Porto: Admire the breathtaking views of Portugal's lively city

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Porto: Admire the breathtaking views of Portugal's lively city

Enchanting Porto tempts you in every direction. With its buzzing riverfront, sky-high viewpoints such as Miradouro da Vitória and, of course, its port wine cellars, Portugal’s second city has layer after tantalising layer to enjoy. On foot or by tram, explore the twisting lanes of Massarelos and Miragaia, snapping photos of colourful azulejos tiles and street art. Drop into Livraria Lello, arguably the world’s most beautiful bookshop, and gaze as much at the neo-gothic interior as at the books. Next, discover the Douro river itself – take a cruise or indulge in a meal at a waterfront petiscaria (the Portuguese take on tapas bars). Round off your Porto adventure in style by crossing the UNESCO-listed Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia. Here, take a tour of one of the centuries-old port wine producers – known as 'lodges' – that have made this sweet wine famous worldwide. It’s the perfect way to say Saúde! – Cheers! – to this unforgettable city.

35°C

Clear Sky

25%

1.98 m/s

Top Attractions in Porto

Visit the Se, Porto’s iconic cathedral

The grand exterior of Porto’s cathedral, the Se, commands the heights above the great Douro river valley, making its terrace arguably the best viewpoint in this city of incredible views. Inside, seek out the beautiful cloisters, decorated with distinctly Portuguese azulejo tiles. Dating back to the twelfth century, the cathedral was constructed just a few years after Portugal became independent.
Take time out at Ribeira Square

Praça da Ribeira – Ribeira Square – lies at the heart of the old town, Porto’s atmospheric Ribeira district, with its narrow cobbled streets and steep winding alleyways. Restaurant and café tables spill out onto this small but lively waterfront square with its two landmark fountains – the modern Cuba da Ribeira and the eighteenth-century Fonte de Rua de Sao Joao – and great views of the river. Pull up a chair, order a drink and take it all in.
Cross the Luis I Bridge

Designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the iconic Ponte de Don Luis I dominates Porto’s riverfront with its distinctive two tiers. The lattice ironwork bridge connects the Ribeira district with the port wine lodge district of Vila Nova de Gaia, with cars crossing the lower level and trams using the upper deck. Pedestrians can use either, but the best views over the river and city are undoubtedly from the upper level.
Discover maritime history at the Palacio da Bolsa

The ornate nineteenth-century Palacio da Bolsa is a powerful testament to Porto’s rich seafaring heritage. This magnificent building was constructed not for royalty, as you might expect, but for Porto’s trade association. Its lavish interior was designed to wow merchants visiting from overseas. Its glass-roofed Pátio Das Naçoes is lined with the arms of the numerous countries the city traded with, but most impressive is the Sala Arabe, a Moorish-inspired reception room modelled on Granada’s Alhambra.

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