Things to do in Northern Portugal, Portugal: The Best Cultural Tours

December 12, 2021 Trinity Boughner

Brimming with both history and natural wonder, Northern Portugal is home to Porto, the city that gave the country its name, as well as the important ancient town of Braga. Also here is Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park, a gorgeous wilderness area of mountains, gorges, water features and wildlife. Many picturesque villages and manor houses dot the countryside. Two areas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Alto Douro Wine Region, and the Paleolithic rock art in the Côa Valley.
Restaurants in Northern Portugal

1. Private Food/Wine Tour Porto

Porto São Bento, Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal Oporto & Douro Moments
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

We were born, raised and always lived in Porto, so we know the city as a local and, since it is a private tour, we will customize it according to your interests. In this private food/wine tour we will focus on Portuguese gastronomy, but you will learn a lot about our culture, pronunciation and behavior, which makes us unique. You will visit the temporary Bolhão market and several food spots and tascas (traditional stores), while get in contact with the locals. You will get to know the stories behind these dishes: the legend of the "tripeiros", name given to the porto inhabitants; you will learn how "francesinha" is made, that "caloric bomb" that you should not miss and the tasty codfish recipes, so important in our culture. You will discover the Portuguese wines with its diverse grapes and wine regions and will taste some delicacies. And what about our sweets, like pastel de nata, doces de ovos,...? Enjoy more! Experience more!

Inclusions: All snacks and drinks of the tour

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Reviewed By markgK7184CS

We had an unusual custom tour that had to be done over the internet because of travel restrictions. Oporto Moments were wonderful. They were quick to respond to our questions, they were pro-active in making arrangements. Very happy we found them.

2. Discovery Walk in Porto's Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: fairytale views

Palácio, 4050-378 Porto, Portugal Secret City Trails in Porto
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Do you wonder where fairytales take their inspiration from? On this discovery walk, you’ll explore one of the most magical places in Porto - the Gardens of the Crystal Palace. Yes, it is as amazing as it sounds! As you solve location-based riddles created by our co-founders, Wendy and Kristina, you’ll unlock directions for breathtaking views, hidden passages, intriguing statues and gorgeous art. To make this walk even more memorable, we’ll share curious conversation starters. We'll invite you to share with each other where you want to travel next, or if you have to relive one day of your life forever - which day do you choose. During this experience you will: -Explore Porto during this interactive walk -Keep a comfortable distance from other people -Learn about the history and local stories of the Jardins in a playful way -Solve location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route -See popular sights from a different angle and discover hidden local spots

Inclusions: A link (via email) to the web app with your discovery walk. Open the link on your phone's browser.

Exclusions: Food and Drinks, Mobile data

3. Porto at Night - Private Panoramic Tour

Praça da Liberdade 19, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal Endless Weekend Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

See how the city of Porto comes alive after dark on this private city panoramic tour. We will show you the very best of our iconic Porto buildings and bridges, dramatically illuminated at night and help you to discover Porto’s key landmarks lit up after dark. With us you can appreciate the city of Porto, built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro River, forming a millennial urban landscape where the diversity of civil and religious architecture bears testimony to a Historic Centre inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1996. Its monumental and landscape riches captures the diversity of urban layout solutions to be also found in other Western European and Atlantic-Mediterranean cities dating back to Roman, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical times. A Porto by Night Panoramic Tour will be one of the most memorable things you do when you visit Porto.

Inclusions: Live tour commentary provided in English, Spanish and Portuguese, Personal accident and liability insurance., Our chauffeurs have knowledge and ethics required for confidential business matters, Our chauffeurs provide a concierge service for any requirements., Our executive vehicles provide Wi-Fi, bottled water, refreshments and a relaxing atmosphere.

Exclusions: Admission to venues & attractions along the tour route., Gratuities are not included and is left to individual discretion.

Reviewed By Dt345123

Carlos died us around Porto. Very knowledgeable. Have us insights, history, places to eat and excellent places to set after the tour. Highly recommend.

