Our guide on the most common Mistakes To Avoid In Porto and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is renowned for its historic charm, vibrant culture, and world-famous port wine. However, like any popular destination, there are common mistakes that visitors can make.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following these tips, you can enhance your experience in Porto and make the most of your visit. Embrace the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes while enjoying a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Here’s a guide to help you avoid these pitfalls and ensure a memorable visit to Porto.
What Is The Best Way From Porto Airport To City Center?
The best way from Porto airport to city center is by shared transfer for €10 you can book online and 20 minutes.
Read here Is Porto worth visiting?, best sim card Porto Airport and Portugal sim card for tourist
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO
There are cheap hotels available for you at a starting price of €20-25. Hostels with dorms start from €10-15 if you want to go down your accommodation budget travel in Portugal. Luxurious hotels in another option for your accommodation in Portugal, the price can range from €90-up.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
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Mistakes To Avoid In Porto
1. Sticking Only to the Tourist Areas
Mistake:
Missing Local Experiences: Focusing solely on the heavily touristed areas like Ribeira and not exploring other parts of the city.
How to Avoid:
Explore Different Neighborhoods: Venture into lesser-known neighborhoods such as Foz do Douro, Boavista, and Miragaia for a more authentic experience.
Local Markets: Visit markets like Mercado do Bolhão to experience local life and try fresh, regional produce.
2. Ignoring the Local Cuisine
Mistake:
Sticking to International Foods: Eating only at touristy restaurants and missing out on authentic Portuguese cuisine.
How to Avoid:
Try Local Dishes: Sample traditional dishes such as francesinha, bacalhau à Brás, and caldo verde. Don’t miss out on pastel de nata (custard tarts).
Tapas and Petiscos: Visit local tascas (taverns) for petiscos, the Portuguese version of tapas.
3. Visiting Only During Peak Season
Mistake:
Crowds and High Prices: Visiting Porto in the peak summer months (July and August) can mean dealing with large crowds and higher prices.
How to Avoid:
Travel Off-Season: Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to June or September to October) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Early or Late Visits: If visiting during peak season, explore popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
4. Not Booking Wine Tours in Advance
Mistake:
Missing Out on Wine Tastings: Arriving without pre-booking tours at the famous port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, leading to sold-out tours.
How to Avoid:
Book Online: Reserve your spot online for wine tastings and tours at popular cellars like Sandeman, Graham’s, and Taylor’s.
Guided Tours: Consider guided wine tours that include multiple cellar visits and tastings.
5. Underestimating the Weather
Mistake:
Getting Caught Unprepared: Not preparing for Porto’s changeable weather, which can include rain even in summer.
How to Avoid:
Check the Forecast: Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Pack Accordingly: Bring layers and a waterproof jacket or umbrella to stay comfortable.
6. Overlooking Public Transportation
Mistake:
Relying Solely on Taxis: Using taxis or rental cars for getting around, which can be expensive and unnecessary.
How to Avoid:
Use Public Transport: Utilize Porto’s efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the metro.
Consider purchasing an Andante card for convenience.
Walking and Trams: Porto is a walkable city with many attractions close to each other. Don’t miss the experience of riding the historic trams.
7. Forgetting Comfortable Footwear
Mistake:
Sore Feet: Wearing inappropriate footwear for walking on Porto’s steep, cobblestone streets.
How to Avoid:
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces and climbing hills.
8. Not Taking Advantage of Free Attractions
Mistake:
Overlooking Free Experiences: Paying for all attractions without realizing that many of Porto’s best experiences are free.
How to Avoid:
Free Attractions: Visit free attractions such as the Dom Luís I Bridge, São Bento Railway Station, and the gardens of the Crystal Palace.
Walking Tours: Join free walking tours to get a great overview of the city and its history.
9. Missing Out on Day Trips
Mistake:
Staying Only in Porto: Not taking advantage of Porto’s location to explore nearby destinations.
How to Avoid:
Plan Day Trips: Take day trips to nearby attractions such as the Douro Valley, Aveiro, Guimarães, and Braga.
Use Public Transport: Utilize trains and buses for easy and affordable day trips.
10. Ignoring Local Etiquette
Mistake:
Cultural Faux Pas: Not being aware of local customs and etiquette, which can lead to uncomfortable situations.
How to Avoid:
Learn Basic Phrases: Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to show respect and make interactions smoother.
Politeness: Always greet people with a friendly “Olá” (Hello) or “Bom dia” (Good morning) and be polite in your interactions.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.