Portugal is among the most en vogue destinations of 2019, and Porto, its more traditional metropolis, is the first place many will choose to uncover the fascination of this incredible country.
With an extensive cultural, artistic, and culinary heritage, Porto is small town with a great nightlife scene, satisfying the needs of just about every traveler. Enchanting remnants throughout the quaint Portuguese town speak to both its history and traditions, flanked by countless local stores and restaurants, with plenty of panoramas off the beaten path.
So whether you’re looking to visit one of its many art museums, snap a picture in front of the bold, blue azulejos, stock up on sardines (with super modern packaging) or sip on a Port in one of its many cellars, one thing is for sure: this city is worth a trip. Working in its favor is also the weather, which hovers around mild temperatures — even in low season — without ever reaching the peaks found in Italy’s larger metropolises.
What to See in Porto: The Ribeira Neighborhood
The starting point for any respectable trip to Porto is the Ribeira neighborhood. Unfolding like a labyrinth riddled with small cobblestone alleyways, the medieval heart of the city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find all the usual touristic attractions, from the Cathedral to the Palácio da Bolsa. Just don’t forget the Clérigos Tower: the perfect panoramic point to see the city from above, which is reached by a set of 250 steps.
What to See in Porto: São Bento Station
Another must-see in Porto — and Instagram hotspot — is the São Bento Station. The structure itself was constructed in 1903, but the incredible hand-painted azulejos of Jorge Colaço were introduced in 1930, making it one of the most photographed buildings in town.
What to See in Porto: Architecture & Design
For architecture fans, take a stroll on the Ponte de Dom Luis I, designed by the Belgian engineer Theophile Seyrig in 1886, a pupil of the famous Gustave Eiffel. Meanwhile, those with an eye for design can head to the area around Rua de Miguel Bombarda. Animated with numerous art galleries and creative studios, it’s here where artisan ateliers and alternative clothes stores have set up shop. Names found in the area include Circus Network, Patch Porto Store, Mercado 48, and Ó! Galeria.
Shopping in Porto: What to Buy
An absolute must-buy in Porto? Canned fish! It might seem strange, but here in the Portuguese city, there are countless stores selling tins of sardines, tuna, and mackerel in sleek packages with hipster graphics. Just take Casa Oriental or Loja Das Conservas: enter to have a look around and you’re sure to leave with a tin or two.
Staying in Porto
If you need to take a break after exploring the Duero River in a traditional boat or visiting one of the countless cellars that produce the local Port wine, check out one of these three hotels in Porto for a moment of relaxation before dinner. First up, the Rosa Et Al Townhouse is a boutique hotel with just seven design suites that offers one of the best brunches in town.
The Artist Porto Hotel, meanwhile, is located in a former 19th-century factory turned art school in 1927. Today, it remains one of the city’s many cultural hubs.
For those hoping to enjoy the real local experience, Casa Carolina is a romantic guest house with just a few rooms and lush green area.
Where to Eat in Porto
Finally, to enjoy a typical Portuguese dinner, stop by the Cantina 32 restaurant. Here, traditional local dishes are served up in a gorgeous atmosphere that was once a perfume factory. After dinner, take the elevator up at Hotel Porto Palácio to the 19th floor, where a panoramic terrace and original cocktail list await in the VIP Lounge.
