Porto
The hidden side of Porto
September is perfect for Porto. The summer crowds are gone, but the weather stays beautiful. While other tourists queue at the famous bridges, you can truly get to know the city. We have found five places you won't find in the guidebooks.
7 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 3 sources
Dusty port cellars
Porto has dark cellars full of old wines. Not the tidy tasting rooms, but the real workspaces where port is still made the old-fashioned way. You walk over creaking wooden floors and smell how history clings to the walls. This is where you feel that port is not just any drink.
During the day, we comb through the labyrinth of beautiful houses and churches decorated with blue tiles.Porto
Torre dos Clérigos
A tower that is much quieter than you would expect. From the top, you see Porto's red roofs and the river stretching out endlessly. Climb up at your own pace. Hardly anyone will rush past you. It only gets busy at sunset, so come earlier in the afternoon.
Vinum
This restaurant does not feel like a tourist trap. You eat what the Portuguese themselves eat, prepared with respect for the ingredients. Book in advance. A meal here costs a bit more, but you won't forget it.
Guimarães and Braga
These towns are close to Porto and perfect for a day trip. You'll find the same blue tiles and the same narrow alleys, but far fewer tourists. Good if port doesn't appeal to you and you just want to see the real Portugal.
Douro Valley
An hour's drive and you're in a completely different landscape. The river winds between the vineyards. With a rental car you can go at your own pace. Book it online in advance, as that's cheaper than on the spot. It's a full day, so you choose: one port tasting in Porto, or a day of wine and landscape in the valley.
