Portugal’s second largest city is filled with undiscovered beauty, culinary delights and world famous wines. It’s also one of Europe’s oldest cities, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Porto is a perfect city break destination, a port of call on a river cruise or as part of an overall Portugal holiday, as it’s compact and easy to explore. Here are some of the more unique experiences that Porto offers visitors.
1. Port wine cellars
Portugal’s national drink and most famous export is Port. Typically a sweet red wine served after a meal, Port is also produced as a dry or a white wine. The city of Porto is built along hills of the River Douro estuary. Since the 13th century, wine produced in the Douro valley has been shipped from the city, along the river in flat sailing boats known as barcos rebelos. The Port wine cellars are mainly located in the Villa Nova de Gaia district and are open to visitors to come and enjoy a tasting of the local fortified Port Wines.
2. Porto Bridges
We suggest taking a relaxing boat trip down the Douro River under Porto’s six bridges, on board a Rabelo Barco – a traditional boat once used to transport Port wine. Many cruise companies often include a wine tasting as you sail. The Dom Luís I Bridge is an icon of Porto, a double-decker marvel of 19th-century engineering with its first concept proposed by Gustave Eiffel. As you glide under the other bridges, such as the Maria Pia Bridge, another of Eiffel’s creations, and the Arrábida Bridge, known for its impressive concrete arch, you’ll also pass the Infante Bridge, the São João Bridge, and the Freixo Bridge, each showcasing a blend of historic and modern design. Together, these bridges frame the city’s skyline and offer a unique perspective of Porto's architectural brilliance.
3. Ribeira Quarter
The Ribeira Quarter is the beating heart of Porto, a charming and historic neighbourhood that captures the city’s essence. Situated along the banks of the Douro River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets, colourful townhouses, and lively squares. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, as visitors and locals alike enjoy the abundance of riverside cafés, traditional restaurants, and artisan shops.
4. Alternative art in Porto
There are numerous galleries and museums to choose from in Porto but if you are looking for something more modern then head to the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. The museum is now the most visited in Portugal and regularly holds music and theatre events. The surrounding gardens are truly magical and it’s worth a visit just to experience them alone. Make sure to visit the colourful art installation ‘Half Rabbit’ by renowned urban artist Bordallo II, which is located on a side street in Vila Nova Gaia.
5. Lello bookshop
Livraria Lello & Irmão is a bookstore located in the centre of Porto. It’s no surprise it’s often voted the most beautiful book store in the world, Lello is equally worth visiting for its unique and quirky architecture. The building’s façade is decorated in Art Nouveau with some features of the Gothic Revival. As you enter the shop, you’d be forgiven for thinking that you’ve stepped straight into a Lewis Caroll book - the psychedelic staircase is reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. Book shopping will take twice as long here as there are so many wonderful distractions including the intricate wood carved walls and the colourful stained glass ceiling.
6. Azulejos (Tilework)
Porto’s azulejos, the traditional hand-painted ceramic tiles, are a defining feature of the city’s aesthetic and cultural identity. A visit to the São Bento Railway Station is a must, where over 20,000 tiles intricately depict scenes of Portuguese history, from the conquest of Ceuta to rural life. It took the artist Jorge Colaço 11 years to complete this masterpiece! The Church of Saint Ildefonso and the Chapel of Souls are other awe-inspiring examples, with their facades adorned in breathtaking azulejo art.
7. Clerigos Church
Clérigos Church is a stunning example of Baroque architecture in the heart of Porto. Designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century, the church is adorned with intricate carvings of garlands, shells, and other decorative motifs, which showcase the ornate style typical of the Baroque period. Its tall and slender Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos) is one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, standing at 76 metres tall and visible from almost anywhere in the city. For those up to the challenge, climb the 240 steps to the top for an unrivalled view of the city.
8. Vila Nova de Gaia District
The romantic district of Vila Nova de Gaia is the departure point for Douro river cruises and it’s a wonderful photo opportunity to capture the traditional ‘barcos rabelos’. Enjoy a short trip on the cable car or Teleférico de Gaia to get incredible views of Porto and the Douro river. If the sun is shining, this is also the location of the best beaches in the city.
9. Porto Food
Porto’s proximity to the sea means that the seafood is fresh, plentiful and delicious. On sunny days you can choose from countless outdoor restaurants, cafés and tapas bars to enjoy some delicious bites and watch the world go by. Porto’s signature dish is the filling ‘Francesinha’ sandwich, stuffed with different meats and smothered in spicy sauce – it’s perfect for refuelling after a day of sightseeing or wine tasting! The city’s bakeries will definitely tempt those with a sweet tooth.
10. Douro River Cruise Opportunity
A short journey from Porto brings you to the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its terraced vineyards cascading dramatically down hillsides to meet the riverbanks, the valley offers a picturesque landscape that’s best experienced on a Douro River cruise.
A trip to Porto gives visitors a unique and authentic Portuguese experience with much of the traditions, culture of the city and the magnificent architecture remaining untouched from modern influences. The slight crumble of the pretty colourful buildings adds to the charm of the city. Porto’s delicious Port wine and friendly atmosphere have made it a favourite of holiday makers for years; this charming UNESCO World Heritage city is a perfect escape. Uncover the highlights of Porto with us and if you would like to explore beyond Porto, then check out our recommendations for the Top 10 attractions to visit in Portugal.
