There’s something enchanting about Porto—the way its terracotta rooftops tumble down hillsides, how the Douro River mirrors centuries-old bridges, and most of all, the aroma of food wafting through narrow, cobbled streets. This northern Portuguese city may be known for its namesake wine, but it’s the food scene—both humble and refined—that really tells Porto’s story. From timeworn taverns to sleek riverside eateries, the city invites visitors to slow down and savour every bite.
Wander into the heart of Bolhão Market and you’ll find a cross-section of Porto’s culinary soul: fresh sardines, plump olives, aged cheeses, and handmade pastries that feel like home. Many travellers booking package holidays to Porto come for the wine cellars and stay for the food—whether it’s a bowl of steaming caldo verde, a plate of crispy bifanas, or that first bite of silky custard tart. It’s a city where heritage speaks loudest through the kitchen, where every forkful is a link to the past. Whether you’re a returning gourmand or new to the city, all-inclusive holidays often include hidden culinary gems that deserve your attention.
Despite its growing popularity, Porto has retained an authentic charm that keeps food lovers coming back. Through Travelodeal, visitors can discover experiences that feel anything but packaged—such as joining a local for a home-cooked meal or following the scent of grilled chouriço into a tucked-away wine bar. While many book holidays to Porto for the scenery, they end up falling for the flavour.
Where Tradition Meets Taste
Porto’s gastronomy doesn’t chase trends—it celebrates tradition. Take the iconic francesinha: a towering sandwich filled with cured meats, smothered in cheese, and drenched in spicy beer sauce. It’s the kind of dish that shocks and delights in equal measure, and no visit to the city is complete without trying one. Locals have their favourite spots—some say Café Santiago; others swear by Cervejaria Brasão. Either way, you’re in for a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with a cold fino (a small beer).
Then there’s tripas à moda do Porto, a stew made with tripe, beans, and various cuts of meat. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it tells a story of resilience dating back to the 15th century, when locals allegedly gave the best cuts of meat to explorers and kept the rest. It’s humble, historical, and packed with flavour.
Seafood lovers will rejoice in Porto’s proximity to the Atlantic. Grilled sardines, octopus rice, and bacalhau (salt cod) are staples, often served in small, family-run restaurants where recipes are handed down like heirlooms. Don’t overlook the petiscos (Portuguese tapas), which offer a delicious way to taste your way through local delicacies—smoked sausage, garlic prawns, or lupin beans in brine.
A Toast to Porto
Of course, no foodie journey in Porto is complete without a nod to its most famous export—Port wine. Across the Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia, historic wine lodges offer guided tastings and cellar tours. Sip a tawny aged to perfection, or try a white Port served chilled with tonic and mint for a refreshing twist. These wine experiences are often accompanied by local cheeses, sweet fig compotes, and salted almonds, elevating every sip.
But beyond Port, Porto’s drinking scene is blossoming. Craft beer has found its place in neighbourhoods like Cedofeita, while natural wines and bold espresso shots define the daily rhythm of cafés across town. For a more intimate vibe, seek out a speakeasy-style gin bar hidden behind a bookcase or a rooftop terrace where the views rival cocktails.
Final Thoughts
Porto invites you to slow down and eat like a local. There’s no rush—just honest food, warm people, and a deep sense of pride in tradition. It’s a place where every bite carries a memory, and where culinary discovery feels like an everyday adventure. Whether you’re tasting tripe with an old friend or sipping Port under sunset skies, Porto proves that food is not just something to consume—it’s something to cherish.