4. Eat & Tell Porto's Tale: The historical tour that goes through your stomach!

R. de Alexandre Braga 24, 4000-248 Porto, Portugal Get-Portugal
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4.9 based on 11 reviews

This is the ultimate food and history tour that will bring Porto's story alive through your stomach! In Portugal people love to eat, the culture is based on eating, and even the historical stories sparked ideas to its best dishes! So, the best way to discover ii is would be through eating along! We will visit the best landmarks of Porto, understand the history of this wonderful city through its art, music, architecture and mostly FOOD. Oh, you will learn so much… Who's the famous architect buried (somewhere) inside his own masterpiece, and why is there a cookie related with climbing it? Who is the king who gave his heart to the city of Porto and why do the people eat the visceral parts of the animal? How did the Jewish people hide their religion through a certain dish during the inquisition? Who is this little French girl who can, potentially, cause you a heart attack? And how does Harry Potter relate to all of this? Come hungry because I have a lot to tell you!

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Alcoholic Beverages, Snacks

Exclusions: Private transportation

5. Private Electric Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour of Historic Porto

Largo dos Lóios, 4000 Porto, Portugal Tuk Tour Porto
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4.9 based on 8 reviews

Seeing Porto on a private Tuk Tuk is a one of a kind experience. Due to their electric motor, the tuk-tuks are entirely silent, which will allow you to hear your guide on busy roads. Porto is an incredible city, but its hills are not for the faint of heart, instead of going up and down the hills by foot, why not grab a tuk-tuk and get an overview of this gorgeous city without breaking a sweat? Comfort, ease and information!

Inclusions: Private transportation, Private Guide

Exclusions: Snacks

Reviewed By PKbeauty

Best guided tour by far, OMG our guide Rita is a gem, super knowledge, great with people and adores kids. So patient and has such respect for Porto culture and her eyes receive you with such a warmth that is magical. She took us to the best spots and allowed us to soak in the moment, what a soul. Highly recommend !!! Best Tuk Tour yet!!!! Made my Birthday :-)

6. 3-Hour Porto Bike Tour

Biclas & Triclas - Port Rent a Bike and Tours, Rua Nova da Alfândega, 108 Largo de Artur Arcos, R. da Arménia 30, 4050-431 Porto, Portugal Tricla - Biclas & Triclas
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4.9 based on 85 reviews

A guided, 3-hour morning Porto Bike Tour is the easiest and most attractive way to discover this wonderful city in just a few hours. From the Douro riverside to the natural City Park, this tour will be an experience you will not soon forget. Choosing the bicycle as mean of transportation allows you to access hidden, quaint places that other transports cannot reach. The bikes also allow you to go further than you would be able to in a walking tour.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Bottled water, Local guide, Use of bicycle, Use of helmet

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By sonjab540

I made the online booking only one day ahead. The couple doing the small business are very friendly!! They gave me some recommendations where to go. Unfortunately I had a flat tire after a few kilometers. I went back and they fixed it without any problem so I could take the bike again for the rest of the day! I cycled up and down the coast side and it was hilarious!! Next time I am in Porto I go there again, promised!!!!!!

7. ✔ Withlocals Highlights & Hidden Gems: Best of Porto Private Tour ✔

Praça de Gomes Teixeira, 4050 Porto, Portugal Withlocals
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4.9 based on 149 reviews

Explore Porto through its beautiful highlights & landmarks and discover hidden gems along the way. See the best the city has to offer with the help of a friendly local, enjoy a tasty treat and receive local recommendations to continue to discover the beauty of Porto & its local atmosphere.

Inclusions: Private tour, Veal pastry tasting, Local guide

Exclusions: Hotel pick up & drop off, Entrance tickets to Porto Cathedral, Food and drinks

Reviewed By ginger_openside

Rui was a warm and genuine host to give us a introduction to Porto. He's passionate about the history and stories of Porto which really gave us a feel for the life of the city. Thank you Rui! We actually visited in March 2019.

