What to Do in Porto When it Rains: 21 Must-Try Ideas
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Looking for what to do in Porto when it rains? As someone who has lived in Porto for about a year, I’ve experienced the rainy fall season firsthand. With two kids in tow, we’ve explored many indoor activities that keep everyone entertained.
This guide will cover the best indoor spots, from wine tours to cooking classes, to make your visit to Porto enjoyable, rain or shine. Say adeus to soggy sightseeing and olá to cozy adventures!
Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Porto for Everyone
Even if you plan to visit Porto at the best time, rain can still be in the forecast. Rainy days in Porto don’t mean your plans have to be ruined. Here are some fantastic indoor activities to help you explore all that Porto has to offer!
If you’re traveling as a family with kids, skip to a specially curated family-friendly list below!
1. Take a Wine Tour at a Port Wine Lodge
Porto is famous for its port wine. There’s no better way to experience it than with a guided tour and port wine tasting. There are so many wide lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia to choose from! These tours typically last about an hour and offer an in-depth look into the history and production of port wine.
You’ll see the cellars where the wine ages and enjoy tasting different varieties. Prices range from €20 to €30 per person in 2024. Some popular lodges to consider are Graham’s, Taylor Fladgate, Sandeman, and Cálem.
As a family with two small kids, we liked the port tour at Taylor Fladgate. It is an audio tour and they serve grape juice and cookies to the kids! This is perfect if you didn’t schedule a port wine tour in advance, but still wanted to check out the wine cellars!
2. Enjoy a Live Fado Show
Fado is a traditional Portuguese music genre with haunting melodies and heartfelt lyrics. If you’re visiting Porto, a fado show is a must! Live fado shows are held in intimate settings, often accompanied by dinner or a drink. Expect to pay around €20 to €50 for a live performance in 2024. Check out venues like Casa da Mariquinhas or Ideal Clube de Fado for an authentic experience.
3. Visit the Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa)
The Stock Exchange Palace is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. A guided tour lasts around 30 minutes and will take you through opulent rooms decorated with Moorish Revival architecture. You don’t want to miss the Courtyard of Nations with the impressive glass dome! Entrance fees are €12 per person for 2024 and free for children under 12.
4. Visit the Serralves Foundation
The Serralves Foundation is a cultural institution with a contemporary art museum, a beautiful park, and an art deco villa. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions from international and Portuguese artists. The foundation’s peaceful setting makes it a perfect retreat on a rainy day. Tickets cost around €24 per person for 2024 for access to all spaces of the Serralves Foundation. If you are here on the first Sunday of each month, there is free entry from 10:00 to 13:00.
5. Cook Your Very First Pastel de Nata
Why not spend a rainy afternoon learning to make Portugal’s famous custard tarts – the pastel de nata? Cooking classes are fun and educational, teaching you the secrets behind this delicious pastry. Expect to pay between €30 and €50 for a class in 2024. Not only will you spend a few hours out of the rain, but you’ll leave with a newfound skill and some tasty treats.
6. Visit the House of Architecture
The House of Architecture showcases the best of Portuguese architectural design. Exhibits highlight the work of renowned architects and the impact of architecture on society. Since it’s in Matosinhos, The House of Architecture is a little outside the city center, but it’s a must-visit for design enthusiasts! Entry fees are around €10 for 2024.
7. Eat the Best Bifanas in Porto
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to indulge in local comfort food. Head to a traditional eatery for a bifana, a Portuguese sandwich filled with marinated pork. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that will warm you up.
My go-to bifana place is Conga right off Avenida dos Aliados. My recommendation is to get the bifana with cheese (com queijo) and a side plate of fries (balata fritas)!
8. Stop for a Hot Drink
If the rainy weather is making you cold and dreary, cozy up in one of Porto’s charming cafés and enjoy a hot drink. Whether you prefer coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, these spots offer a warm refuge from the rain. Some of my favorites include Café Majestic and Combi Coffee.
9. Go Book Shopping
Explore the beautiful Livraria Lello, often cited as one of the most stunning bookstores in the world. Even if you don’t buy a book, the architecture and ambiance may be worth the visit.
Since Livraria Lello is one of the more popular places to visit in Porto, it may be a little crowded. In that case, other local bookstores also offer a great selection for a literary escape.
10. Tile Painting Workshop
Not only can you admire the beautiful azulejos in Porto, but you can also get creative and paint your own with a tile painting workshop. This hands-on activity lets you design and paint your own Portuguese azulejo tile. I did this recently with my sister, which was the perfect way to spend a few hours. It’s a fun way to spend a rainy day, and you’ll have a personalized souvenir to take home. What a unique thing to do in Porto! Classes are available at various studios throughout the city.
11. Visit the Portuguese Photography Centre
Located in a former prison, the Portuguese Photography Centre (Centro Portugês de Fotografia) is a great way to spend a rainy few hours. The museum offers fascinating exhibitions of historical and contemporary photography. One of the highlights of this museum is the extensive camera collection! You can marvel at antique photographic equipment and modern digital devices. And entry is free!
12. Explore the National Museum Soares dos Reis
The National Museum Soares dos Reis (Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis) is housed in the country’s oldest palace – Carrancas Palace. This museum showcases Portuguese art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The diverse collection includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and decorative arts. Tickets are reasonably priced and offer a look into Portuguese culture and history.
13. Attend a Concert at Casa da Música
Casa da Música is Porto’s iconic concert hall, known for its modern architecture and diverse music programs. Check their schedule for a concert, and enjoy an evening of classical music, jazz, or contemporary performances. Ticket prices vary, so it’s worth checking in advance.
