Why I Believe Porto is the Best City to Visit in Portugal

Rich History & Culture

In the fall of 2023, I embarked on a captivating tour of art and architecture across the stunning landscapes of Portugal. My journey began in the vibrant city of Lisbon, where the blend of historical and contemporary art left a lasting impression. I then wandered through the quaint town of Tomar, where every corner seemed to whisper tales from the past. The breathtaking views of the legendary waves in Nazaré were a sight to behold, showcasing nature's raw power in its purest form. As I sailed along the Douro Valley River, I indulged in the world-renowned Port wines, an experience that was as rich in flavor as it was in history.

However, nothing quite captured my heart like the city of Porto. Porto stands out as the crown jewel of Portugal, offering an unparalleled experience. Its rich history is woven into every street and building, telling stories of a time long past yet still vibrantly alive. The city's renowned Port wine, coupled with its stunning architecture, creates a sensory experience unlike any other. The landscape, with its rolling hills and scenic river views, adds to the city's charm. And let's not forget the culinary diversity—Porto's food scene is a true celebration of flavors, reflecting the city’s deep cultural roots. For me, Porto isn't just the best city in Portugal; it's a place where history, culture, and the energy of the people come together to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Porto, one of Portugal's oldest cities, has a rich and storied history that dates back over 2,000 years. Originally founded as a Roman outpost named "Portus Cale," the city played a crucial role in the development of the country, eventually lending its name to the nation of Portugal itself.

During the Middle Ages, Porto became a key maritime trading center, benefiting from its strategic location along the Douro River. Its prosperity grew with the expansion of maritime commerce, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries, when Porto's shipyards were instrumental in the construction of the Portuguese fleet during the Age of Discovery.

Porto is perhaps best known as the birthplace of port wine, a fortified wine that became a major export in the 17th century. British merchants, attracted by the Douro Valley's vineyards, established wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto, further boosting the city's economic and cultural significance.

My Hotel

I stayed at the Pestana Porto - A Brasileira Hotel, an exquisite 5-star gem nestled on a lively commercial street in the heart of Porto. The hotel's prime location places it just a 3-minute stroll from São Bento station and a leisurely 15-minute walk from the historic charm of Ribeira Square. My room featured a balcony with a view that instantly captivated me. From there, I could observe the locals as they visited the theater across the street, and I was serenaded by the passionate chants of football fans making their way to support Portugal in a crucial match against a rival country.

As I stood on the balcony, I was struck by a distinct feeling—something about this city felt different. It wasn't just the slate black cobblestones, a stark contrast to Lisbon's white limestone; it was the energy in the air. The atmosphere was vibrant, alive with a unique spirit that I couldn't wait to explore.

The hotel's restaurant served an exceptional breakfast. Every morning, I was greeted with a vibrant selection of fresh fruits, perfectly flaky pastries, and a tempting array of meats and cheeses. The egg station was a highlight, offering eggs prepared in every way imaginable—poached, boiled, scrambled, or as a quiche. For cereal enthusiasts, there was an entire bar dedicated to a variety of cereals, ensuring everyone had something to enjoy.

What truly stood out was the espresso machine, which offered an impressive range of options, allowing guests to customize their coffee experience down to the smallest detail. The restaurant also catered to the European late-night dining culture, serving delectable desserts and rich coffee until 1 a.m., making it the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet treat or a nightcap after a day of exploring the city.

Stunning tile work inside the Sao Bento Railway Station.

São Bento Railway Station

This historic railway station, located in the heart of Porto, has been recognized as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Monument of Portugal. The moment I stepped inside, I was surrounded by the most intricate tile work I had ever seen, and it immediately became clear why this place is a national treasure. Every inch of the station's foyer was adorned with tiles that narrated the stories of Portugal's wars, culture, and deep-rooted faith.

The station was bustling with passengers hurrying to catch their trains, while tourists like me stood frozen, captivated by the stunning tilework that demanded our attention. The entrance hall itself is a masterpiece, decorated with azulejo tiles framed by ornate pillars. Near the ceiling, a blue and gold border featuring stylized flowers catches the eye, while a colorful frieze below it depicts the history of transportation in Portugal. Beneath these vibrant borders, large azulejo "paintings" illustrate significant events in Portuguese history.

The Magic of Port Wine

Porto is perhaps most famous as the birthplace of port wine, a fortified wine that became a major export in the 17th century. British merchants, drawn to the vineyards of the Douro Valley, set up wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto, further enhancing the city’s economic and cultural importance.

During my visit, I explored the historic Graham’s Cellars, built in 1890, which sit on a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia with stunning views over the Douro River and the historic center of Porto. My port wine tasting took place in Graham’s fully operational 19th-century cellars, where generations of wines have aged in around 3,200 oak barrels. I even saw wine bottles as old as the cellar itself, continuing to age behind ornate cast iron bars. The bottles were arranged by the year they were produced, and everyone on the tour was eager to find their birth year among them to feel a special connection to the bottled port inside. Unfortunately, I didn’t spot mine and discovered that only the years with award-winning vintages were stored in this particular time capsule, making it extra special for those who did find their birth year.

