In 2017, the Portuguese seaside city of Porto was voted “Best European Destination” by the online travel site, actually the third time it has received this distinction.
With its picture postcard skyline and colorful combinations, it’s a visual paradise and with a food and wine scene second to none! Like Lisbon, it’s best to explore on foot.
Many Attractions for Visitors
Porto has many attractions for visitors, like the Avenida dos Aliados, which is the main hub of downtown Porto. And Ribeira is one of the most attractive districts from which to take a cruise on the Douro River. The Church of Sao Francisco is one of the most important Gothic churches in the city with an intricate Baroque interior covered in gilt carvings.
The 19th-century Palacio da Bolsa and its Salao Arabe (Arab Hall), the Hall of Nations and the grand staircase are all stunning attractions. Climb to the top of the Clerigos Tower, one of the local landmarks, and from the top you have a fantastic view of the city. The Lello Bookshop is known for its staircases that inspired the author of the Harry Potter series.
A Gastronomic Explosion
An extremely exciting place for eating and drinking, the city is having a gastronomic explosion, with magnificent food markets, retro cafes, upscale bistros offering creative petiscos (small plates), and family-run tascas (taverns) dishing up Atlantic-fresh fish.
With food tours and cooking classes gallore, olive-oil workshops, wine tastings and Gaia’s port cellars, you’ve got one of Europe’s tastiest cities.
Weather Conditions in Porto
With mild temperatures moderated by the cool Atlantic breezes, July is the hottest month in Porto with average highs in the mid to upper 70’s while January is the coldest with highs near 60.
The rainiest month is December with an average of 7 inches accumulation. Ocean temperatures are brisk with the warmest month being September with an average sea temperature of 65°.
