Porto’s shopping tours offer authentic ways to experience the city’s commercial heart. The historic Bolhão Market tour stands out as the most practical introduction to local life, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts under one roof. I love the hands-on cooking classes – they’re intimate and informative, teaching you the essentials of Portuguese cuisine. The secondhand shopping circuit is a smart choice for bargain hunters, with guides who know the best spots for vintage finds. For a memorable splurge, the Douro Valley organic farm tours combine shopping with excellent wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.
Check out these top shopping tours that showcase the best of Porto’s marketplace culture.
Good To Know
- Explore the historic Mercado do Bolhão market for a hands-on experience with local ingredients and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
- Experience a thrift store shopping tour in Porto, offering a unique opportunity to discover the city’s secondhand scene.
- Join a food and shopping tour that combines visits to the Bolhão Market with tastings of local delicacies and codfish dishes.
- Discover the organic farm showcooking experience, featuring a hands-on cooking class with traditional Portuguese dishes and wine pairings.
- Enjoy personalized small group tours led by knowledgeable guides, providing cultural insights and immersive experiences in Porto’s culinary and shopping scenes.
Local Market & Cooking Class / Show Cooking
For an immersive culinary experience in Porto, visitors can embark on a local market tour and cooking class.
This highly-rated activity allows participants to explore the historic Mercado do Bolhão, learning about local ingredients and shopping habits.
The hands-on cooking class teaches participants to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes like alheira croquettes, cod with cream, and pastel de nata.
With an expert instructor guiding the experience, visitors gain insights into the city’s cuisine and culture.
The tour includes lunch, local wine, and transportation, offering an all-inclusive and memorable way to connect with Porto’s vibrant food scene.
With glowing reviews and a reasonable price point, this activity is an excellent choice for foodies seeking an authentic taste of the city.
Read our full review: Local Market & Cooking Class / Show Cooking Review
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Porto Market Tour & Cooking Class – Half Day
Visitors to Porto can embark on a captivating half-day tour that combines a local market exploration with a hands-on cooking class.
The “Porto Market Tour & Cooking Class” offers an immersive culinary experience, allowing participants to visit the city’s vibrant market with a local chef and guide.
In the cooking class, guests create a delectable 4-course meal featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Led by an exceptional host, Vitor, the class is praised for its personal touch and welcoming atmosphere.
With a private setting and no time constraints, participants enjoy a leisurely learning experience and savor the fruits of their labor.
Highly recommended for those seeking an authentic gastronomic adventure in Porto.
Read our full review: Porto Market Tour & Cooking Class – Half Day Review
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Meditation Experience at a Lovely Farm in Porto
Nestled amidst the serene countryside just outside of Porto, the Meditation Experience at a Lovely Farm offers visitors a chance to enjoy the tranquility of nature and the practice of mindfulness.
With 18 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this private tour provides a personalized experience for small groups.
Participants will enjoy a comfortable meditation session on provided pillows and blankets, complemented by complimentary refreshments.
Located just a short distance from the city, the farm can be easily accessed, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an introduction to meditation, this experience promises a rejuvenating respite from the bustling streets of Porto.
Read our full review: Meditation Experience at a Lovely Farm in Porto Review
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Traditional Cooking Class & Farm Tour in the Douro Valley
Situated in the picturesque Douro Valley, just an hour’s scenic train ride from Porto, the Traditional Cooking Class & Farm Tour at Quinta de Louredo promises an immersive cultural experience.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, guests can expect a hands-on adventure, harvesting organic ingredients, cooking traditional Portuguese meals, and touring the scenic 60-acre organic farm.
Hosted by the warm and hospitable Fabio and Alfredo, the experience offers a family-like atmosphere, complete with interactions with rescue dogs and other farm animals.
Reviewers praise the delicious and fresh food, knowledgeable hosts, and beautiful setting, making this a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic Portuguese culinary and cultural encounter.
Read our full review: Traditional Cooking Class & Farm Tour in the Douro Valley Review
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Bolhão Market & Codfish Tasting Food Tour
The Bolhão Market & Codfish Tasting Food Tour offers visitors an immersive culinary adventure in the heart of Porto.
