The greatness of cities is measured by the dreams they create. By this standard, although it is neither capital nor covers a vast territory, Porto is a large city. His name, carried by his wine across the oceans, resonates all over the world. But Porto is much more than what dreams make of it. Its architecture, its history, its culture, its people, finally, go beyond what they can promise. For the third time in 5 years (after 2012 and 2014) the city has once again been declared the best European destination in 2017. In short, a weekend idea all found!
When you arrive, you may be surprised by the size of the city, (it is a real regional metropolis) and by its vigorous relief. Once you get used to it, it will be difficult to leave this atmosphere where life is good, where history and contemporary meet. In Porto, if you can walk a lot, you can eat (very) well without breaking the bank, cafés and pastelarias invite you to take gourmet breaks throughout the day, art galleries and shops offer lots of new things, streets and bridges invite you to take a walk and museums bring culture and beauty. Not to mention that the sea is nearby and that, on sunny days, a (invigorating) swim will not be too much.
A unique heritage
In 1996, the former area of the medieval village, which in the 14th century was surrounded by the ramparts, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This area corresponds to the city centre where Porto's oldest and most colourful buildings are located, as well as about a hundred sites of cultural and tourist interest.
The Dom Luis Ier bridge, this admirable double-arched arch bridge, inaugurated on 31 October 1886 after six years of work, was not built by Gustave Eiffel, but by his partner Teófilo Seyrig. If for the inhabitants of Porto it goes without saying that it is the Dom Luis I Bridge, the appearance of the building - with its immense metal arches - encourages travellers to continue to call it the "Eiffel Bridge"!
The Sé (Cathedral) and the Episcopal Palace have been the heart of the city for more than ten centuries. They frame a square at the top of the upper town, where a pillory stands. The complex is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In its architectural heterogeneity, we find the marks of the city's evolution into onion skins. The Cathedral (Sé) is one of the oldest buildings in Porto. Its construction, which began in the mid-12th century, lasted more than 50 years. Next door, the Episcopal Palace is a real palace, but no king has ever resided there. It has always been the home of the bishops of Porto. Inside, the monumental granite staircase is particularly remarkable. Also noteworthy is the Throne Room where, unlike the name, only the bishops of Porto are enthroned, a very surreal Hall of Mirrors and finally, a breathtaking view of the Douro.
But the emblematic monument of Porto is the Torre dos Clerigos (Tower of the Clerics). Even if seen from the west, the tower seems to rise alone, it is strictly speaking the bell tower of the church of the Clerigos, built from 1732 to 1763. All in granite and marble, with its 75 m high, it was the tallest building in Portugal when it was built. It is still the highest bell tower in the country. The sailors used it for a long time as bitter to go up the Douro. The tower is open to the public, at least to those who want to climb the 240 steps that lead to its summit. From up there, beautiful 360° view.
It will also be necessary to take a look at the São Bento station, considered one of the 10 most beautiful in the world (and the most beautiful in Portugal) with its large lost steps room nicely decorated with azulejos created by Jorge Colaço in 1914. After a visit to the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) and the Bolhão Market, you can take a look at the Casa da Música, designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, which is divided by its external appearance. Finally, the Serralves Museum hosts the greatest names in contemporary art (in 1990, Gilberto Zorrio; in 1991, Tapiès, in 2016, Miró). In a building designed by Siza Vieira, the permanent collection includes the works of more than 600 artists. Outside, the 18-hectare park offers an opportunity for a walk not to be missed. In short, an essential place to discover and appreciate!
A gastronomic and oenological destination
One of the characteristics of the complicity between Portugal and France undoubtedly comes from the same adoration for the pleasures of the table. Without being as sophisticated as French cuisine, Portuguese cuisine includes generous rustic dishes prepared with very fresh and natural products.
In Porto, it could not be any different. The seaside city has several restaurants specialising in fish and seafood, as well as many cafés and tascas (popular restaurants) from which the customer is always satisfied. Cod is of course present, but baked octopus with potatoes is also a delight not to be missed. Meat lovers will have the choice between the tripas à moda do Porto (the tripas à la mode de Porto) and the francesinha, a kind of well-filled croque-monsieur with sausage, escalope and ham. It is also impossible not to let yourself be tempted by the sweets. Between conventual pastries and countless small biscuits or creamy cakes, the choice is difficult. Here, more than anywhere else, greed is a sin!
In addition to the good food, the Portuguese are also lovers of good wines. Good, because the northern region is very well known in this field. Port wine is undoubtedly one of the most famous in the world and amateurs or simply curious can appreciate here more than anywhere else all the existing varieties. In Vila Nova de Gaia, on the other side of the Douro where the cellars are located, the manufacturers open their doors to tourists and organise presentation and tasting sessions. We will be able to appreciate wines aged 10, 20 or 30 years, as well as special vintages. Apart from the cellars, all the good restaurants and garrafeiras (shops specialising in wine and other strong spirits) have a wide choice.
Beyond Port, the Douro's wines (red or white) are also among the most sought-after in the country. Finally, vinho verde, which is not green as its name might suggest, but a young, slightly sparkling white wine made in the Minho region is also highly appreciated all over the world: it is one of the most exported Portuguese wines
Attacking the Douro Valley
It is in the region bounded by the Douro Valley that the wine estates (quintas) are located - some of which are open to visitors - which cultivate the vines used for the production of Port or Douro wines. This beautiful region is also culturally rich and there are several cities of historical interest, such as Lamego or Amarante. Several agencies organize tours in the magnificent Douro Valley and, during the summer months, boat cruises are numerous. In 2001, the whole region was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A smart tip, this region is to be discovered at harvest time, you can even participate in the grape picking on some farms. An unforgettable experience! Like a weekend in this unique city.
Smart info
When? When? Temperatures are quite mild all year round. July and August are quite hot, but the evenings are always pleasantly refreshed by the Atlantic air. Spring and autumn often have very beautiful periods of sunshine.
Getting there. The flight between Paris and Porto takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes.
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