Foz do Douro: Porto by the Sea

Foz do Douro is where Porto meets the Atlantic. This elegant seaside district has a riverside promenade, a lighthouse pier battered by waves, rocky beaches and some of the city’s best restaurants. It’s a perfect half-day escape from the busy centre.

Quick answer: take the historic tram 1 from near the Infante stop along the river to Foz, or bus 500. Walk the Passeio Alegre garden to the Felgueiras lighthouse pier, then follow the seafront to the beaches and the Pérgola da Foz. Stay for sunset and dinner.

Things to do

• Tram 1: one of Porto’s historic tram lines, running along the Douro to Foz.
• Jardim do Passeio Alegre: a palm-lined riverside garden.
• The Felgueiras lighthouse: a pier where big waves crash over the wall in winter (keep your distance).
• The seafront: walk past the Pérgola da Foz and small beaches towards Matosinhos.
• The São João da Foz fort at the mouth of the river.
• Sunset: one of the best in Porto. See the best sunset spots.

Eating and drinking

Foz has upmarket seafood restaurants, beach bars and cafés along the coast. Further north, Matosinhos is famous for grilled fish. See Matosinhos and what to eat in Porto.

Getting there

• Tram 1 from near Infante, by the river below the Palácio da Bolsa.
• Bus 500 from the centre along the coast.
• Walk or cycle along the river from Ribeira (about 5km).

See Porto public transport.

Tips

• Wind: it’s cooler and breezier than the centre.
• Swimming: the Atlantic is cold and waves can be strong. Swim at guarded beaches in summer.
• Stay here: Foz is a calm, upmarket base. See where to stay in Porto.

More: things to do in Porto and Porto with kids.

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