Description
Rising in striking colours from the banks of the Douro River, Porto seduces an alley-woven historic center, impressive public art, and cutting-edge architecture.
However, it’s the city’s soulfulness that makes it really special, with the charismatic locals, the culture, and the exquisite food and wine.
Our self-guided city trip will introduce you to Portugal’s second city, with the added bonus of a Douro valley trip!
Ribeira cafes in Porto river Douro estuary, relax in a street café along the riverside and admire the orderly rooftops of the Port wine cellars.
Dramatically perched on the steep banks of the Douro River, Portugal’s northern gem is one of the most eclectic destinations in Europe, buzzing with culture, trendy restaurants, bars, artisan shops, and a wealth of cool places to visit and see!
Throughout the city, you’ll find faded belle époque buildings, charming yellow trams, and stunning azulejos (blue and white tiles).
The São Bento train station is especially memorable, with azulejos up to the ceiling depicting key moments in the history of Portugal. Another fine example of a tiled façade is the Igreja da Misericordia.
The colourful tangle of medieval streets of the historic Ribeira, a district classified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, is ideally to be discovered on foot.
Window Porto, houses of the historical centre of Porto.
Although hilly, it’s a pleasure to find the surprises hidden at the end of those mysterious steps and back alleys.
Don’t forget to visit the bustling Rua das Flores, with its cool shops, boutiques, and trendy cafes.
From the top of Torre dos Clerigos’ 225-step spiral staircase, you can have the best view of all over the city.
On the opposite bank, in Vila Nova de Gaia, huge brand signs allure you to the iconic port lodges. Cross the scenic Ponte de Dom Luís I to get there and enjoy a port while taking in the view.
Rio Douro is at the heart of the demarcated port-wine region.
During this tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a stunning river cruise, from Porto to Régua. Travel leisurely up the river, through the breath-taking scenery of patterned vineyards and dramatic cliffs of the Douro valley.
The journey back is a scenic train ride.
Offering a compelling synthesis of ancient and contemporary attractions, it is a delight to experience the trendy and charming city of Porto!
