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Porto The history of Porto lives in the streets of Foz where the Douro gives way to the Atlantic and mornings blend into evenings There is something about this seaside neighbourhood that hits home Could it be the tranquil power of the Atlantic But there's plenty more going for this high-class hotspot.  Foz do Douro is one of the most beautiful (and in our opinion, the coolest) areas in Porto extending into the horizon full of fantastic restaurants From shopping and markets to the best view you can get RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in Porto📍 The best things to do in Porto 🍻 The best bars in Porto🏨 The best hotels in Porto This article was written by the editorial team at Time Out Porto. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines Start your journey through this part of the city on one of its most iconic modes of transport which takes you from Ribeira to Foz do Douro in about 20 minutes right in front of São Francisco’s Church then head in the direction of the Jardim do Passeio Alegre a leafy spot which hosts the Alegria Market from 9am-6pm every Sunday Here you can get a little bit of everything you'll also find the curious Marégrafo da Foz do Douro a late 19th-century water level indicator that records tidal variations over time and determined the average sea level with its cobbled streets and low houses that once housed fishermen.  Foz would not be the same without this iconic pastry shop, founded in 1935 and purchased by Rui Paiva. With a menu full of eggs, crepes, salads and a lavish brunch at weekends, Tavi is popular with locals and tourists (and the occasional footballer who come for the buttery homemade pastries and savoury treats like the Pastéis de Chaves and samosas Photograph: ShutterstockAnother non-negotiable A stroll (or cycle) along the waterfront. One of the city’s most popular cycle paths runs between the Jardim do Cálem and the Parque da Cidade in Matosinhos, stretching for about 5km and passing several beaches Praia da Luzm Praia de Gondarém and Pérgula da Foz It opened in January 1944 as a place for local farmers to sell their produce and as soon as you enter you'll notice the large fruit and vegetable stand But you can also get your hands on fresh fish You'll also find cobblers’ shops and others selling haberdashery and crafts some ready-to-eat meals and plenty of snacks Is there a better way to get to know Porto than through its cuisine Be sure to get a table at this restaurant if you're interested in a taste of tradition A little spot off the beaten track for tourists A Capoeira is very popular with locals for its attentive service wine list and classic Portuguese dishes; think grilled cod octopus fillets with rice and beef tenderloin a lovely space with good-quality kids’ clothes Feel like dancing? Foz is home to one of the city’s most iconic nightclubs, which plays a lot of electronic and sometimes classic tunes. The atmosphere is intimate, the sound quality is good and the drinks are great. Check Industria's socials for its upcoming schedule.  Booking.comWhat if we told you that after a day of sightseeing in Foz you can sleep in a luxurious five-star hotel Vila Foz Hotel & Spa offers exquisitely decorated rooms and a complete spa service But its restaurant, the Michelin-starred Vila Foz is also a must-try if you're looking to splurge the Maresia (€170) is dedicated to the sea and its second Novo Mundo (€120) is entirely vegetarian There's also a Kitchen Seat Experience for two people where you can watch the chef in action (€400 per person).  Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! instagramAbout us Contact us Grupo Arliz Editorial Team 29 May 2024 10:00Portugal's hottest new property development is the latest housing project in this exclusive area of Porto T3 and T4) and two 5 bedroom villas with swimming pools and private patios Already at an advanced stage of construction and expected to be completed by the end of this year the development is the result of an investment of 10.5 million euros by the Arliz Group which is also responsible for its commercialisation Grupo ArlizCasal de Passos - Foz do Douro Condominium is located on Travessa dos Passos very close to Parque da Cidade in Porto the biggest urban park in Portugal In addition to benefiting from an excellent location future residents of this housing development will also enjoy premium finishes energy efficiency and excellent sun exposure as well as elongated balconies that dialogue with the rear garden the result of the incredible architectural work of architect José Carlos Cruz With almost all the apartments already sold, Helena Fernandes, head of the Arliz Group's sales team, points out that the development, which is also advertised for sale on idealista has won over many national and international investors as well as locals there are only a few apartments left in the main building For those looking for the comforts of a private condominium and the independence of a detached house It's the ideal opportunity for those who value an exclusive property in an area of excellence but also to shops and services," she said in a statement Branded Residences: Portugal is the European country with the most projects in the pipeline The phenomenon of Branded Residences is “in rapid growth” in Portugal Executive Director of the Portuguese Association of Residential Tourism and Resorts (APR) The Savills Global Residential Development Consultancy study Branded Residences: Portugal Snapshot 2025 concluding that Portugal is the European country with the most projects in the pipeline for the next five years: by 2031 the country will have over 1,200 branded resi there are traditions that are still what they were the theme of the centenary initiative is the Olympic Games it’s worth watching the paper costume parade a centuries-old tradition that’s not boring at all This year, the emblematic initiative will take place on the 25th of august on Sunday the starting point is Jardim das Sobreiras (in the Cantareira area) the traditional paper costume parade literally ends in the sea – in the waters of Praia do Ourigo The Paper Costume Parade is organized by the Union of Parishes of Aldoar and the theme for the 2024 edition is “The Olympic Games – The Cities of Our Medals” more than 500 extras are expected to parade each block will be represented by a different city and/or country and these are some of the examples: Work on this application is being carried out by the Aldoar, Foz do Douro and Nevogilde Parish Council. But also with the help of the Spanish municipalities of Mollerus and Amposta (Catalonia) and Gueñes (Basque Country), all of which have a tradition of paper costumes. The São Bartolomeu pilgrimage has its origins in the 19th century. At that time, devotees believed that the Devil was on the loose and that Saint Bartholomew manifested himself in the waters. That’s why they dived into the sea in search of divine protection. In this scenario, many of the faithful went to Foz do Douro to take part in the so-called “holy bath”. In the 1930s, the tradition of paper costumes emerged, with the first parade taking place in 1952. | Dmitri Zotov / Unsplash Visit a Port wine cellar It’s hard to separate the city that Porto is today from its most famous export, the sweet fortified wine that for centuries was boated down the Douro River to be stored and shipped from the banks of Vila Nova de Gaia. No trip to the city is complete without crossing the Luís I Bridge and exploring this district’s many Port cellars so it’s worth researching which experience suits you best but quite frankly you won’t be disappointed whichever tipple you end up tasting Book Port Tastings and Tours If you prefer your beach visits to involve more promenading and people-watching and less salty water and sand in the upmarket Foz do Douro district of Porto features a long promenade lined with buzzing cafes that stay open long after dark There’s even a popular cafe on the beach itself where you can watch locals and tourists strolling by as the sun goes down including live music and cooking demonstrations Book Porto Food Tours Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips See privacy policy Jardim do Morro Looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset over the Rio Douro Gaze down on Porto’s winding cobbled streets and pastel-hued houses from above at Jardim do Morro a bandstand and an impressive variety of plants including a grove of shady palm trees and linden trees lining a stretch of Avenida da República The park can be accessed either by a cable car or by crossing the upper level of Ponte de Dom Luís I Book Jardim do Morro Tours Zoo Santo Inácio Discover more than 200 species of animals – including rare snow leopards and southern white rhinoceros – less than 10 minutes from Porto’s city centre at Zoo Santo Inácio The spacious green habitats housing more than 600 animals are set across 15ha (37 acres) making it the biggest zoo in north Portugal the daily feeding of the Humboldt penguins – which includes an educational talk by a zookeeper – and a sprawling African Savannah populated by giraffes This historic 16th-century street takes its name from the many gardens that once surrounded it it’s one of the city’s most charismatic – and busy – streets Aristocratic homes from the 17th to 19th centuries still line the street resplendent with coats of arms and ornate balconies The area has been recently restored and is now classed as a pedestrian zone making it the perfect place to while away an afternoon exploring its many cafes Grab lunch at chef Luís Americo’s Cantina 32 or head to Mercearia das Flores for gourmet souvenirs Some of the most awe-inspiring architecture in Porto can be found in its many churches which range in style from gothic to ornate baroque constructions Igreja do Carmo – the Catholic Church of Our Lady of Carmo – was built between 1756 and 1768 and features a stunning azulejo-covered facade that was added in 1912 and showcases the beautiful blue-and-white tiles the country is well known for It’s separated from the Igreja dos Carmelitas 1m-wide (3ft) house designed to prevent any relationship between the nuns and the monks who originally inhabited the twin churches This is an updated version of an article originally by Nina Santos See & Do Lesser-Known Summer Destinations to Visit in Europe Guides & Tips The Best European 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restaurants and a beautiful setting along the Douro Porto’s neighborhoods are as diverse as its attractions and encompass medieval cobblestone lanes elegant avenues of the city center and even a beachfront locale The city’s wealth of accommodation options further complicates things when deciding where to base yourself we’ve compiled an overview of the five best neighborhoods to visit in Porto Given its allure, Ribeira draws more tourists than other parts of Porto. Accommodation tends to book up fast, especially in the high season with a mix of river-facing boutique hotels and designer hostels The bar-lined streets west of Aliados (especially Rua Galeria de Paris) form the backdrop to Porto’s best nightlife the action spills out onto the streets and nearby plazas bookshops and eclectic restaurants catering to a wide range of budgets with both five-star options and budget-friendly guesthouses as well as stylish hostels like the Passenger Best neighborhood for galleries and street art Just west of Baixa, Cedofeita and neighboring Miragaia are appealing destinations for those seeking a more local experience when visiting Porto On Rua Miguel de Bombarda and neighboring streets one-of-a-kind local shops and hidden street art Downhill from Cedofeita, Miragaia was once home to the medieval Jewish quarter and its maze-like lanes and staircase alleys lead past impressive vestiges of the past including a section of the 14th-century walls that once protected the city you’ll get a workout wandering these steep streets which are dotted with both old-school tascas (taverns) and imaginative gastropubs There's a bohemian charm to these two districts, with hidden backyard cafes and stunning overlooks where you can join locals for BYO drinks at sunset You’ll also find good-value guesthouses and hostels that showcase the neighborhood’s creativity with local artwork on display and themed rooms Best neighborhood for families and beach escapes If you start to feel claustrophobic in the compact lanes of the city center, head to the open vistas of seaside Foz do Douro Porto’s westernmost neighborhood is best known for its rugged beaches breezy promenades and oceanfront terrace restaurants facing the crashing waves Foz is only a 25-minute bus ride from the heart of Porto By day, the riverside district fills with tourists, but if you spend the night, you’ll experience a far more local side, as most visitors head back across the Douro come sundown. There's a small but diverse array of hotels, hostels and guesthouses. The best – like the Yeatman – have million-dollar views over the river and Porto. Architect Miguel Cardoso and interior designer Nini Andrade Silva faithfully realigned the building’s old bones to create imposing room-sets a squadron of artisans scraped away a century of accretions and restored elaborate cornices and mouldings The momentum of the restoration also meant that it is only in the bedrooms that Silva has felt freer to experiment and be more playful in her palette of green hues the eye is drawn especially towards the bed where the quotidian headboard has been replaced by an organic cut-out whose curved ridges evoke a rivulet curving upwards to the ceiling The artisans also reworked iron gratings in curling staircases and polishing gorgeously retiled walls and ornate Baroque fireplaces the Manor House features a clutch of suites with bracing views of both sea and garden alongside easy access to the in-house restaurant The result of this almost maniacal obsession with historical and aesthetical accuracy is that from the moment one rolls in through the garden and pulls up at the stone steps Website VIEW GOOGLE MAPS escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox Daven Wu is the Singapore Editor at Wallpaper* he has been covering Singapore and the neighbouring South-East Asian region since 1999 and travel for both the magazine and website He is also the City Editor for the Phaidon Wallpaper* City Guide to Singapore As soon as you enter you'll notice the large fruit and vegetable stand If you’re feeling peckish there are several stalls with ready-to-eat meals and plenty of snacks.  Its manageable size makes it easy to visit most of the main sights in a weekend It’s also the perfect jumping off point to explore the Douro Valley and vinho verde wine region and things to do during a weekend in Porto Housed in one of the stately 19th-century mansions in Foz do Douro where wealthy families built their summer homes overlooking the Atlantic this Design Hotels member marries the mansion’s historic details with sleek It has a Michelin-star restaurant and a more casual bistro beloved by locals whose two-Michelin-star restaurant is one of the best in town where the British Royal Family’s port wine is aged A guide will explain the differences between ruby take you to see the barrels and bottles aging and then bring you to a the tasting room to sample a selection of port wines with the red staircase that supposedly inspired the Harry Potter books it’s so popular there’s often a line to get in The Best Things To Do in Toronto This Weekend The Best Things to do in Vancouver This Weekend Portugal's riverside cityPortugal’s second city has a setting that calls for active appreciation This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).Straddling the mouth of the Douro River with elegant bridges and painted houses tripping up gentle hillsides Porto has soared in popularity with travellers in recent years Many come to sip and slurp at the city’s historic port wine houses climb the narrow streets lined with baroque churches and 19th-century merchants’ houses and bounce between cafe terraces in the labyrinthine Ribeira district But equally appealing is the call of the outdoors – Porto’s riverside views and coastal position encourage all manner of active pursuits from paddleboarding and kayaking to bridge climbing and e-biking Here’s the perfect itinerary for an active weekend break 7am: Rise with the sun for a six-mile run with Porto Running Tours you’ll see the historic centre’s alleyways and miradouros (viewpoints) at their silent best The 1.5-hour runs give real insight into Porto and you’ll have earned that pastel de nata (custard tart) for breakfast 12pm: Grab a gourmet sandwich to go from A Sandeira do Porto near São Bento station and weave up through the lanes of the Miragaia neighbourhood to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal fountain-splashed lawns stagger down to the great blue arm of the Douro River 3pm: That arched bridge you spotted earlier from the gardens? That’s Ponte da Arrábida, leaping 1,600ft across the Douro River to Vila Nova de Gaia. For a thrill and sensational views of old Porto in one direction and the rumbling Atlantic in the other, pop on a harness to climb the bridge on a 40-minute guided tour 7pm: For sunset magic, take a kayak for a two-hour paddle at Afurada marina on the other side of the bridge swing over to nearby Armazém do Peixe to scoff boat-fresh seafood in a stylishly refurbished fishing warehouse 10am: Stand-up paddleboarding gives you a morning workout with knockout views of Porto’s soaring bridges and Ribeira district, rising above the river in a helter-skelter of pastel-painted houses. The Paddling Center in Douro Marina runs hour-long intro sessions and longer tours 1pm: Stop by the Graham’s Port Lodge for a three-port tasting and lunch with dazzling river views on the terrace of Vinum glass-fronted restaurant is an extension of the original 17th-century cellars and pairs Douro wines with stunners like Ria Formosa oysters and Trás-os-Montes beef 3pm: To feel Porto’s creative pulse, hop on an e-bike with Blue Dragon Tours for a spin of the city’s most exciting street art The hills will be no sweat as you cruise past attention-grabbers like Bordalo II’s ‘Coelho’ 6.30pm: Take a tram ride to Foz do Douro, where Porto embraces the Atlantic. If the sun’s out, go for an early evening swim, or sip a sunset porto tónico (white port with tonic) on the deck at Praia da Luz beach bar 8pm: Tentações no Prato is an enticingly old-school, no-frills tasca (neighbourhood restaurant) for traditional Portuguese favourites like bolinhos de bacalhau (salt cod fritters) and arroz de feijão (rice with beans).  