GA Palace Hotel & Spa, a XIXth-Century Villa

The best time to visit Porto is from June to September, when days are warm and sunny, with July and August the driest months. May and September are also pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. The rainiest stretch runs from October to March, with December the wettest month. For the most reliable weather, plan for late spring or early autumn.

Stay in the Old City (Sé, Ribeira, and surrounding streets) for the cathedral, Ribeira riverside, and easy access to the Luís I Bridge; it suits first-timers. Santo Ildefonso, around Avenida dos Aliados, is central and convenient for shopping and transport. Massarelos, near the river west of the center, is quieter and close to the gardens. Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river, offers river views and port wine cellars. The Yeatman and Vila Foz are in Gaia and Massarelos respectively.

Start at the Ribeira do Porto riverside, then cross the Luís I Bridge for the view. Visit Livraria Lello, a historic bookstore, and the Porto Cathedral in the old town. Climb Torre dos Clérigos for a panorama, and see the ornate Palácio da Bolsa. The Chapel of Souls is known for its blue-tiled facade.

You can take full-day tours to the Douro Valley for wine tastings and a river cruise, and to Braga and Guimarães to see historic sites. A day trip to Santiago de Compostela and Valença is also available. These tours cover the main highlights in a single day.

Plan 3 days for Porto itself. Use them to see the Luís I Bridge, Livraria Lello, Porto Cathedral, Torre dos Clérigos, Palácio da Bolsa, and Ribeira do Porto. If you want to add a day trip to the Douro Valley, Braga and Guimarães, or Santiago de Compostela, add one extra day.