Porto is an underrated beauty of a city, often overlooked in favor of its big brother, Lisbon. It has been named one of the Top 10 European Destinations by Lonely Planet, European Consumer’s Choice, and TripAdvisor. Located on the Douro River in the north of Portugal, it’s a city with great cultural and historical importance and is well known for its Port wine—hence the name! Porto boasts beautiful natural landscapes, towering bridges, impressive architecture, as well as great culture, gastronomy, and nightlife for its modest size. It’s one of the up-and-coming cities to visit in Europe, and the past few years have seen a huge upswing in gay and gay-friendly venues across the city. What's more, Portugal is probably one of the least expensive countries to visit in Western Europe, so your money will go far during a visit.
You can download the Gay Porto guide for free. Just provide your email address and we’ll email you a PDF.
Table of Contents
1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Gay Hotels in Porto
4. Sightseeing & Activities in Porto
5. Porto Gay Tours
6. Restaurants & Cafes
7. Porto Gay Bars and Clubs
8. Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
9. Gay Events in Porto
10. Day Trips from Porto
General Tips
Just like a lot of Southern European cities, the best time to visit Porto is either April and May or September and October. That way, there are fewer tourists, and the weather is still pleasantly warm. In the summer, Porto's nightlife is more active, but the heat can be a bit much when traversing the city. Winters also get quite cold, although the city looks very pretty when lit up for Christmas festivities. The weather in Porto can be changeable any time of the year, so be prepared for potential rain. There are a lot of slopes and hills in Porto that can get pretty slippery, so take things slowly and wear practical footwear.
Just like in Spain, dinner happens later in Portugal, around 7:00 to 10:00 PM. Consider eating at these times, and the best restaurants in Porto often need reservations. Note, English proficiency in Portugal is always very high, so you are unlikely to encounter any language issues anywhere in Porto.
Transportation & Airport Transfer
Getting around Porto is pretty easy, with both trams and buses available. However, part of the charm of Porto is being able to wander on foot and discover new things. Everything in the center is compact, and you can probably walk to most places you want to visit, including Gaia, technically a separate city on the other side of the river where all the Port wine cellars are located. The tram system is relatively new and is quick and clean. Though it goes underground in the city center, it’s really more of a tram system than a proper subway. Tickets work based on zones, so you pay for the distance traveled. You buy your tickets from the automated machine, and you must choose your zone based on your starting and ending stations. Tram line E (violet) connects the city center to the airport for 2€ and a 45-minute ride.
Gay Hotels in Porto
There aren't currently any gay hotels in Porto, but there are many gay-friendly options.
Luxury
Yeatman Hotel – Referred to as a luxury wine spa hotel (which pretty much says it all). Each of the 82 rooms offers some of the finest views of the surrounding area—a wine lover's haven. Even if you don’t stay at this property, it’s well worth visiting the outdoor bar and terrace, as it gives you some of the best views of Porto. Drinks at the bar are expensive by Porto standards but still reasonable by European standards.
Mid-Range
Hotel Teatro – Perfectly located in the city center with a quick connection to the airport. It’s a good option and is within walking distance of just about everything you want to see. It’s a relatively new design hotel located in a building that was formerly a theater. As you walk the halls and lobby, you can’t help but feel like you’re backstage at a performance, with the walls lined with curtains and spotlight-style overhead lighting.
Hotel Infante Sagres – Still luxurious, this hotel is a tad smaller than most luxury accommodations. The charming boutique hotel, however, lacks absolutely nothing when it comes to comfort, allure, and spaciousness. Expect a glass of Port upon arrival.
DEUXMECS – Porto's first and only LGBTQIA+ accommodations have just opened their doors, transforming a historic building into a vibrant, artistic space with a welcoming atmosphere for the community. The rooms are spacious, featuring large beds, roomy baths, minibars, and some even include balconies. Direct bookings through their website come with a complimentary breakfast.
Budget
Gallery Hostel – This is a high-end, design-focused hostel located in central Porto. You’ll be surrounded by a trendy and vibrant area with a never-ending flow of activity. You can enjoy free city walking tours and some of the best hostel facilities around. They even have their own art gallery with an exhibition of local artists that changes twice a month.
The White Box House – This is a typical house from the area dating back to the early 1900s. The guesthouse has been refurbished, and you’ll find a clean and modern feel right in the center of town. Just down the street is Café Majestic, one of the most famous restaurants in town. This is a simple, yet modern and clean guesthouse that’s perfect for any traveler on a budget.
We’ve partnered with misterb&b to help curate the most LGBT+ friendly homestays. misterb&b is not a hotel or chain, but rather a booking platform for rooms, apartments and homes and it allows you to book from gay and gay-friendly hosts around the world. They have hosts in more than 200 countries and territories with more than 1 million total listings. Understanding the gay scene is much more easily done with the help of a local and home-sharing is one of the best ways to meet someone living in the city who knows how things work, where and when are the best nights to go out, and what places to eat at and which to avoid. misterb&b is our top choice if your priority is exploring the local gay scene.
