Solo Female Travel in Porto

Porto, also known as Oporto, is a coastal city located in northwest Portugal, known for its rich history, charming cobblestone streets, and scenic views, stretching along the Douro River estuary. Famed for its production of fine port wine, this vibrant metropolitan area is teeming with culturally-rich sites such as the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with medieval relics, narrow paths, and cafes. Its most renowned icon, the Dom Luís I Bridge, provides a panoramic view of the city and its historic port wine cellars that line the river bank. Additionally, Porto is home to the beautiful Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal and a spot that inspired J.K. Rowling's depiction of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.

Travel rating

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Is Porto worth visiting solo?

Safety:Very safe

Porto is generally safe for solo female travelers. Like any city, certain areas might be more risky especially late at night but overall, locals are friendly and willing to help. Violent crime is rare, but be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. To bolster your safety, it is recommended to stay alert and maintain standard precautions. Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlit areas during hours of darkness.

Transport:Easy

Porto is quite navigable and traveller-friendly. The city's compact layout makes it convenient to traverse on foot, with many landmarks and attractions close to each other. Additionally, it has an efficient public transport system that includes buses and trams, as well as river taxis. However, the hilly landscape can be somewhat challenging, especially in the older parts of town. It might necessitate a bit of fitness, particularly for those not used to such terrains.

Things to do:Interesting

Porto is a vibrant city brimming with history, magnificent architectures, and impressive landscapes. The city offers a plethora of things to do, from exploring the iconic Ribeira District, browsing through various museums, to indulging in delightful Portuguese cuisine especially the signature dish, Francesinha. Not forgetting, the city is also world-renowned for the production of Port wine, so visiting Port wine cellars for tastings is a popular activity. On top of that, the welcoming locals and the city's relative safety make it a great travel destination for solo female travelers. However, Porto's hilly terrain may be physically challenging for some.

Food:Excellent

Porto offers a rich gastronomic experience with its diverse and incredibly delicious food options. From the classic Francesinha sandwich, mouthwatering fresh seafood, to heavenly pastries such as the iconic Pastel de Nata, the food in Porto never fails to delight. There's a unique mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine, reflecting the city's heritage and innovative spirit. Vegetarians and vegans can also find an increasing number of options. The quality of the food, the variety of options, and the intriguing blend of flavors would please any food lover.

Budget:Affordable

Porto is relatively affordable as compared to many European destinations. You can enjoy local cuisine, accommodations, and attractions at prices that won't break your bank. The city also offers many free sights and low-cost public transportation.

Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 14 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.8/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

4.1/5

Solo travel experience

It was the first time I went on vacation alone and without being an au pair. I really enjoyed this experience. Portugal is beautiful, especially the architecture. The people are welcoming and very sociable. Prices are very affordable both in stores and restaurants.

Posted: February 18, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Everything was very safe and friendly. Had zero local issues or trouble with transit. The weather was incredible, so dressed for their summer. Not a huge fan of frog legs, but try caramel (dolci) and cheese!

Posted: January 14, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

A beautiful city to walk around. Buildings, canal, artwork and shopping was unreal!! The pilgrim community was one full of people looking to share experiences and meet others. I felt safe walking alone during the day and early evening. There’s definitely a traveller nightlife culture in the city centre - so I never felt alone walking the streets, but I would definitely stay central rather than heading out to the suburbs at night. The public transport was decent but most of the city is walkable. I stayed in Selina hostel and the Central House. Both very secure and sociable. Highly recommend the visit if you want to avoid big tourist cities like Lisbon

Posted: December 27, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Amazing place! I felt safe, the food was great, and the whole experience was excellent! The old buildings and history take your breath away. Artists on the streets and music played by musicians made me feel like I was inside a movie.

Posted: December 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Katty

Katty (34)

United States

Solo travel experience

First solo trip was in Porto for 2 days. Felt safe, food was delicious. Had a free tour guide yesterday and was providing me all the spots to eat and hangout. This morning I visited the Palacio de Bolsa, it was a wonderful experience. Wish I was able to make friends, but probably my fault, got a bit shy.

Posted: September 27, 2023Experienced: August, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Julia

Julia (21)

Brazil

Solo travel experience

Just go and see! Always carefully, but have fun! Plan your rotine, meet native people to know what they like to do, the families, the food, ways to communicate. It's beautiful and good for your soul. Makes you a better person.

Posted: April 27, 2023Experienced: April, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went to Porto in March and had a wonderful time. It's really cheap there, except for the very touristy areas, and I highly recommend the free walking tours.

Posted: April 23, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I felt very safe in Porto and walked around the city at night without any problems. Public transportation was always available, and uber/taxis were not so expensive.

Posted: March 3, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I stayed at the House of Sandeman hostel in Gaia. It was incredible. I stayed for a week and had a fantastic time. Beautiful city to explore. During my stay, a 24-hour port festival took place. The whole city was enjoying live, there was plenty of food and wine. I also rented a bike and went south to the beaches, lots of fun exploring and very picturesque.

Posted: November 29, 2022
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Things to do: - Take a tram ride - Take part in a guided walk - Climb the Torre dos Clérigos tower - Visit the Livraria Lello bookstore - Take photos at the São Bento railway station - Take a boat ride on the river - Participate in a Port wine tour and tasting - Stroll along the coastline Safety: The center of Porto is calm and safe almost everywhere. Recommendations: Porto is a beautiful place, quite small, but very pleasant for walking.

Posted: September 17, 2022
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Local tips

I consider Porto is a safe and nice city for women. People are friendly and nice and often, even helpful! If you don’t go to suspicious places and follow common sense - like don’t go alone into dark alleyways or dubious neighbourhoods - you’ll be safe most of the time, both night and day.

Posted: November 2, 2023
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Meet locals in Porto

Meet local women in Porto who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Mariana

Mariana

About Me

Hi Im a 24yo woman just rawdogging life and interested in meeting new people and different ways of thinking! Created this account because being aware of the patriarchial violence we endure I rather help and be helped by other women!

Speaking

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daniela

daniela

About Me

Hi! I’m 22 years old. I’m from Porto, Portugal. I am in a relationship for 3 years. I’m super fun but very shy, I love having some beers with my friends. Cat person, but I also love dogs. I don’t do so well in crowed places but I love a big city, but nothing beats the peace and quiet of a small village. I don’t remember what I was looking for in my fridge but I do know every line of F.R.I.E.N.D.S

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Stay with locals in Porto

Stay with local women in Porto who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Mariana

Mariana

Porto

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi Im a 24yo woman just rawdogging life and interested in meeting new people and different ways of thinking! Created this account because being aware of the patriarchial violence we endure I rather help and be helped by other women!

Speaking

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Claudia

Claudia

Porto

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I will be exploring South Europe.

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Upcoming visitors to Porto

Connect with upcoming visitors to Porto who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Monica

Monica

About Me

Hello! I’m Monica. My wife and I love visiting new cities, learning about new cultures and making new friends. She’s from Texas and I’m Colombian. We currently live in a small town in France and want to see as much of the world as we can.

Speaking

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Lea

Lea

About Me

Living in Paris, do not hesitate if you'd like recommendations of place/restaurants/bars to visit and would like to meet. Planning my first solo trip in Porto in April, looking for solo travel tips and meet up in Porto 🎉

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