Exploring Porto: Street markets and second-hand shops
Porto is a city that enchants with its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life. In addition to the well-known tourist landmarks, Porto offers a unique experience for those who love exploring street markets and second-hand shops. These hidden gems offer an authentic and sustainable way to discover the city, full of unique finds and fascinating stories.
Feira da Vandoma: The Paradise of Hidden Treasures
The Vandoma Fair is an icon among Porto’s street fairs. Held every Saturday morning on Avenida 25 de Abril, this flea market is a treasure hunter’s paradise. Here, you can find a bit of everything: antique furniture, vintage clothes, rare books, vinyl records and a plethora of collectors’ items. Each stall tells a story, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with locals and tourists looking for bargains and unique finds.
Mercado do Bolhão: An Immersion in Tradition
Although it’s not technically a street market, the Bolhão Market deserves a mention. Located in the heart of Porto, this century-old market is one of the city’s most emblematic. With its historic architecture and abundance of fresh produce, Mercado do Bolhão is the ideal place to feel the pulse of Porto life. As well as fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish, you can find flowers, handicrafts and even some antique stalls.
Porto Belo: Art and Design in the City Centre
The Porto Belo Fair is a charming craft and design fair that takes place every Saturday in Praça de Carlos Alberto. This fair is known for bringing together local artisans, designers and artists who offer unique, handmade products such as jewellery, clothes, accessories, illustrations and decorative items. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local talent. The relaxed atmosphere and central location make this fair a must-stop for anyone visiting Porto.
Second-hand Shops: Sustainability and Style
In addition to street markets, Porto also offers great second-hand shops for those who love to pick up unique finds. Among the most popular are:
Mon Père Vintage: Located at Rua da Conceição 80, this shop is a real treasure trove for vintage fashion lovers. With a careful selection of clothes and accessories from the 60s, 70s and 80s, Mon Père Vintage is the perfect place to find stylish and sustainable pieces.
Humana: Part of an international chain, Humana in Rua de Santa Catarina offers a wide range of second-hand clothes at affordable prices. As well as renewing your wardrobe, you’ll be contributing to social projects supported by the organisation.
Com Sotaque: Located near Trindade station, this shop shares space with a cosy Saycheesecake café with an excellent selection of vintage clothes. It’s the ideal place to have a coffee while exploring unique clothes and accessories.
Exploring Porto’s street markets and second-hand shops is a wonderful way to experience the city in an authentic and sustainable way. Whether you’re digging for old treasures at the Feira da Vandoma, appreciating local crafts at the Feira de Artesanato do Porto, or finding vintage pieces in second-hand shops, you’ll discover a side of Porto full of history, creativity and charm.
So the next time you visit Porto, be sure to include these special stops on your itinerary!
