When most people think of Portugal, they think of Lisbon. It is a shame because the city of Porto is a fantastic choice for a city break. Nestled in the north of the country, Porto is located along the Douro River and is overflowing with history and culture. We’re talking beautiful historic center, great food and amazing beaches – not to mention it is the ultimate place to try port wine. So, wonder no more whether Porto is worth visiting. Here are five reasons why the city is a must-visit for any traveler.
A Charming Historic Center
One of Porto’s most famous attractions is its historic center, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. In the heart of Porto’s historic center is the Ribeira district. You’ll fall in love with the area’s narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings and old churches. It’s almost like being transported to another time. The district is set along the waterfront of the Douro River and it is a wonderful area to go for a walk and enjoy a cup of coffee or a traditional Portuguese meal.
For a beautiful view of the sunset, walk along the iconic Ponte de D. Luís bridge where you can also enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Ribeira district.
Delicious Local Cuisine
One of the main reasons to visit Porto is for the food. Portuguese cuisine is full of flavor. You’ll want to try the francesinha, one of the city’s most iconic dishes. It is sandwich that is filled with about four or five types of meat, covered with melted cheese and served with a spicy sauce. Perhaps the bifana à moda is more to your liking. It is a type of sandwich where thin slices of pork are marinated and then simmered in a savory sauce enriched with garlic and paprika. Although you can get bifana anywhere in Portugal, the Porto-style bifana is renowned for its juiciness and rich flavors.
One of the best places to sample some of Porto’s awesome local cuisine is at the Bolhão Market, which is a jewel of the city. It beats in the heart of Porto, occupying an entire block in the center of the city. At the Bolhão Market, you can find fresh produce, restaurants as well as stores and merchants selling everything from chocolates to souvenirs. The market is open from 08:00 to 20:00 from Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.
Famous Port Wine
Did you know that Porto is the birthplace of port? The sweet and fortified wine is grown in the nearby Douro Valley and made with a unique blend of Portuguese grapes. Afterward, it is aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, across the river from Porto.
Wine enthusiasts should head to Graham’s Port Lodge, where you can get a look at how the wines are made. There are also plenty of wine bars in the city, though it is highly recommended you check out the World of Wine – a museum with various exhibitions, a wine school with classes and workshops, and numerous bars and restaurants serving port wine.
Stunning Beaches
If you are a traveler that loves coastal escapes, then you will truly love Porto. The city boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe which lie north and south of the mouth of the Douro River – along the Atlantic coast. Furthermore, the beaches sit about five kilometers up the river, which means the beaches are within easy reach of the city center.
An absolute favorite among locals and tourists alike is Matosinhos Beach, which sits at the heart of Porto’s seaside. It is a large beach with golden sand and is merely a short bus or metro ride from the center.
Great Shopping
If you love to go shopping then you will love Porto. One of the many great things about Porto is the sheer amount of awesome stores located in the city. Whether you are in the market for handmade crafts, new clothes or delicious food to take home as souvenirs, you are bound to find something amazing in Porto.
The city’s main shopping street is Rua de Santa Catarina. There you will find high-street stores and a couple of shopping malls. Another awesome shopping street is Rua das Flores, which has many fancy boutiques selling everything from bespoke fragrances to antiques. On both shopping streets you will find plenty of restaurants and cafes for when you need a little break from all the shopping.
There You Have it
Porto is a must-visit for its breathtaking historic center, great local cuisine, amazing port wine, beautiful beaches and the great shopping opportunities available. Do yourself a favor and book a trip to Porto, Portugal. You won’t regret it.