The 10 Best Bars of Porto

Porto is a charming city located in the north of Portugal. It is famous for its delicious wine, picturesque streets, and beautiful buildings. But, Porto is also known for its incredible nightlife that is unmatched in Portugal. The city has a rich history of nightlife culture, dating back to the 18th century, when the first taverns began to appear in the city. Since then, the city has evolved into a vibrant nightlife destination, offering everything from trendy bars to traditional taverns.

If you’re planning a trip to Porto, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s best bars. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 bars in Porto. Each of these bars offers a unique and memorable experience, so be sure to check them out while you’re in the city.

1. The Gin Club

The Gin Club is a trendy bar located in the heart of Porto. As the name suggests, the bar is known for its excellent gin cocktails, which are expertly crafted using high-quality ingredients. The bar also offers a great selection of other drinks, and it has a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for groups or couples.

2. Galeria de Paris

Galeria de Paris is a stylish bar that is located in a historic building in the city center. The bar is known for its creative cocktails, which are served in a chic and sophisticated environment. Galeria de Paris is a popular spot among locals, and it’s a great place to mingle with the trendy crowd.

3. Café Au Lait

Café Au Lait is a cozy café that transforms into a lively bar at night. The bar has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and it’s a great place to grab a drink with friends. Café Au Lait is known for its delicious mojitos, which are made with fresh mint and lime juice.

4. Candelabro

Candelabro is a hidden gem located in the historic Ribeira district of Porto. The bar has an intimate and cozy atmosphere, and it’s known for its excellent selection of craft beers and wines. Candelabro also offers a great selection of tapas, which are perfect for sharing.

5. O Diplomata

O Diplomata is a quirky and fun bar that is located in the artsy Cedofeita district. The bar has a vintage vibe and is decorated with old photos and quirky objects. O Diplomata is known for its excellent live music, which ranges from jazz to rock.

6. Porta-Jazz

Porta-Jazz is an iconic jazz bar located in the historic city center. The bar is known for its excellent live music performances, which showcase some of the best jazz musicians in Portugal. Porta-Jazz also offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.

7. Armazém

Armazém is a trendy bar located in a renovated warehouse in the artsy neighborhood of Campanhã. The bar has a rustic and industrial vibe, and it’s known for its creative cocktails and craft beers. Armazém also offers a great selection of small plates and snacks, which are perfect for sharing.

8. Base

Base is a popular bar located in the bustling district of Baixa. The bar has a spacious and modern interior, and it’s known for its excellent music selection. Base hosts regular DJ nights and live music performances, and it’s a great place to dance and have fun.

9. Penumbra

Penumbra is a dark and moody bar located in the historic district of Vitória. The bar has a gothic vibe and is decorated with dark colors and candles. Penumbra is known for its excellent selection of creative cocktails and spirits, and it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

10. Shaker Bar

Shaker Bar is a popular cocktail bar located in the trendy Foz district. The bar is known for its excellent cocktails, which are expertly crafted using fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. Shaker Bar also offers a great selection of tapas, and it has a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

In conclusion, Porto is a city that is full of incredible bars and nightlife options. Whether you’re looking for a trendy cocktail bar or a traditional tavern, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste in Porto. So, grab a drink, mingle with the locals, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of this beautiful city!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Porto: Hidden Gems, Local Cuisine and More

Porto, located in the north of Portugal, is a city full of vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history. While there are plenty of popular attractions for tourists to explore, this insider’s guide will take you off the beaten path and uncover Porto’s hidden gems. Here are some unique and fresh insights into the city to make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

When most people think of Porto, they think of the Douro River and its famous bridge, but there’s so much more to see. A must-visit for locals and tourists alike is the Palacio de Cristal Gardens, which offers a stunning view of the city. The garden is home to an abundance of birds and peacocks, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for something unconventional, visit the Livraria Lello. A beautiful old bookstore situated in the heart of Porto’s historic center, it’s a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Many people erroneously believe that the bookstore was the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Hogwarts. There’s always a line to get in, but once you’re inside, you’ll understand why it’s worth the wait.

Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Bolhão Market, a historic open-air market that has been running for over a century. It’s a great place to meet the locals and get a taste of Porto’s food culture.

Dining Spots: Delve into Porto’s Local Cuisine and Culture

Portugal is famous for its seafood, especially sardines, and there’s no better place to enjoy them than at A Tasca do Lopes. A perfect spot for a local experience, it’s located in the working-class neighborhood of Campanhã and serves delicious and affordable seafood.

If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, try Casa de Pasto das Carvalheiras. This cozy restaurant is tucked away in the Cedofeita neighborhood and serves seasonal, locally sourced vegetarian dishes along with Portuguese wine.

Finally, no visit to Porto can be complete without tasting the local specialty dessert, the Pastel de Nata. Visit the historic Confeitaria do Bolhão to indulge in this egg custard tart, which is traditionally served with a strong cup of Portuguese coffee.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, Music, and Customs

Porto is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are many fascinating experiences to be had. If you’re lucky enough to visit in June, you’ll witness the São João Festival when the city lights up with fireworks and street parties. If you’re interested in art, visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, which is one of the most important art institutions in Portugal.

For a musical experience, head to Casa da Música. It’s a stunning concert hall designed by Rem Koolhaas, renowned Dutch architect, and is home to some of the finest classical music performances in the world. To experience a local custom, check out the traditional Rabelo boats, which have been used to transport wine barrels along the Douro River for centuries.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

One of the most fascinating stories from Porto’s past is that of the Church of São Francisco. It’s a beautiful Gothic church built in the 14th century, but most people are unaware that the walls and ceilings are covered in gold. It’s said that so much gold was used that it would fill over 70 pounds of gold.

Another must-visit historical site is the remains of the Roman city of Cale. The city was founded in the 1st century BC and played a crucial role in Portugal’s ancient history.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

One of the best ways to experience Porto is to take a boat tour along the Douro River. Make sure to book a boat that includes a visit to the Port wine cellars, where you’ll learn about the history of Port wine and taste some of the best varieties.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to the Peneda-Gerês National Park, the only national park in Portugal, which is located 90 minutes from Porto. It’s a stunning park with beautiful hiking trails, natural waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife.

Finally, for an unforgettable evening, head to Caldeireiros Street. It’s a street filled with bars and restaurants, and its lively atmosphere offers a unique experience of Porto’s nightlife.

A visit to Porto is about so much more than just seeing the city’s famous landmarks. With this insider’s guide, you’ll explore the hidden gems and experience the city’s rich culture and history. Have a great trip – enjoy Porto!