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Porto travel guide
Where to stay in Porto
Porto is a charming city with a variety of neighbourhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you're looking for a bustling nightlife, a peaceful retreat, or a cultural experience, Porto has something for everyone. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Porto.
Ribeira
Ribeira is a historic neighbourhood located along the Douro River, famous for its colourful houses, narrow streets and lively atmosphere. It is the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action. You can enjoy a stroll along the riverfront, sample some of the best seafood in town, or sip a glass of port wine in one of the many bars and restaurants.
Cedofeita
Cedofeita is a trendy neighbourhood that is popular among young professionals and students. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, street art, and independent shops. If you're looking for a lively atmosphere and a taste of local culture, Cedofeita is the perfect place to stay.
Foz do Douro
Foz do Douro is a coastal neighbourhood located at the mouth of the Douro River, known for its beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants and upscale shops. It is the perfect place to stay if you want to relax and enjoy the ocean views, away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Baixa
Baixa is the historic centre of Porto, known for its grand architecture, museums and cultural attractions. It is the perfect place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. You can visit the iconic Clérigos Tower, explore the São Bento train station, or shop for souvenirs in the traditional markets.
Boavista
Boavista is a modern neighbourhood located in the western part of Porto, known for its luxury hotels, restaurants and shopping malls. It is the perfect place to stay if you want to enjoy the city's modern amenities and attractions, while still being close to the historic centre. You can visit the Casa da Música, one of the city's most iconic buildings, or take a walk in the Serralves Park.
Fun facts about Porto
Porto is a charming city with a rich history and culture. Here are some fun facts to help you learn more about this beautiful city.
Port Wine was invented in Porto
Port is a sweet, fortified wine that was invented in Porto. The wine is made by adding brandy to the wine during the fermentation process. You can visit the Port Wine Museum and take a tour of the cellars where the wine is stored and aged.
Porto is known as the 'City of Bridges'
The city of Porto is built on the hills surrounding the Douro River. There are six bridges that cross the river in Porto, including the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge. The bridges offer stunning views of the city and the river.
Porto is the birthplace of the Francesinha
The Francesinha is a popular sandwich in Porto that was invented in the 1960s. It consists of bread, ham, linguiça, fresh sausage, steak or roast beef, and is covered with melted cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce. It's a must-try when in Porto.
Porto is home to bookstore that inspired the magical setting of Hogwarts
The bookstore was opened in 1906 and is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and its beautiful stained glass ceiling. It's also said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.
The city has a tradition of hand-painted tiles
Porto is famous for its beautiful hand-painted tiles, called azulejos, that can be found all over the city. They are used to decorate buildings, churches, and even train stations. The tiles have been used in Porto for centuries and are an important part of the city's cultural heritage.
Discover hidden gems in Porto, portugal
Porto is a city full of surprises. While the well-known tourist spots, such as the Douro River and the Ribeira district, are worth visiting, there are many hidden gems that are equally as fascinating. Here are some of the best hidden gems to discover in Porto.
Explore the Gardens of Palácio de Cristal
Palácio de Cristal is a beautiful park that offers spectacular views of the Douro River. The park is home to a variety of gardens, including the Romantic Gardens, the Rose Garden, and the Cacti Garden. You can also visit the Crystal Palace, which hosts art exhibitions throughout the year.
Visit the Lello Bookstore
The Lello Bookstore is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It's said to have inspired J.K. Rowling's description of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter books. The interior is stunning, with a grand red staircase, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork.
Try the Francesinha
Francesinha is a traditional Portuguese sandwich that's a must-try in Porto. It's a sandwich filled with cured ham, linguiça, fresh sausage, and steak, covered in melted cheese, and served with a spicy tomato and beer sauce. Try it at Café Santiago, one of the best places in Porto to get a Francesinha.
Visit the Church of São Francisco
The Church of São Francisco is a stunning Baroque church that's well worth a visit. The interior is covered in gold leaf and intricate carvings. Don't miss the Catacombs, where the bones of Franciscan monks are displayed in decorative patterns.
Discover Street Art in Rua Miguel Bombarda
Rua Miguel Bombarda is a street in Porto that's lined with art galleries and shops. It's also home to some of the best street art in the city. Take a stroll down the street and admire the colorful murals and graffiti.
Family-friendly things to do in Porto
Porto is a perfect destination for families looking for a blend of culture, history and adventure. From the riverfront to the historic centre, there are plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Explore the Ribeira District
Take a stroll through the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colourful buildings and narrow streets are full of charm and character. Stop by the many cafes and restaurants along the way and enjoy the stunning views of the Douro River.
Visit the World of Discoveries
The World of Discoveries is a theme park that takes visitors on a journey through the history of Portugal's exploration and discovery. With interactive exhibits, 4D movies and a replica of a Portuguese caravel, it's a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Take a Cruise on the Douro River
Cruising the Douro River is a wonderful way to see the city and its surroundings. Many tours offer lunch or dinner onboard, making it a perfect experience for the whole family. As you cruise down the river, you'll see the famous Port wine cellars and the picturesque landscapes of the Douro Valley.
Visit the Sea Life Porto
Sea Life Porto is an aquarium that showcases the amazing marine life of the Atlantic Ocean. With over 5,000 creatures, including sharks, rays, and seahorses, it's a fascinating experience for both kids and adults. The interactive touch pool is a favourite among visitors.
Discover the Serralves Foundation
The Serralves Foundation is a cultural institution that houses a contemporary art museum, an art deco villa, and beautiful gardens. The gardens are a great place for a family picnic, while the museum offers workshops and activities for children. The villa is a great example of Art Deco architecture and is worth a visit.
