Falling in love with Porto, even on rainy days, is effortless. The city’s charm shines through with its breathtaking views, romantic streets lined with beautifully tiled buildings, and, of course, its renowned port wine. Whether you’re there for three days or an entire week, the allure of this Portuguese port city remains captivating in any weather.
Wondering what to do in Porto when it is raining? In this article, I’ve curated a list of the best indoor activities, must-see sights, and delightful culinary experiences in Porto, perfect for those wetter days.
Best hotels in Porto for a couple or a family
- If you are travelling by car, the Novotel Porto Gaia is a great option. It is located away from the centre but has good parking, an excellent breakfast and a swimming pool. Novotel also has Ibis Porto Gaia (cheaper) and Ibis Budget Porto Gaia (cheapest).
- In the city centre, there is Ibis Porto Centro. During our stays at these hotels, we consistently enjoyed their outstanding breakfasts, and they were also kind enough to accommodate our dog. Breakfast holds particular significance for us during shorter trips, as it ensures we don’t spend our mornings searching for food.
- If you are stying in Porto for a longer period of time, want to cook for yourself or try one of our recommended cafes in the morning (below in the article), check out Vitoria’s Terrace Apartments, which are centrally located, as well as the Cozy Studio Apartment.
- For those looking for budget friendly hostel-style accommodation in Porto, have a look at the very stylish The Passenger Hostel which is located in the iconic UNESCO-listed S. Bento train station.
What to Do in Porto When It Rains
Don’t let the wet weather dampen your spirits! This vibrant city offers a plethora of delightful experiences that are perfect for those drizzly days. From cozy wine cellars and fascinating museums to iconic bookstores and historic landmarks, there’s no shortage of indoor adventures.
Livraria Lello on a Rainy Day
Livraria Lello is a haven for book lovers and Harry Potter fans, especially enchanting on a rainy day in Porto. Its mesmerizing interior makes it a must-visit spot for anyone who appreciates literary wonders or captivating architecture.
To enter, you’ll need a ticket. We suggest buying your ticket online in advance to avoid any inconvenience. The ticket can be purchased at a nearby shop, just around the corner to the right of the bookstore. Entry is five euros, but here’s a delightful perk: you can use your ticket to get a discount on a book purchase. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a rainy day, surrounded by the magic of books.
How to avoid crowds
When planning a visit to Porto’s famed Livraria Lello, especially on a rainy day, it’s wise to strategize your timing. The bookstore is incredibly popular, often with long lines of eager visitors. Our experience suggests avoiding daytime visits; we tried around 10 times and consistently encountered a queue of over 50 people.
For a more peaceful experience, especially when rain may deter some visitors, aim to arrive about half an hour before it opens (at 9:30 am). We got there by 9:07 am and were pleasantly fourth in line. This early arrival allowed us to be among the first to explore the bookstore in a more serene setting.
Inside Livraria Lello, literary treasures abound. Look for rare finds like first editions of “Oliver Twist.” Make your way to the second floor to see bookends adorned with busts of famous philosophers, artists, and writers. The bookstore also boasts exclusive in-house published editions of classic literature, available for purchase.
Opening hours are 9:30 am to 7:00 pm, and admission is 5 EUR, which serves as a voucher towards a book purchase – a perfect excuse to linger longer on a rainy day in Porto.
Tasting Pasteis de Nata at Manteigaria on a Rainy Day in Porto
On a rainy day in Porto, indulging in the traditional pastel de nata becomes an even more delightful experience, particularly at Manteigaria, not far from the Clerigos tower.
Despite my commitment to a low-carb diet during my stay, I allowed myself a single exception here, and it was a decision I joyously celebrated.
Manteigaria takes this classic Portuguese dessert to an extraordinary level of excellence. The combination of flaky pastry with its luxuriously creamy filling is a taste that simply melts in your mouth. An added treat is watching the skilled bakers craft each pastel de nata right before your eyes, turning the experience into a captivating culinary show.
Sao Bento Train Station on a Rainy Day
For lovers of azulejos, the iconic blue tiles of Portugal, a visit to Sao Bento station is a must, even on a rainy day in Porto. The station’s walls are adorned with these blue tiles, beautifully illustrating Portugal’s historical events and pastoral scenes from various regions.
These stunning tile designs, crafted by Jorge Colaco and completed in 1916, add a mesmerizing charm to the station, which has been a central part of Porto since 1904. The artwork makes Sao Bento station more than just a travel hub; it’s a historical and artistic treasure, perfect for a sheltered exploration of culture and history on a wet day.
Mercado de Bolhão on a Rainy Day
Exploring local markets is one of our favorite activities, and Mercado de Bolhão in Porto is no exception, especially on a rainy day. Food markets have a unique way of unveiling the character of a place, telling stories through flavors and aromas.
After a temporary relocation for renovations, Mercado de Bolhão joyfully reopened in its original location in February 2020. If you’re in Porto during a downpour, this market is a wonderful indoor destination. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage of the market, now beautifully restored. It’s an experience that combines cultural discovery with the comfort of staying dry.
