Essential things to see in Porto

River in Porto

We know that Lisbon is the most chosen city when going to Portugal, and in summer we have the Algarve, but the truth is that Porto is also a very interesting city, especially for those who adore the old town with that apparent nostalgia and the taste of the authentic. Of course Porto it is a city that has a lot to offer.

As always, there are visits that are essential, and this small city was not going to be less. But we will always recommend taking a walk calmly, getting lost in the corners of the city to appreciate the life of its people without being in the most touristic places. This is part of a good journey to discover more than just the topics of each city.

Get to Porto

For those who think that life can be complicated to go somewhere other than Lisbon, the truth is that Porto has very good transport. It has the airport, to which low cost companies such as Ryanair arrive, being a cheaper alternative than Lisbon. It can also be reached either by regional train from Vigo, in the north of Spain, or by bus with the Alsa and Eurolines companies that leave from different points. There are also crossings along the Duero River that reach the city, at the mouth.

Cathedral of the Sé

Porto Cathedral

This is the most important religious building in the whole city, and it is also on top, so we can enjoy great views of the entire city and the river bank, its most picturesque area. This cathedral is in the Batalha neighborhood next to the walls. In the square you can see a column where formerly criminals were hanged. Inside the cathedral we can see its central area with large columns, and we must also see the XNUMXth century cloister with tiles of religious scenes or its collection of goldsmith objects.

Lello and Irmao bookstore

Lello and Irmao bookstore

This bookstore has become a must for those who visit Porto, and it is really worth it, because it is the most beautiful bookstore in all of Europe. Have a neo-gothic style full of detailsIt was built in 1906. The interior is the most impressive, with a central carved wooden staircase and beautiful stained glass windows. It is not only famous for having been chosen the most beautiful, but also because some scenes from the famous Harry Potter saga were recorded in it, making it another place for fans to visit.

Bolhao Market

Bolhao Market in Porto

This market is not one of the best-kept places in the city, which in general is a bit neglected in its old area, but the truth is that this touch of decadence also makes it more special. The Mercado do Bolhao is a perfect place to see how its people live, since not so touristy but really authentic. It is in an old building and has been in operation since 1914. It has several floors around a large central courtyard, with all kinds of stalls, from food to textiles to flowers. Old-looking shops and that decadent air is what makes it so authentic that it is well worth a visit.

San Bento Station

San Bento Station

You may wonder why seeing a train station can be interesting, but this city surprises in its most special corners. This station was built in the XNUMXth century on the remains of an old convent, that of San Bento del Ave María, hence the name of the station. It has that same melancholic and old air of the whole city, and the best is in the entrance, where there is even 20.000 tiles with scenes of the history of the city. A visit that must be taken calmly to appreciate them. And if we have to take a train, we can take advantage of it.

Visit to the wineries

Port wine barrels

If something is not going to be missing when we go to Porto it is the visit to the wineries of the famous Port wine from the city. This wine is totally different from others because they add brandy to stop the fermentation so that the sweet taste with a high degree of alcohol is preserved. This has made it one of the most appreciated wines in the world.

River bank in Porto

En Vilanova da Gaia, in front of the shore of the city of Porto is where the best wine cellars are found. You can take combined tickets to see several wineries, and you have to do it in advance since the guide will be in the language chosen by the first person who reserves. It must also be said that there are other wineries that do not charge entry, although they are not the most famous. On the riverbank there are also boat agencies that offer tours by boat and wineries, although many of them are free, so you have to see the offer well. Some of the most famous wineries are the Ramos Pinto winery, the Sandeman winery or the Ferreira winery.


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