Porto

Welcome to Porto, a charming and picturesque city located on the banks of the Douro River, in northern Portugal. With its rich history and architectural beauties, Porto is a must-see destination for any traveler seeking cultural discoveries and enchanting landscapes.

RIBEIRA, at the heart of Porto and on the banks of the Douro, is Porto's historic district, with its narrow and steep streets, colorful houses, and lively atmosphere. Stroll along the quays and enjoy the breathtaking views of the river, and discover its picturesque streets, baroque churches, and bustling squares!

• The Sé de Porto : The Porto Cathedral is actually a large fortified church of Romanesque and Baroque styles, particularly imposing. Inside, note the beauty of its altar and especially the magnificent azulejos of its cloister.
• The Sao Bento station : A jewel of 19th-century Portuguese architecture, its hall displays on large azulejo frescoes the major moments and rural scenes of Lusitanian history.
• The Dom-Luis bridge : Connect Porto to its neighbor on the south bank of the Douro, Vila Nova de Gaia, via the Dom-Luis bridge. This beautiful piece of art was built in the 19th century by Seyrig, a disciple of the famous Eiffel. It can be crossed on foot, by car, and even by aerial metro!
• A cruise on the Douro River : Discover the magnificent landscapes of the Douro during a boat cruise from Porto. An unforgettable experience that allows you to discover the natural beauty, rich history, and unique charm of this region of Portugal.

Heading west along the Douro, you move towards MIRAGAIA and its wonders.

• The Palacio da Bolsa : Its vast halls are often the setting for prestigious political meetings, as they are richly decorated. Luxurious furniture, works of art by national artists, and a succession of sumptuous staircases and rooms are on the menu of this gem of Portuguese architecture.
• The Sao Francisco church : Admire the golden interiors of this building, especially its representation of the Tree of Jesse and its catacombs, in its crypt.
• The Church of Clercs : Of Baroque style, this 18th-century church is flanked by an immense bell tower of more than 75m high!
• The Lello bookstore : It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the world! With its Art Nouveau facade with Gothic accents, its finely decorated glass roof, and its impressive double staircase interior, the Lello bookstore will undoubtedly charm you.
• The gardens of Crystal Palace : Arguably one of the most romantic spots in Porto, with its pretty green alleys seeming to dominate the Douro.

BOLHAO, further back north of the city center, is an authentic neighborhood where it's nice to live.

• The Chapel of Souls : Impossible to miss this beauty! Its facades and bell tower are covered with azulejos!
• The mercado do Bolhao : Pretty covered halls guarantee both a colorful stroll and quality local products.
• Santa Catarina street : Further north, this pedestrian street is one of Porto's main shopping streets. You will find many shops, cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers, including the famous Café Majestic, known for its Belle Époque architecture.

MASSARELOS and its surroundings, to the west, form a student and dynamic area.

• The Bom Sucesso market : A covered market that is one of the best places to find Portuguese terroir products.
• The Casa de Musica and the Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) : These two buildings testify to Porto's interest in modern arts, with themed exhibitions and shows in avant-garde settings.

The coastal area of FOZ DE DOURO is appreciated for its views of the Atlantic Ocean, its beaches, and its seaside or pier walks. It is also an ideal destination to savor local gastronomy: do not miss the opportunity to taste the delicious local specialties, such as the francesinha (a typical Portuguese sandwich), the pasteis de nata (traditional pastries), and of course, the port wines.

Located on the other side of the Douro River from Porto's historic center, VILA NOVA DE GAIA is the nerve center of the port wine industry and is home to many renowned cellars. You can cross the Dom Luis bridge from downtown to reach Vila Nova de Gaia on foot, by metro, or by tram.

• The Porto cellars : Dive into the history and tradition of Porto's wine by visiting the cellars and tasting the famous port wine. The cellars often offer guided tours that allow you to discover the history of port wine and taste different varieties. An essential experience, to be enjoyed in moderation of course!
• The Cais de Gaia street : Ideal in the evening after a day of visits, the street houses numerous terraces offering a beautiful view of the Douro.

Your stay in Porto will be rich in historical discoveries, splendid panoramas, and gourmet tastings. It is indeed a big city, with the charm of characterful cities and the typical warmth of Portuguese destinations!