Porto

Porto – the best hotels, bars, clubs & more

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, exudes a distinct character, marked by its historical significance and the enduring legacy of its port wine industry. Located along the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s ancient centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases a captivating tapestry of medieval architecture, ornate churches, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Renowned for its production of port wine, the city’s cellars line the riverbanks, offering visitors a taste of this world-famous fortified wine. Porto’s ambiance is one of both historical grandeur and contemporary vibrancy, where traditional “rabelo” boats glide along the Douro, and modern art galleries and cafes thrive in the bustling Ribeira district.

Restaurants

Vinum – Porto

Caves Graham’s, Rua do Agro 141, 4400-003 Porto
vinumatgrahams.com
This is restaurant at the Graham’s Port Winery. There are also winery tours which you can follow with the dinner. The location is a bit far from the centre but we got a taxi with no issue. It is definitely worth it for a stunning view of night-time Porto.

Cafes

Confeitaria do Bolhão – Porto

R. Formosa 339, 4000-252 Porto
Amazing tiny little cakes. So you don’t feel like you are being too bad. That is until you eat five of them.

Bars

While Porto doesn’t have a single, designated “gay area” like some cities, it has a welcoming LGBTQ+ scene with various bars and clubs spread throughout the city.

The area around “Galeria de Paris,” known as The Galleries, is where you’ll find the highest concentration of cafés, bars, and lounges. By night, this area comes alive and becomes a pulsating nightlife spot for locals who love crowding onto the streets. In many bars, you pay for your drinks in advance and receive tickets, or you order from a card provided at the entrance and pay when you leave. Some popular spots include:

Rua da Conceição: This street houses Invictus Café /bar.
Rua de José Falcão: Here you’ll find Cafe Lusitano.
Rua do Bolhão: Bar of Soap is located on this street.
Other popular places include Pride Bar, Zoom Club, and Fabrik Bar, all known for their lively atmosphere and welcoming environment.

Bar of Soap – Porto

R. do Bolhão 132, 4000-111 Porto
A popular gay bar in Porto with a fun and quirky vibe, known for its well-made drinks and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink before heading out to the clubs.

Invictus Café /bar – Porto

Rua da Conceição 80 loja 8/9, 4050-213 Porto
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A gay bar in Porto that is open late at night, known for its friendly atmosphere, cheap prices, and big drinks.

Cafe Lusitano – Porto

R. de José Falcão 137, 4050-315 Porto
A gay bar in Porto that is open late on weekends.

Culture, Sightseeing & Activities in Porto

Casa do Infante-Museum

R. da Alfândega 10, 4050-029 Porto
Museum based in the old customs house about the history of the city.

Ponte Luís I

Ponte Luís I, Porto, Portugal
A bridge that has a history from the time of Eiffel. He made designs but in the end, they went with Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave.

Pavilhão Rosa Mota and Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto
Whacky UFO shaped Dome and stunning park.

Ponte da Arrábida

Via de Cintura Interna, 4400-492 Porto
portobridgeclimb.com
Great views and also a bridge climb experience which is well worth it.

Porto São Bento – Train station towards Lisbon

Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto
Worth a visit for the tile work in the vestibule alone.

Ribeira District

This historic area along the Douro River is known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and charming narrow streets. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Perfect for leisurely strolls, boat tours, and soaking in Porto’s rich culture and history.

Gay Tours

For travellers seeking a deeper understanding of Porto’s LGBTQIA+ scene and a personalized exploration of the city, Gaily Tours offers a unique and valuable experience. This tour company specializes in providing city tours led by knowledgeable local gay guides. These guides possess not only a comprehensive understanding of Porto’s history and landmarks but also an insider’s perspective on the city’s vibrant queer culture.

Gaily Tours goes beyond the typical tourist experience, offering an opportunity to connect with Porto’s LGBTQIA+ community on a more personal level. The local guides are passionate about sharing their insights and answering any questions you may have about gay life in Porto, from hidden gems and local hotspots to historical anecdotes and contemporary issues. They can offer recommendations on gay-friendly venues, cultural events, and social gatherings, ensuring you make the most of your time in the city.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the historical center, discovering the trendy neighborhoods, or simply learning more about the city’s LGBTQIA+ heritage, Gaily Tours can tailor the experience to your interests. This personalized approach allows you to delve into the aspects of Porto that resonate most with you, creating a memorable and enriching travel experience.

Hotels

While Porto doesn’t have dedicated gay hotels, it offers a wide range of gay-friendly accommodations. For a luxurious experience, the Yeatman Hotel, a wine spa hotel, provides breathtaking views and an excellent outdoor bar and terrace. The bar’s prices are higher than average for Porto, but still reasonable by European standards. For a mid-range option, the Hotel Teatro offers a unique theatrical ambiance, as it’s located in a former theater. Its central location and easy airport access make it a convenient choice for exploring the city.

The facade of a derelict building in Porto — Porto – Iain Croll

About Porto

For an optimal experience in Porto, aim for visits during April and May, or September and October. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings a vibrant nightlife, but the heat can be intense for exploring the city’s many hills. Winter, while cold, transforms Porto into a festive wonderland with its Christmas decorations. Regardless of the season, be prepared for unpredictable weather, as rain can occur at any time. Porto’s topography includes numerous steep slopes and cobblestone streets, which can become slippery, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is essential. Dining in Portugal typically occurs later, between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and reservations are often necessary for popular restaurants. Fortunately, English is widely spoken, minimizing language barriers for visitors.

Transportation & Airport Transfer

Navigating Porto is straightforward, with a reliable tram and bus system. However, the city’s charm is best discovered on foot. The compact city center allows for easy walking to most attractions, including the Port wine cellars in Gaia, located across the river. The modern tram system, while operating partially underground, functions more like a light rail, with zone-based ticketing purchased from automated machines. Tram line E (violet) provides a direct, affordable connection between the city center and the airport, making arrivals and departures seamless.

About Cramberts

From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations on the site.