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Welcome to Porto!

Porto lies on the banks of river Douro , and it’s the second biggest city of Portugal in terms of population. Its name and history are deeply bound to the rest of the country. From the name of its port, Portus Cale, derived the name of the entire nation: Portogallo. It was from the territories north of the river Douro, where the Christian outposts were settled, that the Reconquista began, and set the country free from the Arab occupation. As the main city of north Portugal, Porto boasts an important tradition as cultural and economic centre, bound to trade and naval construction. These activities played a fundamental role in the numerous expeditions of the XV century and also in the production of the renowned wine Porto, which made the city famous all over the world.

The austere aspect which characterizes the Old Town, probably determined by the granite material used to build churches, monuments and civil buildings, has been slowly losing its decadent look, thanks to an important renewal project aiming at the recovery of the whole area. This project was inaugurated with the official recognition of Porto as World Protected Heritage by Unesco in 1996. Afterwards, the restoration started, involving huge constructions works: 5 underground lines and the restyling of the upper level of the bridge Dom Luis I were recently completed, as well as the recovery of the southern bank of river Douro, which hosts the cellars of Porto di Vilanova de Gaia. This place has now turned into a lively meeting point for the citizens.

In March 2009 also began the restoration of many churches and monuments. The religious buildings are mainly characterized by the baroque style, thanks to the consistent contribute of the Italian architect Nicola Nasoni (the author of the Torre dos Clerigos, the Loggia and the Igreja da Misericórdia), and by the splendid azulejos , which cover almost every facade of churches and palaces. Here, more than in any other place in Portugal, azulejos represent a distinctive architectural element. If you have few time available, try to make a sightseeing tour around Porto, so you can admire the decorated façades of the Igreja da Misericórdia, Igreja da Massarelos, Sé, Igreja de Santa Clara, capela das Almas, igreja do Carmo, igreja de Santo Ildefonso; igreja dos Congregados and the Estaçao de São Bento, where the most recent azulejos represent scenes of ordinary life and battles.
Around Praça de Gomes Teixeirathe city university district, can be found the highest concentration of tascas, the typical Portuguese restaurants serving rural homemade dishes, which have the most competitive prices of the country.
But the most characteristic place in Porto is certainly the lively and joyful Ribeira, the district lying close behind the river and spread with bars, pubs, stands selling fish and vegetables. This is the ideal place for a walk, or for a moment of relax, looking at the rabelos crossing the river from bank to bank or lying moored in the pier. From the bridge Dom Luís I you can enjoy one of the most suggestive views over the river and the old district.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the wine cellar Vila Nova de Gaia, on the south bank of the river, just opposite the Ribeira. Here you can choose among a very wide selection of Porto, and visit the huge cellars where the prestigious wine is produced..
Porto propone anche una ricca offerta culturale fatta di musei, mostre di arte contemporanea, festival musicali e cinematografici, che la rendono appetibile in ogni stagione dell'anno.

Porto boasts a rich cultural offer, including museums, contemporary art exhibitions, music and film festivals, and many other events which make the city suitable for a visit all year round.

As opposed to Lisbon, Porto’s austere and sober aspect may not immediately seduce the visitor, but its charm will gradually come out, and rest assured that you will be finally and deeply took over.