The weather in Porto is unpredictable and a cold day full of rain is not an exception. As we lived for more than half a year in this beautiful city, we have covered the 4 best things you can do when it rains in Porto. Discover with us the places in Porto that have a roof on top (or at least are protected against rain).
Visit a museum at WOW Porto
In the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, within the historic warehouses of Port wine traders, lies WOW Porto. WOW Porto is a cultural center that has become a beloved destination in the city of Porto. This new cultural district includes seven diverse museums and several restaurants, bars and cafes to relax. The complex also features shops and boutiques which are offering carefully curated products, and even a wine school. On top of that, you have a fantastic view over the city and the Douro River of Porto.
One of the standout attractions of WOW is “The Chocolate Story”*. This special museum tells the history of cacao and provides insights into its origins and cultural significance. Besides that, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at a real working chocolate factory of the chocolate brand Vinte Vinte.
“The Wine Experience” is another great museum of WOW Porto. Here, you can take part on a guided tour that shows the entire wine-making process, from nurturing grapes to savouring the wine. This journey helps you understand different grape varieties, the growth process and the birth of various wine types. On top, expert-led wine tastings conclude this wine lover’s dream.
Even fashion and history enthusiasts can find at WOW Porto interesting exhibitions and events. Therefore, it is recommended to visit their homepage and to regularly keep an eye on their new cultural activities. Click here* to book one of the interactive tours and engaging events that promise an unforgettable experience in WOW Porto and, which are a perfect escape from rainy days in Porto!
Enjoy the flavours of the Bolhão Market
When you are travelling to Porto, a visit to the Bolhão Market is a must. The Bolhão Market is one of the most renowned food markets in the city and known for fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, cheese and many other local products. Inside the market, there are restaurants on the first and second floor, where you can enjoy fresh and local food. And the best thing about the Bolhão Market: it is mostly covered from rain!
Discover the popular Livraria Lello bookshop
Livraria Lello is known as the most beautiful bookshop in the world and it is located in Porto. Therefore, this place is a must-visit, especially when it is raining. Then this magical spot will show its true magic and the gothic architecture of this building comes alive!
When you walk into this bookshop, you will first encounter the red staircase which allows you to enjoy the remarkable architecture with its elegant curves and angles. The wooden walls and the breath-taking art-nouveau décor will leave you breathless and excited. Most impressive is the bridge at the centre of the bookstore and when you look up there is a beautiful colourful stained-glass window on the ceiling.
Whether you’re a bookworm or just eager to explore this great space, purchasing a ticket to Livraria Lello is a vital part of your Porto journey. Tickets for Livraria Lello cost 8 EUR and can be purchased online or direct at the bookstore. Nice to know: If you purchase a book from Livraria Lello, the 8 EUR entry fee is offset against the book’s price.
Have a cup of hot chocolate at GLAD
This new chocolate café, which opened in 2024, is part of the craft chocolate brand GLAD. It was founded by the sisters Katrin and Marcella Cavalcanti a few years ago. While their chocolate production is based in their lab in Boavista, this new chocolate café should make the brand more accessible for consumers. Therefore, this café is a space where you can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or coffee in a beautifully designed interior.
Photo from GLAD Porto
The attention to detail in the décor creates a perfect combination of café atmosphere and boutique experience. On top, guests also have the chance to buy the latest chocolate products from GLAD or come back to try new ones. Especially during colder months or rainy days in Porto, GLAD’s new chocolate café is the perfect place to go. Pay also attention to their regular chocolate tasting workshops. These workshops can be a great way to escape the rain in Porto and try some great chocolates.
Best things to do in Porto when it rains
Besides these recommendations of what to do on a rainy day in Porto, we collected many more of our tips on nearly 50 pages in our Rainy Porto Travel Guide. Feel free to get exclusive insights and secret tips to enjoy the city of Porto even when it rains.
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