Porto, our favorites so you don’t miss anything!

Porto, who doesn't know this garnet-colored, slightly sweet drink, delicious as an aperitif or dessert? However, Porto is not just that and can be discovered in a thousand ways through traditions, lively streets and natural landscapes that will amaze you. Follow us in Porto, we present our favorites so you don't miss anything !

Photo report: Canva

Porto, what if we listened to Fado ?

Born in the heart of the Lisbon district, Portuguese Fado is a nostalgic song that evokes the pain felt by sailors in exile. Integrated into national traditions, it is sung today in the streets, shops, bars or restaurants which cannot do without a Fado singer and her shawl, accompanied by two guitarras. The most famous remains Amália Rodrigues, a 20th century artist who was able to passionately transport the art of Fado to the world level.

Porto, an unmissable boat cruise

Impossible to miss this typical activity on the Douro River which crosses Porto. Aboard a rabelo , a traditional boat used to transport wine barrels from the Douro Valley to Vila Nova de Gaia for aging, you discover the city seen from the river. For 1 to 1.5 hours , the history of Porto is told to you by a soundtrack or a passionate guide who answers all your questions. During your cruise you pass under the 6 bridges of Porto and if you book in the evening, you will surely have the chance to admire a magnificent sunset over Porto and the Douro.

Porto and the visit to the cellars

Needless to say, the city of Porto is above all famous… for its port ! It's hard to imagine a stay in the region without visiting a few cellars! Direction Vila Nova de Gaia where the aging cellars of the precious beverage are located. On site, around twenty houses offer guided tours with passionate professionals or audio guides so you can do it at your own pace. Cultivation of vines, grape varieties, types of soil and vinification, the production will no longer hold any secrets for you! Don't forget the tasting, some cellars offer a view of the Douro and some tapas to nibble on to accompany the port. If you fall for this delicious purple liquid , stock up in Portuguese cellars. Not only do you bring back a souvenir of your stay, but the prices are also more attractive than in France, the opportunity to treat yourself without depriving yourself.

Porto, the ideal city for a shopping trip

Plan a day to wander the streets of the city center and the historic center in search of the best souvenir to bring back from Porto. Beyond shopping, it's also a good way to immerse yourself in Portuguese culture and traditions . We no longer mention port wine which is an obvious part of the shopping trip, but it is not the only product to pack in your luggage. Canned sardines are also delicious and renowned for their pretty tins , which some people collect. Azulejos of course, blue earthenware tiles are a must-have present on the majority of religious monuments in Porto. The world's leading producer of cork , Portugal uses it to create handbags, jewelry or decorations that are soft to the touch and light to wear. The city is ideal for satisfying your window shopping desires , as are the many huge shopping centers in which there are sometimes supermarkets, cinemas and indoor play areas. To your wallet, it's time to do some shopping before going home!

Porto, a gourmet stop at the Bolhão market

You will be amazed and full of taste buds in this typical market, one of the oldest in Porto. More than a market, it is a real place of life and meeting where conviviality and good humor are as much appreciated as fresh products and specialties . Wander between the 80 stands , shops and restaurants , take a fika break and take the time to chat with the merchants, they will be delighted to provide you with information and who knows, you might be allowed to try some Portuguese delicacies ! Ask the Porto tourist office, many events are organized in the markets, offering a special and festive atmosphere to this emblematic place.

We hope that you enjoyed our favorites in Porto , and that we made you want to go back and visit everything!

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