What Is Porto? Everything You Need to Know About Portugal’s Second-Largest City

Porto, one of Portugal’s major cities, is located on the Douro River estuary, in the northern Porto district. The second-largest city in Portugal after its capital Lisbon, Porto is a popular destination for travelers, both domestic and international. With an impressive history, vibrant culture, iconic architecture, and stunning landscapes, Porto is an unforgettable place that leaves a lasting impression.

The best way to get to know Porto, and understand its culture and history, is to visit it. This guide will give you an overview of the city’s essential attractions and activities, making it easy to plan your travel itinerary.

History

Situated near the southwestern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Porto was founded by the Celts in 343 BC. From the 2nd century AD to 1755, it was part of the Roman Empire. The city was for a long time isolated from the central and southern parts of Portugal, but by the end of the 18th century it had established itself as an independent city-state. Since then it has become a major trading port and industrial city.

Porto played a preponderant role throughout Portugal’s history, most notably during the Revolution of Liberalism in the early 19th century. In the first half of the 19th century, Porto was the main seat of power for liberal regimes in Europe. In addition, its successes in industrial production during this time brought a cultural shift to the city by providing business and job opportunities to the people.

Things to do in Porto

From natural wonders and architectural splendor to museums and magical vistas, Porto has a wealth of attractions that appeal to various interests. Here are some of our favourites.

Explore Ribeira

World Heritage Site Ribeira on the banks of the Douro is an excellent place to explore when visiting Porto. Populated by fishermen from centuries ago and lined by innumerable bars, cafes and restaurants, ribeira is today one of Europe’s buzzing vibrant centres with many attractions nearby. Enjoy a stroll along the lively banks of Douro River or take the funicular up to the other side of Ribeira — the mighty Clérigos Tower — for a spellbinding view of the area.

Walk Along Avenida dos Aliados

As one of Porto’s main arteries, Avenida dos Aliados should definitely be on every tourist’s itinerary. This iconic avenue connects several places of interest such as City Hall of Porto and São Francisco Church. When you get tired from walking along this grand thoroughfare lined with stores, cafes and galleries, take a break at one of many parks for a pleasant break.

Visit Torre dos Clérigos

The Torre dos Clérigos is an 18th century tower celebrated for its architectural aesthetic stemming from Baroque designs. Not only does it offer stunning views of Porto from its roof terrace, but visitors can also explore its six galleries showcasing artifacts from different ages and learn more about its history.

Explore Serralves Museum

For art enthusiasts, visiting the Serralves Museum, located within 17th-century gardens, is a must. It houses modern and contemporary art exhibitions, making it one of the most visited museums in Portugal.

The afromentioned are just some of the exciting things to do in Porto. Whether you prefer sightseeing and exploring culture sites or browsing galleries and tasting delicious local cuisine, this captivating city has something for everyone. All you need to do is get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

An Insider’s Guide to Porto, Portugal

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is located in the northwest of the country, on the Douro River. Known for its historical center, world-renowned port wine, and distinctive tumbledown houses, Porto is a must-visit destination for any traveler planning a trip to Portugal.

Attractions

Porto offers a wide variety of attractions that cater to both history buffs and nature lovers. Here are some must-visit attractions in Porto:

Ribeira

Ribeira is undoubtedly one of the most iconic parts of Porto. This historic district, with its beautiful riverfront, colorful houses, and picturesque alleys, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, grab some delicious seafood in one of the many traditional restaurants, or enjoy a glass of port wine while admiring the views.

Casa da Música

Casa da Música is a stunning concert hall designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. Opened in 2005, this modernist building has become a symbol of Porto’s contemporary architecture and hosts a wide range of musical events and performances.

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is a must-see spot for book lovers. This beautiful neo-Gothic bookstore, with its ornate stained-glass ceiling, winding staircase, and vast collection of books, was said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. The bookstore does charge a small admission fee that can be redeemed in their bookshop.

Dining

Porto is famous for its fresh seafood, hearty stews, and sweet port wine. Here are some dining spots in Porto that you shouldn’t miss:

Porto Tónico

Located in the heart of Ribeira, Porto Tónico offers a wide selection of traditional Portuguese dishes, including grilled sardines, octopus salad, and francesinha (a sandwich made with ham, sausage, steak, covered with melted cheese, and drenched in beer sauce). Besides the food, Porto Tónico is famous for its port wine cocktails, which are a must-try!

O Forno do Leitão do Zé

This family-run restaurant is known for its traditional oven-roasted suckling pig, a local delicacy that you must try while in Porto. It is served with crispy skin that melts in your mouth, accompanied by a side of fries, salad and a glass of refreshing Vinho Verde.

Cultural Experiences

Porto is rich in cultural experiences that give visitors an opportunity to learn more about Portugal’s past and present. Here are some cultural experiences that you cannot miss in Porto:

Museu de Serralves

Museu de Serralves is a contemporary art museum situated in a beautiful park on the outskirts of the city. The museum’s collection includes works by renowned Portuguese artists like Paula Rego and Julião Sarmento, as well as international artists such as Cindy Sherman and Jeff Koons.

Port Wine Cellars

No trip to Porto is complete without visiting the port wine cellars, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from the historic center. On a tour of the cellars, you will learn about the history of port wine, its production process, and the different types of port. At the end of the tour, you will have an opportunity to taste some of the finest port wines.

Local History & Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Porto has a rich history that dates back to Roman times. Besides the famous attractions listed above, there are many fascinating places that are off the beaten path and offer a glimpse into Porto’s storied past. Here are a couple of suggestions:

Palácio da Bolsa

The Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) is a stunning 19th-century building located in the heart of Porto’s historic center. The palace was built to impress foreign businessmen who came to Porto to trade in the 19th century. The highlight of the palace is the Arabian Room, a breathtakingly ornate room decorated with plaster, gold leaf, and exotic woods.

Foz do Douro

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Foz do Douro is a charming neighborhood with a laid-back vibe. It is an excellent place to escape the crowds and enjoy the ocean views. Here, you can take a walk along the promenade, enjoy a picnic on the beach, or try some of the local seafood in one of the many outdoor cafés.

Conclusion

Porto is an incredible city with a vibrant heritage, rich culture, and traditional cuisine that make it one of the most exciting destinations in Portugal. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Porto, there’s always something new to discover in this beautiful city!