Porto is one of the best cities in Portugal for sightseeing. It has a unique personality, combining landscapes, beautiful architecture, and good local food. Porto was elected the “Best European Destination of 2012” and it is also known as “The Invincible City” due to its resistance during the Napoleonic invasions. Porto is Portugal’s second city after the capital city of Lisbon and it is located in the North of Portugal, on the Atlantic coast.
Porto has a lot to offer, that’s why is considered one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. The largest riverfront area in Europe provides tourists with plenty of things to do and see along the river banks. From Gaia’s impressive wine cellars to Porto’s picturesque ocean promenades, this river-front area has something for everyone.
Things to do in Porto
Sao Bento Train station
Even if you don’t travel to Porto by train, you need to see Sao Bento station. This 20th-century railway terminal has some of the most impressive tiles in the county that tell the story of the history of Portugal.
National Museum of Ancient Art
Porto has a lot of monuments, churches, and museums to visit during your stay. One of the most impressive ones is the National Museum of Ancient Art, where you can see many treasures from ancient civilizations.
Clérigos Church
Clérigos Church is a Baroque church in the city of Porto, in Portugal. Its tall bell tower can be climbed and will give you a stunning view of the city. It’s sometimes referred to as the leaning tower of Porto!
Walkthrough Lello Street
Lello Street is famous for its beautiful books store called Lello Bookstore, where you can buy all kinds of books. But it’s not only about bookstores, there are also cafes and restaurants to enjoy.
Enjoy the nightlife in Porto
Porto has many bars and pubs. I recommend you to go to “The Three Caracóis” bar. It’s a typical Portuguese place with tasty wine and delicious food, you can also listen to a Fado show there.
Go to Gaia
Gaia is a city right next to Porto and it’s really nice and quiet. There are many vineyards, where you can have a good time with your friends or family, but if you want something different Gaia has museums as well.
Go on the 6 Bridges River Cruise
Most tourists go on the 6 bridges river cruise in Porto. It’s a beautiful and relaxing ride and your guide will share some local knowledge about the history of the bridges and the area.
Enjoy wine tasting at a Porto Wine Cellar
If you are Port tasting in Porto, you will be spoilt for choice as there are so many dotted along on the opposite side of the river Gaia. Some of my favourites include Croft and Sandemans. Be sure to buy a bottle of Ruby Port to take home as a souvenir.
Eat Francesinha
Francesinha is Porto’s traditional dish. This Portuguese sandwich has many layers of meat and cheese, which are combined with a delicious sauce. It is often so big that you might only manage half! You can eat it at “Casa da Francesinha”.
Visit Stock Exchange Palace
One of the most impressive buildings in Porto is called “Palace of the Bourse”, which has beautiful architecture. If you want to take a tour of the palace you will need to book it in advance. The palace was built by King Sebastian I and completed in 1628.
Visit Porto Cathedral
You should definitely visit Porto Cathedral, it’s one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the city. It was built by French architects and workers because Portugal used to be under Portuguese-French rule at that time. This cathedral is also famous for its gargoyles which were created by French sculptor Jean de Rouen.
See São Francisco Church
Porto’s old Franciscan church is one of the most impressive and beautiful churches in Porto, it was built between 1383 and 1450. This Gothic-style building is amazing as well, you can see many art installations inside.
What do you love about visiting Porto? I’d love to hear your comments on my blog.