If you can’t make it to a concert, don’t worry. Casa da Música also offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the venue’s unique architecture and history. These tours are a great way to experience the building’s design and learn about its significance in Porto’s cultural scene. The kids and I recently went on a tour of Casa da Música and loved the different tile designs of each room!
14. Indulge in a Spa Day at The Yeatman
If you’re looking for a break from touristy stuff, “treat yo self” to a relaxing spa day! Enjoy massages, facials, and other wellness treatments to rejuvenate yourself. My favorite spa in Porto is The Yeatman. This hotel and spa offers stunning views over Porto, making it the perfect place to unwind and escape the dreary weather outside.
15. Enjoy Craft Beer
Porto’s craft beer scene is thriving, and a rainy day is perfect for exploring it. Visit a local brewery like Fábrica Nortada, Letraria Porto or Taproom Porto. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings of different craft beers. It’s a cozy way to spend a rainy afternoon.
For Kids and Families
The following list is a small snippet of all the things you can do in Porto with kids. But it is tailored for more indoor activities for those rainy dayS
1. Go on an Adventure at the World of Discoveries
The World of Discoveries is an interactive museum that brings the Age of Exploration to life, making it perfect for kids and families. Part of the museum resembles a ship deck, complete with realistic details that transport you back to the 15th and 16th centuries. You can walk on the deck and imagine life as a sailor setting out on epic voyages.
The museum features interactive displays and a boat ride that takes you through historical scenes of Portuguese explorers’ discoveries. Tickets are €14.45 for an adult and €9.35 for children in 2024, offering an educational and entertaining rainy day activity.
2. Discover Fantastic Creatures at SEA Life Porto
SEA Life Porto is an excellent option for families. This aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and turtles. The interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations keep kids entertained. Entry fees are under €20 per person for 2024.
3. Explore the World of Wine Museums
The World of Wine (WOW) complex in Porto offers a variety of museums that are perfect for families and individuals alike. Here’s what you can explore:
- The Wine Experience: Learn about the history, production, and enjoyment of wine. This museum provides an in-depth look at wine-making and the cultural significance of wine globally.
- The Chocolate Story: Dive into the world of chocolate, from its origins to modern production techniques. This museum offers interactive exhibits and, of course, delicious tastings.
- The Pink Palace: An immersive experience dedicated to rosé wine, featuring fun and interactive exhibits that are perfect for photo opportunities and social media moments.
- The Bridge Collection: Explore the history of drinking vessels from ancient times to the present. This museum showcases a diverse collection of cups, glasses, and goblets, illustrating how drinking practices have evolved over centuries.
- Planet Cork: Discover the history and uses of cork, a significant material in Portuguese culture. Learn about the cork oak tree, the harvesting process, and the many applications of cork.
Prices for these museums start at €20 for 2024, but WOW also offers packs of 2, 3, or 5 museums so you can customize your experience.
4. Watch a Multimedia Show Inside the Clérigos Church
The Clérigos Church offers an immersive multimedia show, Spiritus, that combines history, art, and technology. This show provides an engaging way to learn about the church’s history and significance. The combination of light, sound, and storytelling makes this a memorable experience. We love it so much that we go once every few months! Tickets are €10 per adult and free for kids up to 10 years old.
5. Visit the Tram Museum
For a unique and educational experience on a rainy day in Porto, visit the Tram Museum (Museu do Carro Eléctrico). This museum showcases an impressive collection of historic trams and electric vehicles. House in a former power station, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of public transportation in the city.
Your museum ticket is also valid for a tram ride that allows you to experience a piece of Porto’s history firsthand. Tickets are less than €10 making it an affordable and enjoyable outing for families and tram enthusiasts alike. It’s an excellent way to spend a rainy day while appreciating Porto’s transportation heritage.
6. Visit FC Porto’s Stadium and Museum
Soccer – I mean football – fans will love touring the FC Porto Stadium and Museum. The tour includes a look at the trophy room, the locker rooms, and even a walk through the players’ tunnel. Tickets cost €20 per adult for 2024. It’s a fascinating peek behind the scenes of one of Portugal’s top football clubs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Rainy Day in Porto
What to Bring When It’s Raining in Porto
To ensure you stay comfortable and dry, pack the following essentials:
- An umbrella or raincoat: Porto’s rain can be unpredictable, so be prepared.
- Waterproof and grippy shoes: The city’s cobblestone streets can get slippery.
- A warm layer: Indoor venues might be cooler than you expect.
- A portable charger for your devices: Keep your phone and camera ready for those indoor adventures.
What to Avoid on a Rainy Day in Porto
Certain activities and areas are best avoided when the weather turns:
- Outdoor attractions that lack shelter: Sites like parks and open-air markets can be less enjoyable in the rain.
- Slippery cobblestone streets: Be cautious as these can become hazardous.
- Crowded public transport during rush hours: Rainy days can make public transport more crowded and less pleasant. Plan your travel times to avoid the busiest periods.
By planning ahead and knowing what to bring and avoid, you can make the most of your rainy day in Porto. Stay dry, stay warm, and enjoy all the indoor treasures this beautiful city has to offer!
(note: if you prefer, you can set times for each thing. I.e. Morning: Thing 1 or 8AM: Thing 1)
Making the Most of a Rainy Day in Porto
Rainy days in Porto can be just as enjoyable as sunny ones. By exploring the city’s indoor attractions, from Port wine tours to immersive multimedia shows and cozy cafés, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Bring the right gear, avoid the slippery streets, and enjoy the indoor experiences that make Porto special.
Do you only have one or two days to see Porto? For a perfect 24-hour or 2-day itinerary, read our detailed guides to plan the perfect visit!