Palacio da Bolsa on a Rainy Day
Stepping into Palacio da Bolsa on a rainy day in Porto is like entering another world. This magnificent palace captures your attention immediately with its opulent and breathtaking interiors, providing a perfect indoor escape.
The highlight of the visit is the extraordinary main hall, a stunning space showcasing an Arabic style reminiscent of the Alhambra, complete with intricate stucco work and Maori-inspired furnishings. Built in the 19th century as a stock exchange palace, this architectural gem is not just a shelter from the rain; it’s an immersive journey into history and art.
The guided tour of the palace lasts about 45 minutes, making it an ideal rainy day activity. Admission prices are 12 euros for adults and 7.5 euros for students and seniors, with free entry for children up to 12 years old. A visit to Palacio da Bolsa is a must for anyone seeking a blend of culture and elegance away from the wet weather.
FC Porto Museum and Dragão Stadium Tour
For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the FC Porto Museum and a tour of the iconic Dragão Stadium is a must. It offers an in-depth look at the history of one of Portugal’s most successful football clubs.
Serralves Museum and Villa
This contemporary art museum, set within the beautiful Serralves Park, is a great place to explore modern art and design. The Art Deco villa and its exhibitions are also worth a visit.
Casa da Música
Check out Porto’s modern concert hall, Casa da Música. They offer guided tours and it’s also a great place to catch a live music performance.
World of Discoveries – Interactive Museum & Theme Park
This is an interactive museum and theme park that recreates the journeys of Portuguese explorers. It’s educational and fun for all ages.
Coliseu do Porto
This historic theatre often hosts a variety of concerts, performances, and events, making it a good indoor option for entertainment.
Cable Car – Teleferico de Vila Nova de Gaia
On a rainy day in Porto, the Teleferico de Vila Nova de Gaia offers a unique experience. If you’re in the mood for a scenic journey or simply want a restful ride, this cable car is conveniently located near the Serra do Pilar Monastery. Glide comfortably in the shelter of the cable car as it descends to the end of the Avenida de Diogo Leite promenade.
While the rain might obscure some views, the cable car ride provides a different perspective of the city, showcasing Porto’s landscapes in a new, serene light. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s beauty without getting wet, making it an ideal choice for those damp days.
Exploring Port Wine on a Rainy Day: The Best Places to Visit
A rainy day in Porto is a perfect opportunity to delve into the world of port wine. For enthusiasts of port wine or wine in general, an evening spent in the cozy cellars and wine bars of Vila Nova de Gaia is a delightful experience.
Some of the most renowned cellars include Cálem, Taylor’s, Graham’ s , Porto Cruz, Offley, Quevedo, Ferreira and Ramos Pinto. These cellars offer tours and wine tastings at reasonable prices, typically ranging from 10 to 20 euros. It’s a perfect way to learn about and enjoy port wine while staying dry and comfortable.
If you prefer a more relaxed setting without a full cellar tour, you’re still in luck. Most restaurants in Porto feature an impressive selection of wines, with prices for a typical glass ranging from 3 to 6 euros. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the local flavors and ambiance without braving the rain
Best restaurants and cafés in Porto
- Esquires Coffee Porto – This spot boasts a contemporary and welcoming interior, perfect for enjoying a meal or a coffee. It’s an ideal place for breakfast or a light lunch. For coffee aficionados, their delicious flat white and latte are not to be missed.
- Zenith Brunch & Cocktails Bar – This well-loved bistro, located a brief stroll from Igreja do Carmo, is known for its exceptional and aesthetically pleasing cuisine, drawing in both locals and tourists. As a result, it’s common to find a queue and a bit of a wait, typically around half an hour, for a table. The menu offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Please note that they do not accept reservations.
- Moustache – Very nice cafe close to Zenith. If you prefer eggs for breakfast, they have a pretty decent menu here. Their coffee is excellent, alternative milk is a must. D Norte Café by Hungry Biker – is the place to be for coffee enthusiasts. This cafe boasts a hipster-inspired interior where you can relish waffles alongside your coffee. Do keep in mind that it tends to get quite crowded, so be prepared for a bit of a wait.
- Mesa 325 – is another gem that excels in both coffee and breakfast offerings. Here, you can indulge in options like porridge or yogurt with fresh fruit, enjoy a flaky croissant, or opt for a light lunch to satisfy your midday cravings.
- Combi Coffee – One of the best coffees in Porto can be found right here. They not only serve exceptional coffee but also offer alternative milk choices. Plus, you can savor the delectable Portuguese specialty, pastel de nata, while you’re there.
- About Paparico – If you’re looking for a top-notch Portuguese culinary experience, make a reservation at O Paparico, also known as About Paparico. This establishment is the epitome of high-end dining, where it’s evident that you’re paying for the exceptional quality of the cuisine, impeccable presentation, the exquisite ambiance, and top-tier service. It’s a culinary experience like no other in Porto.
