Porto (also called Oporto) is the second largest city in Portugal. It boasts beautiful scenery, culture, architecture, churches, boats, delicious seafood and bakeries, a relaxed atmosphere, and wonderful hospitable locals. It is a very compact city that is easy to enjoy and explore on foot, despite the elevation. English is commonly spoken. Porto is famous for the Douro River Valley, the beautiful beaches and its famous Dom Luis I bridge.
Sites and Things to Do
Eat food
A lot of food. A lot of delicious, reasonably priced food. Then eat some more. Be sure to try some Francesinha (epic sandwich), Bacalhau (salted codfish), Tripas (meat and tripe stew), and Pasteis de Nata (creamy custard tart).
Ribeira District
This historic district is known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and charming riverside promenade. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the atmosphere, and taking in the views of the Douro River.
Dom Luís I Bridge
This iconic double-deck metal bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. You can walk across the upper deck for panoramic views of the city and river. There is also a vertical trolley that will help you tackle the incline, taking you from underneath the bridge to the top.
São Bento Train Station
Admire the stunning azulejo (hand-painted ceramic tile) panels that adorn the walls of this historic train station. The intricate blue and white tiles depict scenes from Portuguese history and culture.
Clerigos Tower
Climb to the top of this iconic bell tower for panoramic views of Porto. The narrow spiral staircase leads to a viewing platform where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city and beyond.
Livraria Lello
Considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello features stunning neo-Gothic architecture and a magnificent spiral staircase. It's a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
This Romanesque cathedral is one of the oldest landmarks in Porto. Explore its impressive interior, including the beautiful cloister, and enjoy views of the city from its terrace.
Serralves Foundation
This contemporary art museum is set within a beautiful park and features rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and enjoy the outdoor sculptures.
Foz do Douro
Head to the western edge of Porto to explore Foz do Douro, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Relax on the beach, stroll along the promenade, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Matosinhos
Just a short tram or metro ride from Porto, Matosinhos is known for its excellent seafood restaurants and beautiful beaches. Don't miss the chance to sample grilled fish at one of the local seafood eateries.