Porto: Food & Wine Tasting Tour with Market & Lunch

Summary

Porto flavors on foot from Bolhão Market to secret taverns

You’ll wander Porto’s markets and side streets with a local guide who knows every shortcut—and every snack worth trying. Taste ten different bites (from cheese to sardines), sip Port wine and Ginjinha where locals do, then settle in for lunch or dinner if you choose the longer tour. Expect laughter, stories, and maybe even a new favorite flavor you can’t pronounce.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—fresh bread somewhere behind me, a little coffee in the air, and that old-stone coolness you only get in Porto’s side streets. Our guide, Sofia, waved us over by the Portuguese Centre of Photography (I was already late—classic me), then we set off. She knew everyone; I mean, every vendor at Bolhão Market seemed to have a joke ready for her. There was this older woman selling olives who pressed a toothpick into my hand and winked—salty, briny, perfect with a sip of something sweet Sofia called Ginjinha. I tried to say it right; she laughed and patted my arm.

I didn’t expect to feel so at home in a city I’d just met. The market buzzed with voices—some sharp Portuguese I couldn’t catch, some English from other travelers like us. We tasted cheese that crumbled between my fingers and sardines that honestly looked intimidating but tasted like summer by the river. The Port wine stop was tucked away behind an unmarked door; inside it smelled like old wood and raisins. Sofia told us how her grandfather used to sneak her sips as a kid (her mom still doesn’t know). I liked hearing stories more than facts—makes the city feel less like a museum.

If you go for the longer version of this Porto food & wine tasting tour (which we did because my partner is always hungry), they bring out half a Francesinha sandwich and spicy chicken piri piri. It’s messy—I got sauce on my sleeve—but worth it. Lunch felt like sitting at someone’s kitchen table while they fuss over you. At one point I just sat back and listened: forks clinking, people laughing about mispronounced words, rain tapping on the window outside. It didn’t matter that my shoes were wet or that I’d lost track of which street we were on.

I still think about that last glass of Port—deep red in the afternoon light—and how Sofia lingered with us after the official tour ended, pointing out her favorite azulejo tiles across the street. No rush to leave. Sometimes travel is just about letting yourself be led for a while, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Porto food and market tour

• Meet tour guide at Bluedragon's store
• Receive short briefing
• Visit Porto’s traditional market
• Meet vendors and see fresh produce

Top questions

How long does the Porto food & wine tasting tour last?

You can choose between a 3-hour walk with tastings or upgrade to 4 hours including lunch or dinner.

Is lunch included in this Porto food tour?

Lunch or dinner is included only if you book the 4-hour option; otherwise it's all tastings.

Are drinks included on this Porto tasting tour?

Yes, you'll have three drinks including Port wine and Ginjinha liquor as part of your tastings.

Does this Porto food tour visit Bolhão Market?

Yes—the itinerary includes time exploring Bolhão Market with your guide unless it's closed on Sundays.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Dishes can be adjusted for some restrictions if you message ahead; not recommended for gluten-free or vegan diets.

Is this Porto food & wine tour suitable for children?

Yes! Children ages 1-3 join free; ages 4-14 are half price if you let them know when booking.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour runs rain or shine—just dress accordingly since there’s some walking involved.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your local guide near the Portuguese Centre of Photography before strolling through Bolhão Market (except Sundays), sampling ten unique tastings plus three drinks like Port wine and Ginjinha liquor along cozy tavern stops; if you opt for four hours, enjoy half Francesinha sandwich and chicken piri piri as your meal—all within a small group atmosphere where dietary tweaks are possible if arranged ahead.