Porto

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and is also known as the secret capital. The city lies on the banks of the Douro River and has been the economic and industrial centre of northern Portugal since the 15th century. Once home to poor fishermen, the district became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Porto was named European Capital of Culture in 2001. Porto enchants visitors with its Old Town of Ribeira, its colourful picturesque houses built on the hillside and narrow streets, churches decorated with azulejos and the famous bridge Ponte Dom Luís I. A walk along the waterside promenade Cais da Ribeira is a must: this is where people drink coffee, shop and sing fado, a Portuguese genre of music.

Porto gives its name to the famous port wine, which is transported from the Alto Douro wine region to Vila Nova de Gaia, located on the opposite side of the river. This used to be done with using rabelo boats, which today are only docked at the harbour in front of the port wineries for tourists. Visitors have a unique view of Porto from the former monastery Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, which is definitely worth visiting.

Porto is perfect place for a short city break. However, it is worth taking a little more time to explore the region around the port city. Wine lovers in particular will get their money’s worth in the Douro Valley. The green vineyards on the steep, terraced slopes, the romantic little villages and the picturesque wineries are the perfect place to hike and enjoy. The idyllic landscape can also be experienced as part of a relaxed boat tour on the Douro. Porto is also perfect for a beach holiday. The large sandy beaches of Praia do Carneiro or Playa de Miramar are highly recommended. The cities of Moledo and Esmoriz are among the insider tips for surfers in Portugal, along with the Algarve and the beaches around the capital Lisbon. Adventurers will be happy with the numerous activities, such as hiking, kayaking or on a quad-bike tour in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, while culture lovers are drawn to the small cities of Braga and Coimbra.

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