From horse-riding and beekeeping to kayaking under a dazzling night sky surrounded by the cactus-strewn landscapes of the Sonoran Desert Its present-day creativity draws on its Native American and Mexican roots a Catholic Church in Tucson","crdt":"Photograph by Mark Parren Taylor","dsc":"The Mission San Xavier del Bac dates back to the 1700s and depicts Tucson's Spanish-filled roots.","ttl":"Tucson - April2025","rchDsc":{"markup":"The Mission San Xavier del Bac dates back to the 1700s and depicts Tucson's Spanish-filled roots "},"rchTtl":{"markup":"Tucson - April2025"}},"sections":[{"name":"Travel","id":"432c4f83-2d55-3974-b95f-a221c87c0fd1","type":"sources","uri":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel"}],"headline":"Inside the Arizona city that's America's final frontier","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/photo-story-tucson-arizona-americas-final-frontier"},{"description":"Saxon puppetry Germany","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/dresden-city-guide"},{"description":"Fifty years since reunification the fall of Saigon is a distant memory and microbreweries a braised beef street-food stew","crdt":"Photograph by Ulf Svane","dsc":"At Bo Kho Ganh named after Vietnam's 'ganh' street sellers who carry wares on a bamboo shoulder pole this roadside restaurant in District 10 specialises in bo kho beef stew laced with cinnamon and lemon grass.","ttl":"Eat-Ho Chi Minh-April2025-Feasting","rchDsc":{"markup":"At Bo Kho Ganh "},"rchTtl":{"markup":"Eat-Ho Chi Minh-April2025-Feasting "}},"sections":[{"name":"Travel","id":"432c4f83-2d55-3974-b95f-a221c87c0fd1","type":"sources","uri":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel"}],"headline":"Ho Chi Minh City is a food-lover's paradise Here's where to eat","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/where-to-eat-ho-chi-minh-city-vietnam"},{"description":"Amid the baseball games Getty Images","rchDsc":{"markup":""},"rchTtl":{"markup":""}},"sections":[{"name":"Travel","id":"432c4f83-2d55-3974-b95f-a221c87c0fd1","type":"sources","uri":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel"}],"headline":"Tried street food in Osaka Now go to Fukuoka","link":"https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/how-to-spend-two-days-in-fukuoka-japan"},{"description":"For two millennia UNESCO City of Gastronomy Thessaloniki has been celebrated for its food culture Latest UpdatesCountries Why Join?IL MagazineFree Daily E-LetterVideoOur ExpertsTestimonialsFAQsTopics breathing picture-postcard of European charm There's a proverbial banquet of exciting activities from historic city walks to wine tastings across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia's wine caves it never feels like you're reaching into your pocket which makes it perfect for anyone looking for a remote working base Porto has a number of appealing neighborhoods offering a variety of lodgings to match any length of stay you can easily walk to the city's bustling downtown area overflowing with buzzing outdoor cafés stunning scenic views over the Douro River Just about anywhere you set up a workspace there's opportunity for fun work breaks walking winding cobblestone streets in the old town districts or grabbing a picnic lunch while you laze in a nearby public park to watch the Douro's rabelo boats or the cable car high above the wine caves the colorful Ribeira neighborhood weaves through narrow and winding cobblestone streets before opening into Porto's heartbeat the lively café-rimmed riverside promenade shouldering the majestic Douro River you have a front row view of the towering Dom Luís I Bridge connecting Porto to Vila da Gaia across the river where you'll find the Port wine cellars Ribeira is also popular for people-watching and for gazing at picturesque vintage boats as they glide by headed out on a scenic Douro Valley cruise nestled between scores of vineyards scaling the steep hillsides The Ribeira area is certainly center stage for much of Porto's charm dotted with lively cafés and bars as far as the eye can see watching both small and large boats meander the river go see Porto's fortified Romanesque cathedral The imposing cathedral looms over Ribeira's surrounding medieval alleys where you'll find the Museu da Misericórdia do Porto If you prefer a laidback lifestyle with fewer tourists you can choose to stay in a low-key neighborhood like Boavista Running through the area is the Boavista Avenue which is Porto's longest boulevard and one of its most beautiful—with large designer houses you'll find a more tranquil atmosphere and are only minutes away from downtown by bus or metro If you take one of the hop on/hop off bus routes you'll be on the Boavista Avenue all the way to the ocean and enjoy a walk around the many lakes in beautiful Jardim Botanical do Porto This area was one of my favorites for just chilling and exploring iconic historic sights nearby The vibrant neighborhood is just beyond the Ribeira adorned with spacious bustling plazas rimmed by restaurants and tourist kiosks Both the central bus station (Praca da Liberdade) and the train station (Praca Almeida Garrett) sit right in the middle of the neighborhood (Praca da Liberdade) and traditional churches covered in azulejos (blue and white hand-painted tiles) Brimming with old-school shops and baroque churches along the backstreets there are also plenty of speakeasy-style bars and outdoor live music venues after dark explore the soaring Torre de Clerigos for panoramic city and river views and Carmelite Churches (Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas) with a three-foot-wide 17th-sentury house separating the two churches Some digital nomads and expats prefer the quiet which is just across the Dom Luis I Bridge yet has easy access to all of Porto's activities and attractions just a short walk or tram ride across the river Another draw to the area is its low-cost. While Porto is quite affordable feast your eyes on all the wine houses lining that side of the River Douro Then stroll into any of them for wine tasting and to learn about wine making (I enjoyed a visit at the Porto Calem) You can even take a cable car (Teleferico de Gaia) soaring over the river Another popular attraction is to visit the hilltop-perched Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar for the great views across the river The Perks Of Working Remotely From Portugal Working As A Digital Nomad In Lisbon, Portugal 5 Reasons To Get Yourself To Europe’s Remote Working Capital As we yearn to move, connect, and get off a plane and stretch our legs, out of a conference hall into fresh air, leave the confines of a hotel room, or even take a walking meeting or lunch in a park vs. a restaurant, here are some ideas for the next time you find yourself in some of the most inspirational cities around the world, for business or pleasure. I am a software engineer at Wunderman Thompson Commerce & Technology Portugal and I’m currently working on Commerce Cloud. I like to keep my work-life balance equal by working but also having time for myself, my family, and friends. My favorite hobbies are working out at the gym, cooking, and cycling. I love nature, sunsets on the beach inspire me the most. It is so peaceful and serene, watching the sun set reminds me of all my day’s blessings and the new possibilities a sunrise can bring. Q> When do you find you crave inspiration in nature and where do you find it? Q> Where is the best place to people watch in Porto?  Q> What’s your favourite hike or walk?   Q> What are some interesting natural attractions near your city that are worth checking out? Luiz> There are many interesting natural attractions near Porto that are worth checking out. Here are some of my favorites: 1. Douro Valley: The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. The valley is characterized by its terraced vineyards, which have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Visitors can take a scenic cruise on the Douro River or explore the vineyards on foot or by bike. 2. Serra do Gerês: Serra do Gerês is a mountain range located in the north of Portugal, home to waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails, and it's a great place to explore the natural beauty of the region. 3. Serra da Estrela: Serra da Estrela is a beautiful mountain range located in central Portugal. It is the highest point in mainland Portugal, with the highest peak reaching an elevation of 1,993 meters (6,539 feet). The natural park surrounding the mountain range is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. 4. Peneda-Gerês National Park: Peneda-Gerês National Park is another national park located in the north of Portugal. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as several hiking trails, waterfalls, and lakes. 5. Costa Nova Beach: Costa Nova Beach is located just outside of Aveiro and is known for its colorful striped houses. The beach is a popular spot for surfing and other water sports and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Q> Which season inspires you the most in your part of the world and why?  Q> What kind of weather do you get that’s unique to your area and when does it inspire you? Q> What’s your favorite park/botanical garden/body of water and why?  Luiz> One of my favorite parks is the Serralves Foundation, a cultural institution with a park, villa, and contemporary art museum. The park is one of the largest green areas in Porto and has a diverse range of plants and trees, making it a popular spot for nature lovers. It also has several walking trails, a lake, and a garden, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. In terms of bodies of water, the Douro River is a must-see for visitors to Porto, and the beaches along the Atlantic coast, such as Matosinhos and Foz do Douro, are popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.  The office located in Edifício Transparente offers stunning views of the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a great spot to take in the beautiful scenery. Q> Anything else to add that might involve wildlife, especially critters or birds or a specific example of when you were inspired by nature? Luiz> SeaLife, located just 100 meters from our office, is a fantastic place to explore marine life and discover the wonders of the ocean. It's a great opportunity to learn more about the environment and find inspiration in the beauty of the underwater world. Q> And how about quick day trip or weekend trip to somewhere near your location?  Q> Best place for a run/swim or other form of exercise outside? to expansive surfing beaches and family-friendly Blue Flag-rated spots further afield Rui Alves / Unsplash Porto Tours This sandy beach there are plenty of better beaches for swimming and sunbathing – Praia dos Ingleses is all about people watching as you wander down the promenade before finding a cafe where you can settle in to see the sunset over the mighty Atlantic Ocean There are several surfing schools on the beach where you can rent everything you need including a wetsuit which you’ll need as the Atlantic waters are fairly cold even in summer Pavol Svantner / Unsplash Pérgola da Foz Tours The Pérgola da Foz is one of the city’s most iconic attractions – a golden neoclassical-style pergola that sits on the promenade above Praia do Molhe and dates back to the 1930s The beach is accessed via a staircase built into the cliffside and designed in the same style as the pergola The beach itself features a stone jetty that protects the swimming area from the strong northerly swells – making it a pleasant spot to take a dip – and the sand is dotted with dramatic sculptural rock formations Alvaro Sanchez / Unsplash Castelo do Queijo Tours One of Porto’s more unusually named attractions is Castelo do Queijo – Cheese Castle – which is more properly known as the Fort of São Francisco Xavier and takes its nickname from the cheese-shaped rock on which it stands The castle overlooks Praia Castelo do Queijo a small stretch of sand and rocks fronting a promenade While the nearby Praia de Matosinhos is more popular it can still get crowded on warm summer days for a walk along the seafront Near the entrance to the River Douro lies Praia do Carneiro a small windswept beach with a breakwater and the Farol de Felgueiras lighthouse at one end The 16th-century fortress that lies behind the beach is perhaps more interesting than the beach itself: the impressive Fortaleza de São João da Foz was built to defend the mouth of the Douro and now hosts regular exhibitions The beach also makes a good starting point for a walk along Porto’s dramatic seafront – especially on stormy days when waves crash over the lighthouse a cafe and gelateria serving freshly made ice cream waffles and shakes on an expansive outdoor deck | Maksym Kaharlytskyi / Unsplash for laid-back vibes at a fishing village Escape the crowds and head to the traditional fishing village of Aguda which is located midway between Porto and Espinho and easily accessible via the main Porto-Aveiro railway The golden beach is lined with fisherman’s homes laidback cafes and elegant holiday homes and features a small harbour tucked behind a sea wall there’s also a cycle path that stretches all the way from Porto to Espinho This beach takes its name – which translates to Helmsman’s Beach – from the bronze statue by Américo Gomes that was erected on Avenida de Montevideu in 1934 Depicting a man tightly gripping the helm of a boat The sandy beach was the first in Porto to receive Blue Flag status and it’s also been awarded Golden Beach status for its accessibility The two playgrounds and laid-back cafes make it a popular destination for families Porto is a perfect destination for families © Serbek / Getty Images While Lisbon is Portugal's top holiday destination, quieter Porto is a great alternative if you have kids in tow and plenty of parks with viewpoints and cafes as a reward for climbing its famous hills Then there's the city's full hand of kid-friendly sights and activities from culture hubs and urban farms to riverboat rides and riverside cycle paths Add in plenty of kid-friendly places to stay and easy access to the coast by bus And if the patience of small travelers wears thin there are plenty of pastel de nata pit stops along the way to keep energy levels high Here's our guide to exploring Porto with kids The secret to a successful city break with kids is picking the right things to see and do (and not trying to cram too much into a single day) Start with some of the following kid-friendly Porto activities It would be easy to lose an entire afternoon wandering the sprawling grounds of the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal perched high above the Douro River with giddying city views to boot The crystal palace that gave the park its name no longer exists but a slightly less elegant domed sports pavilion now sits near the entrance like a giant UFO and kids may find the odd lost feather amongst the planted beds While the sand is lovely, there isn't much shade, so after a quick splash and