What it actually costs
When to go
Cold, rainy, grey. Atlantic weather dominates. Many outdoor river-view terraces close.
Livraria Lello (Harry Potter bookshop): €5 entry (redeemable on book purchase). Go at opening 9:30am or skip it — the queue wraps the block.
What locals know
Francesinha is Porto's legendary sandwich — layers of meat, covered in melted cheese and spicy beer sauce. Cafe Santiago or Bufete Fase do the best.
Port wine tasting: skip the big names on the Vila Nova de Gaia side. Graham's and Taylor's have the best terraces and tastings (€15-25).
Ribeira (riverfront) is touristy for food. Walk uphill to Rua das Flores or Cedofeita for where locals eat.
Matosinhos (15 min metro) has the best seafood in the region — entire streets of grilled fish restaurants at half Porto prices.
Honest warnings
Porto is HILLY. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. The climbs are relentless.
São Bento station (the tiled one) is a working station, not a museum. Don't block commuters for photos.
River cruise companies are aggressive with touts on the Ribeira. Book online for better prices.
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