A Long Weekend in Porto: Favorite Experiences & Places to Eat Vegetarian
Nicola- 23. Sept. 2024
- 4 Min. Lesezeit
Porto has this way of pulling you in. Its vibrant streets, historic charm, and stunning sunsets over the Douro River make it one of those cities you can't help but fall in love with. Having spent some time exploring this gem of a city, I wanted to share a few of my absolute favorite places—from dreamy food experiences to sunset spots that will take your breath away. Whether you’re spending a weekend or just a few days, these are the places in Porto that really made an impression on me.
Food That Left a Lasting Impression - and is Vegetarian
Porto has an incredibly diverse food scene, from traditional Portuguese dishes to creative plant-based options that blew me away. The vegetarian options are a dream compared to the rest of Portugal! One of the absolute highlights for me was Especiè: Veggie Fusion Kitchen Tapas. This place is a hidden gem with an outdoor garden that feels like an oasis in the city. And the food? A taste explosion. The asparagus, edamame, and strawberry dish is something I'll be dreaming about for a long time.
I also tried Roots Plant Based Kitchen, which offers fancy, beautifully presented dishes. While the vibe wasn’t as cozy as Especiè, the food is undeniably good—definitely worth a visit if you’re after some upscale plant-based cuisine.
For something a bit different, Porto’s Time Out Market is perfect when you can't decide what to eat. Yes, it's a bit on the pricier side, but if you're like me and sometimes indecisive, this market-like setup offers variety and great vibes. It’s also just around the corner from São Bento Station, one of the most beautiful train stations I’ve ever seen.
While in Porto, I also had to try a vegan version of the classic Francesinha. Let’s just say, it won’t be a regular on my plate, but I’m glad I gave it a shot at Francesinhas Al Forno da Baixa.
On a sweeter note, Say Yes Cheesecake on*Rua do Almada was a delightful find, as was Do Norte Café by Hungry Biker, which is also on the same street—a perfect spot for brunch or a laid-back coffee.
Sunset Spots and Experiences That Stole My Heart
If there’s one thing Porto does best, it’s sunsets. I found my favorite spots around the city to soak in those golden-hour views, and they’re all special in their own way. For a relaxed and local vibe, Passeio das Virtudes (and the lovely Bosco Porto just next by if you want to have a fancy drink alongside the pretty view) and Boavista were my go-to places to watch the sun dip behind the city’s rooftops.
But if you’re looking for something a bit more elevated—literally— Terrace 6 Ponte Sky Bar and the nearby Miradouro da Serra do Pilar offer unbeatable views over the Douro River. There’s nothing quite like seeing the city bathed in soft evening light from up high. And if you’re a fan of being on the water, like me, a sunset tour on the Douro River is pure magic. The calm of the river, the cool breeze, and the city’s reflection on the water—it’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after you’ve left Porto.
A Taste of Porto’s Wine Culture
Of course, no trip to Porto would be complete without diving into its world-renowned wine scene. I loved crossing the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for a wine tour and tasting. There’s something so special about sipping on port while learning about its history and production, all in a family-run wine cellar. It’s the perfect way to slow down and savor what Porto is really known for.
Unexpected Finds and Little Moments
Sometimes, the little moments make a trip memorable, and Porto offered plenty of those. I stumbled upon some fantastic street art, like the towering Half Rabbit sculpture, which was both surprising and captivating. And the colorful steps of Escadaria da Tv. de Cândido dos Reis are another fun find that added a playful touch to my wandering through the city.
When I needed a break from walking, I loved sitting at one of the small cafés in front of the Torre dos Clérigos, with an ice cream from **Morino Gelato** in hand. It’s these quieter moments, with a backdrop of Porto’s historic charm, that made my time here so special.
Where We Stayed
For accommodations, I found two places that really stood out. Blau1911 felt like home with its charming, large rooms and personal breakfast service—you can even enjoy your meal with a garden view, which is a rare treat.
On the trendier side, there’s Porto Convo. While the rooms were smaller, the design was stylish and modern. The rooftop bar here looked promising, though it didn’t offer bar service during my stay.
We really loved Porto. It is a city where you can lose yourself in the beauty of its streets, its food, and its sunsets. From the unforgettable veggie tapas at Especiè (we went there twice on our 4-day trip! 🙈) to the breathtaking views from the top of the famous bridge, this city has a way of lingering in your heart long after you’ve left. Whether you’re wandering through the old town or sipping on port wine by the river, Porto’s charm is undeniable — and we will be back some day for sure!
Here's a quick link list of all our highlights:
Accommodation
Restaurants
Experiences
Sunset Spots: Bosco Porto & Passeio das Virtudes, Miradouro da Serra do Pilar
Some places saved in Google Maps
Flights
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