bask, follow your nose to a street-side barbecue for a low-cost seafood lunch then detour through Parque da Cidade – Portugal’s largest urban park – which has endless miles of walking and cycling trails You can pick bikes up from the Biclas & Triclas depot near the river or have them delivered to your accommodation Matosinhos isn't the only beach within easy reach of Porto Bus 902 from near the Casa da Música on Avenida da Boavista will take you out to Praia de Lavadores on the south side of the Douro estuary family-friendly beaches dotted with boulders and rockpools that will keep kids entertained for hours One of the best beaches here is the wide sweep of sand at Praia da Aguda, directly accessible by train from Porto's São Bento station in less than 20 minutes. For long beachside walks, head just north from Lavadores to Praia do Cabedelo do Douro a lovely but breezy curl of dune-backed sand right across the river mouth from the Felgueiras lighthouse This interactive museum will amuse kids of all ages Hi-tech displays explore the impressive discoveries made by Portugal during the medieval period With a swashbuckling boat ride and lots of tech wizardry Devouring Portugal’s famous sweet custard tarts is almost mandatory when visiting Porto you can ramp up the bakehouse experience by watching pastéis de nata shuffle along the production line in the kitchens at Manteigaria or Fábrica da Nata The latter is located on Porto’s main commercial strip so you can pair your outing with a spot of shopping The 15 best things to do in Porto: art, architecture, and tasty treats Blending architecture, art and outdoor spaces, Serralves is the pinnacle of culture in Porto and there's plenty here to keep miniature art buffs entertained As well as an art-filled museum and Art Deco mansion Serralves boasts 18 hectares of manicured gardens The outdoor exhibits and the collection of cows horses and donkeys will be a hit with younger kids and parents can marvel at the architecture of the museum designed by famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza and its mix of historical and contemporary exhibitions Kids love riverboat trips and a cruise on the Douro is a chance to admire Porto’s magnificent bridges – all six of them – from the water. Cruises come with a history lesson that may be of variable interest, but the views of Porto and its opposing neighbor, Vila Nova de Gaia stretching up from the riverbanks are endlessly distracting Porto has a distinctive street art style that favors cartoon-like characters executed in a Pop Art palette of bright primary colors Go searching for tiny mice slipping down drains and a two-story-tall rabbit made of recycled rubbish in Vila Nova de Gaia Nearly every corner has something colorful to look at and a street art treasure hunt can occupy the family for hours Good places to start a street art search include Rua das Flores Rue da Madeira and the steps of Escadas do Codecal leading down to the riverbank Best places to eat in Porto Locals go mad for their football team, FC Porto, and visitors can channel the passion at the modern Museu Futebol Clube do Porto True lovers of the beautiful game can absorb themselves in the detail for hours browsing all manner of memorabilia and multimedia displays Some parts of Porto lend themselves to family stays Here's a guide to the best stops with kids in tow Porto’s tourist-centric riverside precinct, Ribeira is a great base if you want to be in the thick of the activity Note that the city slopes away from the river so most attractions will be ‘uphill’ from here The area around Porto’s central square, Aliados & Bolhão makes a convenient base and the local metro station is just one stop from Trindade – the city’s main metro interchange – making for easy cross-town exploring Downsides include prices for accommodation and the fact that the area can be a little busy and noisy after dark The pleasant neighborhood of Masserelos is slightly removed from the city hubbub and encompasses the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal It's big on riverside charm and easy walks avoiding big changes in elevation You'll find more family-friendly accommodation in neighboring Cedofeita Top 10 free things to do in Porto On the south bank of the Douro, opposite the historic center, Vila Nova de Gaia has the twin perks of being calmer and cheaper than the heaving hub of central Porto. Adults love the port cellars that made the district famous, but hilltop gardens and the Teleférico de Gaia cable car broaden the appeal for families Porto's cobblestoned streets weren’t designed with strollers in mind Getting up Porto’s characteristic hills is also easier on public transport than on foot Luckily, Porto has an efficient, modern metro system that will save you from long walks in the sun in summer; visit Metro do Porto for a network map. Many areas that lie off the metro network can be reached by bus or on the city's charmingly clackety old trams. Pick up a rechargeable Andante Card for smooth and pocket-friendly transfers between trams Note that Porto's trams can get extremely busy in peak travel season (June t0 August) Taxis and ride-sharing vehicles are available any time you get stuck Don't overlook the nostalgic Funicular dos Guindais as a kid-friendly route from riverside Ribeira to Praça da Batalha further up the hill You may also like:The 15 best things to do in Porto: art, architecture, and tasty treatsPost-lockdown liaisons: A weekend in Porto is the break you have been pining forThe 5 best day trips from Porto Admiring ornate tiles (azulejos) is just one of Porto's top experiences Stretching along the sinewy curves of the Douro River, Porto is a city of hilly cobblestone lanes, avant-garde museums and grand architectural monuments dating back to the Middle Ages It’s also a top city for culinary adventures amid northern Portugal’s finest restaurants and wine bars. You’ll find maze-like neighborhoods that are a delight (mostly) to get lost within and vertiginous viewpoints teetering high above the terracotta rooftops Some of Porto’s best experiences simply have no analog in Portugal (or anywhere else for that matter) – whether walking the city's famed cast-iron bridge above the river as the sun sets beyond the seaside or hunting down the latest street art carved into the walls in the lanes of Miragaia Whether you come for a weekend or stay for a week don’t miss these top things to do in Porto When the sun is shining, it seems as though all of Porto descends on Foz do Douro for a bit of beach time followed by drinks at terrace cafes overlooking the ocean you can cool off in the chilly Atlantic water Planning tip: For fresh-off-the-boat seafood where an entire street (Rua Heróis de França) is enshrouded in the smoke from sizzling outdoor grills Unprepossessing on the outside but as intricate as a Fabergé egg on the inside, Porto’s Igreja de São Francisco is an indulgent feast of baroque splendor The staggeringly intricate interior glows with gold-leaf finery and lustrous woodwork Look out for the polychrome Tree of Jesse altarpiece as well as the masterful handiwork of craftsmen Filipe da Silva and António Gomes and drop into the museum to see sacred art and portraits of long-departed bishops Local tip: Make time to visit the eerie yet fascinating catacombs This is where the great and the good of Porto were once interred The 76m-high (249ft) Torre dos Clérigos designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 1700s The baroque tower soars above the city rooftops and visitors can climb 225 steps to admire far-reaching city views from the top It's not an experience for the claustrophobic – the structure definitely wasn’t built with big crowds in mind Planning tip: After making the climb, drop into the adjoining church – a baroque beauty from 1750 – or simply kick back on the manicured lawn of the adjacent Jardim das Oliveiras The chilled open-air bar Base is also conveniently located near the tower making it the perfect spot for a post-climb drink It may be a hike from the heart of Porto but it's well worth the detour. Serralves brings together avant-garde architecture a sculpture-strewn park and a bijou art deco mansion in one harmonious whole the arrestingly minimalist design of the Museu de Arte Contemporânea was the brainchild of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Álvaro Siza it draws on an impressive permanent collection featuring works from the late 1960s to the present in rotating exhibitions Planning tip: After enjoying the art, explore Serralves’ wild side and take a stroll amid floral gardens, forested paths and open meadows. Say hello to the cows and other barnyard animals in the southeast end of the park, or head skyward into the park’s lush canopy on a treetop walk the market is a great place to support local designers and artisans Gazing defiantly over Porto from its hilltop perch, the fortress-like Sé evokes the city’s imperial past This handsome cathedral wields serious historical clout as the spot where Prince Henry the Navigator was baptized in 1394 and where King John I married in 1387 the 12th-century cathedral was given a baroque facelift in the 18th century A barley-twist pillar crowns the cathedral courtyard which commands sweeping views over the sagging houses a church that's dripping with gold on the inside Planning tip: Don’t feel limited to these popular drawcards Keep a lookout as you wander the city as azulejos are scattered all over If you want to explore an alternative side of Porto leave the main sights behind and hit the pavement As you wander the backstreets and nip down alleyways keep your eyes peeled for Porto’s ancillary population of vividly colorful murals painted by the city’s talented street artists Start the street art trail by seeking out some of the heavy hitters like Daniel Eime’s massive photo-realistic mural entitled Mira on the Largo de Artur Arcos or Vhils’ powerful tribute to healthcare workers featuring his trademark carving style at the Hospital São João Other good places to hunt for street art are around Travessa de Cedofeita Top detours include Mirigaia's Rua São Pedro de Miragaia gallery-lined Rua Miguel Bombarda and the car lot at Trindade with works by street art demigods MrDheo and Hazul Luzah Porto’s top concert hall is the Casa da Música which has stellar acoustics inside a futuristic Rem Koolhaas-designed polygon featuring both grand symphony orchestras as well as jazz groups and the occasional rock icon the terrace of the cafe transforms into an open-air stage for free live concerts and DJ sessions from Wednesdays to Friday nights and you can enjoy yet another fine spot to watch the sunset with the latter offering stellar views of the Douro River from its rooftop terrace Planning tip: You can delve deeper into the port experience at the World of Wine a vast cultural complex that contains various museums a wine school and a dozen restaurants and bars – plus a huge terrace with views over the Ponte Dom Luís I Completed in 1886 by a student of Gustave Eiffel, Porto's most eye-catching bridge is a city icon It was built to replace a precarious crossing between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia made from old port boats lashed together – most would agree that its curving arch adds a definite something to the cityscape the views over the river and old town are stunning Keep an eye out for daredevils who leap from the lower level into the river If you’re seeking out the heart of Porto’s nightlife, head to the cobblestone lanes just west of Avenida dos Aliados. There you’ll find some of the city’s most atmospheric bars like the Casa do Livro, a former bookshop turned into a stylish drinking den, or Bonaparte Downtown, with its rustic charm. On weekends, the alleys (especially Rua Galeria de Paris) fill with revelers for an impromptu street party that rages late into the night. Porto is blessed with many scenic overlooks where you can enjoy panoramic views and cool breezes © Emily McAuliffe / Lonely Planet Portugal’s captivating northern city has its share of five-star hotels and Michelin-listed restaurants. But Porto also has good-value B&Bs and family-run tabernas where you can feast on Portuguese classics without draining your bank account travel here can be surprisingly affordable Some of the best things to do in Porto don't cost a thing, from lounging on beaches near Foz do Douro to watching the sunset from a hilltop miradouro (lookout) You can head out on free walking tours or design your own adventures on scavenger hunts around town You can also plan your trip around big free festivals and it won’t cost you much to use Porto’s excellent public transportation network when you need a break from immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture Discount airlines connect Porto with airports all over Europe, but if you’re coming from the US, Australia or other distant countries, look at flights into Lisbon it’s a little more than three hours by train or bus to Porto Even with the extra cost of moving between cities you might save substantially by flying into Portugal’s capital In spring and autumn, Porto has pleasant weather and plenty of color in the parks (blooming flowers in April You’ll also notice fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices – typically around 25% off high-season rates You can save even more by visiting from November to February when many hotels slash their rates by 50% or more chilly weather (alternating with invigorating sunny days) The city center of Porto is not a great place to find yourself behind the wheel Pricey car parks and everyday urban challenges (one-way streets heavy traffic) make for a stressful driving experience you’re better off parking it in the outskirts and using public transportation around town The price of a one-way trip on the metro or bus is just €1.25 (US$1.30) traveling within the central part of the city (zone 2) If you’re flying into Aeroporto Francisco Sá Carneiro you can save money right away by taking the metro into town rather than opting for a pricey taxi add credit for one zone 4 trip (€2/$2.10) and hop on the E (violet) line you can add more credit to use the same card to get around You can save by eating your main meal at lunchtime Even high-end restaurants offer less-expensive lunch options The menu do dia (fixed menu) or prato do dia (daily special) is always a good-value option One of Porto’s best arts festivals features 50 hours of non-stop cultural programming over one long weekend in June The event at Serralves is just one of many admission-free events Porto throws throughout the year. The celebration of São João (around June 24) brings much merrymaking to the streets. You can also catch free summer concerts on the esplanade of the Casa da Música or ring in the new year with street parties and fireworks over the river Porto is blessed with many scenic overlooks (miradouros) to enjoy the panoramic views and cool breezes A local favorite is the Passeio das Virtudes where you can stretch out on the grass and gaze out across the rooftops down to the Douro River and off to the Arrábida bridge beyond You can have a drink at one of the terrace cafes nearby or bring your own beverage to save a bit more you can save a bundle on accommodation if you’re willing to forego a few luxuries you can book a stylish literary-themed double room for less than €70 ($74) a night You can keep the bathroom and go even lower if you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of aesthetics At Hospedaria Boavista you’ll find clean but Spartan quarters that run €45 to €55 ($47 to $58) a night during high season Porto has dozens of beautifully designed hostels that are packed with upscale amenities and artful individuality. Some of the best have rooftop lounges, terraces and private gardens, and offer a welcome cocktail or stage in-house concerts. Trainspotters should consider a night in the Passenger Hostel, hidden inside the historic São Bento train station A bed in a dorm room typically costs about €25 ($26) a night during high season Many hostels also have double rooms that run from €60 to €90 ($63 to $95) if you’re looking for a social atmosphere but want a bit more privacy Among the many ways to enjoy an inexpensive outing in Porto is to head to the beach (traveling by bus or metro The oceanfront district of Foz do Douro has an inviting selection of sandy beaches to choose from which you can reach on bus 1M from the center of town (a sub-30-minute ride from the Ribeira) you could head instead to Praia de Matosinhos (accessible by bus 1M as well as the metro) This wide sandy beach is a good option if you’re traveling with kids You can enjoy some sandcastle-building on the shore and swim safely with lifeguards on duty in the summer Tours run most days and are gratuito (free) though tipping is encouraged (guides can’t earn a living without them) Porto