the 9-to-5 nomad's guide to solo travel
WHERE TO STAY
top neighborhoods for solo travelers & first-time visitors
SEARCH TOP HOTELS & HOSTELS FOR SOLO TRAVELERS
baxia
This area is the downtown district of Porto and is known for its lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. You'll find numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to different tastes and preferences. The Rua das Galerias de Paris is a popular street in Baixa known for its nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and music venues.
Ribeira
This historic neighborhood is located along the Douro River and is known for its narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and stunning views. Its a great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action, close to the river and many of the city's attractions. It also has a good selection of bars and restaurants.
WHERE TO PLAY
Top Nightlife Hotspots, Beach Clubs & Bars
Main Nightlife District: Galerias de Paris - Baxia
The Royal Cocktail Club
Location: Baxia
About: Upscale Cocktail Lounge
torto
Location: Baxia
About: Bar
Rooftop Flores
Location: Gumbet
About: Hidden gem. Rooftop bar & Garden
Ontop @ HF Ipanema Park
Location: Gumbet
About: Open at night to the public - Nightlife Rooftop Bar
musa
Location: Miragaia
About: Craft Beer Pub
Miradouro Ignez
Location: Douro River
About: Dual Balcony along Douro River
Adega Leonor
Location: Baxia
About: Polular Local Tavern
LIFT Rooftop @ 14th floor ViaCatarina car park
Location: Bolhao
About: Rooftop Bar
plano b
Location: Baxia
About: Nightclub
what to do
top attractions, day trips & adventures
Douro Valley
Wine tasting
The Douro Valley, located in northern Portugal, is one of the world's oldest and most famous wine regions, renowned for its production of Port wine and excellent table wines. Many tour operators offer wine tasting tours in the Douro Valley, or another popular way to experience the Douro Valley and its wine culture is through scenic river cruises along the Douro River.
Foz do Douro Beach
Foz do Douro is a coastal area located in the western part of Porto, Portugal, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. The coastal area of Foz do Douro features a scenic seaside promenade, known as the Avenida do Brasil, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, bike rides, or jogging while taking in panoramic views of the ocean.
Livraria Lello bookstore
Livraria Lello is often associated with J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter series. The author lived in Porto and drew inspiration from the bookstore's magical ambiance for her descriptions of Hogwarts' library. It was founded in 1906 by the brothers José and António Lello. The bookstore is renowned for its beautiful Neo-Gothic architecture, intricate wooden staircase, and stained glass windows.
São Bento
Railway Station
Known for its stunning azulejo (tile) panels depicting Portuguese history and culture, a must-see for art and history enthusiasts. The walls of the station's main hall are adorned with approximately 20,000 azulejo tiles. Visitors can admire the azulejo tiles, take photographs, and appreciate the station's beauty while waiting for trains or exploring the city.
off the beaten path
hidden gems beyond the popular tourist attractions
Casa do Penedo
Casa do Penedo, also known as the Stone House or the Flintstones House, is a unique and iconic building located in Fafe, Portugal. Here are some details about Casa do Penedo. Casa do Penedo has gained international fame and has been featured in travel magazines,& documentaries contributing to its status as a cu architectural curiosity.
day trip to Aveiro
Often called the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro is known for its picturesque canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and Art Nouveau architecture. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride on colorful moliceiro boats, which are traditional vessels used for transporting seaweed. The surrounding area of Aveiro features salt pans, lagoons, and nature reserves.
Café Porta do Olival
The café is situated near the Douro River, and is the oldest coffee shop in Porto, opening in 1853. The midevil door is also one of the oldest structures (built between 1336 and 1376), where in 1387 Philippa of Lancaster entered Porto, to marry Portuguese king D. João I, establishing an alliance between Portugal and England.
Sistelo
Sistelo is often referred to as the "Tibet of Portugal" due to its resemblance to the terraced landscapes found in Tibet.Sistelo is known for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by terraced fields (known as "socalcos" in Portuguese) that cascade down the hillsides, creating a picturesque and unique agricultural landscape.