Porto

‘Portugal’s second city by name, but not by nature’

Porto is one of Europe’s hidden gems, a coastal town in Portugal’s northwest region, which is bursting with colourful houses and huge painted murals overlooking a stunning riverside.

Set on a hillside, it’s a city that requires a lot of energy to navigate by foot, but it is well worth the effort, as there are so many great areas to explore while you are racking up your step count each day.

One area that must be explored at a slower pace is the side of the River Douro from either or both sides of the city. It’s a surprisingly peaceful stretch to stroll through, with plenty of places to eat and drink along the way. Taking a cruise along the river, is also well worth your time, passing under the famous set of bridges that connect the two sides of the district of Porto.

Up the top of the city though, is where you will find the best vistas Porto has to offer. A visit to the cathedral is well worth your time, as in addition to being a stunning building architecturally, from the top you’ll see all the way out into the city on one side and out to the river and across to Vila Nova de Gaia on the other.

Making the trip to Vila Nova de Gaia should be on your list too, as you can head straight to Jardim do Morro; a beautiful park close to to Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar.

What can you expect when you sit down to eat in Porto? There are of course plenty of seafood options due to Porto’s location, but the Portuguese do love their grilled meat skewers too. Wine is also ingrained in Portuguese culture due to the climate, so a meal a place like the Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau and a wine tasting experience are both musts.

City Highlights:

  • Taking in the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar viewpoint at sunset
  • A stroll along the river when the sun is shining
  • Enjoying food at Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau
  • Experiencing the best of Portuguese wine

Choose to include:

  • Return flights
  • Hotel accommodation
  • Tickets to local attractions
  • Airport transfers
  • Hire car

Call us now to book an unforgettable holiday on +44 1707 497900