition to the stadium structure — one of the main recommendations in Question in Port.
Within the Dragon Stadium, a fun activity for football lovers

#11 Events in Porto During Winter

During winter, Porto offers several seasonal activities and events that make this time of year special. From Christmas markets to musical events, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some activities to enjoy in winter:

  • Christmas Markets: Small Christmas markets pop up around the city, offering crafts, typical food, and festive decorations. While not as large as those in Germany or Central Europe, they have become increasingly attractive and offer authentic local products.
  • New Year’s Eve Festivities: The city celebrates New Year’s Eve with a fireworks display over the Douro River, accompanied by outdoor events. It would be best to arrive early to secure a good spot in the Ribeira area, one of the best locations to enjoy the show.
  • Fantasporto Film Festival: Held annually from late February to early March, this is one of Portugal’s most prestigious film festivals. It focuses on fantasy and horror cinema.
  • Football at Estádio do Dragão: Throughout winter (actually from September to May), you can attend an exciting FC Porto football match at the iconic Estádio do Dragão. It’s advisable to check the match schedules in advance and purchase tickets online to avoid queues on the event day.
  • Winter Concerts: Special concerts featuring classical music, jazz, and other styles in iconic venues like Casa da Música and occasionally in some of Porto’s most emblematic churches.

#12 Enjoy a Fado Show

Although fado is much more traditional in Lisbon and Coimbra, Porto also has venues where you can enjoy this unique art form. Fado, considered Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, is a musical expression that conveys the soul and deep emotions of Portuguese culture.

Attending a fado show in Porto can be a wonderful way to experience this tradition in an authentic setting. Fado houses in Porto offer an intimate atmosphere, with music accompanied by traditional meals and soft lighting, creating an engaging environment.

A fado show is a great option for a rainy evening in Porto, combining culture, music, and gastronomy. Even though it’s not a local tradition, fado performances in Porto provide a deep connection to Portuguese culture and are an immersive way to explore a lesser-known side of the city.

Some of the best places to experience fado in Porto include:

  • Casa da Mariquinhas: The oldest fado house in the city. The show takes place during dinner, with performances lasting about 15 minutes each. The menu includes traditional Portuguese dishes, with a minimum consumption of €45 per person. Reservations are required.
  • Casa do Fado: An intimate show where you can enjoy a glass of Port while listening to Fado. It has three locations: Sé, Ribeira, and São João Novo. Tickets can be booked online.
  • Casa da Guitarra: A musical performance held in downtown Porto’s old musical instrument shop. Tickets are available for reservation.

Given the intimate setting and growing popularity, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during busier months.

Things to do in winter in Porto, if it is not raining

If the weather is pleasant and it’s not raining, there are several beautiful parks in Porto that are worth visiting:

  • Parque da Cidade (City Park): The largest urban park in Portugal, combines vast green spaces with a wonderful view of the sea. It features ponds with ducks and many areas for sports, relaxation, or walking. It’s one of our favorite spots in Porto.
  • Parque de Serralves: Located within the Serralves Foundation, which also houses the Contemporary Art Museum. In addition to outdoor sculptures, Serralves Park is an extension of the museum, providing an experience that blends art and nature. A fun feature is the treetop walkway, which allows you to walk at tree canopy level. Entrance to the park is paid.
  • Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: These gardens offer charming views of the Douro River and are known for some of Porto’s most beautiful viewpoints. Peacocks and free-roaming chickens make the walk even more interesting.
  • Foz do Porto: Situated between Porto’s beaches and the Douro riverside area, Foz is a picturesque area that stretches from Porto to Matosinhos. In Foz, you can also enjoy the bike path and seaside restaurants, which offer stunning views while you enjoy a meal. It’s one of the city’s most prestigious neighborhoods, where you can appreciate beautiful homes and the sea. In summer, it’s an excellent spot for the beach. From Foz, you have access to Parque da Cidade.

Each of these locations offers a unique experience and is perfect for enjoying the outdoors and the natural beauty of Porto.

A structured walkway with a yellow pergola lies beside the ocean in the Port. The path is aligned with columns and has several green plants in square containers. The sky is cloudy and the ocean waves are visible to the bottom.
Marginal of Foz in Porto is a great place to go for a walk

Things that are better to do in Porto when it is off-season

There are some tourist attractions in Porto that we only recommend visiting if there aren’t large crowds or long waits, which it is only possible outside high season, mas usually in winter. Here are a few examples:

  • Livraria Lello: This bookstore is famous for its carved wooden staircase and colorful stained glass, and it was said to have inspired the Hogwarts library in the Harry Potter books. However, the space is small, and the bookstore is extremely popular, resulting in long lines. It’s worth visiting if the wait time is reasonable.
  • Tram Ride: Riding the tram in Porto can be fun, especially if it is not raining. However, the stops can attract large crowds. It’s more enjoyable if you can board quickly without waiting too long.
  • Café Majestic: While Café Majestic has charming décor and offers a pleasant experience for enjoying a coffee, the visit is only gratifying if the place isn’t overly crowded.

