What to Wear in Porto (Oporto)

General Style Tips

In Porto (locally known as Oporto) the locals dress in a smart, casual and understated elegant style. Opt for a smart casual look with nice shoes.
Jeans are very popular especially with younger people, but they are always smart and clean.
There are plenty of sights to see and the very best way to see them is by walking. You will do a lot of that and in the older parts of the city it is cobbled and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes (try Hotter shoes – they are stylish and comfy too).
There is a great beach a short bus ride from Porto’s centre so take your swimming costume just in case you fancy a dip – subject to the time of year you visit of course.
In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and a sunhat, and take your sunglasses at any time as the sun is bright.
Also see What to Wear in Portugal

Our advice would be to save your shorts and sarong for the beach, as wearing them in the city will label you as a tourist.
Take your heels, but save them for evening dining or nightclubbing.
A pashmina is a versatile item that will dress up any outfit.
If you are going to visit any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.

We would suggest smart casual wear for evenings, but other than that there are no specific things to bring to your attention. Check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.

The winter months of November, December, January, February and March can be cool at times, and dressing in layers are the key to coping with variable temperatures; mornings will be cool but at the height of the day the temperature can still soar – even in winter.
But it’s worth noting that even if the winter months are warmer than you are used to at home, they won't feel that way to the locals. Pack warmer clothes, shoes and even boots if you want to fit in and feel comfortable. As one tourist we met discovered, open sandals and shorts in November really do make you stand out (and not in a good way!)
October to February see the most rainfall, so pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.
The summer months of June, July, August and September are hottest, but generally not too uncomfortable; be prepared with sunscreen and a hat, and drink plenty of water – especially if you're out sightseeing. Consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage.
To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V).
If you're aiming to travel with just carry-on baggage, try the CabinMax soft-sided rucksack – it's light, roomy and has plenty of pockets to keep your stuff organized.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Shoes and port are great buys in Porto, along with wine and olive oil – but you will need to pack these liquids in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.