Things to do in Costa Verde
Discover the best attractions and experiences Costa Verde has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Porto’s enduring landmarks and coastal fortifications that define the Costa Verde’s skyline.
Dom Luís I Bridge
Iconic double-deck iron bridge spanning the Douro River, linking Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia with sweeping city views.
Clérigos Church and Tower
Baroque church with a tall bell tower offering panoramic views over the city.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
One of Portugal's oldest cathedrals, perched above the Ribeira with a fortress-like exterior.
Palácio da Bolsa
Neoclassical stock exchange building with lavish interiors and the iconic Arab Room.
Museums
Delve into art, science and regional history across the region's museums.
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art
A renowned modern art museum set in an art deco building surrounded by a lush park.
World of Discoveries
Interactive museum and theme park about Portuguese explorers and their voyages.
Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis
Porto's primary fine arts museum with Portuguese works from the 18th to 20th centuries.
Religious Monuments
Visit historic churches and sanctuaries that reveal the spiritual and architectural heritage of the coast.
Igreja de São Bento
Portugese church famed for its azulejo tile panels telling historical scenes.
Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
Charming church with a vivid blue tile façade and a compact Baroque interior.
Igreja de Santa Clara
Quiet medieval church set within Porto’s historic center.
National & Theme Parks
Venture into Portugal’s most scenic protected areas and national parks near the coast.
Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês
Portugal’s only national park, offering rugged scenery, waterfalls and traditional villages.
Parque Natural do Douro Internacional
Protected river valley with dramatic cliffs and birdlife along the Douro border.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through vibrant neighborhoods that frame daily life along the Costa Verde.
Ribeira (Porto)
Colorful riverside lanes, lively cafés and iconic views along the Douro.
Baixa do Porto
Historic downtown with grand avenues, azulejos and central squares.
Cedofeita (Porto)
Artsy quarter known for cafés, boutiques and hip street art.
Foz do Douro
Coastal neighborhood where the river meets the sea, perfect for walks along the shore.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy sunny days and scenic views with these free activities along the coast.
Ribeira and Douro Riverfront stroll
Walk the historic riverfront and capture sweeping river views.
Matosinhos Beach
Relax on the long sandy beach or take a dip in the Atlantic.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Lush gardens with hilltop viewpoints over Porto.
Gastronomy
Taste the flavors that define Porto and the Costa Verde, from hearty regional dishes to sweet treats.
Francesinha
A hearty sandwich with layers of meat and melted cheese in a rich sauce.
Bacalhau à Brás
Shredded cod, potatoes and eggs tossed into a comforting dish.
Caldo Verde
Traditional green soup finished with chouriço and olive oil.
Tripas à Moda do Porto
A regional meat-and-bean stew with a distinctive Porto heritage.
Nightlife
Experience the region’s evening buzz, from riverside bars to modern music venues.
Ruas da Galeria de Paris & Cândido dos Reis (Porto)
Vibrant street clusters with bars, live music and a lively crowd.
Port wine cellars (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Walk along the waterfront for bars and night views of the Douro.
Casa da Música evening concerts
Iconic concert hall with diverse performances after dark.
Entertainment
Catch performances, literary landmarks and architectural gems that entertain after dark.
World of Discoveries
Interactive museum celebrating the era of Portuguese explorers.
Livraria Lello
Historic bookstore with ornate interiors and a magical atmosphere.
Casa da Música
Contemporary concert hall hosting a variety of shows and events.
Sports
Active adventures along the coast, from stadium tours to water sports.
Estádio do Dragão (Porto) – stadium tour
Home ground of FC Porto with guided stadium tours.
Surfing at Matosinhos Beach
Learn or catch surf on the long Atlantic beach.
Douro River kayaking
Paddle along the calm stretches of the Douro with scenic views.
Off the Track
Unearth lesser‑known corners and day trips that go beyond the usual routes.
Ponte de Lima (old town and bridge)
Romantic town with medieval streets and a scenic riverfront.
Guimarães historic center
Cradle of Portugal with a well-preserved medieval core.
Braga's Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary
Iconic hilltop sanctuary with elaborate baroque stairs and views.