This ancient city on the Douro River estuary is known for its UNESCO-listed center, Baroque buildings, and terraced vineyards. The Ribeira district buzzes with activity along the waterfront.
Porto stretches across hillsides along the Douro River. In the city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll find narrow streets lined with colorful tiled buildings. You can explore São Bento station's tiled walls, taste port wine at riverside cellars, eat hearty local dishes, and enjoy views from hilltop lookout points. Porto's lively arts scene and its proximity to the Douro Valley wine region attract many visitors.
Exploring Porto's Historic Center
Walk through Porto's old town, starting in the Ribeira district. Here, you'll navigate narrow lanes between houses with wrought-iron balconies. On the riverfront promenade, you can stop at cafes and restaurants in former merchants' homes. For a view of the city, climb the steep streets to the Sé Cathedral. This 12th century Romanesque church includes a Gothic cloister decorated with blue and white azulejo tiles showing scenes from the Song of Solomon.
Crossing the Dom Luis I Bridge
The double-decker Dom Luis I Bridge spans the Douro River. A student of Gustave Eiffel designed this metal arch bridge. You can walk across the upper deck to see Porto's skyline and the Vila Nova de Gaia district on the opposite bank. At night, lights illuminate the bridge, creating a reflection in the river below.
Sampling Port Wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
After crossing the Dom Luis I Bridge, you'll reach Vila Nova de Gaia, where you'll find numerous port wine cellars. You can tour cellars filled with oak casks, learn about port production, and taste different varieties. Try a tawny port with hints of dried fruit and nuts or a vintage port from a single exceptional harvest. Many cellars offer views back across the river to Porto's old town. Sandeman, Taylor's, and Graham's are among the well-known producers offering tours and tastings.
Enjoying Porto's Culinary Scene
Porto's cuisine reflects its working-class background. You can try the francesinha - a sandwich filled with ham, sausage and steak, covered in melted cheese and a spicy tomato-beer sauce. Drink it with a glass of vinho verde, the region's light, slightly bubbly white wine. For dessert, try pastéis de nata, custard tarts dusted with cinnamon. Visit the Bolhão Market to sample local products like cured meats, cheeses, and fresh produce.
Admiring Azulejo Tile Art
You'll see decorative azulejo tiles on many of Porto's buildings, from churches to train stations. In São Bento station's main hall, you can see 20,000 hand-painted blue and white tiles showing scenes from Portuguese history. The Church of Saint Ildefonso has a detailed Baroque facade completely covered in blue and white tiles. For a more modern approach, visit the Chapel of Souls, with its exterior decorated with bright blue tiles depicting religious scenes.