Avoiding these locations during peak times can enhance your experience and prevent frustration with lines and crowds.

A yellow electric marked
Electric in Porto runs some of the main streets of the city

What to dress in Porto in Winter

As we mentioned earlier, winter in Porto isn’t extremely cold, with temperatures ranging between 5 and 15°C (41 to 59°F). However, rain is frequent, and the cold wind can make the air quite damp, which can be uncomfortable if you’re outside for long periods.

For this reason, it’s advisable to wear warm and appropriate clothing. With the right clothes and accessories, you’ll be able to explore the city without worrying about the weather, making the most of everything Porto has to offer, even on the coldest and rainiest days.

Here’s what you should consider bringing with you:

  • A windproof and waterproof jacket: To protect yourself from rain and cold wind.
  • A warm sweater: To stay warm, with a lighter layer underneath that can be removed if necessary.
  • A scarf: If you’re sensitive to the cold, a scarf can help keep your neck and upper body warm.
  • Waterproof sneakers or boots: To ensure your feet stay dry, even on rainy days.
  • An umbrella: A sturdy umbrella is essential to withstand both the rain and the strong winds that can be common in Porto during winter.

These items will help ensure that you stay comfortable and protected while exploring Porto in the winter.

A view of the Dom Louis I Bridge crossing the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. Boats are moored in the foreground, and buildings are scattered along the hillside in the background under a cloudy sky.
Ribeira with the D. Louis I bridge, and the Serra do Pillar

Where to stay in Porto in Winter?

For more information, see the best neighborhoods in Porto and the hotels you should stay in.

How to Get Around Porto in Winter

Porto remains an easy city to explore in winter thanks to its good transport network. Here are some of the most practical options for getting around the city, especially on cold or rainy days:

  • Metro: The metro network is extensive and covers much of the city, with covered stations allowing for comfortable travel even on rainy days. It’s an excellent option to avoid walking long distances in bad weather. Tickets can be purchased from automatic metro station machines or authorized sales points.
  • Bus: Buses connect the main tourist spots and are climate-controlled, making them suitable for colder days. Check schedules in advance, as they may vary on holidays or weekends.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt): These options provide flexibility and are ideal for avoiding long waits or walking in the rain, offering direct transport to your destination.

What to eat in Porto during Winter?

Although there isn’t a specific cuisine for winter in Portugal, typical food from Porto and the North is quite hearty and ideal for cold days. These dishes warm the body and carry a strong cultural significance in the region, reflecting the city’s traditions and history.

Here are some traditional dishes you should try:

  • Francesinha: An icon of Porto’s gastronomy, the Francesinha is a delicious sandwich made with toasted bread, ham, fresh sausage, linguiça, and steak, topped with melted cheese and a special sauce made of tomato, beer, and Piri-Piri. Frequently mentioned as a city symbol, the Francesinha is considered comfort food that brings warmth and energy on cold days and is a must-try for anyone visiting Porto.
  • Tripas à Moda do Porto: This dish is a cultural and historical experience. It’s made with cow tripe, cooked with white beans, carrots, chorizo, veal knuckle, pork ribs, and a tomato-based sauce, served with white rice. Although it’s an acquired taste, it’s a traditional Porto specialty.
  • Bifana with Caldo Verde: The Bifana is a sandwich made with pork marinated in garlic and spicy sauce, served in a bun with a bit of sauce. It’s typically paired with Caldo Verde, a comforting soup and one of Portugal’s most traditional dishes, made with potatoes, finely chopped kale, and chorizo slices. Caldo Verde is often served at festivals and celebrations, but it’s also a meal that warms you up nicely on cold winter days.

These are some of the region’s typical dishes, and they are perfect for keeping warm during the winter in Porto.

If you want to know more about what to eat in Porto, see these items:

A dish containing a Francesinha, a Portuguese sandwich covered with melted cheese, a fried egg on top and soaked in a rich tomato sauce and beer. The dish is served on a round white dish. If you are wondering where to eat Francesinha in the Port, this is the place to delight your palate.
Francesinha in Onital – one of the best Francesinhas in Porto

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Best things to do in Porto in Winter

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