The Portugal Experience
It wouldn’t be right to characterize Porto, Portugal, by simply choosing one of the factors that make this destiny more and more attractive. The richness of its architecture and heritage, its growing artistic and cultural expression, the growing liveliness downtown, night and day, its gastronomy and excellent wine, and its charming people are what make the city so special.Here is a list of 10 things you should not miss out.
1. Majestic cafe
The Majestic cafe, founded over 90 years ago and situated in the heart of downtown Porto is a must on the list of things to do for all visitors. It is considered the emblematic cafe of the city.
2. “Casa da Musica”
It was conceived to mark 2001, the year in which Porto was European Capital of Culture and has become an architectural reference in the city. It is the first building in Portugal exclusively dedicated to music.
3. Port wine Lodge
The Port wine Lodges or Cellars situated in Vila Nova de Gaia continue to be an important focus for visitors offering tastings of Port Wine and guided tours. Learn how to distinguish a Tawny Port from a Ruby Port and if you are lucky try a Vintage Port.
4. Douro River
One of the best views of Porto is from the river! There are a variety of cruises available from the five bridges in Vila Nova de Gaia to the Port wine vineyards over 100 kilometres inland.
5. Sunset from a beach side esplanade
You should walk along the various beaches in the area. There are a variety of esplanades in Foz, Matosinhos and Vila Nova de Gaia areas that are perfect for taking the sunset and admiring the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Try a “Francesinha”
The “Francesinha” is perhaps the most popular “bite” in Oporto and is renowned as the most popular Portuguese sandwich. It is most commonly accompanied by a cold beer.
7. Visit the Serralves Museum
Serralves is culture, nature and art. Within its extensive gardens lies the Museum of Modern Art. This space is a mixture of brilliant architecture, tranquillity and various green spaces.
8. Visit the Museum Soares dos Reis
The National Museum Soares dos Reis is situated in the Palace of Carrancas. There is a large collection of Portuguese paintings and sculptures, national and international objects of decorative arts.
9. Lello Bookshop
After a coffee at one of downtown esplanades, look for the Lello bookshop. Situated in Carmelitas street, this bookshop was considered the third most beautiful bookshop in the world. Its iconic staircases are thought to be the first example of use of concrete in Portugal.
10. The Historical City Centre
Classified as a World Heritage Site, Porto historical centre contains a monumental and landscape richness where you can see several urban conceptual solutions varying from the medieval times to early modernity.
You cannot miss a visit to the Church of Sao Francisco and Torre dos Clerigos, one of Porto’s landmark. Another one, Palacio da Bolsa is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
