Discovering hidden places is something we all desire when we travel to a new city. It doesn’t matter if it’s an old building or even a sketchy place on a dark street, the goal is to discover those unique spots that you will never forget.
Here are some suggestions of hidden bars, cafés and restaurants in Porto. And we won’t get mad if you say you discovered them yourself.
Guindalense Futebol Club
Guindalense Futebol Club is a sportive and recreational association, founded back in 1976, dedicated to the organization of events like dances with traditional Portuguese music, barbecues or the celebration of special occasions like São João.
It’s right next to the “Fernandina Wall” (that limited the town in the 14th century), but what makes it so special is the breathtaking view it has over Rio Douro, Cais de Gaia and Serra do Pilar.
It’s the place to have the “true Porto experience”. The space is decorated with sports memorabilia and you can try traditional dishes like francesinha or bifanas with a spectacular view across the river. And getting to this hidden gem will make the experience even more amazing. If you want the easy way just go down Escada dos Guindais, but if you are feeling adventurous you can use the funicular (that will take you up or down the cliff that connects Ribeira to Batalha) or climb the almost 300 steps to get there (it’s a good way to burn some calories). It will all have been worth it once you get there and catch a beautiful sunset while having a nice cold beer.
Where: Escada dos Guindais
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday – noon to 11:00 pm. Saturdays 01:00 p.m.-midnight / Closed on Sundays
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Labirintho Bar
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
While strolling down one of the streets that leads to Avenida da Boavista, pay close attention, because you might find one of the oldest bars in Porto inside what seems a very ordinary house. Inside, the different rooms create the effect of a maze and include all sorts of cultural activities from art installations to jam sessions. Their music selection is also pretty amazing, and it’s guaranteed to please the more alternative crowds, since it will take you on a journey through the 80’s until more recent times.
It’s for sure the right place if you want to escape the busy streets downtown, and during summer nights you can even enjoy some drinks on their nice patio.
Where: R. de Nossa Sra. de Fátima, 334
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday – 10:00 pm to 04:00 am
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7 Maravilhas
Photo by: Hugo Lima
You may not notice this place since you will be too busy making sure you don’t run out of breath while walking up that hill. But pay close attention because 7 Maravilhas is the perfect place for you to catch your breath and eat some amazing food while you are at it. Their menu includes small meals and snacks that are fresh and different every day, and all of them will take you to a different corner of the world. They have falafel, currywurst, goulash, Portuguese wines and 77 different beers from all over the globe to go with these suggestions. It’s definitely a place where all the visitors will feel at home.
Where: Rua das taipas, 17c
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday – 01:00 pm to midnight / Closed on Mondays (kitchen might close between 6:30pm and 7:30pm)
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Miss Pavlova
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
Miss Pavlova’s is a well-known space in Porto, but if you are a first-time visitor you probably don’t know it’s inside a concept store called Almada 13, that also includes three other businesses. This charming little place is right in the back of the store and has the most delicious pavlovas those merengue-based deserts that are just heavenly, and one of the best brunches in town.
Is there a better plan than combining shopping with food?
Where: Rua do Almada,13
Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday – 11:00 am to 07:00 pm / Closed on Mondays
READ ALSO: 4 Porto’s Coolest Stores with Coffee Shops Inside
SO Coffee Roasters
Photo by: Tiago Mulhmann
SO Coffee roasters is well-hidden on the first floor of one of the trendiest stores in Porto, The Feeting Room. They hijacked some space from the store and the clothes racks were replaced with a counter and a huge wooden communal table, where you can enjoy the best specialty coffee, iced matcha lattes and other signature drinks that are constantly being introduced. Their delicious cheesecake is also a must-try and it has just the right amount of sugar that will give you the energy to do some shopping and try-on some shoes.
Where: Largo dos Lóios, 86
Opening hours: Open every day 10:00 am-07:00 pm
Feeling curious? Let us know which hidden place you would like to visit.