This highly-rated 5-star tour takes participants on a journey through the historic Bolhão Market, where they’ll sample a variety of local delicacies, including codfish dishes, wines, cheeses, and pastries.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Ana, the tour provides cultural insights without overwhelming information.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, making it suitable for most visitors.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s value, the abundance of food, and the overall enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Bolhão Market & Codfish Tasting Food Tour Review
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Authentic Porto Food Tour & Market Experience
Exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Porto, the Authentic Porto Food Tour & Market Experience offers visitors an immersive gastronomic adventure.
This 10 AM tour, lasting an unspecified duration, accommodates up to 8 travelers and is operated by eatwith. Priced from $92.32 per person, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, coffee/tea, and alcoholic beverages.
Guests meet at the Aliados metro station and experience the city’s markets and traditional eateries. According to reviews, the knowledgeable guide, Joao, provides excellent service and curates better food options than a similar Lisbon tour.
With a 5-star rating, the tour offers an authentic Porto experience for foodies.
Read our full review: Authentic Porto Food Tour & Market Experience Review
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5 Day Retreat at a Lovely Farm in Porto
This countryside retreat at Quinta da Arroteia offers visitors a serene respite from city life.
The 5-day solo or couple retreat features a private tour and activity, ensuring an exclusive experience. Guests will enjoy meals, snacks, and beverages at the picturesque location, and transportation to and from the nearby Porto airport is included.
While the retreat isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this retreat provides a rejuvenating getaway amidst the tranquil surroundings of a lovely Portuguese farm.
Read our full review: 5 Day Retreat at a Lovely Farm in Porto Review
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Walking Tour to Thrift Shops of Porto
For those seeking a unique shopping experience in Porto, the Walking Tour to Thrift Stores offers a captivating journey through the city’s vibrant secondhand scene.
Priced at $32.27 per person, this small-group tour (maximum of 5 travelers) takes participants to explore Porto’s hidden thrift stores, led by the experienced guide Dayane Aguiar.
The tour includes complimentary coffee or tea and covers all fees and taxes.
With a flexible schedule operating from 8/16/2023 to 10/12/2025, the tour is accessible and convenient.
Boasting a perfect 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this walking tour promises an immersive and rewarding shopping adventure in the heart of Porto.
Read our full review: Walking Tour to Thrift Shops of Porto Review
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Organic Farm Experience in the Douro Valley
Those seeking a break from the bustling city of Porto can enjoy the serene, organic setting of the Douro Valley.
Quinta de Louredo offers a culinary farm stay experience, where visitors can indulge in wine and dine, along with a bed and breakfast. The all-inclusive package includes alcoholic beverages, snacks, dinner, breakfast, and coffee or tea.
Located just an hour’s scenic train ride from Porto, the farm is easily accessible by car or taxi. With a maximum of 4 travelers, this intimate experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but perfect for those looking to connect with nature and the local culinary delights of the region.
Read our full review: Organic Farm Experience in the Douro Valley Review
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Showcooking on a Biological Farm
Although Porto is renowned for its historic charm and vibrant culture, visitors can also enjoy the region’s rich culinary heritage through a unique showcooking experience on a biological farm.
Priced from $129.06 per person, this private tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the farm’s sustainable practices and a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef.
Guests can expect a degustation menu featuring traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à Braga and Barrosã steak, paired with organic Vinho Verde wines.
The experience also includes a visit to the farm’s wine cellar and Roman Thermae, making it a well-rounded exploration of Porto’s gastronomy and history.
Read our full review: Showcooking on a Biological Farm Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for the tours is generally casual and comfortable. Participants are advised to wear closed-toe shoes, lightweight, breathable clothing, and bring a light jacket or sweater in case of cooler weather conditions during the outdoor portions of the tour.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure the specific route and accommodations can meet the needs of any participants with mobility challenges. Many providers strive to offer inclusive experiences.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tours?
Most shopping tour providers don’t allow pets on their excursions for safety and accessibility reasons. Customers should check with the tour operator beforehand to see if they can make any accommodations for a pet to join the tour.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Most shopping tours accommodate dietary restrictions, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences. It’s best to inquire about specific dietary needs when booking to ensure the tour can cater to your requirements.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for free cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior to the tour. Clients should review the specific policy for the tour they’ve booked, as terms may vary between providers.
The Sum Up
Porto offers a diverse range of shopping experiences, from local markets and cooking classes to farm tours and thrift shop explorations. Whether you’re interested in traditional cuisine, sustainable agriculture, or unique vintage finds, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With a focus on authenticity and immersion, these experiences provide a deeper understanding of Porto’s culture and way of life.