London has Hyde Park, New York has Central Park, and Porto has City Park, the only one in Europe and one of the few in the world with a seafront!
Located in Foz, between Avenida da Boavista, Circunvalação, and the sea, it's the largest in Portugal and one of the best spots in Porto to relax, walk, run, enjoy the sun, lay on the grass, listen to some music, or simply get fresh air (you can get a lot there!).
It has around 10km of paths that go along and across its several green areas and lakes. From green wide areas to a small forest, or a small farm with horses, a restaurant, a fair-trade shop, or playing fields (football, volleyball), you will find a bit of everything there. The Park is used all week and all year long, but of course, with spring, summer, and early autumn great weather it gets really crowded mainly at weekends. When I can, I prefer to go there during the week, although during the weekends (especially sunny Sundays) it's funny to watch different people "picnic-ing" there.
It's one of the favorite spots for runners for meeting and warming up, but many other activities are held there, as Queima das Fitas (University Festival, early May, in a restricted area), Primavera Sound (early June), and other frequent ones, such as Sunday Sessions during the Summer.
When going to Foz, don't miss the Park. It's a safe area, but as usual, keep your eyes open.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Porto guide.
"Venham mais 5" in Porto is definitely not about a fancy atmosphere. It is all about experiencing the 'prego'. If you are like me, you want to go back...
By
"Chocolataria Equador" Porto is more than a shop - it's an experience. Whenever I enter the shop, the smell of chocolate is so dense I can almost taste it...
By
"Gelados Neveiros" is probably the oldest and one of most well known ice cream shops in Porto. REAL traditional recipes, homemade with fresh ingredients..."
By
"Mercado do Bom Sucesso" used to be a decaying market for fresh goods in Porto, but now it's got new life: so many restaurants to choose from!
By
"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
"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
"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
"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