beaches - Porto Expats

A Perfect Day Trip from Porto: Azulejo Churches, Coastal Charm & Hidden Gems

by Gabrielabeaches, food, places, trips August 19, 2026October 3, 2026One Comment

Looking for a day trip that’s a little different from the usual Braga or Aveiro recommendations? Just under an hour south of Porto, you’ll find a fascinating mix of colourful churches, charming streets, Atlantic beaches, and laid-back seaside cafés. This route takes you through some of northern Portugal’s most underrated spots and makes for a …

What to Do in Vila do Conde

by Gabrielaactivities, beaches, places, trips September 7, 2025October 3, 2026One Comment

Why Vila do Conde Just 30 minutes north of Porto, Vila do Conde is a charming coastal town that perfectly combines history, culture, and seaside relaxation. Known for its golden beaches, centuries-old monuments, and vibrant food scene, it’s the ideal spot for a quick escape from the city. Whether you’re drawn by its maritime past, …

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What to Do in Póvoa de Varzim

by Gabrielabeaches, activities, places, trips September 2, 2025October 3, 2026No Comments

Why Póvoa de Varzim If you’re living in Porto and looking for a charming coastal escape, Póvoa de Varzim is the perfect destination for a day trip. Just a short metro ride or drive from Porto, this seaside town offers golden beaches, fascinating history, and plenty of options for food, drinks, and activities. Here’s your …

Best Beaches in Porto

by Gabrielabeaches, places, trips August 22, 2024August 22, 2024No Comments

Many tourists come to Porto each year also thanks to its seaside (or rather “oceanside” 🙂 ) location. There are perfect conditions for surfing in Portugal, as the waves can reach enormous heights. Although the water in northern Portugal does not usually reach very warm temperatures, during hot days an ocean bath is definitely a …

What to do around Matosinhos Beach

by Gabrielabeaches, places July 31, 2024No Comments

Matosinhos is a city and a municipality in the northern Porto district of Portugal famous for a port and fishing industry. The main dominant is the Matosinhos beach visited often by locals, but also by tourists as it is easily accessible by metro. There are so many activities to do, places to see and restaurants …

Best Beach Bars in Porto

by Gabrielaplaces, bars, beaches, restaurants July 15, 2024August 19, 20263 Comments

One of Porto’s unbeatable strengths is undoubtedly its seaside location. Long beach pathways bring ideal conditions for a walk, or just chill out in one of the beach bars. Below I have gathered the best beach bars around Porto ordered based on Google reviews score. Feel free to comment with your suggestions. For our full …

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One Day “Camino de Santiago” from Porto to Vila do Conde

by Gabrielabeaches, places, trips October 18, 2023October 3, 2026One Comment

Are you visiting Porto for a couple of days and would love to experience the famous “Camino de Santiago” leading to Spanish Santiago de Compostela from all around Europe? Then read further! We picked one of the best and most beautiful routes and you can do it in one day! Basic information about the route: …

5 Best Uncommon Beaches in Porto

by Gabrielabeaches, trips August 7, 2023August 22, 2024No Comments

Thanks to its seaside location, there are many beaches around Porto. Although the North Atlantic water is not that pleasant to bath in, nothing beats the seaside sunset, beach walks on long wooden paths, surfing in the Atlantic Ocean waves or having a coffee/beer in your favorite seaside café. Below we have chosen 5 uncommon …