Porto is more than its iconic azulejos and Port wine—it’s a city where creativity pulses through cobbled streets and whispers from every pastel façade. For design lovers and dreamers seeking inspiration off the beaten path, there are countless artsy things to do in Porto that go beyond the typical guidebook suggestions. Whether you’re drawn to contemporary galleries, timeless architecture, or artisanal workshops, this soulful Portuguese city will stir your imagination and leave you enchanted.
Here’s our curated guide to the best Things To Do Porto style—designed especially for creatives who crave authenticity, art, and a splash of magic.
1. Wander Through the World of Azulejos
One of the most iconic things to do Porto wide is admire the city’s azulejos—hand-painted ceramic tiles that decorate churches, train stations, and even everyday buildings. The São Bento Railway Station is a must-see, with over 20,000 tiles depicting historical scenes in blue and white grandeur.
But don’t stop there. Design lovers will appreciate the subtle variations in lesser-known places like Capela das Almas or Igreja do Carmo. These tiles aren’t just decorative—they tell stories, reflect light differently throughout the day, and speak to centuries of Portuguese craftsmanship.
2. Discover Contemporary Art at Serralves Museum
If you’re passionate about modern art, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the top artsy things to do Porto offers. Designed by famed Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, the museum itself is a minimalist masterpiece.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions by leading international and Portuguese artists, immersive installations, and thought-provoking sculptures. The surrounding Serralves Park—18 hectares of landscaped gardens, forests, and secret groves—adds another layer of sensory experience, making this a full-day escape into creative serenity.
3. Get Lost in Livraria Lello
Bookstores rarely make a list of things to do Porto, but Livraria Lello is no ordinary shop. Often hailed as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, it’s a neo-Gothic fantasy filled with carved wood, stained glass, and a crimson staircase that seems to float mid-air.
Design lovers will swoon over the intricate architectural details, while dreamers may appreciate the whispered rumors that this store inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision of Hogwarts. Pro tip: visit early to avoid crowds and soak in the ambiance.
4. Visit Artisanal Studios in Miguel Bombarda District
For those seeking grassroots creativity, the Rua de Miguel Bombarda is a vibrant hub. It’s Porto’s unofficial arts district and one of the most authentic things to do Porto style. The street and its surrounding alleys are lined with independent galleries, artist-run studios, and design boutiques that showcase everything from photography to abstract painting and conceptual installations.
Time your visit with the district’s “Simultaneous Openings,” when multiple galleries launch new exhibits at the same time, often accompanied by live music and street food.
5. Photograph the Stunning Palácio da Bolsa
While it’s a historical landmark, Palácio da Bolsa also stands as a design marvel. Once Porto’s stock exchange, this 19th-century neoclassical building offers some of the most exquisite interiors in the city, particularly the Arab Room—a lavish space inspired by Moorish architecture.
Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or traveler with a love of detail, this is one of the most visually compelling things to do Porto can offer. Guided tours are available in multiple languages and are well worth your time.
6. Explore the Artistic Side of Porto’s Street Art
One of the more unexpected things to do Porto reveals is its growing street art scene. In contrast to the city’s old-world charm, walls and alleyways come alive with bold murals and vibrant graffiti.
Seek out works by renowned local artists like Hazul or Costah. The area around Rua das Flores and Rua de Miguel Bombarda again makes a great starting point. Street art walks are also available if you’d prefer a more curated introduction.
7. Browse Design-Forward Shops and Concept Stores
For lovers of interior aesthetics and curated spaces, Porto’s concept stores are a treasure trove. The Feeting Room and EarlyMade are standout examples—blending fashion, design objects, and lifestyle pieces in beautifully arranged spaces.
Shopping might not always be the first on a list of things to do Porto, but these design-centric spots feel more like mini galleries than retail spaces. Many support local artists and makers, making your purchase part of Porto’s creative ecosystem.
8. Experience a Design-Led Stay
Where you stay can be just as inspiring as where you visit. Porto is home to a selection of boutique hotels and guesthouses that elevate design to an art form. Consider Torel Avantgarde, a 5-star hotel with suites named after famous artists, or Casa do Conto, a literary-themed design hotel blending concrete, poetry, and architectural minimalism.
These immersive accommodations turn even downtime into one of the best things to do Porto wise for design-seekers.
9. Attend a Cultural Event or Design Festival
Porto is home to several design and culture festivals that showcase the best of local talent. Porto Design Biennale, Porto/Post/Doc, and FITEI (International Festival of Iberian Expression Theater) are just a few examples that transform the city into a stage for creative minds.
Checking out the local calendar during your stay might reveal some unforgettable things to do Porto never puts on a billboard.
10. Take a Creative Workshop with Local Artists
What better way to deepen your connection to Porto than by creating something yourself? From pottery classes and tile-painting sessions to photography walks and calligraphy courses, the city offers many hands-on things to do Porto style.
One standout is Gazete Azulejos, where you can learn to paint your own ceramic tiles while diving into the history of azulejo art. It’s the perfect blend of learning, culture, and creativity.
Final Thoughts: The Artistic Soul of Porto
Porto rewards those who explore slowly and with intention. While it’s easy to be charmed by its river views and wine cellars, the city’s creative heartbeat lies just below the surface—in its art, its stories, and its people. For design lovers and dreamers, the best things to do Porto offers aren’t necessarily in the mainstream—they’re in the moments that feel like secrets made just for you.
At 21 Sensations, we believe in travel that lingers. That’s why we don’t just list attractions; we share real experiences that inspire. So whether you’re sketching in a garden, photographing a forgotten alley, or wandering a design shop that feels like a gallery, Porto will speak to your artistic soul—if you let it.
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