Porto, like its larger and perhaps better-known southern sister Lisbon, has a long and storied
history, sits on a photogenic river and is currently enjoying an explosion of interest from
international travellers. But the two cities are very different, in looks and personality. Here are
some suggestions to whet your appetite for a visit to striking, unique, proud Porto.
Start with the historic Cais da Ribeira, one of the most emblematic parts of the city. By day this
docks area is colorful, vibrant and bustling. At night it is atmospheric, with lights from the
bridges and boats shining on the water. Wander through the labyrinthic streets of the Ribeira
towards the D. Luís I Bridge. Near its base you can take the Guindais Funicular up to the
Batalha neighborhood on the top of the city for a great (though quick—the ride only takes 2
minutes) view over the river and the old town. And/or you can walk across the iconic
metalwork bridge, both for the view of Porto from the other side of the river and to visit the
port wine cellars clustered there (in Vila Nova de Gaia). All the big brands are represented
(Taylor’s, Graham’s, Ferreira, Sandeman, Offley, etc.) and offer tours and tastings. It’s hard to
pick among them; I personally love Ramos Pinto, just for their Art Nouveau vibe. Graham’s is
up on a hill, and their Vinum Restaurant offers a splendid city view—it’s high-end, but
definitely gorgeous.
Back on the Porto side, enjoy more river views from the romantic, Victorian-landscaped Crystal
Palace Gardens. Take a guided tour or arrange to attend a concert in the contemporary
architectural landmark Casa da Música. In the caverns underneath the old customs house
(Casa da Alfândaga), Immersivus Gallery puts on 360º immersive art experience light shows
and Porto Legends: The Underground Experience is in permanent exhibition. It’s an
entertaining, sensory way to get a dramatic overview of the city and its history.
Serralves Foundation is a cultural institution in Porto that includes a contemporary art
museum, an Art Deco villa, a cinema house and a magnificent park. There is always something
interesting, provocative and culturally relevant going on there, so it is worth having a look at
the agenda in advance, but for outdoor lovers, especially, there are two things at the park of
particular interest: The Treetop Walk is a walkway through the canopy that gives a unique
perspective on the landscape.
Hit the city center (Cedofeita and Baixa/Sé). Porto was historically wealthier than Lisbon, and
its downtown shopping district correspondingly richer. There is much to see here. To pick just
a few favorites: São Bento Railway Station is decorated with enormous blue-and-white
azulejos (painted tile) panels depicting historical and regional scenes. The neoclassical
Mercado do Bolhão (Bolhão Market), where vendors sell produce and prepared foods, has just
reopened after a massive restoration. The 19 th -century Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange
Palace) is famous for its ornate interior. Next door is the 13th-century Gothic Church of São
Francisco. Also nearby is Livraria Lello, often on lists of the world’s most beautiful bookstores
and a rumored inspiration site for Harry Potter.
If you haven’t filled up at Bolhão, grab a casual lunch at Casa Guedes or Conga, both famous
for their pulled pork sandwich (bifana), or if you hanker for something sweet, a cream tart, éclaire or delicious fresh orange juice at Leitaria da Quinta do Paço. Sit-down restaurants we
recommend in this part of the city include Português de Gema and Escama.
The north of Portugal in general, and Porto in particular, is generally just a marvelous place to
eat. The very freshest fish and seafood can be found a bit north of Porto, where the boats
come in on the Matosinhos docks.
Some of Terracotta Journeys’ tours depart from Porto or end there. For example, the Best of the Camino de Santiago – The Portuguese Way hiking tour, and the new Douro Valley Cycling tour and the Coastal Portuguese Camino de Santiago Cycling, which are coming online soon. And, the Discover the Heart of Portugal Easy Walking tour, ends in Porto.
By Holly Blades