Hidden Gems in Porto: The Best Non-Touristy Things to Do
I explored Porto for over 2 weeks, and every place I travel to, I make it a must to explore off the beaten track. These were my favorite hidden gems in Porto. Porto holds a special place in my heart – I really fell in love with it. The views are stunning, the sunsets are magical and fun to be a part of with all the crowds at Jardim do Morro, and there’s so much to stumble upon and discover. If you hate flocking to the busy tourist spots, then these non-touristy things to do are just perfect.
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12 Hidden Gems in Porto
I recommend 3 days or more in Porto to experience it’s hidden gems and even take a day trip to the Douro Valley via its scenic train.
1. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
My favorite thing I did in Porto was to visit this stunning botanical garden called Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. It was huge and full of so much greenery and free-roaming peacocks and chickens. The peacocks were gorgeous! Wow, if you’ve never seen one, it’s actually so cool to spot them here. There are endless beautiful viewpoints of Porto as well. I spent a good 3 hours here because I loved it that much.
2. Largo da Pena Ventosa
This colorful street is hidden down an alley you wouldn’t suspect. It’s nothing but a pretty street to capture the essence of Porto’s quintessential vibes. There are also a couple of bars you can sit at right in front of here if you feel like having a break from the city.
3. River Soul Hotel
I stayed at the River Soul Hotel in Porto on the Gaia side, and it was the best decision ever. Room rates were quite reasonable, especially for me traveling solo. The highlight for me was the views straight from my balcony. Plus, I could see the cute Gaia cable cars zooming right past my window! I highly recommend staying at this little gem if you’re visiting Porto.
4. Digby Restaurant
Looking for an amazing meal in Porto with a view? Well, Digby Restaurant is that! It was actually one of my best meals while in Portugal. The Portuguese meats were a standout dish, and I also loved the dessert I got with rhubarb. It’s hidden away inside the Torel Avantgarde Hotel, a 5-star boutique hotel.
5. Half Rabbit Mural
O Coelho (the Half Rabbit) is a unique street art located on a side street along the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia. So many tourists get off the Gaia cable car and have no idea that this cool piece of artwork is just moments away. The rabbit is built on the corner of the building, which makes it look almost 3D. It was created in 2017 by Portuguese artist Bordalo II. You will also find his artwork in other parts of Porto and even in Lisbon. If you want to see more of it, you can do a Google Maps search for Bordalo II. This artist is known for transforming pieces of trash into animals and art.
5. Explore the Bonfim neighborhood
The Bonfim neighborhood is a very cool and underrated neighborhood in Porto. It’s full of charming homes, parks, and cafes. I stumbled upon a gorgeous park called Jardim Marques de Oliveira and loved relaxing here. It was so pretty and filled with many locals. Next to it was one of my favorite little coffee shops in Porto called Combi Coffee Roasters. I really liked the atmosphere, and it was a place you could sit and chat with a friend or read a book. I continued my walk through this charming neighborhood and stumbled upon a really cool-looking cemetery. Here you’ll find beautiful old tombs, elaborate mausoleums, sculptures, and ornate family chapels, making it feel almost like an open-air museum. I walked all the way to the famous Bonfim Cathedral, and it was such a nice day exploring Porto outside of the touristy attractions.
7. Passeio das Fontainhas
There’s a famous photo on Instagram of the street in Porto, Passeio das Fontainhas. The reality of this photo is that it’s someone’s private home and property. I went searching for it in June 2026, only to find it had been repainted and changed so that people would stop invading this poor person’s home to take a photo. It looked completely different and had a gate to prevent people from trespassing.
Instead, I’d recommend walking down further along Passeio das Fontainhas. There are so many quiet viewpoints with few people around. Including cool little seats you can sit on and admire the views next to you. This little scenic spot is called Miradouro do Passeio das Fontainhas (Google Maps Location).
8. A Pérola do Bolhão
A Pérola do Bolhão is a sardine shop with the cutest facade in all of Porto! I love the pastel yellow and greens on this facade. The shop actually dates back to 1917 and features Art Nouveau from the inside to the exterior. I urge you to also go inside and get a souvenir. The sardine cans are also very beautiful, and if you like sardines, props to you (I don’t!) They did tell me there’s some less fishy flavours though! It’s a Portuguese staple, so don’t miss out. I did end up buying pastel de nata flavoured tea here though, and I’m obsessed – it’s so good!
9. BOSCO Porto
BOSCO Porto is one of the coolest places in Porto for a cocktail, beer, or wine. The atmosphere is lively in the evenings, and the place is tucked away just beyond Porto’s historic center. It’s not a place you would ever find on your own. The views were really nice, and the striped umbrellas made it look so intimate and cozy. I didn’t reserve to come here and was lucky to find a seat. I recommend coming 1-1.5 hours before sunset to make sure you can get a seat. Otherwise, you can stand and chill at the bar – I think there would still be space for you.
10. Hidden view of Gaia Cable Cars
The best view of the Gaia Cable Cars is on R. do Gen. Torres, which is on the Gaia side. This spot is a bit more discreet and less visited. Which I’m impressed to know because it was one of my favorite views in Porto.
11. Get Your Photo Printed on a Newspaper
One of the most unique things to do in Porto is to get your photo printed on a vintage newspaper. You will find these photographers stationed at certain points in the city. I came across it twice. One was across from Majestic Cafe, and the other was after crossing the Luís I Bridge and turning right to find the viewpoint on the Gaia side. I didn’t even ask for my photo to be printed while on the Gaia side, but the person had captured me as I was photographing the views and simply gave it to me. While at Majestic Cafe, I asked for my photo and left a small donation. It’s such a cute little memorabilia for your trip.
12. My Coffee Porto
This coffee shop has the best view in Porto! If you’re at the famous Luís I Bridge on the Ribeira side, cross the street and go up some steps. You will find this coffee shop, My Coffee Porto, and some of the best views of Porto. The seats are limited here, so if you’re lucky, you will be able to snag the outdoor seat in the corner. It’s the best spot at the cafe to admire the views. Don’t forget to enjoy a coffee. The staff is really kind and welcoming, too.
For more reading, you may also like:
💎 Hidden Gems in Lisbon
🏰 The Ultimate Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon
☕ My Favorite Cafes & Brunch in Lisbon
🇵🇹 Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal
🚂 Douro Valley Train: The Most Scenic Train Ride
🍷 How to Enjoy the Best Douro Valley Day Trip from Porto
☂️ The Colorful Umbrella Street in Agueda, Portugal
