Virgin Voyages' guide to Porto (Leixões), Portugal
From the UNESCO-stamped alleys of Ribeira to the old wooden tram that rattles along its steep cobbled streets, Porto, a terracotta-washed seaside city just beyond the port of Leixões, oozes heritage and history.
Where Vintage Vibes Meet a Modern Pulse
Located along the northern coast of Portugal where the Douro River meets the Atlantic you’ll find one of Portugal’s liveliest seaports, Leixões. While Leixões features a beautiful oceanfront promenade, cafès and more, its convenient location as a gateway to the nearby city of Porto is one of its biggest draws. Located a mere six miles away from Leixões, Porto is a breathtaking city where ancient charm, winding narrow streets, vibrant energy and near-perfect weather all blend together flawlessly.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Porto, tasting the varied sweet and savory treats of Mercado do Bolhão, dancing on a party boat down the Douro River or even zipping around the twisting tiled alleyways on a tuk tuk, you’re certain to have an unforgettable journey.
Shore Excursions
Your Porto Playbook
Epic walks, precious wines & verdant valleys.
516 Arouca Bridge: Geopark & Nature Walk
Feel your pulse race as you step onto the 516 Arouca Bridge — the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Spanning 516 meters above the Paiva River, this marvel offers jaw-dropping views of pristine landscapes (we mean... it's part of a UNESCO Global Geopark!). But it doesn’t stop there — stroll scenic trails, spot eagles soaring overhead, and soak in the untouched beauty of this wild refuge. With rich flora, rare wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes, every step here is unforgettable.
Porto Plates & Pourings
Uncover Porto’s culinary heritage with a local guide as you stroll through its charming streets and iconic old town. With a local guide, you’ll visit tucked-away taverns and bustling eateries, sampling iconic dishes like the famous Francesinha and discovering the many ways to prepare salt cod. Sip port wine while uncovering its legendary history, hear tales of Porto’s food culture, and meet the people behind the flavors for a delicious dive into Porto’s heart and heritage.
Douro Valley Jeep & Wine Adventure
Embark on a thrilling Jeep tour through Portugal’s Douro Valley, the world’s oldest wine region. Start at São Leonardo da Galafura viewpoint, where sweeping vistas of terraced vineyards and the Douro River pair perfectly with a glass of Port. Visit the 16th-century Casa Viscondes da Várzea estate to explore lush gardens and enjoy a traditional lunch with local wines. End the day with an off-road adventure, taking in the breathtaking hills of Pinhão before heading back to the pier.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
The City of Bridges
Porto is actually home to more bridges than Venice, Italy!
From the UNESCO-stamped alleys of Ribeira to the old wooden tram that rattles along its steep cobbled streets, Porto oozes heritage and history. A terracotta-washed city on the banks of the Rio Douro, Porto bustles with art galleries, hip coffee shops, sumptuous food, and, of course the dessert drink of its namesake, Port wine.
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