After the tour, we were led to a sleek, modern tasting room where we were offered two different port wines. I was pleasantly surprised by how sweet yet strong they were, particularly enjoying the crisp, sweet white grape variety. After just two tastings, I could feel the effects of the fortified wine. During the tour, we learned that port wine has a higher alcohol content compared to most other wines because it is fortified with distilled grape spirits during fermentation. This process stops the fermentation before all the sugars are converted into alcohol, resulting in a sweeter wine with a higher alcohol content. The alcohol by volume (ABV) for port wine generally ranges from 19–22%, while dry table wines typically have an ABV of 12–14%.

Vila Nova de Gaia is home to over 30 cellars that offer tours and tastings. I highly recommend visiting and taking a tour, as the hosts are knowledgeable and share a wealth of history and high standards that have made this city's wines famous.

Selfies on the Dom Lois I bridge and in front of Porto's City Hall building.

Stunning Architecture

Porto’s architectural landscape is a captivating blend of historic and contemporary styles, set against the backdrop of its scenic beauty. The city’s winding, cobbled streets are lined with colorful buildings adorned with traditional azulejos—intricately patterned ceramic tiles—that tell stories of the city's past. The Douro River flows beneath the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. This double-deck iron bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, is a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

A visit to the Dom Luís I Bridge is a must for anyone wanting to experience Porto’s stunning views. The bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, offering a unique vantage point over the Douro River and the city’s rolling hills. Crossing the bridge, whether on foot or by tram, is an experience in itself.

The city’s love for mural art is evident in every corner, where walls become canvases for both local and international artists. Porto’s streets are alive with vibrant, large-scale murals that depict everything from cultural symbols to modern social commentaries, adding a dynamic layer to the city’s aesthetic. Walking through the city feels like exploring an open-air gallery, where every turn reveals a new piece of art that blends seamlessly with the historic architecture.

Front entrance of the Mc Donald's Imperial.

Vibrant Culinary Scene

Porto’s food culture is a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old recipes meet modern culinary creativity. The city’s cuisine is deeply rooted in Portuguese heritage, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors. From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, Porto offers a diverse array of dining experiences that showcase the richness of its traditions.

One of my culinary adventures in Porto began at Café Guarany, a historic café that has been a local favorite since 1933. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with an old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Here, I had the chance to sample a variety of popular Portuguese appetizers, starting with fish cakes (bolinhos de bacalhau), a crispy yet tender delicacy made from salted cod and potatoes. Accompanying the fish cakes was an octopus salad, which was fresh and tangy, with tender pieces of octopus dressed in olive oil and vinegar. Not my favorite.

Another interesting stop was at what is often hailed as the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world—McDonald’s Imperial. Located in a grand Art Deco building in the heart of Porto, this McDonald’s is unlike any other. The interior is adorned with chandeliers, ornate woodwork, and stained glass windows, making it feel more like a high-end restaurant than a fast-food joint. The menu, too, offered some unique options not found on the American menu, but I decided to keep it simple and ordered a double cheeseburger to compare the differences. The flavors were familiar, yet the quality of the ingredients and beef seemed a notch above, with a fresher taste and better seasoning.

My food journey continued at La Ricotta, a highly-rated Italian restaurant in Porto known for its impeccable dishes. I opted for the Veal Rump with Fresh Tagliatelle. The veal was perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy, while the tagliatelle, a traditional pasta from the Italian regions of Emilia-Romagna and Marche, was cooked to perfection, offering the right balance of texture and flavor. The entire meal, including a glass of wine and dessert, was under $70, which I found impressively affordable for the quality and experience. Porto’s dining scene not only offers exceptional flavors but also remarkable value, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Each of these experiences provided a different taste of Porto’s vibrant food culture, from traditional Portuguese bites to international flavors, all set against the backdrop of a city that takes pride in its culinary heritage.

Conclusion

I truly believe that Porto is the best city to visit, not only for its unique blend of history, culture, and contemporary vibrancy but also for the sense of connection it fosters with everyone who walks its streets. Porto’s charm lies in its ability to seamlessly weave the past with the present, offering an extraordinary destination where each experience is rich with meaning and depth. From the majestic architecture that tells tales of bygone eras to the modern touches that keep the city lively and dynamic, Porto is a place where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

Porto isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a place you immerse yourself in, a city that invites you to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re gazing at the stunning views from the Dom Luís I Bridge, indulging in a meal at a local eatery, or exploring the artistic expressions that adorn its streets, Porto offers a tapestry of experiences that stay with you long after you’ve left. It’s a city that resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

As you consider your next travel destination, I encourage you to make Porto a priority. Whether you’ve been there before or are planning your first visit, Porto has a way of revealing new layers with each return, always offering something fresh and captivating. I invite you to share your own experiences or ask any questions about visiting Porto—there’s always more to discover and enjoy in this incredible city, and I’m here to help you uncover its many wonders. Porto is a city like no other, and it’s one that you’ll never forget.

Why Porto is the Best City to Visit in Portugal