Special Offer! Sign up with misterb&b and you will receive a free $10 credit to use on your first booking!
Sightseeing & Activities in Porto
Porto Cruz – Any Porto itinerary should definitely include a Port wine experience. They’ve been producing Port wine for more than 100 years, but they offer a modern Port wine experience and tour at their property free of charge. You’ll also find one of the only rooftop terraces on the Gaia bank here, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the view with a Porto Tonic—one of Porto’s trendiest cocktails. Book tour →
Dom Luis I Bridge – You literally can't miss this stunning double-deck iron arch bridge spanning the Douro River. Connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, it offers views over the city, pedestrian walkways, and easy access to the historic Ribeira district and famous Port wine cellars. Book tour →
Ribeira District – This historic area along the Douro River is known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and charming narrow streets. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers numerous restaurants, cafés, and shops. Perfect for leisurely strolls, boat tours, and soaking in Porto's rich culture and history. Book tour →
Porto Cathedral – Also known as Sé do Porto, this magnificent Romanesque-Gothic structure is located in Terreiro da Sé. It features stunning architecture and beautiful cloisters, which offer a glimpse into Porto's rich religious heritage and architectural grandeur—and the view from its terrace is pretty impressive too. Book tour →
Sao Bento Rail Station – Another must-visit site in the center is the São Bento train station, whose inner entrance showcases an impressive collection of tile art depicting Portugal’s 800-year history in a massive 360-degree display. Book tour →
Ferreira Port Wine Cellar – A traditional experience where you can tour the wine-making process and sample several Port wines with cheese.
Casa da Música – With a restaurant and two main auditoriums, this venue rivals even Walt Disney Concert Hall. Sometimes referred to as “the temple of music” due to the sheer reverence and worship-worthy concert venue, it is considered an acoustic marvel. The innovative design features curved glass throughout the concert halls, which gives the interior spaces natural light and an incredibly open feeling. You can also find a cool monthly event here where the venue is converted into the largest nightclub in the country.
Livraria Lello – If you love books, one of Portugal's oldest bookstores is a must-see. Curvaceous staircases, ornate geometric designs, stained glass, and wood carvings give it the feel of a resplendent old church—the ideal blend of art and science. Voted one of the top three most beautiful bookstores in the world, it’s possibly the most famous of Porto's attractions. Be sure to buy tickets in advance early, as they sell out quickly. The good news is your entrance ticket also counts as a discount toward buying any book that catches your fancy—but not for other merchandise. Book tour →
Tramway – Though typically found in Portugal's older cities, this combination transportation system/tourist attraction is highly reminiscent of San Francisco's trolley system. Line 1 (Coast Line) runs from Passeio Alegre along the river and into the city center. The trolleys are more touristic than practical but still worth a ride.
Bolhao Outdoor Market – The perfect quick stop for cake, coffee, and other assorted examples of beloved local favorites. It's a little hidden, so keep your eyes peeled for a mysterious staircase. Book tour →
Hop on Hop off Bus Tours –Bus tours aren’t always our favorite, but admittedly, they are sometimes a good way to get an overview of the city if you only have a single day for sightseeing. You can quickly get to know the city (plus visit a Port wine cellar) while hopping on and off throughout the day to visit various sites of interest. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, and stops can be found throughout the city center. This is especially helpful in Porto, as the city has so many hills. Book tour →
Porto has many beaches—none are “gay beaches,” though—just a short walk from the center. Alternatively, you can catch the tram or 500 bus from the center to reach them. Along the sandy coast, you'll find everyone from surfers to sunbathers.
Porto Gay Tours
Gaily Tours in Porto – If you’re looking for a gay tour in Porto, check out these guys. They offer city tours with local gay guides who can answer any question about gay Porto you might have. Book tour →
Restaurants & Cafes
DOP Restaurant -The renowned Portuguese chef Rui Paula (not RuPaul) recreates traditional Portuguese flavors into dishes with a modern and artistic twist. For the budget-conscious, you can enjoy a multi-course lunch at DOP for just 20€.
Café Majestic – An old favorite of politicians and artists, this glorious, historic coffeehouse uses a stunning combination of wood, marble, chandeliers, cherubs, and mirrors to create an unforgettable ambiance. From coffee or sangria to superb seafood dishes and cheesecake, the setting isn't the only attraction here.
Fish Fish – The view from the outdoor dining area is just the beginning of your seafood-filled experience. In addition to seafood, the wines, excellent service, and desserts keep both tourists and locals coming back.
DeCastro Gaia Restaurant – Friendly service, elegant wines, and a charming atmosphere describe this epicurean experience. Try this celebrated combo: “bochecha de porco” as a main dish with “Toucinho do Céu” for dessert.
