A Food Lover’s Guide to Bolhão Market in Porto

Whether you’re a frequent traveler to Porto or a first-timer, the fabled Bolhão Market is one place you simply cannot miss. This expansive, split-level bazaar has been feeding locals and visitors for almost two hundred years, and it’s been a magnet for culinary enthusiasts ever since.

I regularly gush about the food here on my Porto food tours, as I think it’s a fantastic starting point for anyone new to Portuguese cuisine. In this guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about the Bolhão Market, from my favorite traditional vendors and stalls to on-site entertainment options.

What to do in Bolhao Market

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic

Like many Porto markets, Bolhão centers around food, with both fresh and cooked varieties readily available at countless stalls. Those hoping to sample Portuguese produce will have their pick of stands selling fruit, vegetables, cheese, and meat, which are interspersed with vendors plating up flavorful petiscos and regional wines.

When you’re not savoring the local food and drink experiences, you can shop for souvenirs, stock up on clothes, accessories, and artisanal products. The Bolhão Market also serves as a hub for cultural activities and entertainment, meaning you might be fortunate enough to hear some live music.

Better still, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore while you’re in the area, including the Chapel of Souls and Torre dos Clérigos.

Dining Options at the Market

Bolhão Market is packed with stalls and sit-down eateries, all of which offer delectable dishes made with quality ingredients. Below are some of the vendors I recommend you check out!

Photo credit: Culto ao Bacalhau

Culto ao Bacalhau – The menu at this contemporary Michelin Guide restaurant is a celebration of Porto’s historic cuisine, with a special focus on bacalhau. I highly recommend trying the bacalhau à zé do pipo, a comforting baked dish made from punchy cod, mashed potatoes, onions, and earthy nutmeg.

Photo credit: Casa das Ostras

Casa das Ostras – This paired-back oyster bar is among my favorite seafood spots in the Bolhão Market. The juicy, slightly sweet oysters are naturally the main attraction, but be sure to tuck into the briny sea urchin and succulent prawns.

Photo credit: Casa Vegetariana

Casa Vegetariana – Casa Vegetariana proves that there’s more to Portuguese cuisine than hearty, meat-based dishes. Here, you’ll find a mix of local and internationally-inspired veggie offerings, and I especially loved the nourishing pumpkin soup and homemade focaccia.

Photo credit: Padaria Alzira do Bolhão

Padaria Alzira do Bolhão – A rather underrated spot, this modern bakery is home to some of the finest pasteis de nata in Porto. The warm, citrusy flavor of these delicious bite-sized treats could rival that of any pastry shop in the city.

Taste Local Specialties

With so many incredible foods on offer, it can be tricky to know where to begin when you’re strolling around the Bolhão Market. For this reason, I’ve rounded up the top must-try dishes and drinks to look out for during your visit.

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic

• Francesinha: Easily Porto’s most famous gastronomic offering, this decadent sandwich is made from thick-cut bread, steak, sausage, ham, melted cheese, and spicy sauce. 
• Petiscos: Portugal’s answer to tapas, these savory snacking plates can consist of anything from grilled chorizo and clams in a garlic and wine sauce to deep-fried cuttlefish.
• Bacalhau: A beloved Portuguese delight, bacalhau is salted cod, which can be served and prepared in a range of ways. Some varieties to sample include croquettes and gratin.
• Sardines: Another seafood specialty, salty sardines are a staple in Porto every summer.
• Pastel de nata: These dreamy egg and custard tarts are revered for their creamy filling and crisp pastry.
• Enchidos: Enchidos are cured, sausage-like meats, such as alheira and farinheira, typically flavored with herbs and spices.
• Port wine: Wine lovers can’t leave without trying this legendary dessert beverage with its signature fruity taste.

Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Bolhão Market

• If you want to soak up the lively atmosphere, plan your visit for the evenings or weekends. For a more laid back experience, stop by midweek during the morning or afternoon.
• Before you arrive, it’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Portuguese, such as ‘Obrigado/Obrigada’ (Thank you), ‘Quanto é isto?’ (How much is this?), and ‘Posso ter _____)’ (Can I have _____).
• Some vendors only accept cash, and there are two ATMs located inside the market.
• Many wine vendors offer takeaway cups, allowing you to sip on wines as you browse the stalls.

Conclusion

If Bolhão Market wasn’t on your must-see list before, I hope it is now. This bustling marketplace is the go-to spot in the city for tasty local food, fine Portuguese wines, and unmissable cultural experiences!

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.-a). Eating Europe Porto. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/porto

Eating Europe. (n.d.-b). Porto Market. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/porto-market/

Culto ao Bacalhau. (n.d.). Culto ao Bacalhau. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.cultoaobacalhau.pt/en/

Casa das Ostras. (2025). Casa das Ostras [Instagram profile]. Instagram. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.instagram.com/casa.das.ostras/

Casa Vegetariana Porto. (n.d.). Casa Vegetariana Porto. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.casavegetarianaporto.com/

Padaria Alzira do Bolhão. (2025). Padaria Alzira do Bolhão [Instagram profile]. Instagram. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.instagram.com/padaria_alzira_do_bolhao/

Eating Europe. (n.d.-c). Pastel de Nata in Porto. Retrieved June 22, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/pastel-de-nata-porto/