has many classic places where you can fork into traditional Portuguese dishes at excellent prices One place not to be missed is the Taberna de Santo António which has a changing menu with a rotation of delicious plates of codfish as well as the city’s iconic dish tripas à modo do Porto (tripe and bean stew) The blue-and-white tile known as the azulejo is emblematic of Porto and you’ll see it on some of the city’s most important landmarks Azulejos depict scenes from Portuguese history apocryphal stories of national saints and socially themed works by contemporary artists You can spend a morning or afternoon hunting down and photographing azulejo-covered buildings we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links Portugal’s picturesque coastline stretches languorously along the Atlantic inviting throngs of sun-seeking tourists to crowd its shores every year Unquestionably one of Europe’s most coveted summer travel destinations the high season unfolds in a crescendo of packed beaches and fierce competition for a seat at one of the many seaside tascas But as the frenetic energy of summer gradually yields to the mellow beauty of autumn No matter where your travels take you—from the endless golden plains of Alentejo to the sparkling southern shores of the Algarve to the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley heavy with the fruits of the harvest—you’ll find a range of intimate design-forward hotels that embody the country’s old world charm and endearing hospitality find the very best hotels and unique stays to book for your fall getaway Courtesy of Quinta do ValladoBuilt in 1716, Quinta do Vallado is one of Portugal’s oldest and most famous wine estates The original 18th-century manor offers five rooms resplendent with antique furnishings and a sense of history the contemporary hotel designed by architect Francisco Vieira de Campos The 158-acre property sits right on the bank of Rio Corgo and offers stunning views of terraced hillsides guests can participate in picking and stomping the grapes Courtesy of Duas PortasWith gorgeous views of the Douro River and marina, Foz do Douro is the charming seaside neighborhood where Duas Portas resides This family-owned townhouse is an oasis of peace amid Porto’s bustling streets the wife of Pritzker Prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto de Moura their daughter Luísa runs the place and welcomes guests like long-lost friends this spot feels like a true home away from home or hop on the tram right outside the door and journey into Porto’s historic center home to Mercado do Bolhão and the iconic blue-and-white tiled Chapel of Souls Courtesy of Casa de São LourençoThe scenic drive to reach Casa de São Lourenço is a harrowing journey along the winding roads of Serra da Estrela But it’s well worth the effort to experience the five-star luxury and panoramic views which become even more astonishing as the leaves paint the landscape in shades of amber and crimson Amenities include the glass-walled São Lourenço Restaurant which serves contemporary interpretations of local fare Furniture by Portuguese modernist designer Maria Keil along with the many snug fireplaces scattered throughout the property lend it the feeling of a modern mountain getaway while Areias do Seixo Villas offers 19 spacious villas The hotel’s commitment to eco-conscious practices is apparent at every turn and recycled materials and reclaimed wood blend seamlessly with the interior decor creating an inviting and earthy atmosphere that echoes the property’s sustainable ethos Set upon a protected stretch of coastline in Santa Cruz Areias do Seixo offers guests access to pristine beaches where the golden sands meet the Atlantic's azure waters and elaborate tilework—is inspired by famed 19th-century explorers Roberto Ivens and Hermenegildo Capelo and pays homage to Portugal's Golden Age of Discovery Courtesy of Hotel das AmoreirasTucked away in the lush garden square of Jardim das Amoreiras, Hotel das Amoreiras is a boutique getaway that radiates a sophisticated yet cozy ambiance Owners Pedro Oliveira and his wife Alicia Valero lovingly restored the once-neglected buildings into a “small grand hotel” with 17 refined rooms from the Portuguese marble in the bathrooms to the plush velvet upholstery in the dining area Views span the verdant Amoreiras gardens—especially striking in the fall—and the iconic Águas Livres Aqueduct the city’s best shopping and dining are just steps away Courtesy of São Lourenço do BarrocalNestled among ancient cork trees and flourishing olive groves, São Lourenço do Barrocal was once a bustling farming village in the 19th century whose family had owned the property for over two centuries enlisted the talents of the renowned Pritzker Prize-winning architect Eduardo Souto de Moura to give the 780-acre estate new life after it fell into disrepair The renovation transformed the old stone farm buildings into a delightful collection of rooms which includes an exquisite meal cooked over the grill featuring vegetables fresh from the garden the farm’s delicious certified organic veal the hotel encompasses three levels that elegantly surround a garden conceptualized by landscape designer Louis Benech Hand-painted frescoes and opulent wood floors meld with a captivating blend of North African and European antiques color-rich home than a hospitality project; adding to that feel is the fact that no two rooms are the same Courtesy of Companhia das CulturasAgritourism boutique hotel Companhia das Culturas sits on 100 sprawling acres of cork oaks and apricot and fig orchards in the Castro Marim Nature Reserve in southern Portugal just a short drive from the delightful coastal town of Tavira The memorable breakfast spread includes freshly picked apricots homemade bread with olive oil and fig preserves and cheese and butter from a neighboring farmstead A marble Turkish hammam is a welcome addition to the rural property and perfectly rounds out the commitment to relaxation Indulge in a massage using products from the hotel’s 8950 line all produced from essential oils and featuring plant extracts native to the surrounding ecosystem Courtesy of Casa MãeA sunny, beachside five-star oasis founded on an unwavering belief in sustainability, creativity, and local sourcing, Casa Mãe is located in the historic coastal town of Lagos including five sophisticated suites in the restored 19th-century estate The restaurant relies heavily on the hotel’s vegetable gardens and thoughtfully selected local producers to round out the menu Local sourcing isn’t limited to the fare: more than 90% of the decor and amenities at Casa Mãe are made in Portugal and most are exclusively handmade just for the hotel The Danish Home Lighting Trend That Can Improve Your Mental Health In America’s Cities, Saunas Are Becoming the Hottest Social Spot Millie Bobby Brown Shares Her Favorite Paella Recipe—and Details About Her Wedding to Jake Bongiovi A Day-by-Day Guide to Hiking the Legendary Nakasendo Trail in Japan Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month Move over Lisbon, you've had your time. It's Porto's moment to shine. Like the larger capital, Porto is coastal, has its fair share of hills and awe-inspiring architecture, and must-see attractions. The city's modest size makes it easy to navigate, which, in turn, means you can easily visit more than one of our top ten attractions in one day. Take a dip in an azure ocean-front pool get snap happy in a nineteenth-century station or simply get your fill of the gorgeous Duoro River and the megalithic Dom Luis I iron bridge crosses it And don't forget to try a tipple (or two) of port – this is the drink's hometown after all Recommended: 🍳See the best places to enjoy brunch in Porto🛏Stay at the best Airbnbs in Porto🏨Or book a stay at the best hotels in Porto This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here Time Out tip: If you're not a fan of tours that seem to drag on, this one is the perfect length and can be enjoyed either in the morning or afternoon. Time Out tip: You can eat very well around here: try chef Pedro Lemos’s eponymous restaurant (for a splurge), Casa Vasco, Cafeína, or a burger at Peebz. © DRThis ornate, 75-metre bell tower, which watches lovingly over the city of Porto, is arguably the city’s most iconic silhouette. It was opened in 1763 and is blessed with a beautiful barrage of Baroque motifs thanks to its Italian designer Nicolau Nasoni. Given its prominent position, you can get some amazing 360° views of the city from the top, but you’ll have to climb 225 steps to get there. Time Out tip: Snap two cities, Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, in one picture – you can see both of them from the top of the tower, with the Douro river in between.  Time Out tip: A platinum ticket gets you priority access and entry to the Gemma room: the home of Lello's rarest books, manuscripts and first editions.  © João SaramagoPorto’s Cathedral (‘Sé’) is the city’s most important church. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, it’s a national monument. Look out for the gothic cloister, the chapel frescoes, the Teixeira Lopes sculpture in the baptistery and the medieval portrait of Our Lady of Vandoma, the city’s patron saint.    Best for awe-inspiring arches and frescos, duh Time Out tip: When locals talk about the ‘Sé’, they don’t just mean the cathedral: the name also applies to the historic district at Porto’s heart. Wander its streets, keep Google Maps turned off and you’ll thank us for it. Time Out tip: This busy station also links to Miramar, Braga, Guimarães and other popular destinations, if you want to visit the lesser-known towns and cities of Portugal.  Time Out tip: The park also includes the Porto Romantic Museum and Porto Wine Museum.  Best for a unique paddling experience by the sea  Time Out tip: Note that the pool is closed for winter, usually from the end of September.  Best for: picturesque views - seriously, this place is a bucolic paradise  Time Out tip: If you dig filmography, We highly recommend leaving yourself enough time to catch some of Manoels del Oliviera's work on display in the House of Cinema.  © Cláudia PaivaThe Serra do Pilar is a jagged hill above the Douro river on the Gaia side. Needless to say, the view is spectacular, especially at sunset. Visit the thirteenth-century monastery to find out more about the four World Heritage sites in Portugal’s northern region: the historic centres of Porto and Guimarães, the Douro wine region, and the Côa Archaeological Park. Time Out tip: Reach the top before sunset.  Best for quaint cobblestone streets, cafes and a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture Time Out tip: The northern part of the sqaure has a three-storey fountain that's definitely worth a look.  © Marco DuarteDoing any city in a weekend is a challenge, so allow us to give you a hand. Here’s where to eat and drink in Porto, what to do and see, and the places you shouldn’t miss. Hey, you can always come back! ©João SaramagoThe smell of the sea, the sound of the waves and its endless gardens are what makes Foz one of the most beautiful areas in Porto. Promenades that go for miles and good food by the seaside – we give you ten reasons to fall in love with Foz.  © Marco DuarteRibeira is the most photogenic bit of Porto Luiz Bridge for an amazing view over Porto’s historic quarter.  looking for port wine caves dug into hills across the bridge from Porto I trudged up a hill and rounded a blind corner sidling against a stone wall to avoid tour buses flying toward me when I stumbled on the highlight of my day: a nearly empty tasting room and private wine-cellar tour It was a reminder that in Portugal's second city everything cool seems to be right around the corner Porto's historic core is set upon two hills with the rejuvenated downtown between them spilling down to the Douro River A pedestrian promenade lined with medieval merchant houses and cafe tables runs underneath the two-level Luis I Bridge which joins the upper and lower sections of Porto and the city of Gaia On one side is the twin-domed Porto Cathedral on the other is the circular Monastery of Serra do Pilar stone towers and terra cotta roofs blend together It's one of the world's most spectacular cityscapes Porto is small enough to walk past the highlights in half a day but I spent nearly a week hoofing it around taking in one stunning sunset after the next Lookout points are labeled on tourist maps as miradouros A historic trolley runs from the center to where the river flows into the ocean in the Foz do Douro neighborhood A short walk north through a seaside park brings you the rocky beach The sun dipped into the Atlantic where medieval maps once depicted fire-breathing sea serpents there's more to Porto than postcard-worthy pictures The thwack of hammers echoing off the tiled facades on nearly every street heralds a tourist boom which was seedy as recently as five years ago Concept stores run by collectives of crafters have opened along Rua do Almada Workshop Popup combines four stores into one for cork handbags locally designed clothes and handmade souvenirs actually worth buying It also offers private cooking lessons for a bargain at a show kitchen in the back the string of bars and restaurants around Rua da Galeria de Paris has a range of choices The bars get busy almost every night of the week but often not until 11 p.m One of Porto's best-known sites is Livraria Lello a bookshop in a grand neo-Gothic 1906 building on Rua das Carmelitas that features a massive curved staircase elaborate painted plaster ceiling and a stained-glass skylight bearing the Latin phrase "Decos in Labore" (dignity in work) There's a fee to enter (tickets are 5.5 euros online) but the fee entitles you to a discount on purchases I waited until the end of my trip to dive into port wines fortified dessert wines the city is known for an architect and an owner of a design studio pulled out a white port made by Taylor that's typically served chilled as an aperitif They recommended visiting Taylor's tasting room They also urged me to stay away from the expensive It was while searching for Croft the next day that I stumbled on Churchill's which isn't listed on most maps of the port circuit A guide led me through the "cave," a warehouse dug into the granite hill with a steady temperature in the 60s F (15-21 C) Hundreds of oak barrels were stacked four high Turns out the British commercialized a product the Portuguese had been making for centuries the charming tasting room with tables and stools made from wine barrels led into an impressive cellar with stone arches and casks the size of small houses Taylor was the most commercial of the three but the 10-euro entry fee includes a three-wine sample and self-guided audio tour so it's a good choice for a novice with time for only one stop I asked a clerk to recommend somewhere for a quick bite before rushing off to the airport The five-star Yeatman Hotel hit the mark with a cheese plate a glass of dry Douro Valley red and an expansive patio overlooking the city PORTO, PORTUGAL: http://www.visitporto.travel  Stay near the Clerigos Tower in the Vitoria neighborhood the center of nightlife and only a 15-minute walk from the higher-priced tourist spots near the river a Porto specialty that's like a meatier croque monsieur Cafe Santiago near the Coliseu music venue serves up a gut-buster drenched in a tangy beer sauce and locals like the francesinha at Cufra on Avenida da Boavista The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve World Heritage partnerships for conservation Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development Our Partners Donate Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information The two Prehistoric Rock Art Sites in the Côa Valley (Portugal) and Siega Verde (Spain) are located on the banks of the rivers Agueda and Côa documenting continuous human occupation from the end of the Paleolithic Age Hundreds of panels with thousands of animal figures (5,000 in Foz Côa and around 440 in Siega Verde) were carved over several millennia representing the most remarkable open-air ensemble of Paleolithic art on the Iberian Peninsula Côa Valley and Siega Verde provide the best illustration of the iconographic themes and organization of Paleolithic rock art using the same modes of expression in caves and in the open air thus contributing to a greater understanding of this artistic phenomenon Together they form a unique site of the prehistoric era rich in material evidence of Upper Paleolithic occupation Les sites d'art rupestre préhistorique de la vallée de Côa (Portugal) et de Siega Verde (Espagne) se trouvent sur les berges escarpées des rivières Côa et Agueda documentant une occupation humaine continue depuis la fin du Paléolithique Des centaines de parois ont été gravées de  milliers de figures animales par l'homme durant plusieurs millénaires (5 000 à Côa environ 440 à Siega Verde) représentant l'ensemble d'art paléolithique en plein air le plus remarquable de la Péninsule Ibérique Les Vallées de Côa et de Siega Verde offrent la meilleure illustration des thèmes iconographiques et de l'organisation de l'art rupestre Paléolithique qui adopta les mêmes modes d'expression dans les grottes et en plein air Elles contribuent ainsi à une meilleure compréhension de ce phénomène artistique formant ensemble un lieu unique de l'ère préhistorique riche en témoignages matériels d'occupation au paléolithique supérieur تمثل مواقع الفن الصخري ما قبل التاريخ في وادي كوا، المُدرجة في قائمة التراث العالمي في عام 1998، مجموعة مركزة من النقوش الصخرية تعود إلى العصر الحجري القديم الأعلى (من 22000 إلى 10000 سنة قبل الميلاد) وتتميز بكونها فريدة في العالم بمثل هذا المستوى، كما أنها تشكل أبرز الأمثلة على المظاهر الأولى للإبداع الفني الإنساني وتُكمِّل المنطقة الأثرية في سييغا فيرده، الواقعة في إقليم كاستيل وليون، هذا الموقع فهي تشمل 645 نقشاً منحوتة على منحدر محفور بفعل الانجراف النهري وهذه النقوش هي نقوش تصويرية بصفة أساسية، إذ أنها تمثل حيوانات وأشكال هندسية وتخطيطية تم تحديدها ويُمثل الموقع العابر للحدود في سييغا فيرده، الذي يُطول " مواقع الفن الصخري مما قبل التاريخ في وادي كوا" في البرتغال، جملة الفن الصخري الأكثر شهرة للعصر الحجري القديم الموجود في الهواء الطلق بشبه الجزيرة الأيبيرية 科阿峡谷史前岩石艺术遗址于1998年列入了《世界遗产名录》，是一处集中体现旧石器时代晚期（公元前 22000年至10000年）岩刻艺术的遗址，而且其规模之大也为世界少有。