Portuguese Learning Community and Resources

The northern city of Porto will be unlike anywhere you visit in Portugal. Its beauty can be seen everywhere from the tiled buildings to the famous Porto bridges, and lively streets. Over several days of eating local food and cruising under, around, and over its unique bridges, we fell in love! After reading about some of the best things to do in Porto, it’s sure to be at the top of your Portugal itinerary!

                                               6 things YOU need to experience in Porto!

1. STROLL THROUGH THE CAIS DA RIBEIRA

Porto's Cais da Ribeira is my favorite place in Porto. Considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area on the banks of the Douro River is a unique place. Its colorful buildings of medieval architecture tell the local history of when the country was still an important colonizing nation. Today, Porto's Cais da Ribeira is the most visited place in the city, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cafes, perfect to be visited on a sunset evening.

*Source: Canva

2. WATCH THE SUNSET AT JARDIM DO MORRO

Sunsets are a truly magical time of day, and sunsets in Porto are very special. There is no other place in Portugal where people clap their hands for the sun! The place speaks for itself!

*Source: Canva

3. EAT A FRANCESINHA

This one is for all sandwich lovers! Francesinha is a Portuguese sandwich that has its origins in the city of Porto. The sandwich consists of pieces of beef steak, French sausages, and cured meat topped with cheese and beer sauce, usually served with French fries. Francesinha is very popular in Porto and there are a few restaurants and eateries that claim to make the best Francesinha in Porto.

*Source: Canva

4. SURF AT MATOSINHOS BEACH

Do you like surfing? Matosinhos beach is considered the best surfing beach in the north of the country! Maritime climate with mild winters (13oC) and hot summers (28oC). The water temperature varies between 14oC in the winter and 19oC during the summer months. The biggest waves are between the months of November to April. The summer months bring smaller waves and are thus perfect for learning. You can find several surf schools along the beach at very affordable prices that provide you with all the materials.

*Source: Canva

5. EXPLORE PORTO PORTUGAL OLD TOWN

There’s nowhere better to stay and explore in Porto than its old historic district. Here you’ll have access to great museums, the best food, and the famous Ribeira walkway. The old town is situated on a hill so expect a bit of an adventure if you’re staying here. Yet, it will become one with endless colors and stunning architecture!

*Source: Canva

6. WALK ACROSS THE LUIS I BRIDGE

The Douro River is crossed by several bridges as it passes through Porto. The most famous of them is the Don Luis I Bridge (Ponte Dom Luís I in Portuguese), which links the city with Vila Nova de Gaia. Inaugurated at the end of the 19th century, this iron bridge is one of the most emblematic images of Porto.

*Source: Canva

I hope I have inspired you to visit Porto! Which city do you want to see next? :)