Porto: A Comprehensive Guide To The Best Things To Do

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Portugal lies one of the most beautiful and captivating cities of Europe – Porto. This city is steeped in history and culture, but is also a modern and vibrant destination for tourists of all ages. With its stunning architecture and amazing views, Porto is one of the best cities to visit in Portugal.

The city of Porto is situated on the Douro River, which flows from the mountains of northern Portugal into the Atlantic Ocean. It is the second most populated city in Portugal and its population is made up of a mix of Portuguese, Spanish, and other ethnicities. The city is full of culture, history, and amazing sights to explore. From its ancient forts to its modern art galleries, Porto has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover all the best things to do in Porto so that you can get the most out of your trip. We will discuss the city’s history and culture, as well as some of the best attractions and activities. We will also provide information on some of the best tours and activities available in Porto so that you can make the most out of your time in the city. So without further ado, let’s dive into all that Porto has to offer.

History and Culture

Porto has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to pre-Roman times. The city was founded by the Celts in the 6th century BC and was later occupied by the Romans in the 1st century AD. Throughout its history, Porto has been an important trading port and was known for its wines and other products. In the 12th century, Porto was declared an independent city-state and was granted a charter by King Afonso Henriques. During the Age of Discovery, Porto became an important trading port and was a key hub for the spice trade between Europe and Asia.

Today, Porto is a bustling city full of culture and history. It is known for its amazing architecture and its vibrant culture. From its Baroque churches to its amazing museums, there is no shortage of things to explore in Porto. The old town area is especially popular with tourists as it is full of quaint cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, and stunning views of the city.

Sights and Attractions

Porto is full of amazing sights and attractions that you won’t want to miss out on. Here are a few of the top sights and attractions in Porto that you need to check out:

Clerigos Tower

The Clerigos Tower is one of the most iconic sights in Porto. This 75-meter tall bell tower was built in 1763 as part of the Clerigos Church and offers stunning views of the city from the top. The tower is open to visitors daily and offers a great way to get a bird’s eye view of Porto.

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal, with a rich history that dates back to 1906. This bookstore is a popular tourist attraction and it’s easy to see why. The building is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture with beautiful stained glass windows and ornate wood carvings. Livraria Lello is also known for being one of JK Rowling’s inspirations for Harry Potter, making it an even more special place to visit.

Palacio da Bolsa

The Palacio da Bolsa is one of Porto’s most impressive buildings. This 19th-century palace was built for the Stock Exchange Association of Porto and it features stunning neo-classical architecture with impressive stained glass windows and intricate designs throughout. The interior of this palace is just as impressive as its exterior and it’s a must-see sight while in Porto.

Ribeira

Ribeira is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Porto. This area is full of charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, traditional restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere. At night, Ribeira comes alive with street performers, musicians, and vendors selling local delicacies.

Tours and Activities

In addition to exploring all the sights and attractions that Porto has to offer, there are also some great tours and activities available in the city that are definitely worth checking out. Here are two popular tours that you can book during your time in Porto:

Douro River Cruise

A cruise down the Douro River is one of the best ways to experience all that Porto has to offer. On this tour, you’ll get to experience stunning views of the city from the river while learning about its history and culture from an experienced guide. You’ll get to witness the beauty of Porto’s historic bridges and picturesque vineyards while cruising along the Douro River. You’ll also get to sample some local wines while cruising down this iconic river.

Port Wine Tasting Tour

Port wine is one of Portugal’s most famous exports and it’s definitely worth trying while you’re in Porto. On this tour, you’ll get to sample some of Porto’s best wines with an experienced guide and learn more about this iconic beverage. You’ll get to visit some local wineries and learn about how port wine is made and why it’s so unique from other wines around the world. After sampling some delicious port wines, you’ll have a better understanding of why it’s so popular around the world.

Conclusion

Porto is a beautiful city full of amazing sights, attractions, history, culture, and activities. From its Baroque churches to its stunning bridges, there is no shortage of things to explore while visiting Porto. Whether you’re looking for sights to explore or activities to do, this guide has covered all the best things to do in Porto so that you can make the most out of your trip. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to this amazing city today!