Best of Porto

Northern Region of Portugal

Porto cod. Port wine. The Capital of the North

World Heritage: One of the best destinations in Europe and the World

Porto: Best City Destination in the World at the World Travel Awards 2022

With its Historic Center declared World Heritage by Unesco, Porto, second most important city in Portugal, European Capital of Culture, was also chosen Best European Destination 2017 and Best City Destination in the World, by World Travel Awards 2022.

1. The Cradle of Portugal

Porto, with emphasis on its Historic Center, and the North breathe history and formation of Portugal. The Portucalense County, with its capital in the city of Porto, was the decisive milestone for the construction of Portuguese nationality.

After the separation of Galicia (land from Spain), the Christian Reconquest spread towards the south, with the Kingdom of Algarves the last region to be incorporated into the current territory of Portugal.

Porto, the Invicta

The city of Porto is also known as the Capital of the North and the Invicta. This last appeal is due to the fact that the city and its spirit of freedom and struggle, after the victory of Vimara Peres over the Moors who occupied the city in 715, the city of Porto was never subdued again.

2. The Historic Center of Porto

From the top of the Sé do Porto hill, you can contemplate the unique beauty of Cidade Invicta. The main city attractions are in the vicinity of the Terreiro da Sé do Porto.

Learn more: A Historical Center of Porto

Porto, World Heritage

Metropolis of the North, on the north bank of the Douro River, a city classified in the Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the city of porto radiates its influence well beyond the regional borders of the porto district.

The Ribeira do Porto

North bank of the Douro River, with its docks and vessels - including the typical Rabelo boats, which, in the past, transported and unloaded the barrels of Douro wine to make Port wine. The shops, warehouses (on the Vila Nova de Gaia side) and the taverns add another touch to the landscape of this popular and lively neighborhood of the city of Porto.

Strolling along the quays, from Ponte D Luís (to the east) to the Port Wine Museum (to the west) is part of your first discovery of this part city history. Then, go up the street to Terreiro da Sé and contemplate the Porto Cathedral and the stunning landscape that can be seen. glimpse, with the typical constructions of the city.

Learn more: The Ribeira do Porto

3. Historical Heritage

Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the city of Porto is also known worldwide for its two greatest gastronomic specialties: Port Wine and Porto Cod.

4. Douro and Port wines

Thus, when thinking about the best of Porto, one immediately associates the city with its most famous wine and its best-known dish.

5. Gastronomy

Gastronomia do Porto comprises some of the most popular dishes of Portuguese cuisine, starting with known Bacalhau à Gomes Sá (my favorite specialty!). Another specialty among the most authentic are the famous Porto style tripe. This is why people from Porto are also called tripeiros.

Learn more: Traditional cuisine of Porto

6. Study in Porto

Studying in Porto is an excellent option for thousands of students not only from Portugal. Portuguese-speaking countries, with highlighting Brazil, send thousands of students every year to the main higher education establishments in Northern Capital.

The prestigious University of Porto, the P.Porto - Polytechnic of Porto (PP - Polytechnic Institute of Porto) and Fernando Pessoa University are at the top of the list of preferred institutions for students.

Learn more: Study in Porto

7. The Douro Valley

Gateway to explore the Douro Valley and the Douro Demarcated Region, whose slopes are classified World Heritage by Unesco. This is a wine producing region. of excellence, used to make the famous Port and Douro wines.

Learn more: The Douro Valley, World Heritage





This discovery upstream is also linked to the splendor of the city of Porto. A must visit for oenologists and lovers of good wines. With its name associated with the famous wine for centuries, this is certainly the main reason for Porto attract thousands of visitors, on vacation or on a business trip, all year round.

Cruise on the Douro River

Boat trips, mini-cruises or an incredible cruise along the Douro River are among the activities to include in your itinerary when in Porto.
Learn more: Cruise on the Douro River

8. Serralves Foundation

Important city institution that maintains the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Foundation's headquarters residence and a beautiful garden.

9. House of Music

Located on Avenida Boavista, Casa da Música, built by the Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, is the main concert hall in the city of Porto. It was created for the great event Porto European Capital of Culture, in 2001. In fact, it was only fully completed in 2005. It is one of the icons of City.

10. São João in Porto

The city's main festival, São João, a popular festival in Portugal, is an institution in Porto. The main city streets are decorated and prepared for this special occasion. See also: Eventos no Porto

11. Golf and Sports

Green spaces, parks and large gardens allow residents and visitors to practice various sports. At Marina do Freixo, sports nautical. Excellent golf courses. More: Sports in Porto

12. Night in Porto

Noite do Porto offers several options to make your trip memorable. Not to be missed: include Café Majestic, a Belle Époque in the heart of the Northern Metropolis of Portugal.

Other options to consider: the various cafes, bars and restaurants whose main theme is the indispensable Port Wine. And not a few! More: Night in Porto