Porto is Portugal’s second largest city – major commercial and industrial centre and, it’s famous for the World-renowned port wine, which is produced there. But the city on the Douro River’s northern bank is also an attractive travel destination. Breathtaking views, the mentioned famous wines, the Douro River and the splendid architecture are all strong reasons for visiting Porto.
What can you do in Porto, why travel there and which are the best attraction to see? Here you’ll find suggestions – 5 things you can see and do in Porto, Portugal:
Dom Luís Bridge Courtesy François Philipp and Wikipedia
One – Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge and Admire Porto’s Panorama
Perhaps the top of all things to enjoy in Porto is to see the beautiful panorama of the old city. And, one of the best places to do this is the Dom Luís I Bridge.
The structure was built in 1881-1886, its total length has little under 400 m and it’s an attraction by itself. Find out more about the old bridge here. It used to be the longest bridge of its kind in the entire World – at the time of its construction.
Two – Take a Tour of Porto’s Beautiful Churches
The city of Porto has an amazing collection of beautiful churches and a cathedral, whose construction commenced back in 1110. In fact, the churches are some of Porto’s best assets. It can be an awe-inspiring, blood-warming experience to see them one-by-one. Or, at least the most important ones. This guide presenting Porto’s churches will tell you all you need to know.
Aging Room at Sandeman Port in Vila Nova de Gaia by Ken and Nyetta
Three – Get a Taste of Port Wine
Never miss out on this opportunity – you must taste the famous wine! There are several wine cellars (more than 50 of them), but just a few places for tasting are open to the great public. And, many of these are found across the river, in Vila Nova de Gaia (which is actually another city). Read more about port wine and the best wine cellars and put together an itinerary according to your needs.
Four – Take a Cruise on the Douro River
The Douro Valley is a World-famous wine producing region and it’s also scenic. Boat operators offer various cruises on the river, some will even take you to wineries for tasting famous port wine. Perhaps this Telegraph article (based on a travel story) will inspire you and help you make your choice.
Five– Don’t Miss the Old Vehicles of Porto
The rabelos wooden cargo boats on the river and the vintage trams along the old cars that you can still see here and there on the city’s streets. It’s not just the buildings that are old and beautiful, the city has a rich collection of vintage vehicles – which you shouldn’t miss out on. In fact, the trams are still actively circulating today – in decent numbers and, some of them are over 100 years-old! A Porto vintage tram ride will take 2.5 euros out of your pocket.