Must See In Porto Portugal

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal and the country’s most important port, is a vibrant city full of culture and beauty. Situated on the Douro River in the northwest corner of Portugal, Porto is a major city in the region, drawing in visitors from all over the world. Known for its distinctively Portuguese architecture, bustling nightlife, and vibrant culture, Porto has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

History of Porto

As one of Europe’s oldest cities, Porto was originally settled during Roman times and has been continuously inhabited since then. The city was later taken by the Moors and then again by the Portuguese in the 12th century. Over its long history, Porto has been an important port city and trading center, particularly in the wine industry. In fact, Porto was an important trading hub for the British Empire during the 18th century and was even home to many English merchants.

Today, Porto is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a population of over 1.8 million people. Despite its modern feel, Porto still has a distinctively Portuguese charm. From its cobbled streets to its pretty tiled buildings, there is a lot to admire about this city. It is also a great place for foodies, as Porto is home to some of Portugal’s best restaurants and cafés.

What to Do in Porto

When visiting Porto, there is no shortage of things to do. Whether you are looking for some sightseeing opportunities or just want to soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, you will not be disappointed. Here are some of our top picks for what to do in Porto:

Explore the City’s Historic Architecture

Porto is home to some wonderful old architecture, from its many Baroque churches to its iconic bridges. Take a walk around the old town and explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the São João da Foz Church, the Serralves Foundation Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Clérigos Tower. Many of these buildings are also great spots for photography, so don’t forget your camera!

Visit the Beaches

Porto is also home to a number of lovely beaches. Take a day trip out of the city and explore some of these beautiful beaches, such as Foz do Douro Beach and Matosinhos Beach. The beaches are great spots for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.

Explore the Wine Country

Portugal is well known for its excellent wines, and Porto is no exception. Take a day trip out of the city and explore some of the region’s best wineries. We recommend visiting some of the nearby Douro Valley vineyards, such as Quinta do Seixo Winery and Quinta do Fojo Winery.

Go Shopping

Porto is also a great spot for shopping. The city is home to some fantastic shopping malls and markets, where you can find everything from high-end designer clothes to local souvenirs. Some of the best spots for shopping include the Bolhao Market, Baixa District Shopping Center, and Bom Sucesso Shopping Center.

Experience the Nightlife

Porto has an excellent nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to explore. Whether you prefer a quiet evening in a cozy bar or an all-night dance party in one of the city’s many clubs, there is something here for everyone. Some of our favorite spots include Bar Botequim do Beato, Plano B Lounge Bar, and Disco Club Papillon.

Popular Tours in Porto

If you are looking for an easy way to explore Porto and learn about its history and culture, then taking a tour might be just what you need. There are some great tours available in Porto that will show you all the best sights and give you a great insight into the city. Here are two popular tours that we recommend taking:

Douro Valley Wine Tour

The Douro Valley Wine Tour is one of the most popular tours in Porto. This tour takes you through some of Portugal’s most stunning vineyards and wineries in the Douro Valley. You will get to taste some of Portugal’s most famous wines, learn about the history and culture of winemaking in Portugal, and take in some incredible views of the Douro River. To book this tour click here.

Porto City Tour

The Porto City Tour is another popular tour that will show you all the best sights in the city. You will get to visit some of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, such as Sao Bento Train Station and Clérigos Tower, as well as exploring some of the city’s hidden gems. You will also get to experience some of Porto’s rich cultural heritage with visits to museums, galleries, and churches. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Porto is an amazing city full of history, culture, and beauty. There is so much to explore in this beautiful part of Portugal and no matter what your interests are there is something here for everyone. From exploring old architecture to tasting some of Portugal’s finest wines, there is plenty to do in this vibrant city. So why not plan a trip to Porto today? You won’t regret it!