The Café Piolho ("piolho" is its nickname and... is the Portuguese word for "hair bug"), which is actually called "Âncora d'Ouro", has been the centre of students' (night)life in Porto for more than a century. The University's main old building is just across the square (also worth a visit, and holds the University shop), and there used to be several faculties around that area. It's the place where lots and lots of students gather to study, eat, or drink, now like generations before.
As a curiosity it was the first café in Porto to have electricity, the first to have TV, and the first to have the machine to make Italian espresso coffee. Ask for the "cimbalino"! So, it's really a living piece of the city's history. It has been recently refurbished, but has kept the main decoration from back in the old days. On the wall you can see many signs celebrating old faculty courses and students.
It still holds a lot of its "student-esque" character and atmosphere, and often it's possible to watch Tunas (traditional student music groups, all dressed in black with capes) performing live there. Now, with the nightlife trend around that area, the café is busier at night and a great place to grab a beer to start the night in that very student environment. But of course, it's also a place to eat, as Piolho is also famous for its francesinhas, although it may be difficult to get a table during busier hours.
Explore Porto like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Porto guide.
"Two:su.shi" is a Japanese restaurant serving delicious sushi with great service and a cosy yet small atmosphere. Excellent place to satisfy your crave!
By
"Conga" Porto is where you can find world-class bifanas, ones that taste the way they should; moist, spicy pieces of pork meat in a bread; delicious!
By
"Castiço da Sé" in Porto is the perfect place to get some 'panados' -- the Portuguese version of Wiener Schnitzel! And the owners are a delight to talk to.
By
"The Happy Nest" in central Porto is a coffee shop that makes breakfast, lunch or brunch enjoyable. Everything's amazing, but definitely try the croissants
By
"The Portuguese Centre of Photography" in Porto is located in an ex-prison in the centre. Protip: go all the way down the street at the building's left side.
By
"CC Bombard" in Porto is a small "shopping mall" that will surprise you with its originality, concept and products. My favourite shop there is Vertigo.
By
Foz and Porto's seafront is definitely for me my favourite part of the city! In summer it can get crowded, but that's because it's Porto at its best!
By
"Padaria Ribeiro" isn't just a bakery - it's an icon of the city! I imagine they have been perfecting their pastry recipes since the 19th century...
By
Porto is home to Portugal's most well-known and awarded architect, Siza Vieira. You can find his masterpieces sprinkled all over the city.
By
"Porto Belo" (literally: beautiful Porto!) is a traditional flea market located in a beautiful neighborhood. Enjoy the great weather, the sun and the music!
By
The "Edíficio Transparente" in Porto is a strange glass building with 4 floors, pleasant restaurant, cafes - and one of my favorite ocean views in the city.
By
"Parque da Cidade" is Porto's Central or Hyde Park, and it's the only one in Europe with a seafront! It's one of my favourite spots to do outdoorsy things.
By
136 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 136 Insider Tips from our local Spotters