就此而言，这一文化遗址也是反映人类早期艺术创作的一项最突出的实证。位于卡斯蒂利亚-莱昂自治区的席尔加•维德（Siega Verde）岩石艺术考古区，现在也补充到这一遗产之中。考古区内包括645件岩刻艺术作品，全部雕刻在因河流侵蚀冲刷形成的陡峭岩石上。作品主要是对动物形象的描绘，但其中也可以找到几何图案与概括抽象图案。席尔加•维德与科阿峡谷的史前岩石艺术遗址代表着伊比利亚半岛旧石器时代露天石刻艺术所达到的最高水平。 Включенные в Список всемирного наследия в 1998 году памятники доисторической наскальной живописи долины Коа представляют собой уникальную по числу наскальных рисунков коллекцию периода верхнего палеолита (22 000-10 000 лет до нашей эры.) иллюстрирующим зарождение художественного творчества человека образовавшихся под воздействием водной эрозии Однако некоторые из них представляют собой также геометрические фигуры и схематичные изображения Доисторический ансамбль наскального искусства долины Коа и Сиега Верде образует самый значительный объект наскальной живописи периода палеолита под открытым небом Los sitios de arte rupestre prehistórico del Valle del Côa inscritos en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial en 1998 poseen una extraordinaria concentración de petroglifos del Paleolítico Superior (22.000-10.000 a.C.) que es única en su género en el mundo y constituye uno de los ejemplos más notables de las primeras creaciones artísticas del ser humano ubicada en la comunidad de Castilla y León completa esos sitios con sus 645 grabados ejecutados en una escarpadura formada por la erosión fluvial Esos grabados son esencialmente figurativos y representan animales aunque también se han identificado algunas figuras geométricas y esquemáticas Los sitios del Valle del Côa y el sitio de Siega Verde forman el conjunto más importante de arte rupestre paleolítico al aire libre de la Península Ibérica The property includes the two Prehistoric Rock Art Sites in the Côa Valley (Portugal) and Siega Verde (Spain) consisting of rocky cliffs carved by fluvial erosion and embedded in an isolated rural landscape in which hundreds of panels with thousands of animal figures (5,000 in Foz Côa around 440 in Siega Verde) have been engraved over several millennia The rock-art sites of Foz Côa and Siega Verde represent the most remarkable open-air ensemble of Palaeolithic art on the Iberian Peninsula within the same geographical region Foz Côa and Siega Verde provide the best illustration of the iconographic themes and organization of Palaeolithic rock art which adopted the same modes in caves and in the open air Together they form a unique place of the prehistoric era rich in material evidence of Upper Palaeolithic occupation Criterion (i): The rock engravings in Foz Côa and Siega Verde dating from the Upper Palaeolithic to the final Magdalenian/ Epipalaeolithic (22.000 – 8.000 BCE) represent a unique example of the first manifestations of human symbolic creation and of the beginnings of cultural development which reciprocally shed light upon one another and constitute an unrivalled source for understanding Palaeolithic art Criterion (iii): The rock art of Foz Côa and Siega Verde throws an exceptionally illuminating light on the social The integrity of the property is expressed primarily by the homogeneity and continuity in development within the spatial limits of the engraved rock surfaces as well as by the adoption of the typical patterns of prehistoric paintings inside caves thus confirming the argument for the integrity of this outdoor ensemble The authenticity of the property is demonstrated by stylistic and comparative considerations which also include the examination of artistic themes and organization of rock engravings in caves The only doubts relate to the interpretation of certain animal figures (e.g Siega Verde is protected under various national laws for heritage protection and planning and has been declared a BIC (Bien de interés cultural – property of cultural interest) Protection has been implemented since the BIC designation Management is delegated to the local action group ADECOCIR (Association for the Development of the Region in Ciudad Rodrigo) The ADECOCIR manager is responsible for the overall management and maintenance of Siega Verde while security is provided by the Junta de Castilla y León which is also responsible for the maintenance of equipment The Junta de Castilla y León has developed joint programmes with the Portuguese institution of IGESPAR (Istituto de Gestão do Património Arquitectónico e Arqueológico – Institute for the Management of the Architectural and Archaeological Heritage) which is responsible for the Côa Valley site with the object of studying and presenting Siega Verde and Côa Valley together Extension de « Sites d'art rupestre préhistorique de la vallée de Côa » Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Miramar Tower will dominate the Porto skyline KNJ Investment Limited Editorial Team 9 November 2021 10:00There is a new development coming to Porto which has turned out to be a sales success story Construction began in September and completion is not planned until the end of 2023 but 19 of the 21 new flats for sale have already been sold We are talking about the Miramar Tower building a residential tower located at Rua Diogo Botelho near Foz do Douro (the mouth of the Duoro) of the Macanese group KNJ Investment Limited A source connected to the developer stressed to idealista/news that the flats were "sold exclusively to individual clients or national companies." will have apartments with T1 to T4 typologies These apartments will have gross areas between 152 and 613 square meters (m2) there will be a common terrace located on the building's roof Prices for the properties vary between 450,000 euros and 2.5 million euros.  After the project was approved earlier this year "the bidding for construction of the Miramar Tower took place," the same source said They told us that "10 of the biggest construction companies operating in Portugal were invited to this bidding," and "the company selected was Edinorte Edificações Nortenhas and the estimated timeframe for the project is 24 months Predibisa is in charge of marketing the Miramar Tower development Another aspect that the buyers highlight is the enormous balconies in all of the flats. "The exterior area of all the flats is practically the same as the interior. Today this potential for outdoor living is a determining factor in the success of housing sales, particularly after the experience that the pandemic brought to all those who live in cities," says our source. The "stunning views that can be enjoyed from most of the flats", over Foz do Douro, the sea, and the city, are another reason that investors were seduced by the tower's properties. The KNJ Investment Limited group has been present in the national market since 2016, owning capital in Global Media. In 2017 the  group bought an iconic property in the city of Porto, called "Torre JN". This building was the headquarters of the Jornal de Notícias, which will now be transformed into a five-star hotel under the Marriott brand. The TimesIf you turn right in Porto where the Douro meets the sea and walk three miles north a city where the old folk hang out on the beach beneath the walls of the Castelo do Queijo The castle — which many say was built in the wrong place to protect either the river mouth or the port — loiters with mild embarrassment at the southern end of a mile of urban sand and some of the rocks around it have been modified with concrete to form tables crates or folding chairs and spend hours playing games of sueca it’s idiotically simple and devilishly difficult: a team game of trumps where the seven is the second-highest value card after the ace because crammed into 12 city blocks along two streets leading down to the Rio Leca is the greatest concentration of fish restaurants I have ever encountered A typical fish feastJACEK SOPOTNICKI/GETTY IMAGESMatosinhos is to Porto what La Barceloneta was to Barcelona San Fernando is to Cadiz and Fiumicino to Rome: an industrial backyard left to do the dirty work without spoiling the front-of-house magic The Romans cut salting tanks called cetariae in the rocks at Praia de Angeiras and in the 1960s the installation of technology capable of unloading 72 trawlers at a time turned Matosinhos into the biggest sardine port in the world with 86 per cent of the Portuguese catch landed on its wharfs In its heyday there were 200 sardine boats and 24 canneries here who worked on the processing lines with her mother Two of her sisters have joined her at Casa Mota a dockside restaurant that nine out of ten tourists would walk past if they ever made it this far from Porto sea bream and arroz de polvo with a bottle of alvarinho “The smell and the noise from the factories were so horrible that no one came to Matosinhos out of choice,” Maria Dolores says If you’re in Porto for the weekend there is no better way to spend a Saturday than to jump on an early metro from Trinidade station for the 25-minute ride through the back gardens to the Mercado de Matosinhos but it comes as an antidote to the crowds and baroque grandeur of Porto: a bright into which local women bring trays of fish straight from the docks across the river so the authorities here are looking at ways to make the place more attractive to late-rising tourists One of the fish markets in MatosinhosCM MATOSINHOSThey’ve seen how the Mercado Bom Sucesso in Porto transformed itself from a market to a hipster gastro shopping mall replicating similar projects across Iberia but some locals worry that pandering to tourists will rob Matosinhos of its authenticity Others say it’s time the city started earning from the cruise-ship passengers who disembark at the swirling Leixoes terminal to pile into Porto But it’s not only the market they’re missing as they rush through ● The best places to stay in Porto● Unmissable things to do in Porto Over a scruffy 600-yard stretch of Rua Herois de Franca and grilling the catch of the day over coals in the street the weekend vibe joyful and the attraction universal from ancient couples in suits and frocks to bands of students on electric scooters weaving through the traffic like schools of sardines in search of a table for 12 You could book — especially if you want to dine outside — but there’s always room somewhere Charcoal-grilled sardines and cold malvasia fina Sign up for our Times Travel newsletter and follow us on Instagram and Twitter Registered in England No. 894646. Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, SE1 9GF. Porto is fast catching up with Lisbon when it comes to Portuguese holiday destinations serving year-round warmth – and it's home to some of the best hotels in the country natural landscapes and plenty of delicious food and wine – Porto is a truly wonderful city break for travellers who want the best that Portugal has to offer (minus the tourist hoards of capital and Algarve) Meander along charming cobblestone streets which is one of the main tourist attractions in the region and so is São Bento Train Station – which is often touted as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world The neighbouring towns of Vila Nova de Gaia and Teleférico de Gaia both make great day trips if you want to explore beyond Porto’s city walls That is: the river which winds through the The Douro Valley where you can indulge in wine tasting aplenty Best for Douro river viewsThe Rebello Why we love it: If you crave a little more quiet the city of Vila Nova De Gaia is within easy reach of Porto just the other side of the Douro river – and offers just as much charm Just a few minutes’ walk from the region’s famous Port caves a recently-opened independent hotel with a friendly-yet-fashionable feel the hotel has some of the best views of the river and Porto’s famed Dom Luís I bridge which can be enjoyed from many of its boutique rooms as well as the sunny rooftop restaurant and bar which is ultra-handy for those that don’t like to eat out all the time I’d argue that The Rebello has one of chicest spas on offer in the area With cocooning soft lighting and Roman baths-inspired design details it feels like a real destination – and the treatments don’t disappoint The Rebello is distinctly Portuguese at its core so expect an authentic menu on offer at its acclaimed restaurant Pot&Pan – where you’ll find hearty-yet-refined dishes championing local produce where gourmet pizzas and sandwiches are more the vibe The Rebello is the ideal spot for those that want a luxe yet low-key stay Best for wine loversThe Yeatman Why we love it: Often touted as one of the best hotels in Porto The Yeatman in Vila Novada de Gaia is a true wine lover’s paradise The hotel is located on a slope by the Douro River just quick walk away from the Dom Luis I Bridge and Porto’s beautiful Old Town At the top of this chic six-storey hotel is a decanter shaped pool with stunning views of the hotel’s surrounding seven-acre property All 70 bedrooms and 12 suites maximise these hillside views – while the public spaces blend indoor and outdoor spaces to stunning effect spa and even a croquet lawn – all paying some sort of homage to the Douro Valley’s winemaking craftmanship and heritage Wine is at the heart of everything at The Yeatman and the pièce de résistance is the cellar (open for tours) which houses some of the best vintages in the Douro Valley Save when you book the best hotels in Porto with these booking.com discount codes and Expedia discount codes Best for design loversTorel Palace occupying the former Palacete Campos Navarro offers 25 individually designed bedrooms that all exude the grandeur of the palace’s traditional romantic and baroque architecture The crowning feature is the skylight which washes all four stories with light the hotel blends original baroque features with stylish boutique hotel elements All rooms are inspired by different famous Portuguese authors with large windows that offer excellent views of the city below tree-lined swimming pool and a Wisteria-covered terrace which is the perfect spot for a candlelit dinner for two pays homage to Portuguese author José Saramago’s famous book Don’t miss the quirky blind dining experience where you only get the menu after being served the dish Best for a home away from homeRosa et al Townhouse Why we love it: The Rosa et al Townhouse is part boutique hotel part spa and part restaurant in central Porto that draws in both local and tourist crowds This chic guest house has only six individually designed bedrooms making it a particularly intimate stay with a very home from home feel Best palace hotel in PortoTorel 1884 Why we love it: Occupying a grand 19th-century palácio Torel 1884 is our favourite palace in central Potro grand staircases and baroque bedrooms fit for royalty All this comes together to create a certain kind of grandeur at Torel 1884 The hotel is within walking distance to the Sāo Bento train station Rua das Flores and the lively Baixa district not too far away all boasting the same distinctive style as the public spaces is a buzzy 32-seat wine bar which attracts a very cool crowd in the early evenings There is a vibey lounge and library where guests can get lost in the hotel’s collection of vintage books filled with plush velvet sofas and armchairs has an honesty bar where guests can help themselves to any spirit or cocktail their heart desires Best boutique hotelTorel Avantgarde Why we love it: With a picturesque hillside location distinctive bedrooms and has plenty of eclectic charm The brief here is chic maximalism – and there is certainly something to feast your eyes on in every corner of this bougie boutique hotel