What to Do in Porto in Autumn: Food, Wine and Seasonal Experiences
Autumn in Porto smells like roasted chestnuts, red wine, and rain — the city slows down a little, bringing golden lights and this intimate feeling that makes you want to get lost in the beauty and cosiness of the season.
Why visit Porto in autumn?
Cool mornings and mild afternoons make walking the city comfortable and photo-ready. With fewer people around, guests get a more local feel — perfect for tasting, photographing, and lingering in cafés.
Try Our Season Favourite: Roasted Chestnuts
Sweet, warm, and slightly smoky – they taste like a tiny autumn hug. They are more than a treat for us; they’re a cultural symbol of the harvest season! We celebrate Saint Martin’s Day on 11th November.
Pexels @Jorge Ribeiro
The celebration takes its name from St Martin of Tours, a 4th-century soldier who became a monk famous for sharing his cloak with a beggar. Over the centuries, the Christian feast merged with rural harvest customs across Europe. In Portugal, that mixture became the seasonal chestnut-and-wine party called Magusto (11th November).
Unsplash @nicodemusroger
People gather outdoors around bonfires or braziers to roast chestnuts and drink new wine, jeropiga (a sweet, fortified drink made with fresh grape must and aguardente), or água-pé (a light, slightly fizzy drink made by briefly fermenting water and grape skins).
You’ll find street vendors all over the city — from São Bento train station, Marquês, or near the Bolhão Market. These little wonders are definitely a must!
Palácio de Cristal Gardens — enjoy the golden hour
The views across the Douro glow in the late-afternoon light — it’s a natural show! Perfect for a small picnic and sunset photos. Take your time to explore these magnificent gardens.
Other viewpoints:
Jardim do Morro
Across the D. Luís I Bridge
Parque das Virtudes
Visit the Port Wine Lodges in Gaia
Autumn rhymes with wine! Almost… but we feel it does. What better combination than being indoors during this season, enjoying a warm, oaky glass of tawny port?
In Gaia, you can find the cellars where the port has been aged since the 19th century. They offer guided tastings after visiting the lodge itself.
Porto Walkers’ Port Wine Tour walks you through a historical cellar and two other small venues, with seven different port wine tastings. It’s a complete introduction while enjoying relaxed, cosy settings — all while listening to the stories of the Douro’s heritage!
Bolhão Market — seasonal food and local life
What to expect: an authentic, historic food market where autumn produce (root vegetables, citrus, conserves) is on display. Ideal for short market tours or as a prelude to a food-walking experience.
The Tapas & Vinho Verde Experience covers the market with tastings, including seasonal produce, a visit to traditional vendors, and a tavern — 15 Portuguese snacks and 4 wines. Very intimate, with a small group, offering an overview of Portuguese petiscos (tapas) culture.
Indoor culture: Enjoy concerts
Check the programme at Casa da Música or look for local fado nights — small venues like Casa da Guitarra host intimate performances for around €19, perfect for an autumn evening.
In November,Casa da Música fills with the sound of the Baroque Cycle, as the long-running festival À Volta do Barroco celebrates its 21st edition. This programme offers a deep dive into one of Europe’s most expressive musical eras, balancing the historical essence with creative interpretation.
Cosy cafés and pastry shops
Why go: autumn is perfect for long café breaks — try local pastries and a hot drink mid-afternoon. Tip: pick a small neighbourhood café for the most immersive experience.
Practical autumn tips
Dress in layers; mornings and evenings can be very cool, afternoons milder.
A waterproof layer is recommended (autumn showers are short but very likely).
Comfortable shoes are always a must for Porto’s hilly streets.
Bring a portable charger for photos — the light is perfect for shooting!
Book activities in advance if you want a guaranteed spot.