Porto City Card Review

Having been named European Best Destination multiple times, Porto remains one of the ultimate tourist destinations in Europe. Not only does the city boast colourful houses, riverside views, and a bustling food and wine scene, but it also houses yet another attraction- the Porto City Card, which is designed to ease the stress that comes with exploring the city. But the big question remains, ‘Is the Porto City Card worth it?’. In this review, we will explore the benefits of the card and let you know if it can really save you money.

What is included in the Porto City Card

Cathedral of Porto:

Located in the heart of Porto, the Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the rich history and culture of this beautiful city. This magnificent building, one of the oldest in Porto, dates back to the 12th century and is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture.

From the outside, the Cathedral appears almost as a fortress, protecting the city from invaders and watching over the rooftops of Porto. The intricate stonework and imposing bell towers are awe-inspiring, and they offer a glimpse into the past.

When you step inside the Cathedral, you’ll be transported back in time. The central nave is vast and spacious, with stunning vaulted ceilings that stretch to the heavens. The atmosphere is serene and mystical, and the air is filled with the scents of incense and candles, creating a sense of peace and tranquillity.

Douro River Six Bridges Cruise:

Sail under Porto’s famous six bridges, passing by UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the port wine cellars, Crystal Palace, and Serra do Pilar Monastery. Enjoy a scenic cruise down the Douro River, admiring the red-roofed houses of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia, the heart of port wine export. It’s a memorable experience showcasing Porto’s beauty and cultural landmarks.

Cálem Caves: Guided Tour:

Interested in learning more about the Portuguese wine you’re enjoying? Embark on a guided tour of Porto Cálem and dive into everything you need to know about Port Wine, from vineyard to glass. This immersive experience allows you to touch, smell, and taste your way through the rich history of Port and the Douro Valley, all with the guidance of a local expert. At Porto Cálem, you’ll gain insights into the winemaking process, explore the historic winery and interactive museum, and have the opportunity to venture into the cellars where the finest wines await, ready to be savored. Cheers to a delightful tasting experience!

Traditional Fado Concert:

This intimate and enchanting performance offered a captivating glimpse into the soul of Portuguese music.

Located in the heart of Porto, the Ideal Clube de Fado is a unique venue dedicated to preserving the authenticity of fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre. As I entered the venue, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, setting the stage for a memorable evening.

Last but not least another 10% extra discount for anything on Tiqets.

How much does the Porto City Card cost

The Porto City Card cost around 56 euros but now we will see whether it is actually worth its cost or not. We will break down in detail the attraction covered by Porto City Card and then check the standalone ticket cost to check if you can actually save money with Porto City Card or if just standalone tickets would be the best deal for you.

Attraction Covered	Cost in Euros	Standalone Tickets
Cathedral of Porto	3.00	Check Here
Douro River Six Bridges Cruise	15.00	Check Here
Cálem Caves: Guided Tour	17.00	Check Here
Traditional Fado Concert	19.00	Check Here
Total Cost	54.00

If you decide to take the Porto City Card Tickets separately then you will be able to save 2 euros compared to if I buy the Porto City Card. So there is actually no saving with the Porto City Card unless you really want to get your hands on the 10% discount on other attractions in Porto.

But that too should be more than 20 euros or so to have some actual savings in place. So as per our analysis, it is better to get the stand-alone tickets in Porto compared to the Porto City Card.

Is Porto City Card Worth it?

No, It is better to buy the stand-alone tickets for Porto as you will end up paying 2 euro more if you are going ahead with Porto City Card compared to buying tickets separately.

How many days are enough to Explore Porto?

If you’re planning a trip to Porto, Portugal, you might be wondering how many days you need to fully explore the city. While every traveler is different, we recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Porto to see the major sights and get a feel for the local culture.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 4-day trip to Porto:

Day 1: Arrive in Porto and explore the historic center of the city. Visit popular landmarks like the Clerigos Tower, the Sao Bento train station, and the Ribeira district. Finish the day with a Port wine tasting at one of the many famous wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Day 2: Head to the beachside town of Matosinhos for a day of sun, sand, and seafood. Take a surf lesson, go for a swim, or simply relax on the beach. In the evening, return to Porto for a dinner of fresh seafood and local wine.

Day 3: Explore the art and culture of Porto with a visit to the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art or the Casa da Música concert hall. In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the Douro River to see the city from a different perspective.

Day 4: Spend your last day in Porto at the Palacio da Bolsa, a stunning neoclassical building that once housed the city’s stock exchange. Then, take a trip out to the Douro Valley, where you can hike, bike, or take a scenic drive through the region’s vineyards and forests.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Porto City Card?

After reviewing the benefits and drawbacks of the Porto City Card, our recommendation is to skip it and buy standalone tickets for the attractions you want to visit instead.

By opting to purchase tickets individually, you can save money on attractions you don’t plan on visiting and have more control over your itinerary.

Reference:
Images by DepositPhotos

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