Porto On A Budget: 15 Amazing Free Things To Do in Porto

Visiting Porto on a budget?

I’ve got you covered – in this guide, I’ll walk you through the best free things to do in Porto, including free museums & general money-saving tips.

Beautifully-tiled buildings, cobblestone streets, and old-world charm, Porto is a magical city that absolutely stole my heart – but not the money in my bank account.

And after spending over a week there on a backpacker budget (what’s new), I quickly discovered that many of the best things to do in Porto are completely free at best, or ridiculously cheap at worst.

Here’s your complete guide to visiting Porto on a budget, with the best free activities, free museums, cheap things to do, and budget-friendly tips.

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11 Free Things To Do in Porto

If you’re a budget backpacker like me, you’ll be pleased to know that Porto is a very affordable destination to visit – especially compared to other European cities.

Below you’ll find the best free things to do in Porto, followed by the best free museums, and ending with cheap things to do in the city (all under a few euros).

Explore the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal

If you’re craving a tranquil green retreat from Porto’s cobbled chaos, look no further than the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.

Think perfectly manicured themed gardens, connected by winding pathways of lush greenery, and the occasional peacock roaming around.

➡️ Recommended: Jardins do Palacio de Cristal in Porto: Ultimate Guide

But the real star of the show? The views.

Scattered throughout are several miradouros (viewpoints), each one offering a postcard-perfect view of the city’s iconic terracotta skyline and the Douro River stretching out to the ocean.

It’s totally free to enter, and thanks to the size, it rarely feels crowded — even on a sunny weekend.

Wander the cobbled streets of Largo da Pena Ventosa

Tucked away just beneath Porto’s iconic cathedral, you’ll find the winding streets of Largo Da Pena Ventosa.

Despite their central location, these colorful streets are typically overlooked by tourists, meaning they retain a peaceful charm not found in other areas of the city.

➡️ You might also like: 13 Unusual & Unique Things To Do in Porto

Follow the stone steps down from the cathedral, and you’ll wander into a quiet maze of pastel houses, flapping laundry, and everyday scenes of local life.

Taking the time to explore this lesser-known corner and soak up its slow, authentic atmosphere is one of the best free things to do in Porto.

Marvel at São Bento Station

Even if you’re not catching a train, you simply cannot miss marvelling at São Bento Station.

Entirely covered in blue and white azulejos, these tiles tell Portugal’s history in jaw-dropping detail. São Bento is easily one of the most beautiful stations in the world.

As this is a working station, you can expect it to be busy with a mixture of tourists and locals on their daily commute – try to visit early to avoid the crowds.

This is one of the best places to see perfectly preserved azulejos in Porto, and it is 100% free!

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Sunset from Jardim do Morro

Jardim do Morro is a lush hilltop park across the river and one of the best spots to catch the sunset in Porto.

There is a buzzing energy here as the sun sets, and watching the sun dip behind Porto’s historic center as the Douro River winds its way toward the ocean is nothing short of magical.

➡️ Recommended: Jardim do Morro: Complete Guide To Porto’s Best Sunset Spot

This wasn’t just my favourite free thing to do in Porto, but my favourite activity in general!

It’s perfect for a few beers with friends after a busy day sightseeing, and you simply can’t beat the views.

Wander along the Ribeira waterfront

This lively promenade along the Douro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of charm.

Take a stroll along the river, admire the colorful houses, and browse the bustling markets. The Praça da Ribeira is the liveliest part, with incredible buskers and street performers.

Soaking up the atmosphere, admiring the views, and people-watching are some of the best free things to do in Porto.

Join a free walking tour

If you’re hoping for a deep dive into Porto’s history and want to explore the city’s main highlights, I’d suggest a free walking tour.

Porto Walkers is a great local company offering tip-based tours full of fun stories and historical snippets.

It is also a great way to get your bearings and hear some restaurant/cafe/activity recommendations from a local.

If you’d book and pay for your tour upfront, without worrying about how much to tip, check out these highly-rated tours below –

Admire the view from the Dom Luis I Bridge

Dom Luis I Bridge is quite possibly Porto’s most iconic landmark, and strolling across it is a must when visiting the city.

There are two levels – I’d recommend venturing across the lower level first, and returning via the top level (preferably as the sun is setting).

From this bridge, you get some of the best views of Porto and its iconic terracotta roofs, and it’s totally free!

Visit the Mercado do Bolhão

Visiting Porto’s oldest (but recently renovated) market is another one of the best free things to do in Porto.

Think flower stalls, vibrant fruits, freshly-caught seafood, indulgent cheeses, and delicious wine – if you can eat it or drink it, you’ll probably find it here.

While you might be tempted to spend a few euros on snacks or souvenirs (everything is very affordable), wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere costs nothing.

Explore the churches & their azulejos

Porto is known for its intricately painted blue and white tiles (azulejos), and marvelling at their beauty will not cost you a penny.

While you’ll see azulejos all over the city, the facades of the many churches are the best places to appreciate them.

Here are some churches to check out –

• Igreja do Carmo (small entry fee)
• Capela das Almas (free)
• Igreja de Santo Ildefonso (free)

Visit The Botanical Garden of Porto

If you’re hoping to escape the chaos of the city center, be sure to check out Porto’s Botanical Gardens.

Full of exotic plants, blooming flowers, and tranquil ponds, wandering around these tranquil gardens is one of the best free things to do in Porto.

Located just 10 minutes out of the city center, there’s a small cafe on site and a Natural History Museum inside (also free!)

Hit the beach at Foz do Douro

This is the one thing on this list that I did not do myself, but you can’t miss the chance to hit the beach if the sun is shining.