there are the breath-taking hillside views this art-focused boutique hotel has plenty of views to enjoy too We like the on-site restaurant which boasts a sun-soaked outdoor terrace perfect for sunset cocktails The wellness centre is complete with a gym steam room and offers a menu of relaxing massages and facials Each room pays tribute to a famous artist and an outdoor pool and hot tub that overlooks the river make this our favourite boutique hotel in the city Best luxury hotel in PortoVila Foz Hotel & Spa Why we love it: This stylish hotel in the upmarket beach village of Foz perfectly blends old and new occupying a 19th-century villa and new extension building were both designed by the famed Madeiran interior designer Nini Andrade de Silva Vila Foz is the first five-star hotel in the Foz district and certainly delivers an outstanding luxury experience in terms of both amenities and service A vintage Rolls-Royce greets guests at the entrance and transports you to and from the airport bikes are available on loan as well as personal trainers who will guide you on runs around the city — while highlighting key cultural landmarks There is also a spa that is complete with indoor swimming pool Vila Foz is a more formal affair and is dinner only but will impress even the most discerning foodie The more casual Flor de Lis Restaurant serves traditional Portuguese dishes with flair Save when you book the best hotels in Porto with these booking.com promo codes Best contemporary hotel in PortoPortoBay Teatro PortoBay Teatro is all about the contemporary minimalist aesthetic The hotel is part of the PortoBay Group and was fully refurbished in 2021 each one featuring a neutral colour palette of lush beiges and greys that would make any Nordic minimalist fan swoon Located in Rua Sá da Bandeira in Porto’s bustling theatre district the hotel is just a five minute walk from all the city’s main attractions including Porto Old Town The on-site Il Basilico restaurant is one of the best Italian restaurants in the city Best for central locationPortoBay Flores Why we love it: Located in the buzzy Baixa neighbourhood Livraria Lello and Dom Luis bridge just a quick five minute walk away – you can’t get a better located hotel than the PortoBay Flores This chic-white-washed palace was recently renovated maintaining much of the original elements of the 16th-century palácio it occupies There is also library and a gorgeous terrace that is the perfect spot for sundowners Save when you book the best hotels in Porto with these booking.com promo codes and Expedia promo codes Why we love it: Part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts' Vignette Collection newly opened Casa Da Companhia is our top choice for best new opening in the city Expect five-star service from the moment you check-in and the chic There is a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and indoor pool 24 hour concierge and a well-reviewed buffet breakfast There are 40 rooms that have plenty of modern amenities from free wifi laptop-friendly workspaces to rainfall showers and smart TVs but it will be the gold-toned mirrors that will draw your eye It’s also just a five minute walk from the station and many of the city’s key attractions including the Se do Porto and the Palacio da Bolsa 4050-141.Price per night: Prices start at £236 per night / €267 per night Save when you book the best hotels in Porto with these booking.com voucher codes and Expedia voucher codes Best Porto hotel for a quiet stayPestana Palácio do Freixo Why we love it: Part of the Leading Hotels of the World this gorgeous hotel occupies an 18th-century palácio and flour mill two miles from Porto city centre this is a great choice for travellers who still want access to all of Porto’s main cultural attractions minus the busy-ness of being in the city centre Pestana Palácio do Freixo does offer shuttle services to all of the main bits every half an hour The baroque-style palace that the hotel occupies is simply breath-taking and maintains plenty of the original features including vibrant frescoes which admittedly does offer less drama than the palace area has contemporary minimalist rooms that maximise the riverfront views The Nasoni Bar and Paladium Restaurant offer a small but delicious menu of local Portuguese treats We think it’s a great choice for travellers who want a more relaxed stay Best for budget travellersPestana Douro Riverside – Urban Resort Why we love it: Pestana Douro Riverside Urban Resort occupies a former soap and candle factory and is part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ Lifestyle Collection The hotel pays homage to its heritage by naming each floor after one of the flowers used as soap fragrances in the factory We love this hotel’s riverside location just on the Douro river There is a fab rooftop bar with delicious drinks a breath-taking infinity pool and a complete gym The hotel’s Magic Spa offers multiple treatment options as well as an indoor pool just ten minute from the historical centre of Porto and with rates starting at £85 per night– you certainly won’t find better value for money in the city Address: Avenida Escritor Costa Barreto 360 Best for Douro ValleyOctant Douro Why we love it: Perched on the banks of the UNESCO-protected Douro Valley sits hotel The hotel blends sense of place with special local experiences that make the most out of the terroir and wine heritage of Douro Valley Guests at Octant Douro can enjoy wine tastings the hotel’s minimalist spa is the perfect sanctuary to relax and rejuvenate with a nourishing treatment followed by a swim in the stunning indoor pool overlooking the Douro River led by Michelin-starred chef Dárcio Henrique We think that all this certainly make the hotel’s remote location Portugal.Price per night: From £163 per night Best for staying in a piece of historyInfante Sagres Why we love it: Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World the Infante Sagres was Porto’s first-ever five-star hotel this little piece of history still retains much of its original features and absolutely exudes old world elegance While the Infante Sagres doesn’t have as many amenities as many of the other hotels on our list – it does boast a pretty central location in the middle of all of Porto’s key cultural attractions it is the only hotel to have a Vogue Café in Europe – giving it extra points for chicness Best for foodiesPestana Porto – A Brasileira Why we love it: The Pestana Porto is located above the historical A Brasileira brasserie which is just as much a cultural attraction as any of Porto’s other key tourist sites Originally opened in 1903 and still delighting foodies to this day A Brasileira retains plenty of its belle epoque features; which is reflected throughout the hotel too The six-floor hotel features contemporary interiors by Brazilian designer Jaime Morais – while still paying thoughtful homage to A Brasileira’s belle epoque past The hotel itself is inspired by the spices brought back by the Portuguese ships during the age of exploration — all referenced in the headboards and gilded mosaics throughout both public and private spaces The rooms may be small but come equipped with bougie Portuguese Castelbel amenities The restaurant of course is the main draw and led by Chef Ruu Martins Don’t forget to try the ‘bacalhau a bras’ – foodies will love it Best five-star hotel in PortoInterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas Why we love it: You always know what to expect with any InterContinental Hotel and that is timeless interiors a wealth of amenities and of course five-star service from the moment you check-in This is why the InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas — located in the historical centre of Porto — is our top five-star hotel in the city The hotel occupies a converted monastery in the Avenida dos Aliados which means that it is a five minute walk away from Porto’s many cultural attractions including the Sāo Bento train station and the Clérigos Tower The hotel is the picture of neo-classical elegance – with crystal chandeliers marble floors and lush carpentry decorating both public and private spaces There is a luxurious spa that offers everything from massages to waxing treatments The InterContinental Porto boasts extremely spacious rooms (some with loft formats) that have every luxury amenity you can think of from free WIFI to large bathtubs and personalised welcome messages There is a restaurant for all types of diners in the hotel  from the more formal Astoria Restaurant to the Bar das Cardosas which is a great spot for live music There’s a reason why the InterContinental Hotel Group is so trusted by luxury travellers the world over – and it’s because they know they will consistently get a five star experience Best for fans of art decoMaison Albar Le Monumental Palace Why we love it: Maison Albar Le Monumental Palace is located Avenida dos Aliados The 76-room hotel sits in the heart of Porto’s cathedral district near the beautiful Ribeira riverfront and the most beautiful neo-classical buildings of the city While the hotel still maintains its gothic exterior inside it is an art deco masterpiece curated by local design studio Oitoemponto Decoration The spacious rooms blend high ceilings and turquoise wallpapers with brass and gold details paying homage to the old world glamour of the 1920s and 1930s is pure bliss and is complete with a sauna and Turkish bath is also one of the best tables in the city Best four star hotel in PortoHotel Tipografia do Conto by Casa do Conto Why we love it: This eclectic boutique hotel in Porto is so quirky stylish and cool that it totally gives off five-star hotel vibes Concrete walls meet mid-century modern furnishings and handsome wooden details that make most of the light-filled courtyard garden that sits at the centre of the hotel There is an outdoor swimming pool and a chic on-site bar/restaurant where everything from buffet breakfasts and evening cocktails are served Located in the cool Cedofeita neighbourhood Port Wine Museum and just a leisurely stroll away from the Porto Cathedral Hotel Tipografia is a great base for exploring all of Porto’s cultural delights Portugal.Price per night: From £155 per night Save when you book the best hotels in Porto with these booking.com discount codes and Expedia discount codes. Portugal’s Douro region is famous for its port Sat 21 May 2016 08.00 CESTLast modified on Wed 15 Jan 2025 16.00 CETShareThe Douro river is wild and tamed soul and life force of the region she gives her name to The Douro region is about the size of Suffolk but dizzying mountain slopes are creased and folded and combed with the millions of vines that make those juicy Douro table wines and its celebrated ports Visitors have been welcomed here for centuries but it’s taken until just now for the Dourense region to cotton on to eno-tourism that happy marriage between travel and tippling Though frequented mostly by cashmere-and-smart-slacks travellers the Douro is also a fine destination for the thirsty but thrifty Duplo-like affairs into which you’re tightly packaged and drably excursioned It’s better by far to take the train to Pocinho This is one of the world’s great train rides and soaring riverine views for much of its three-hour route The bus network from here on is sketchy; to get the most out of your visit But be warned: these roads are for confident drivers only Cliffs must be tightly hugged and other vehicles may well be kissed Heroic cyclists with Hoy-like thighs might enjoy the suffering these roads provide tough hours of manual work have gone into terracing and training these great hills of schist into vineyards The visual effect is mesmerising even before the first drinking – sorry these sessions sail along smoothly to begin with Baixo Corgo is westernmost and mostly produces ports to be drunk young Aerial view of vineyard terraces and the Douro river in the Alto Douro region Photograph: Alex Robinson/Getty ImagesThe posh section of the Douro is Cima Corgo whose classy quintas are run by a manicured handful of intermarried wine dynasties often with British and Dutch names and/or branches on their French-polished family trees visitors who stray one vineyard away from the main routes will boggle most locals simply by being foreign sleepy Pinhão with its gorgeous blue-tiled station It also has the fewest people: the only town of any size is Vila Nova de Foz Côa where €7.50 buys me entrance and a schooner of port The museum also provides intensive wine tastings for the unwary and unwise visitor Now needing a sugar hit, outside the train station I spot two aproned ladies with wicker baskets selling paper-twisted rebuçadas, the Douro version of barley sugar. These fuel my two-minute dignified stagger down Avenida José Vasques Osório to Castas e Pratos (+351 254 323 290) It’s a young-ish and stylish food and drinks hangout in an upcycled railway shed its wine list is exciting and affordable (three courses from €30) Castas e Pratos in Peso da RéguaBut I’m feeling more dishevelled than chic so lunch instead at the down-home A Velha Tendinha (around €15 a head It’s a wonderful almost-riverfront grill joint and my octopus grelhado is a charry tangle of spectacular tentacles The rest of the day is spent traversing the sheer breadth of wine styles produced by the Douro’s sheer slopes This is a tiny fumeiro (smokery) where butcher Fernando – part black-clad ninja part naturopath – retails a magical selection of fresh and smoked meats I assemble the picnic hamper of champions and head for the Chapel of São Salvador do Mundo (off EN222-3) a miradouro (viewpoint) that makes the heart soar like the Bonelli’s eagles wheeling below Luis’s other miradouro tip is a stunner as well also has an in-season cafe that serves excellent and sustaining snacks and lunches built like a gin palace over the river at Folgosa Posh nosh at DOC restaurantOn 25-26 June this year, the Douro Boys will hold their annual Feira do Douro, this year at Niepoort where €10 buys you entrance (and a free Riedel glass) plus tastings (natch) and a farmers’ market Dinner is at Dirk’s “secret” tip: 16-seat Papas Zaide (1 Largo de Praça snoozing in the pretty hill village of Provesende Here you eat olives dipped in honey (weird sheep’s cheese and great knuckles of melting meat tinkling the goat bell on your table for cook Graça to bring – yes In the square below is the never-modernised 1940s Fatima bakery where craft baker Antonio José bakes only 180 impeccable sourdough loaves a day In the same square is the bonkers Café Arado (no phone drinks and swims in elegant aristo splendour here There are loads of river excursions offered in both Régua and Pinhão. Most are in the now-motorised vessels that once carried port “pipes” (barrels) down to Porto for maturing. To feel less of a tourist, book a trip on Pipadouro (from €35 +351 939 196 262) which runs two beautifully restored 1950s wooden launches from the pier at Pinhão now bookable for a cosseted night’s stay aboard Drinks flow on board until I no longer know my port from my starboard Sampling wine at the annual Feira do DouroBack in Pinhão, Quinta de Bonfim (+351 254 730 370) has just started offering guided tours ineffable charm – gently insists that I swing up to the two-street town of Favaios small Museum of Bread and Wine is on Rua Direita where the €1.50 entry also scores a tumbler of sweet moscatel that smooths out any wrinkles remaining in my morning ugly modern house with a car park on the right is Padaria Queirós (+351 259 949 514) where Fernanda and her two cousins bake good bread and a stupendous bolo de carne which is what every meat pie wants to be when it grows up And so to wilder, empty Douro Superior. Unlike Cima, Superior has little traffic, though its roads are hardly less tortuous. I drive up to the dog-and-donkey village of Parambos near Carrazeda de Ansíäes, where svelte, sprite-like Puri at Doces da Puri (30 Beco de Jaime) produces extraordinary jams The fruit comes from her heavenly organic garden next door and her tomato-and-port preserve deserves a DOC status of its own Puri’s generosity and energy are matchless she directs me to Taberna da Helena (Avenida Aquilino Ribeira – below the church in Carrazeda) for a sit-down with a platter of chops and a mountain of chips in company with local cattle farmers guided three-hour dusk/night tour of the art in the valley below is a snip at €17 Outside Foz, a small and unlikely turning takes me down (and, worryingly, further down) a steep, twisty, schisty track. My trust is rewarded when it delivers me to Casa do Rio (from €190 a night B&B/wine-hotel) where dynamic Douro Boy João Ribeiro of Quinta do Vallado has built a bridge over a dip in his vineyard Here I join what feels like the Douro’s most chic house party: Danish rosewood Trains run from Porto to Pocinho (€13 each way each way, cp.pt); the