8. Short walk from Sé to Ribeira

Porto Cathedral, Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal CallingYou Tour Guides
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4.9 based on 7 reviews

Walking tour through the traditional and cheerful, colorful, exuberant Porto. From the ancestral neighborhood of Sé to our suffering Ribeira, we navigate the history of commerce and sailors, which mixes with the city and the people. The best way to see what Porto has to offer.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Licensed Guide-Interpreter

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Reviewed By RebeccaS5926

The tour was amazing ans very informative! The tour guide was very flexible to show was what we were interested in and told us a lot about Portuguese history! A definitive must do in Porto!

9. The Best of Porto: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour

Statue of Vímara Peres, Calçada de Vandoma, 4000-013 Porto, Portugal Bluedragon Porto City Tours
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4.8 based on 192 reviews

Get to know the history and culture of Porto on this Walking Tour!! This experience introduces you to the essential sights and locations in Porto. Explore the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, seeing Baroque churches and the incredible Porto Cathedral. Hear of Moorish invasions and see some of the city’s more modern highlights, like the wine cellars where its famous Port (fortified wine) is aged, and its iconic iron bridge – Ponte de Dom Luis I. We will take you to discover this city that perches over the river and it´s composed of old houses that seem to huddle each other, with a unique charm and character. Just need to choose from the morning or afternoon schedule and inform us about your preferred language. Don't forget to bring your camera, we guarantee amazing views and great moments. Public and private tours available every day. Join us!

Inclusions: Bottled water, Best Of Porto Walking Tour of 3-Hour, with Live Comentary., Company Liability Insurance and Personal Injury Insurance, Each Tour is accompanied by one of our Storytellers., General briefing is given before the activity.

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and beverages, Gratuities, Entrance fees

Reviewed By cedericg2018

Realy good organized tour with a very Nice guide with a lot of knoweledge of the city! I would recommend to everyone!

10. 3-Hour of Porto Highlights on a Electric Bike - Guided Tour

R. de Alexandre Herculano 257, 4000-054 Porto, Portugal Bluedragon Porto City Tours
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4.8 based on 182 reviews

The Bestseller experience on an Electric Bike! All bikes in this tour are powered by an electric motor, you will be able to stroll with ease through all the highlights of the city. Discover a charming city perched over the river, composed by old houses that huddle together from the river quay until the sea. See the old palaces, the churches, the emblematic neighborhoods as well as the people that bring life into the city that was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This is perfect for those who enjoy bike riding and culture. Combining both in an exhilarating experience through Porto’s hills and cobblestone streets. Choose between the morning and afternoon schedule and make sure everyone has a minimum height of 4.3 feet. Let's GO! HIGHLIGHTS: * Cordoaria Garden * Clérigos Tower * Gomes Teixeira Square * Lello Bookstore * Cândido dos Reis and Galerias Paris streets * Aliados Avenue * São Bento train station * Porto Cathedral * Bridge D. Luís * Ribeira

Inclusions: Each Tour is accompanied by one of our Storytellers., Company Liability Insurance and Personal Injury Insurance, Electric Bike Tour of 3-Hours with live comentary., General briefing is given before the activity., Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities, Entrance Fees, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By sherbert60

This is the only way to experience all the main sites, with interesting information, without exhausting yourself with all the steep hills Our guide was Dutch and his English was excellent, sorry I cannot remember his name We definitely got our money's worth, a generous 2 hours and we saw everything we wanted to see We felt safe and the pace was easy, helmets are provided There was a little practice session before we got going but we have done a few segway experiences before, so we were fine The meeting point was difficult to find because the signage is poor, apparently they've had a fire and are currently in the process of regrouping Lots of stops for photo opportunities We wore our own face masks We would never have covered the ground and my husband's poor hips would never have coped with the steep hills without the segway, perfect for us

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