Bars in Porto 🍸

Expect to pay around €3-4 for a pint of local beer, with imperial pints going for about €3. Cocktails, if available, will likely be closer to €8-10, but the focus is definitely on more affordable drinks. Many places charge a small cover fee, often €1-2 per person, which sometimes includes a complimentary drink or a discount on your first game rental. It’s best to check individual venue pages on Seeker Social for exact pricing.

The majority of board games bars are concentrated in the Cedofeita and Bonfim neighborhoods. You’ll find several spots clustered around the streets near Rua de Cedofeita and slightly further east into Bonfim. There are also a few standalone venues closer to the city center around Praça da Liberdade, though these tend to be smaller. Exploring these areas will give you the best chance of finding a game and a good drink.

Reservations are generally not required for most board games bars, especially during the week. You can usually just show up and find a table. However, for larger groups (more than 4-5 people) or if you're planning to visit on a Friday or Saturday night, it's a good idea to call ahead or check the venue's social media for reservation options. Some popular spots might fill up quickly.

The game selection varies, but most establishments offer a solid mix. You'll find popular strategy games like Catan, Ticket to Ride, Carcassonne, and Pandemic. Many also have classics like chess and checkers, plus party games such as Cards Against Humanity. Some places have dedicated game masters who can help you pick a game or teach you the rules. The selection is usually quite broad.

While most board games bars are geared towards adults, some welcome families earlier in the evening. Places like Games do Porto are known for their extensive game library and generally have a more relaxed atmosphere before the late-night crowd arrives. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm their policy on children and their specific opening hours for families.

Don't expect fine dining or elaborate cocktail menus. These places are casual. Avoid showing up late on a Saturday without checking if a reservation is needed, especially for a group. Also, steer clear of the overly touristy spots near the Ribeira district that might have a few games but lack the authentic local vibe and good drink prices found in Cedofeita or Bonfim.

Some board games bars do offer happy hours, typically on weeknights, with discounted beers or snacks. To catch these deals, it's worth checking the Seeker Social app (available on Android and iOS). You can filter by location and category to see real-time offers and happy hours at venues like Games do Porto.