It is well-known that all the cities in Europe have something unique to offer to their visitors and Porto is one of the greatest Europian jewels and Portugal is proud for its magical city. So, let’s explore this full-of-surprises city through this helpful city guide.
Selected to be the Best Europian Destination in 2012, 2014 and 2017, Porto is exceptional in more ways than one and the “Cidade Invicta” (unvanquished city), its history, its architecture, design, culture, gastronomy, trade, encounters and discoveries will seduce you.
If you’re a true design lover, you can’t miss this location. Just a few minutes away from the Ribeira, Covet House is the ultimate experience of lived-design. The house is filled with remarkable luxury pieces of furniture that hold the glory from the noble past and traditions of Portugal. In this timeless scenario, a unique showroom was born and each room has been decorated by prestigious design brands like Boca do Lobo, Brabbu, Essential Home, DelightFULL and many more.
In case architecture is your passion, you should not miss what’s coming next.
Livraria Lello
Near Torre dos Clérigos, Lello Bookshop has been voted as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world. Dating from 1906, this magic place inspired J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter saga.
Casa Da Musica
The concert hall and home of the symphony orchestra is a remarkable building by the architect Rem Koolhaas. Centrally located, this architecture masterpiece offers a unique view all over Porto from its modern designed terraces.
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Dom Luis I Bridge
Conceived by Gustave Eiffel and finished in 1888, the main bridge of Porto is an easy way to walk to Vila Nova de Gaia and its wineries. All made of iron, the double-decked arch bridge is a popular spot for photographers.
São Bento Train Station
What could not miss from this city guide is the amazing building of São Bento Train Station, which dates back to 1893. It is famous for the tile panels on the inside, depicting historical scenes, distributing in being between the most remarkable cities in Europe.
Getting to try the traditional food and drinks is not hard at all, even without a city guide, as Porto is full of noteworthy restaurants and bars.
Galerias de Paris
At the homonym street belongs one of the most visited bar/restaurants in Porto. This whimsically decorated spot has toys, thermos flasks, old phones and other assorted objects lining on the walls. It’s the ideal restaurant for a light meal during the day or a sophisticated dinner followed by cocktails and draught beer at night.
Café Santiago
Porto is home to many traditional dishes and one of the most famous is, fairly, the iconic Francesinha, a massive sandwich layered with smoked sausage, bacon and a medium rare steak. It’s topped with an egg, a thick layer of cheese and covered with a spicy sauce whose recipe is still a secret.
Sandeman Port Cellar
Finally, enjoy the view, architecture and design while having a wonderful drink at Sandeman. Dressed with the mantle of the Porto’s University students and a wide-brimmed hat, Don stands out as a dramatic shadowy figure, holding a glass of a ruby coloured Port wine. This winery was built in 1797 and offers guided tours to Port cellars and tastings.
See also: Buffets and Cabinets Inspired in Oporto