Tia Tia – If wine is your focus—and that's a great focus to have—then Tia Tia is the place to sample the very best of local Portuguese wines alongside authentically delicious Portuguese food. The menu primarily consists of imaginatively crafted vegetarian dishes that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Dona Mira – If you like a little culture with your coffee, this quaint café is perfection. The atmosphere is as warm as the premier coffee they serve, and you’ll find a photo gallery, stacked bookshelf, and even a verdant garden to explore between cuppas. Alongside hot beverages, they also offer craft beers, salads, and sandwiches.
Cafe Santiago – Girl, please! Just throw your diet out the window. In a word: Francesinha. Enough said.
Castro – This café is hands down the best place to taste Portugal's trademark Pastel de Nata in Porto.
Porto Gay Bars and Clubs
The area around “Galeria de Paris,” called The Galleries, is where you’ll find the highest concentration of cafés, bars, and lounges. By night, this area comes alive and becomes a pulsating nightlife spot for locals who love crowding onto the streets, as drinking in public is still legal in Portugal. In many bars, you pay for your drinks in advance and receive tickets, or you order from a card provided at the entrance and pay when you leave.
Lusitano Café – A great bar with a mixed crowd, built in a former warehouse with incredibly high ceilings. It starts to get busy around midnight and has an open atmosphere, offering more of a socializing scene.
Conceição 35 – This is a new gay-owned bar in town. It’s a small but energetic place with a front bar and a back dance floor. The crowd is mixed but will likely lean more gay than straight, depending on the night.
Syndikato – An old gay bar located outside the center. In past years, Porto’s nightlife was not concentrated in the city center, and this place has been around since then. It’s a gay institution in Porto and a favorite among local bar-goers. It’s open on weekends and on Wednesdays, when they host drag performances. It’s a bit of a dive bar and not as hip as the mixed crowd bars in the center, but it can still be fun with the right crowd.
Pride – This bar is a bit outside the center and has been a local favorite for years, even before nightlife shifted to the Galleries. It’s known for its flamboyant drag shows and often attracts a younger, more alternative crowd.
Plano B – The place to end the night is definitely Plano B, but you won’t find a crowd here until after 1 a.m. The venue looks small upon entering, but head downstairs to discover two additional bars and two large dance floors playing either top 40 or house music, depending on your style. This spot is gay-friendly and draws a mixed crowd.
Zoom – The only gay-specific club in town, Zoom is extremely popular and can be especially crowded on Saturdays. Located in the city center, it occupies a former warehouse. Expect energetic crowds dancing to house music and cute go-go boys.
Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars
Sauna Thermas 205 – Porto’s main sauna is a little old fashioned, but certainly not bad for a city of its size. Plus the entrance fee is only ten euros and it comes equipped with a wet sauna, dry sauna, video room, lounge area, two darkrooms and a smoking area.
L'UOMO – A tucked-away cruising bar open daily, featuring a classic sex-club industrial aesthetic. It’s both a place to cruise and socialize, with a dance floor and bar—sometimes hosting drag shows—to complement its swings, dungeon, and darkrooms. The entrance fee varies between ten and fifteen euros and includes a drink.
Gay Events in Porto
Porto Pride – Since 2006, Porto has hosted a gay pride march every July, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community of the city. The event centers around the parade on Saturday, but the weekend also includes a mix of big parties and political conferences on queer issues. On both Friday and Saturday, a stage in Parque da Pasteleira hosts international music acts, DJs, and drag queens.
Day Trips from Porto
Douro Valley – This is wine country! With river views, castles, and breathtaking monasteries, forgetting your camera (or photo-ready smartphone) would be a mortal sin. If you have time, it’s definitely worth taking a day tour of the Douro Valley, which usually includes wine tasting and lunch. Book tour →
Braga – Definitely a town of contradictions! By day, it epitomizes Christianity with an ancient, Rome-like atmosphere. But after dark, this town transforms, offering a nearly unrivaled nightlife! Book tour →
Guimarães – History buffs, rejoice! From the airport, you can reach this destination by car/taxi, bus, or metro/train. Old manors, incredible panoramas, majestic castles, wine, and gardens make Guimarães well worth the trip. Book tour →
Aveiro – oOften called the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming coastal city known for its picturesque canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through the canals, explore the vibrant fish market, and stroll along scenic streets lined with iconic striped buildings. Book tour →
For more information about visiting Porto visit the official visitor’s website: www.visitportoandnorth.travel
Note: Porto Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsored my visit to Porto. As always, rest assured all opinions are 100% my own. Some of these links are affiliates which means using them won’t cost you any extra but we do receive a small commission for each referral. You’re not obligated to use them but we appreciate it if you do. Thanks in advance for supporting this site if you choose to use our link!
Comment (0)