A Guide to Exploring Porto

Porto is a city that has been a part of Portugal since the 8th century and has since grown to become one of Europe’s most popular and beloved cities. The city is situated along the Douro River, and its old town is a World Heritage Site, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Visitors who come to Porto will find an array of attractions, from breathtaking panoramic views to delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced traveler, there’s something for everyone in Porto.

History of Porto

Porto is believed to have been founded by the Celts in 300 BC, but the city’s modern history dates back to the 8th century when the first Christian King of Portugal, Alfonso I, conquered the area and established Porto as a port city. It remained an important port city until the 17th century, when it was made the capital of Portugal, and it soon became a major hub of trade and industry.

Throughout its history, Porto has faced numerous challenges. In 1755, an earthquake destroyed much of the city, and in 1833, a devastating fire ripped through the city, leaving many of its most iconic buildings in ruins. Despite these tragedies, Porto has managed to survive and thrive as a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination. Nowadays, Porto is one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Things to Do in Porto

Porto offers plenty of activities for visitors to explore. From its historic monuments to its lively nightlife and delicious local cuisine, here are some of the top things to do in Porto:

Explore the Old Town

The old town of Porto is a World Heritage Site and a must-see for all visitors. The historic center of Porto is filled with winding cobblestone streets lined with colorfully painted buildings and quaint cafes. Notable landmarks include the São Bento Railway Station, the Church of Saint Ildefonso, and Clérigos Tower. Visitors can also explore the city’s many parks, such as Parque da Cidade do Porto, where they can enjoy views of the Douro River and take in some fresh air.

Taste Local Cuisine

Porto is known for its delicious local cuisine, so it’s a must-do for any foodie visiting the city. Local staples include Francesinha, a sandwich made with layers of meat and cheese topped with a tomato-beer sauce; Tripas à Moda do Porto, a stew made with tripe and white beans; and Francesinha à Moda do Porto, a variation of the classic Francesinha sandwich served with a fried egg on top. Of course, no trip to Porto would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous port wines.

Visit Museums

Porto is home to several interesting museums that are well worth visiting. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art houses an impressive collection of modern art from around the world, while the National Museum Soares dos Reis offers a look into Portugal’s history through its vast collection of paintings and sculptures from the 16th to 19th centuries. Other notable museums include the Casa de Serralves, which features exhibitions on modern and contemporary art, and the Casa da Música, where visitors can explore Portugal’s vibrant music scene.

Take a Cruise on the River Douro

The River Douro is an iconic feature of Porto and a great way to experience the city from a different perspective. Visitors can take a scenic cruise on the river to admire the stunning views of the old town or take a journey to one of the nearby wine regions to taste some of Portugal’s finest wines. Cruises typically depart from Cais da Ribeira in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Old Town Porto.

Shop at Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is one of Porto’s oldest bookstores and is said to have been an inspiration for J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series. This beautiful bookstore offers visitors an enchanting atmosphere with its intricate wooden shelves and stained-glass skylight. It’s also home to one of the world’s largest collections of books in Portuguese, making it an ideal spot for book lovers looking to explore Portuguese literature.

Enjoy Nightlife

Porto has an exciting and vibrant nightlife that offers something for everyone. Galerias de Paris is one of the city’s most popular nightlife spots and features several bars and clubs that stay open late into the night. Other popular hotspots include Matosinhos Beach, where visitors can enjoy laidback beach bars and clubs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean; Matosinhos Market, which is home to some of the city’s best bars; and the Ribeira neighborhood, where visitors can find traditional taverns and pubs serving up local beers and wines.

Go Sightseeing

Porto is home to several iconic landmarks that are worth visiting during your stay. The Clérigos Tower is an impressive Baroque bell tower that offers panoramic views of the city below. The Palácio da Bolsa is also worth visiting for its lavish interior and impressive architecture, while Ponte Luiz I offers visitors stunning views of the riverfront below. Other popular sights include Avenida dos Aliados, which is one of Porto’s main thoroughfares; Torre dos Clérigos; and Praça da Liberdade.

Popular Tours in Porto

In addition to exploring all that Porto has to offer on your own, there are also several popular tours that visitors can take advantage of for an even more immersive experience. Here are two of our favorite tours in Porto:

Douro Valley Wine Tour

The Douro Valley Wine Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Portugal’s famous wine region from the comfort of a luxury vehicle. The tour begins with pickup from your hotel before heading off into the stunning Douro Valley countryside. Along the way you’ll stop at several wineries where you can sample some local wines and learn about traditional methods of winemaking. The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant with breathtaking views of the valley below before concluding with drop-off back at your hotel in Porto. To book this tour click here.

Historic City Tour

The Historic City Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Porto’s rich history and culture from a local perspective. This full-day tour begins with pickup from your hotel before heading into Old Town Porto for a guided walking tour through its winding streets and historic monuments. You’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own as well before heading off on a scenic cruise along the Douro River. The tour also includes lunch at a local restaurant with stunning views of the river before concluding with drop-off back at your hotel in Porto. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

Porto is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone – from stunning views to delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and plenty of history and culture to explore. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and enjoy some local delicacies, you’ll find plenty to do in this charming Portuguese city. With its stunning views and lively atmosphere, Porto is sure to leave you wanting more!