really pretty bit starts at Régua. Flights were provided by easyJet, which flies to Porto from Bristol, Gatwick, Luton and Manchester from around £52 return. Car hire was provided by Holiday Autos Porto's dynamic dining scene has helped shaped that of its country © RossHelen / Getty Images Portugal's epicurean evolution owes a hefty debt to its second-biggest city – Porto played an indispensable role in helping the country find its newfound foodie foothold and sealing its position on the European gastronomic radar The artery-shattering Francesinha (a stack of cured ham linguiça sausage and beef on bread drowned in melted cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce) is Porto's iconic eat but the city's culinary radar extends far and wide from there The pilgrimage-worthy sandes de pernil (roast pork sandwiches) dished up at simple tasca Casa Guedes are the stuff of Porto legend right down to the Brazilian-inspired secret sauce It would be remiss not to order the version topped with Serra da Estrela cheese (€4.90) a gooey sheep’s milk wonder from Portugal's most mountainous region Since 1920, Quinta do Paço has served up one of the city's most famous pastries to the tune of some 2500 per day (5000 on weekends!) perfectly creamy on the inside due to fiercely traditional whipped cream – marry marvelously with a strong espresso A culinary trifecta of crispy bread, spicy sausages and molten cheese makes Porto's most famous cachorrinho (small hotdog) at Cervejaria Gazela a mandatory stop on the city's gastronomic map it's perfect for sharing and the burn is just fiery enough to encourage a continuous flow of draught lager Read more: How to get off the beaten path in Porto Two-Michelin-starred Yeatman is synonymous with Portuense fine dining and harbours astonishing city views across the Douro River from Vila Nova de Gaia to match Chef Ricardo Costa's seasonal touches – be it land (traditional goat stew) sea (poached langoustine) or air (pheasant) – floor diners along with a regional wine list that is considered one of the world's best A former engineer self-taught in the kitchen among French chefs reads the pedigree of the chef at Pedro Lemos the eponymously named restaurant in Foz do Douro Inside the contemporarily-restored stone house (a former British pub) or on the rooftop terrace extraordinary dishes such as farm-raised quail with mushrooms and asparagus or corvina with mussels and Jerusalem artichokes are the foundations of its Michelin star empowered by a stint behind what once was the world's most famous restaurants (Basque country's El Bulli) executes his 10-moment tasting menus for just 16 lucky gourmands nightly at high-end upstart Euskalduna Studio Whether oxtail with herbs and kimchi fermented for 27 days each dish shocks and awes in the most surprising of ways Read more: How to spend a perfect weekend in Porto Opened in 2018, Fava Tonka presents a one-of-a-kind offering for Porto: high-end small plates (€9 to €13) aimed at altering perceptions that gourmet plant-based food is hard to haute organic-focused menu sparks curiosity in its vagueness: celery root Baixa mainstay daTerra features a beautiful weekly-changing vegan buffet flush with a global cornucopia of scrumptiousness: Thai-style veggies Brazilian-style vegetarian feijoada (in this case a tomato-based stew with breaded tofu) and much more mostly vegetarian brasserie that's perfect for solving a very typical culinary conundrum: where to eat when your dining companions are split between carnivores and herbivores (two to four meat-based dishes are offered daily) Standouts at Essência include asparagus and fennel risotto and spaghetti with beetroot pesto and curds Porto's classic gut-busting treat is a polarizing subject about town but almost no conversation about the city's best version doesn’t involve a mention of this classic café Café Santiago's family secret is in the sauce (made fresh daily) the quality-control of the pork (which comes from famed sausage house Salsicharia Leandro) and the house-cut chips It's cheeky to trademark "The best Francesinha in the world" but Lado B did just that – and the kitchen takes the obviously subjective claim quite seriously the bread is crunchy and the beer is fresh With a bit more charm and character than the average Francesinha destination, Yuko Tavern stands out for its five varieties of the famed open-faced sandwich including versions with smoked sausage and/or topped with a fried egg Read more: Best 10 free things to do in Porto Family-run Portuguese taberna (tavern) Taberna dos Mercadores nails a delicate balance between stylish space and homely-executed national dishes Rustic benchmark choices include açorda de marisco (stew made from day-old bread eggs and seafood) and meat casseroles featuring special beef from Arouca mountain cows All stone and guitars, this simple taberna owes in success to its emphasis on hearty Portuguese classics: bacalhau (salted codfish), grilled sardines and cozido (meat and vegetable stew). On warm days, Taberna de Sanso António's pavement seating in Miragaia – mere steps from the Douro – is the place to be Two centuries worth of gluttons have crowded into stone-walled beamed-ceilinged gastro-den Flor Dos Congregados for its famed Terylene sandwich featuring a slow-roasted pork loin marinated for 20 hours in wine It's traditionally chased with a glass of sparkling Tinto Bruto wine You'll step through a waft of grilled sardine fumes as you enter the azulejo-clad doorway of this salt-of-the-earth seafooder across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia But it doesn’t stop there: at Taberna São Pedro all manner of fresh fish and skewers of shrimp and squid are thrown on the grill as well the hard-earned wares of the old-school-fishing-hamlet surrounds Another skilled craftsman in the francesinha game. The brick-oven-baked version at Tappas Caffé features three types of sausage and a sauce laced with chiripiti and a liquor forged from bagaço (a brandy-adjacent Portuguese firewater) top-end dining destination at Graham's) takes traditional Portuguese cuisine to new heights with the best of the nation's extensive bounty: matured Trás-os-Montes beef You might also like:How to live like a local in PortoThe 5 best day trips from PortoHighlights of Porto The Miramar Tower is a blend of lifestyle and luxury and the first in a line of similar projects from one of Macao’s most influential businessmen Macao property group KNJ is launching its first real estate project in Portugal a 15-storey luxury residential tower in the city of Porto Nestled in the exclusive seafront district of Foz de Douro, Miramar Tower will contain a number of balconied apartments ranging from one-bedroom studios to four-bedroom penthouses suitable for families China-Lusophone Brief reported that Kevin Ho King Lun said that the choice of Porto was due to “its economic performance but also because of the historical connection between Portugal and Macau He added: “It is also for these reasons that we intend to continue to invest in this city through other iconic projects certain that the Miramar Tower will be an architectural landmark and a reference among residential buildings.” Ho said he expects “to be able to announce other projects of great significance” in Porto The group will also invest in a five-star Marriott hotel in the former Jornal de Noticias headquarters The projects have a combined investment of around EUR 70 million (US$76.77 million) Miramar Tower was designed by the OODA architectural team and is marketed by Predibisa said Miramar Tower “is a differentiating project which combines excellent architecture with a modern lifestyle.” “Built in one of the most sought-after areas of the city (…) this venture will allow the perfect combination of the quality of life that the Foz area offers as well as the bustle of the city” “the balconies are the visible part of the tower’s structure and act as an exoskeleton that extends unevenly on each floor and deconstructs the interior rationality.” Ho is one of Macao’s most prominent businessmen He is a member of the Chinese National People’s Congress and director of Tai Fung Bank managing director of Valeo Strategic Investments and the chairman of Anzac Group since June 2009 He is also director of the Industry and Commerce Association of Macao and sits on many social committees in Macao and mainland China Ho was one of the shareholders of MKW Capital Management which controlled the Viva Macau airline that went bankrupt He is also a non-executive board member of Portugal Media Group In 2017 KNJ acquired a 30 per cent stake in Portugal’s Global Media Group for EUR 15 million The group is one of the biggest media groups in Portugal with interests in newspapers The group is also a shareholder of the Lusa-Portuguese News agency with 23.36 per cent of the capital The government holds 50.14 per cent of the capital of the news agency New constructions in Porto idealista Editorial Team 28 February 2024 11:45Living in Porto is a great choice if you're looking to live in a dynamic as well as combining the energy of urban life with the tranquillity of the beaches and nature just a stone's throw from home This is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city and, consequently, an area that attracts many tourists due to its many historical and cultural points of interest. In this neighbourhood you can easily reach downtown Porto on foot, which is great for walking enthusiasts. But not only that, if you're not a big fan of walking, you also have a wide choice of public transport to get you where you need to go. Getting around by car is also a good option if you decide to buy a house in Cedofeita, as it's just a few minutes from the Covelo exit (A4) and Campo Alegre (Via de Cintura Interna). However, as nothing is perfect, as it's a very central area it's very difficult to find free parking. In spite of this, many new housing developments have underground parking included in the price.  The Santo Ildefonso neighbourhood has a unique atmosphere that reflects Porto's cultural and architectural heritage. Its centuries-old buildings and colourful façades will not go unnoticed by anyone. Here you'll find the famous Church of Santo Ildefonso, which is an unmistakable visual reference for those who live in and visit this area. Living in this old part of the city, you can easily and quickly get to places like São Bento train station and Avenida dos Aliados. This is where the city of Porto was born. This neighbourhood, located around the majestic Sé Cathedral, is the perfect combination of traditional and modern. To live in Sé is to enjoy its historic streets and alleys during the day and enjoy the sunset on the banks of the Douro at night. It's embracing the authenticity and tradition that make Porto so special. For lovers of the river, Miragaia is the perfect neighbourhood, as it has breathtaking views and, in addition, despite being an area very close to the historic centre, it is one of the quietest to live in. The slopes of its beautiful landscape and the houses attached to each other allow for a typically Portuguese way of living. A neighbourhood where the architectural beauty represents Porto's personality. The characteristic tiles and colourful façades of the buildings add to the picturesque atmosphere. In São Nicolau you'll find a variety of gastronomic options to suit all tastes, as well as being able to enjoy the sunset on the quay, a spectacle of the colours of dusk over the water. Living in this neighbourhood means you have the convenience of reaching one of Porto's and the country's main landmarks, the Clérigos Tower, in less than 5 minutes on foot. This is therefore a privileged place to live, as you can easily explore the main points of the city, taking advantage of its strategic location. Being part of the Vitória community means being integrated into an environment of great cultural vitality, where you won't be short of festivals and all kinds of events that provide excellent opportunities to socialise and celebrate the diversity of the neighbourhood. idealistaPorto is generally considered a safe city for residents and visitors alike. Crime rates are low and residents typically feel secure going about their daily lives, whether it's commuting, socialising, or enjoying leisure activities. What's more, the more touristy areas are especially well patrolled, which reinforces the feeling of safety at any time of day. Porto's safety is also influenced by its robust public safety measures, including an active police presence and effective emergency response systems. Additionally, the city's focus on urban development and infrastructure improvements has contributed to enhancing safety and overall quality of life for its residents. The streets are also adequately lit and in some areas there are surveillance cameras. All these factors, combined with a culture of mutual respect, contribute to Porto's reputation as a safe and welcoming city for both residents and tourists. idealistaAccording to data from idealista's most recent price report, the average price of a square metre in the municipality of Porto reached an all-time high in January 2024, reaching €3,494, which represents a monthly variation of + 1.2% and an annual variation of + 6.7%.  In the union of parishes in the historic centre (Cedofeita, Santo Ildefonso, Sé, Miragaia, São Nicolau and Vitória), the price of the square metre reached €4,054, which also means a monthly variation of + 1.2% and + 4.2% annual variation. These figures show that the centre of Porto is a very attractive and dynamic area for the property market, but also for tourism, culture and quality of life. idealistaLiving in the centre of Porto will offer you a huge variety of advantages. Despite the traffic and tourist pressure, we believe that, at the end of the day, the balance of positive points will weigh much more heavily. There are various types of new developments in Porto, ranging from modern apartment complexes to traditional townhouses and luxury villas. Research different options to find the type of property that best suits your needs and preferences, starting with our selection of new homes for sale in Porto.  just one kilometre from Faro's city centre "This is one of the largest projects in both the Algarve and Portugal," says Finangeste in a statement The project is being developed in partnership with an undisclosed international investor The plan includes the construction of 1,641 residential units from small stores selling the region’s olive oils to boutiques offering the best of Portuguese crystal or porcelain — plus independent fashion brands that draw on the region’s rich textile industry To see Porto at its most joyous book a stay over the Feast of São João on June 23 Fireworks light up the sky to celebrate the city’s patron saint and old Rabelos boats — like those that once carried port barrels down the river — race each other along the Douro This article contains links from which we may earn revenue Porto offers the perfect mix of culture and cuisine Start by getting an overview from the Baroque Clérigos Tower built by Niccolò Nasoni and at 75m still one of the country’s tallest Once you’ve recovered from the somewhat dizzying 240-step climb with the coastline and the Douro Valley laid out before you Another inspiring set of stairs can be found at the neo-gothic bookshop Lello supposedly the inspiration for Hogwarts library — Harry Potter’s creator Next, explore a few of the churches. Their ornate interiors are evidence of the wealth that flowed into the city from the 15th century onwards, the result of Portugal’s golden age of discovery Particularly remarkable is São Francisco Church its high altar encrusted with more than 200kg of gold in stark contrast to its plain gothic exterior Precious metals and other treasures are for sale in the attractive boutiques of Rua das Flores Treat yourself to a wander in Claus Porto’s delicious flagship store where soaps and scents will revive foot-weary sightseers Porto’s hotel scene has blossomed over the past decade offering everything from established international chains to tiny boutique gems The city’s grande dame is the Yeatman hotel where rooms cascade like wine terraces down to a decanter-shaped swimming pool views are over the waterside’s charming jumble of multicoloured medieval houses With many key sights within walking distance now well served with excellent hotels flanking the grand Avenida dos Aliados such as the beautifully renovated Le Monumental Palace For a more local feel it’s also fun to seek out smaller establishments such as the eight-room boutique property Duas Portas Bordering the mouth of the River Douro in the elegant it’s about ten minutes from the city centre by car Atlantic-facing palaces built by the rich in the 19th century so they could benefit from the sea air are commonly referred to throughout