Which port to order
| Type | Taste | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| White (branco) | Fresh, light | Beginners, as an aperitif; "port and tonic" in summer |
| Ruby | Red fruit, young | A first red port |
| Tawny | Nuts, caramel, cask-aged | Fans of rounder flavours |
| LBV and vintage | Richer, rarer | Connoisseurs, often pricier |
If you cannot decide, ask the server for a tasting of three different ports. Port is sipped slowly, often with cheese or dark chocolate.
Where to drink port in town
Wine bars are mostly in the Ribeira, around Rua das Flores and in the Cedofeita and Miguel Bombarda area. In the evening some bars also serve Douro wines and vinho verde: see vinho verde. For a view as well, try rooftop bars. The full wine guide: port wine guide.
Going further: Gaia cellars and the Douro
The Gaia cellars offer a tour and tasting on site: see port wine cellars in Gaia and Calem and Sandeman. For the valley, see which Douro excursion. Drink in moderation: port is a fortified wine, stronger than ordinary wine.
FAQ
Which port should I try first?
A white port or a ruby; a tawny if you like nutty flavours.
What is a port and tonic?
White port topped with tonic, served cold, very common in summer.
Do I need to book?
Rarely for a glass; book for a large group or a themed evening.
La rédaction Porto Authority, October 2026.
