How Did Porto Become Europe’s Best Destination for 2019?In 2019, Porto was named as Europe’s best destination by the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization – and that’s quite the accomplishment given that it beat out over 412 destinations across Europe. What made Porto so appealing to the EBD that it garnered such an accolade? We take a look at what contributed to Porto’s emergence as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.Porto’s City CharacteristicsPorto is the second largest city in Portugal and lies by the estuary of the Douro River, where it spills out into the Atlantic Ocean. Areas of note include the UNESCO World heritage listed city center which is lined with iconic buildings such as churches and monuments, as well as narrow alleyways lined with café’s and bars. The locals are renowned for their friendly demeanor, where conversations seem to move between Portuguese, English, Spanish and occasionally French. As you wander the streets, you can feel and experience the culture, their customs and the infectious beauty of Porto. No matter what your preference is – be it antique, fashion or food – you can find quaint stores, markets, restaurants and art exhibits for your pleasure.There is also an abundance of outdoor activities available. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike ride around the city and into the natural landscape of Douro valley, or partake in activities such as canoeing or rafting in some of the many rivers dotted around Porto. Moreover, close to both the beach and south of the city is a golf course blanketed in lavender fields, making it an ideal leisure spot.The Gastronomical SceneCuisine forms an intrinsic part of Porto’s culture and the city is known for its wide selection of seafood dishes. To truly indulge in the local culinary delights of Porto, you can’t miss out on francesinha – a sandwich made with bread, dry-cured ham, sausage, and steak as well as cheese cooked in a beer sauce. This Portuguese favorite can be found in local restaurants throughout the city, each offering their unique twist to this specialty dish.Porto also has a vibrant nightlife. The bustling city centre pumps out sound all night long, with live music performances in bars, restaurants and hotel lobbies. Bars close to Cais da Ribeira offer cool cocktails, exotic spirits and some of the best chill-out lounges around—all making for a memorable evening out on the town. For visitors who are seeking some Portuguese wine instead, there are many wineries and cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River from the centre of Porto. Vila Nova de Gaia provides an array of attractions and conveniently is where you will find some of Portugal’s best-known wine producers. The cellars offer tours and tastings of exquisite wines, with some also providing a dine-in experience – perfect for date nights or evenings with friends. Final Thoughts on How Porto Became 2019’s Best City in EuropeDespite being one of Europe’s oldest cities, Porto is no history relic—it continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. With its unique historical sites and cultural offerings, combined with delectable gastronomic delicacies and vibrant nightlife, it isn’t hard to see why Porto might be one of the most sought after cities in Europe. It doesn’t get better than this – come find out what life in Porto is all about at Visit Porto & North, official destination website for the Porto & Northern of Portugal region.

An Insider’s Guide to Porto, Europe’s Best Destination for 2019

If you are planning a trip to Porto, you are in for a treat. This beautiful city, located in the north of Portugal, has it all: stunning architecture, cultural experiences, delicious food, a rich local history, and plenty of off-the-beaten-path surprises. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Porto.

Attractions

Porto has no shortage of attractions that will charm and intrigue visitors. Here are a few must-see spots:

Ribeira

Located on the banks of the Douro River, Ribeira is the heart of Porto’s historic district. This neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and iconic Ribeira Square. It’s a great place to wander around, take photos, and enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many riverside cafes.

Livraria Lello

Book lovers won’t want to miss Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore located in the heart of the city. This bookstore has been in operation since 1906 and is known for its beautiful, art nouveau facade, winding staircases, and intricate moldings. It’s said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s depiction of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.

Clerigos Tower

The Clerigos Tower is a Porto landmark that provides an excellent view of the city. This baroque tower is 75 meters high and has 240 steps to climb to reach the top. It’s worth the effort for the panoramic views of the city.

Dining Spots

Porto is a food lover’s dream destination. Here are some dining spots to add to your list:

Francesinha

This is Porto’s signature dish: a sandwich made with various meats, melted cheese, and a beer-based sauce. It’s usually served with french fries and is a hearty meal that will keep you going all day.

Food & Friends

This cozy restaurant is located in the heart of Porto’s historic district and offers a delicious menu of Portuguese specialties. It’s a great place to try local wines and traditional dishes.

Bolhao Market

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, head to Bolhao Market. This vibrant market is full of vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. You can pick up ingredients for a picnic or grab a quick bite at one of the food stalls.

Cultural Experiences

Porto is a city with a rich cultural heritage. Here are some experiences to have during your visit:

Port Wine Tasting

No trip to Porto is complete without trying its famous port wine. You can take a tour of one of the many port wine cellars that line the Douro River and sample different varieties of this fortified wine.

Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis

This museum is home to a collection of Portuguese fine arts and decorative arts from the 19th and 20th centuries. It’s a great place to learn about the country’s artistic heritage.

Serralves Foundation

The Serralves Foundation is a cultural institution that includes a contemporary art museum, a park, and a villa. It hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year and is a must-visit for art lovers.

Local History

Porto has a fascinating history that is worth exploring. Here are some historical spots to add to your itinerary:

Ponte de Dom Luis I

This steel bridge, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, spans the Douro River and connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s an iconic symbol of the city and has been in operation since 1886.

Palacio da Bolsa

This neoclassical building was built in the 19th century and was once the site of Porto’s stock exchange. It’s known for its ornate Arabian Hall, a stunning room with intricate decorative elements.

Porto Cathedral

Porto Cathedral is a Romanesque building that dates back to the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most significant religious buildings in the city and is worth a visit for its historical and architectural significance.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Porto, here are some suggestions:

Foz do Douro

This seaside neighborhood is located on the outskirts of Porto and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s known for its seafood restaurants and beaches, and is a great place to enjoy a peaceful afternoon.

Miradouro da Vitória

This viewpoint provides a stunning view of the city and is a great place to watch the sunset. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but it’s worth it for the panoramic views.

Casa da Música

This contemporary music venue is located in the Boavista neighborhood and is worth a visit for its unique architecture. It hosts concerts and events throughout the year and is a great place to catch a show.

Conclusion

Porto is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, culture, or just relaxing and enjoying the scenery, you’ll find plenty to do in this vibrant city. This guide provides just a taste of what Porto has to offer, so be sure to explore and discover everything this beautiful city has to offer.