Portugal Travel Guide – How to Fully Enjoy the Charm of Porto

Porto, a captivating city in northern Portugal, is a destination that offers breathtaking experiences simply by walking through its streets. With the Douro River, red rooftops, and azulejo tiles blending harmoniously, this UNESCO World Heritage city may be small in size but is packed with sights and culinary delights. Start your journey at São Bento Station, where walls adorned with azulejo tiles depict Portugal's history, making the station itself feel like a work of art. Just a 5-minute walk from the station is Livraria Lello, a bookstore famous for inspiring Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling. While there is an entrance fee, it can be reimbursed with a book purchase, so don’t miss exploring its interior. Climbing the Clérigos Tower offers a panoramic view of Porto. Though you’ll need to ascend over 200 steps, the stunning scenery of red rooftops and the Douro River makes it well worth the effort. The Ribeira district along the Douro River is beautiful during the day, but its charm truly shines during sunset. Strolling along the riverbank and enjoying a meal with a glass of Port wine at one of the cafes or restaurants is a highlight of any Porto trip. Crossing the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for a winery tour (such as Sandeman or Taylor’s) is a must for wine enthusiasts. When it comes to food, the local sandwich Francesinha and the egg tart Pastel de Nata are iconic. Even those bought from local markets or small bakeries are of high quality. Porto is best explored on foot rather than by public transport, and comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the hilly terrain. A 2-3 day or 3-4 day itinerary is sufficient to cover the main attractions, and adding nearby cities like Braga or Guimarães can make your trip even more enriching. 📍Address: Praça da Liberdade, 4000-322 Porto, Portugal