Portugal as “tripe-eaters” This nickname dates from the Golden Age of Discovery when Prince Henry the Navigator sent the best meat out with his exploratory fleets leaving only tripe for the inhabitants of Porto Still today tripe remains part of the city’s culinary heritage and is commonly eaten So is Porto’s signature Francesinha sandwich topped with cheese and covered with a beer sauce Those seeking more elegant dishes will not be disappointed — the city’s top table is the Yeatman’s two-Michelin-star restaurant Other big Portuguese culinary talents include José Avillez and Henrique Sá Pessoa both of whom have more casual eateries here At Cantinho de Avillez try the octopus tartare or the deep-fried green beans while at Sá Pessoa’s Tapisco the grilled scarlet prawns are a must you cannot come to Porto without exploring its most famous export The majority of the port lodges have port wine tasting where you can compare ruby tawny and vintage ports as well as learn about its fascinating history WOW — the World of Wine museum — is the city’s hot ticket Set on the banks of the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia this impressive interactive museum has something for everyone Children can create their own chocolate bars while a drinking vessel museum exhibits goblets and glasses spanning thousands of years It also covers the history of Porto through the ages and a “wine experience” helps to demystify this rarefied world as well as explore the different wine regions in Portugal With a wide choice of restaurants and cafés on site there’s easily enough going on to fill a whole day here a 30-minute journey will get you to Casa de Chá de Boa Nova chef Rui Paula’s two-Michelin-star restaurant Designed by the Pritzker prizewinning architect Siza Vieira its rock-edge position gives diners the memorable experience of feasting on fresh seafood while waves roar towards them The best way to get around Porto is definitely by foot so bring flat shoes or sandals to help with the cobbles and hills The city’s lively nightlife often spills onto the streets so it’s also worth packing an extra layer for the cool night air Port is a popular drink with young and old Be sure to bring plenty of euros — although card machines are increasingly used here Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here Porto is Portugal's second largest city and proves popular with holidaymakers, ranked by Time Out as the number one destination for a city break. Now, tourists looking to enjoy the sun can fly directly to Porto from Bristol, for just £20 in May, according to Skyscanner. Ryanair writes: "So much awaits when you fly to Porto. A visit to Livraria Lello is a must. It’s one of oldest bookstores in Portugal and has been rated as one of the best in the world. More than a century old, Lello is an art nouveau gem with gothic details, stained glass and a remarkable red staircase, said to have inspired Harry Potter author, J.K Rowling. "Explore Porto’s riverside area the Cais de Ribeira and get the perfect view of the iconic Luís I Bridge. Or make for the Foz do Douro district and walk along the promenade and the Pergola da Foz and see where the Douro river meets the Atlantic Ocean." The airline also praises the food scene awaiting visitors: "A trip to Porto is as much a culinary experience as anything else, with Portugal being renowned for its famous port wine. "When it comes to local food delicacies there’s no dish from Porto more popular than the Francesinha. A twist on a classic French sandwich, this hefty sandwich-based dish is filled with several different types of meats and cheese and covered in a secret sauce that varies from chef to chef making it an incredibly unique experience every time." Another reason Porto is the perfect place to visit from Bristol is that the two cities are formally twinned, and have been since 1984. The Portuguese city is highly recommended on TripAdvisor, being awarded the 'Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best' by the company. The award recognises businesses in the city that "earn excellent reviews from travellers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide." A previous visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: "An underrated creative city, Porto is the perfect home base for exploring northern Portugal. On my first trip, I took a Viking cruise up the Douro River, but I couldn’t resist returning to see the area’s other surprising sights. "From ancient castles and regal palaces to rugged national parks and picturesque vineyards, here are my favourite detours from Porto." They then went on to recommend attractions such as Casa de Mateus, an 18th century palace and gardens, Peneda-Geres National Park, and the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO site overlooking Mondego River, for tourists to visit during their stay. TripAdvisor also shared the best times to visit the city, saying: "Porto generally experiences a moderate climate that provides optimum conditions for exploring the city on foot. "The best months to visit are May, June and September, when skies are typically dry and blue, and the crowds associated with summer are less-concentrated. "Expect average daily temperatures those times of year to be highs around 74° F (23° C) and lows of 58° F (14° C)." Both Ryanair and EasyJet fly to Porto from Bristol, with up to seven flights a week heading to the coastal city between the two airlines, meaning passengers have plenty of choice when it comes to booking their getaway. Foreign property investment trends in Portugal Francois Olwage on Unsplash Editorial Team 31 October 2022 5.9% of property transactions were carried out involving buyers with tax address outside Portugal according to data released by Engel & Völkers in its Market Report Around half of foreign buyers are members of the European Union and transactions with buyers resident the EU increased by 72.3% the Algarve is the favourite of foreign investors But where do foreigners most like to invest in Portugal We know that "beautiful" is a subjective adjective but here we have no doubt: these really are some of the most beautiful restaurants in and around Porto There are spaces to suit all tastes, some suitable for more special occasions and others more affordable. In any case, this list is not definitive and the order presented is random. Our idea is to update this itinerary as necessary. In the meantime, let’s discover some of the most beautiful restaurants in and around Porto.   In addition to its quality, or it wouldn’t have had two Michelin stars and a 4.7 rating on Google, the Antiqvvm is truly one of the most beautiful restaurants in Porto and the surrounding area.  Surrounded by a charming garden, the unobstructed view over the Douro River is also worth mentioning.  Nearby, in Maia, you’ll find one of the most beautiful restaurants in Porto and the surrounding area: Coreto. In operation since 2019, matured meats are the stars of the menu here. With an excellent Google rating of 4.6, the location and decoration of the space are also worth mentioning. After all, it’s not for nothing that the restaurant is called Coreto.  Located in Quinta da Boa Vista, where there is a leisure park and the Gramaxo Foundation House, the restaurant is a marvel waiting to be (re)discovered.  Where: Rua Nossa Senhora do Bom Despacho, Maia View this post on Instagram Vila Foz Restaurant This suggestion is not for every day it makes perfect sense to include Vila Foz Restaurante on this list it’s always an option to consider for a very special day.  In the kitchen, chef Arnaldo Azevedo ensures the quality of the dishes and menus, where the flavors of the sea are highlighted. An exquisite experience in one of the most beautiful restaurants in Porto and the surrounding area. the space can be visited by appointment through Casa da Arquitetura A Casa de Chá da Boa Nova has two Michelin stars or the view of the Atlantic Ocean wouldn’t be one of its many charms one of the most beautiful restaurants in Greater Porto.  If you like Asian restaurants, or can’t live without sushi then it’s a good option for you We particularly recommend going to the spot in Gaias Compared to Porto, the space is relatively small, but the eccentric decor and intimate atmosphere stand out. A choice also for more romantic. YÜJIN also offers a take-awayservice. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Y U J I N (@yujin.pt) the Ilícito restaurant-bar is in the heart of downtown Porto This space stands out for its ‘provocative’ menu here you’ll find a decor that immediately stands out The restaurant has a circus-inspired atmosphere with burlesque details that recall the vintageregister Where: Rua do Almada, 224 View this post on Instagram Flower Kitchen Even at the end of the Rua das Flores one of the busiest in our Invicta this is also one of the most beautiful restaurants in Porto the concept is intended to be simple and relaxed without detracting from the quality of the products and service The menu is inspired by the cuisine of the northern region and one of the main aims is to make people feel at home The privileged location next to the Port of Leixões,in the municipality of Matosinhos helped define the decoration of Terminal 4450 If you’re looking for a beautiful restaurant for a romantic date The woman's lifeless body was found last Friday on the beach in Foz do Douro by a couple of passersby, who alerted emergency services, according to local paper Correio de Manhã. As the woman was not carrying ID, it took police around 12 hours to identify the body, according to the paper. The woman, around 30 years of age and of Czech nationality is said to have been on holiday with friends. Portuguese police have launched an investigation. According to reports, the woman did not show any signs of violence and authorities said that there is a possibility that she was carried out into the water and drowned, and was then washed back up on shore. The European Court of Auditors confirmed with wort.lu/pt that the woman was one of its employees, but declined further comment. Skin healthThe hype surrounding skincare routines“Seven steps to perfect skin” - skincare is a popular social media topic. But what really works? BrexitPremiumEU set to make it easier for UK professionals to work in the blocBrussels due to propose legislation to enable the recognition of qualifications of British lawyers and others AcquisitionLuxembourg recruitment firm Cyberr acquires French firm in move to double growth Platform dedicated to recruiting cybersecurity experts added 14 employees through acquisition ReportDeveloping nations expect AI productivity boost soon, UN findsGlobal development slowing due to wars, trade tensions and Covid-19 Step-by-stepA guide to having your baby in LuxembourgFrom a positive pregnancy test and pre- and post-natal care, to your baby’s first vaccinations InvestigationPremiumPalestine abuses scrubbed from ESG investment reportsInvestments deemed sustainable - including in Luxembourg - see human rights concerns in Palestine territories removed, investigation shows PoliticsLuxembourg lawmakers divided over Israel-EU relationsAttempt to find unified position on extension of EU-Israel trade agreement failed during divisive committee meeting World of workJob market last year grew at slowest pace since financial crisisLuxembourg created fewer new jobs in 2024 than any year since the 2008-9 banking crisis Advertiser contentTreat yourself to a stress-free holidayDreaming of a worry-free trip What if the secret to a smooth getaway was simply good preparation and the right protection Advertiser contentReal estate: Why should you take advantage of the start of 2025 to begin your real estate project?The main things we remember about the housing sector over the past 12 months are the rise in interest rates and the fall in property prices Advertiser contentProperty: I've decided to invest!The various forms of government support for investment Advertiser contentThe Luxembourg Times BusinessRun is happening again on 18th September!On Thursday 18th September with the starting gun of the 11th Luxembourg Times BusinessRun fired at the Coque at 7 pm Share this with instagramShare this with facebookShare this with linkedinSections and one of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites there are many great places for hiking near Porto along with impressive ancient sights here including São Francisco Church and Bolsa Palace.  Check Prices Porto’s beauty extends past its old buildings and cobblestone streets So while walking through the old town is a must-do going hiking in Porto is an unmissable experience We’re sharing the seven best hikes near Porto, from riverside hikes to coastal treks and stunning trails in the Douro Valley You’ll spot many of Porto’s top sights on this urban hiking route It’s an excellent way to combine sightseeing with hiking as you pass by many lovely riverside restaurants and cafes you can include a stop-off for lunch with a view The out and back trail runs directly beside the Douro river It passes many landscaped gardens and green spaces It starts in Jardim do Passeio Alegre in Foz do Douro and ends at Alameda Basílio Teles you can make the walk shorter by turning back at the bridge.  The Camino Português Coastal trail is undoubtedly the best place for day hiking near Porto The entire Camino Portugues begins in Porto and finishes in Santiago covering around 500 miles and taking on average 30 days The trail is traditionally used by pilgrims from Portugal but today makes a challenging trek for experienced hikers and explorers.  you don’t have to schedule one month to taste this spiritual voyage making for a challenging but rewarding day hike.  It starts in Viana do Castelo and the trail is well marked the entire way to Vila do Conde There’s an overall elevation gain of 525 meters but the ascents are gradual for the most part you’ll pass many famous landmarks before reaching the coast and countryside for beautiful natural scenery.  The Passadiços do Paiva (Paiva Walkways) is a scenic riverside hiking area with 5.5 miles of steep wooden walkways The trail is clearly marked and well maintained making it one of the best hikes near Porto for tourists.  You can start this out and back trail from either end There are many small beaches along the way where you can stop to take a swim or enjoy a picnic lunch The geopark has diverse landscapes with both forested and mountainous terrain There are also some ancient monuments and plenty of wildlife in the park along with restaurants at both ends.  The Douro Valley is Portugal’s most picturesque wine region and is just a 90-minute drive from Porto; thus one of the best areas to go hiking around Porto The circular Lamego Trail starts and ends in the small village of Samodães, and the trailhead is by the village church you can follow the path in either direction.  where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the countryside You’ll experience a few steep ascents and descents throughout the route the stunning scenery you’ll pass along this route makes it totally worth it you can reward yourself with a wine-tasting session at the nearby vineyards afterward The São Bento Route is a circular trail in Aboadela It starts and ends at Ponte de Fundo de Rua and forms part of the historic Romanesque route It involves a 550-meter climb to the top of a hill where you’ll see the lands of Basto on one side and mountainous terrain on the other The trail also passes the 18th-century monument Ovelha do Marão and the ruins of an old inn is another hiking trail that forms part of the Romanesque Route The looped course starts and ends at Igreja de Santa Maria de Gondar and follows a stream and chestnut trees and gorgeous views of the valley and mountains.  Serra de Canelas / Negrelos is a small forested hiking area just south of Porto but you can loop the entire park for a long walk you’ll pass by ponds and unique sights like the Baloiço da Serra de Canelas the trail can get muddy during rainy periods it’s not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs Porto and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of terrain and scenery Although many tourists enjoy exploring the Portuguese countryside by car, hiking around Porto is an excellent idea if you’re looking to stay fit during your travels.  If you head 3 hours south, you will find a lot more options for hiking in Sintra. Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014 she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle working online from various destinations worldwide Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links This basically means that I will earn a commission if you do make a purchase at no additional cost to you Kindly note that we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com Designed by Melissa Giroux | Copyright © 2025 A Broken Backpack