Famous for the fortified wine which bears its name, the Portuguese city of Porto is a charmingly rustic city on the edge of Europe. Located on the River Douro, Porto is crammed full of centuries-old churches, towers and relics ready to be explored in the windy zig-zagging backstreets of the city. The UNESCO-listed Ribeira district fuses together Roman ruins and more modern plazas to provide the colourful heart of Porto which may lack the modernity of the coastal areas of the city, but is full of personality.
What you’ll love most about Porto
- Explore the enchanting streets of Porto’s Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and charming riverside cafes create a picturesque setting along the banks of the Douro River
- Marvel at the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel, which spans the Douro River and connects Porto with the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia, offering panoramic views of the historic center and the famous port wine cellars
- Visit the historic port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour the aging warehouses, learn about the production process, and indulge in tastings of Portugal’s famous fortified wine, all while enjoying scenic views of the Douro River and the city skyline
- Discover Porto’s rich cultural heritage at the São Bento Railway Station, known for its stunning azulejo tile panels depicting scenes from Portuguese history, and at the imposing Porto Cathedral, which dominates the city skyline with its Romanesque architecture and panoramic views
- Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Douro River, where you can admire Porto’s skyline from the water, pass under historic bridges, and explore the scenic vineyards and charming riverside villages of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Indulge in the flavours of Portuguese cuisine, from hearty dishes like francesinha (a traditional sandwich) and bacalhau (salted cod) to sweet treats like pastel de nata (custard tart), as you dine in delightful taverns, riverside restaurants, and upscale eateries that celebrate Porto’s culinary heritage