Hop on the tram or walk along the river to Foz do Douro, where the river meets the ocean.

Sunbathe, people-watch, or enjoy a dip (if you’re brave). If you’re into surfing, this is also a great spot for it!

Check out these highly-rated surf lessons below –

4 Free Museums in Porto

Porto is absolutely full of fascinating museums, and the best part is that many of them are free!

Check out the best free museums in Porto below.

👉 I would 100% recommend picking up a Porto Card if you want to explore the main highlights in a few days – you’ll get free entry to the following museums & discounts on 150+ attractions

The Portuguese Center of Photography

Housed in a former 18th-century prison, this Portuguese Center of Photography was my favourite museum in Porto.

The exhibitions range from contemporary photography work to vintage camera collections, tracing the evolution of Portuguese and global photography.

From the striking architecture to the stories of past inmates, the building’s history as a former prison adds an additional layer of intrigue to the experience.

Casa do Infante

This museum tells the story of Prince Henry the Navigator and Porto’s maritime past.

Located in the heart of Porto’s historic center, Casa do Infante is a must for history lovers.

Romantic Museum

Tucked away in the lush greenery of Jardins do Palacio de Cristal, this 19th-century mansion has been transformed into Porto’s Romantic Museum.

Delve into Porto’s romantic era and admire the elegant rooms, vintage furnishings, and intricate artwork.

Natural History Museum

There are two Natural History Museums in Porto, both located in university buildings.

You’ll find one near the Clerigos Tower in central Porto, and one in the same place as the Botanical Gardens.

From fossils and taxidermy to fascinating exhibitions and evolution, this museum is a real hidden gem.

Cheap Things To Do in Porto

In addition to totally free activities, there are many amazing, cheap things to do in Porto that will only cost you a few euros.

Check out some of these spots below –

• Porto Cathedral – €3 (€2 with a Porto Card)
• Wine tasting in Gaia – skip the expensive tours & sample 5 ports for €7 along the waterfront
• Ride the tram – €3.50 one way

Tips For Visiting Porto On A Budget

Porto is generally a very affordable city to visit, but below are a few tips to help you save even more –

• Check out Tascas – these are family-run eateries serving affordable meals (try a Menu do Dia for lunch)
• Order coffees with Portuguese names – flat whites & lattes are more expensive (try a Galao instead)
• Walk – Porto is a super walkable city, so you can save on public transport
• Grab a Porto Card – includes 150+ discounts, free museum entry & free public transport

➡️ You might also like: 7 Incredible Cafes For Brunch or Breakfast in Porto

Where to stay in Porto

Porto is a really walkable city, so generally, wherever you choose to stay, you will be able to reach the main tourist attractions.

👉 Porto has a €3 tourist tax per night – this is paid in cash when you arrive

There are 3 main areas worth considering –

• Baixa – the city center, the place to be for landmarks, restaurants & nightlife
• Ribeira – best for charm & river views
• Vila Nova de Gaia – across the river, much quieter & amazing views of Porto

Wine Hostel (my top pick)

This charming, wine-themed hostel is the perfect blend of social and chill – I stayed here for one week.

Centrally located, you’re steps from all the best bars, restaurants, and landmarks. It’s ideal for solo travellers, digital nomads, or anyone looking to soak up Porto without breaking the bank.

The drinks from the bar are super affordable, and there is a very well-equipped kitchen (with free tea & coffee each morning).

The hostel is impeccably clean, and the friendly hostel staff create a real home-away-from-home vibe.

Prices start from €25 per night.

The Social Hub

This is the best place to stay in Porto if you’re looking for a taste of luxury, without the hefty price tag.

A stylish hybrid between a hotel and a co-working space, The Social Hub is centrally located and is perfect for couples or digital nomads.

With a rooftop pool, fitness center, and sun terrace, as well as a top-notch restaurant and coffee shop, this hotel has everything you need to relax after a busy day exploring.

Room prices start from €175 per night.

Best tours in Porto

If you prefer to book your tours in advance, I’d recommend using Get Your Guide (my personal favorite) or Viator.

Here are some of the most highly rated tours in Porto –

FAQs

What to see for free in Porto?

There is so much to see for free in Porto!

From gardens, viewpoints, and churches to museums and markets, many of Porto’s top sights don’t cost a penny.

➡️ Further reading: Best Time To Visit Livraria Lello: Without The Crowds

Is the metro in Porto free?

No, but it’s cheap. Single tickets start from €1.20.

If you’re planning on using public transport, I’d highly recommend the Porto Card, which includes free public transport.

Is Porto cheaper than Lisbon?

Yes! I found Porto much cheaper than Lisbon – this includes accommodation, restaurants, and general activities.

Is Porto cheap for tourists?

Porto is a super affordable city for tourists!

With so many free things to do and affordable activities, you can still have an amazing time on a budget.

➡️ You might also like: 13 Unusual & Unique Things To Do in Porto

Is food and drink cheap in Porto?

Generally, I found eating out in Porto very affordable, especially compared to Lisbon and other European cities.

Of course, if you’re in the main touristy areas or an international-style cafe, you can expect the prices to be higher.

However, there are many family-run local restaurants where you can get a lunchtime Menu do Dia (includes a soup, main & drink) for under €12.

In the evenings, check out tascas – these local restaurants offer great value for money.

➡️ Suggested: Top 5 Specialty Coffee Shops in Porto

Free Things To Do in Porto: Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it! This post has detailed the very best free & cheap things to do in Porto, for an adventure even the budget-conscious can enjoy!

If you have visited Porto on a budget, I would love to hear from you – drop me a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!