Porto, sometimes known as Oporto, is the second largest city in Portugal and is becoming increasingly popular with tourists around the world. It is a historical city and despite its size remains traditionally Portuguese - the country of Portugal is actually named after this city. It is also rich in culture and the arts. J. K Rowling stayed in Porto while writing her first Harry Potter novel. There are hundreds of splendid buildings around the city that are stunning to see - just one of the buildings by itself would be pleasing to look at but with numerous of these architectural works of art in the city wherever you go, it really is quite impressive and really does help Porto to build its characteristic high-class atmosphere. The churches, cathedrals and government buildings are the most elegant and grand of all the buildings. Of those you are able to, try to make sure you can go inside to see these buildings for their real magnificence.
Other than the buildings, Porto has many attractions within the city for visitors to enjoy and be amazed by. There are several renowned art galleries and museums around town that are sure to capture the imagination such as the Serralves Museum which is surrounded by equally remarkable gardens. The Casa da Música is the city's major concert hall with a large auditorium, a small auditorium and a restaurant on the top floor plus various other areas. The Dom Luis I bridge is also one of Porto's iconic structures - originally opened in 1886, the bridge is an award winning iron arch across the river and is the longest of its kind in the world. Other monumental bridges in the city include one created by Gustave Eiffel who later went on to build the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
For the more typical tourist though, there are numerous quality restaurants, cafes and bars throughout the city offering a wide variety of local and international cuisine and wines. You will quickly find that Porto takes the calibre of its food, drink and the general dining experience very seriously indeed. The city also has a vibrant but respectable nightlife for the cultured citizens and visitors. Riberia is a popular part of Porto to enjoy the evening, as is the Cais de Gaia, which offers amazing views of the city and the river. And of course there is the shopping - there are many fashionable and sophisticated big name boutiques from around the world in specialised shopping districts and malls. But whatever you are after, Porto will have it somewhere and ensure that you have a most pleasant time in finding it.
There is so much to do and see in Porto that it makes for an ideal location to come for a holiday. Even if you stay only in the city itself, you will still remain overwhelmed on your last day at the sheer amount and choice that is on display. Porto has almost endless magnificence and quality that you won't be able to see it all. But the experiences you do take away from Porto will be forever memorable, at least until you come back and find out what you missed the first time.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Porto? Then below is a selection of holiday villas in Porto and holiday apartments in Porto that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
