A Taste of Porto: Discover the City Like a Local

If you're planning a visit to Porto and want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, let us introduce you to one of the most authentic and delicious experiences in the city: the Taste Porto Food Tour. On a sunny Saturday, we enjoyed joining this expertly curated gastronomic journey — and it turned out to be nothing short of spectacular. 

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Whether you're a foodie, a culture seeker, or simply looking for unique things to do in Porto, this experience blends history, local flavors, and slow-paced enjoyment into an unforgettable adventure - an experience you can conveniently book through Wine Tourism in Portugal.

A Historic Beginning: Bolhão Market

The tour began in the heart of the city at the beautifully renovated Bolhão Market, one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. Originally opened in 1839 and reborn in 2022 after four years of meticulous restoration, this market is a living, breathing tribute to the city’s culinary and cultural soul.

Bolhão Market

Our guide, André — founder of Taste Porto — welcomed us with the warmth and storytelling spirit that sets this tour apart. As we wandered through the market, he shared the rich history behind its name, born from the bubbling stream that once ran through its grounds ("Bolhão" means "big bubble" in Portuguese).

From fishmongers to florists, butchers to spice vendors, the Bolhão Market is a sensory feast. The smells of fresh herbs and flowers mix with the vibrant energy of daily life, making it the perfect first stop on our gastronomic exploration.

After an introduction to the market’s finest offerings — from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to high-quality coffee and fresh seafood — we were treated to a private wine tasting experience at a charming salad bar tucked within the market.

Each wine was perfectly paired with a taste of Portugal:

• Vinho Verde: Light and crisp, served with traditional canned delicacies like spicy sardines and tuna muxama.

• Dão white wine: Fresh and floral, with surprising local cheeses that delighted our palates.

• Bairrada red wine: An organic gem, rich in red fruit aroma and spicy notes, paired beautifully with an array of smoked sausages.

This was not just a tasting — it was an education in Portugal’s regional wines and the art of pairing them with food. André’s insights and passion for Portuguese gastronomy made every bite and sip more meaningful.

Walking Through Porto’s Soul

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With happy hearts and satisfied stomachs, we continued on foot through Porto’s charming streets. The route is fully accessible and tailored to guests' mobility needs — one of the many thoughtful touches that make this tour so welcoming.

From Dom João I Square to the historic Avenida dos Aliados, and even a glimpse of an old Arab building, each stop came with stories that revealed Porto's rich past.

And then came Taxca — a local favorite where we enjoyed the famous bifana, a spicy pork sandwich that’s a must-try for any visitor.

To end the day on a high note, we experienced a Port wine tasting that showcased this iconic drink in all its richness and complexity. Paired with sweet and savory bites, it was the perfect finale to a day designed for the true food lover.

Why choose Porto food tours?

Taste Porto’s tours are more than food tours — they are cultural immersions led by locals who are deeply connected to the city and its traditions. The tour we took lasted 3.5 hours, but they also offer customizable multi-day options for those who want to go deeper.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore new layers of the city, this experience is a must. It’s slow travel at its best — local, authentic, and delicious.

Fun fact: Even the legendary Anthony Bourdain chose to explore Porto with Taste Porto. Enough said.

If you're searching for the best food tours in Porto, look no further. Taste Porto offers an unmatched blend of local insight, delicious cuisine, and Portuguese hospitality. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, small groups, and even team-building or corporate events.