Porto, Portugal: Your Ultimate City Guide
Porto, a city that never fails to captivate its visitors with its charm and hidden treasures. Nestled along the Douro River in northern Portugal. As you venture through its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant neighbourhoods, you'll quickly discover that Porto is a city of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
One of the first things that will strike you about Porto is its rich history and architectural beauty. From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge that spans the Douro River to the majestic Porto Cathedral, the city is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. But it's not just the famous landmarks that make Porto special – it's the hidden gems tucked away in its winding streets and tucked-away corners. Whether it's stumbling upon a quaint local café, discovering a vibrant street art mural or unexpectedly finding a hidden viewpoint with breath-taking views. Exploring Porto is like embarking on a treasure hunt.
Porto Essentials
Getting There: Porto, Portugal, boasts excellent accessibility options. Porto Airport (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport) welcomes flights from major European cities, ensuring a smooth arrival for travelers. Additionally, Porto is well-connected by train and bus services, making it convenient for those exploring neighboring regions.
Transport: We walked around the city however the tram is an effortless way to get around the city, it’s a safe and efficient. Although do keep your eye out for pick pockets!
Currency: Portugal uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. While credit cards are widely accepted, having cash for smaller purchases and local experiences is advisable. Currency exchange services are readily available at airports and major tourist areas.
ATM and Credit Cards: ATMs are easily found throughout Porto, and credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in restaurants, hotels, and shops. To avoid any issues with transactions, inform your bank about your travel plans before your journey.
Language: Portuguese is the official language in Porto. While many locals in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the vibrant local culture.
Travel Adapters: Porto uses the European standard Type C and Type F electrical sockets. Make sure to bring the appropriate adapters to charge your electronic devices during your stay.
Porto Highlights
Toro dos Clergios
Our Porto adventure began with a climb – 225 steps to be precise, up the Toro dos Clergios tower. As we ascended, each step filled us with anticipation. And when we finally reached the top, the panoramic view that unfolded before our eyes was nothing short of breath-taking.
Chapel of Souls
The Chapel of Souls in Porto is adorned with vibrant blue and white tiles depicting scenes from religious and historical narratives. It is conveniently situated in the heart of Porto's main shopping street, Rua de Santa Catarina, within the Santo Ildefonso district. It consistently ranks among the top must-see landmarks and is arguably the most photographed building in the area.
Central Plaza
Wandering through The Central Plaza felt like stepping into a different era. The Parisian charm of this place was undeniable, with its cozy cafes, quaint boutiques, and the melodious tunes of street musicians filling the air. We found ourselves lost in the charm of the moment, savouring every sight and sound. It was a perfect blend of old-world grace and contemporary vibrance.
Porto Train Station
Porto's train station, a true masterpiece of art and history, left us in awe. The intricate tiles that adorned its walls told stories of battles fought and journeys taken. Standing amidst this visual feast, we felt a deep connection with the city's past.
Ribeira District
The Ribeira district, with its colourful buildings reflecting in the gentle waters of the Douro River, stole our hearts. We meandered along its narrow lanes, stopping at charming cafes, chatting with locals, and immersing ourselves in the maritime romance that enveloped the place. With each step, we felt the city's pulse, its history reverberating through the very stones beneath our feet.
Porto Hidden Gems
In Porto's winding alleys, we stumbled upon many hidden gems – artisanal shops, art galleries, and boutiques brimming with creativity. One such find was Project Vimco, where a local artist displayed their talents. We were captivated by their work, each piece telling a story, and we couldn't resist taking a part of Porto's artistic soul home with us. We highly recommended visiting the shop when you are in Porto.
Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. With its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and intricate wooden staircase, this bookstore is a true gem. Lose yourself in the aisles filled with books in various languages, and don't forget to take a photo on the iconic staircase. Tip: during peak season you will need to book entry in advance.
Where to Stay, Eat and Drink
When it comes to accommodation in Porto, the Carris Hotel Porto is a top choice. Located in the heart of the city, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, impeccable service, and stunning views of the river. Plus, it's within walking distance of all the main attractions, making it the perfect base for exploring Porto.
When it comes to dining in Porto, you're in for a treat. The city is known for its delicious cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and traditional Portuguese dishes. We highly recommend daTerra, a vegan restaurant offering a buffet and great breakfasts, it was so good we went twice! Also Kind Kitchen for lunch or dinner had great options and a great vibe!
No visit to Porto would be complete without trying the city's famous port wine. We headed to one of the many port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, located on the other side of the river. Ramos Pinto, is a great option with a reasonably priced tasting menu so you get to sample multiple ports in a wonderful atmosphere.
And if you're a beer lover, don't forget to try Super Bock, Portugal's most popular beer.
Photo Diary
Porto, See you soon!
Porto is a city that never fails to enchant and surprise. From its hidden gems tucked away in its winding streets to its iconic landmarks that showcase its rich history, Porto is a city that rewards those who are willing to explore. Although the city has seen better times with crumbling apartment buildings next to the glossy main tourist streets its hard to miss the poverty and disrepair the city has found its self in. Porto is a mismatch of old and new, making its charm undeniable. We look forward to returning to this city with the hope that it get some TLC without loosing its charm.
Watch our YouTube vlog for more information and inspiration, and get ready to fall in love with Porto.