Welcome
to Porto!
"Historical, Noble, Always Loyal & Unvanquished"
About the City
Why is Porto a unique Erasmus+ destination?
Architectural & Scenic Beauty
Stroll through the colorful Ribeira district along the Douro River. Explore historic streets, bridges, and panoramic viewpoints that showcase Porto’s charm.
Historic Significance
Porto dates back to the 12th century and has played a crucial role in Portuguese history. Known as “a Invicta” (Undefeated) for resisting the Miguelist siege in 1832. D. Pedro IV left his heart to the city as a tribute to its loyalty and bravery.
Port Wine & Gastronomy
World-famous port wine cellars offer tastings and tours. Thriving food scene featuring fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes.
Vibrant Culture & Atmosphere
Friendly locals and lively streets make Porto a vibrant, welcoming city. Rich cultural heritage blended with modern urban life creates an unforgettable experience.
Come Discover Porto with us!
Explore 100+ courses in our UNESCO Cities: Algarve, Aveiro, Azores Island, Lisbon, Madeira Island, Porto, Malaga, Seville, Valencia and Kraków.
Planned Courses in Porto
Founded in 1123 and located in the North of Portugal, it's the country's second-largest metropolis after the capital, Lisboa.
A Little History
Nestled along the Douro River in northern Portugal, Porto boasts a rich tapestry of history that weaves through its narrow cobbled streets, monumental bridges, and the storied port wine cellars that have long been the lifeblood of the region. Known for its stately baroque churches, neoclassical buildings, and the bustling Ribeira District, Porto’s historical depth is as profound as the river that shapes its landscape.
The origins of Porto stretch back to Roman times, when it was a bustling outpost known as Portus Cale. This ancient name, hinting at the deep harbors that sheltered Roman ships, is thought to be the origin of the name Portugal itself, pointing to Porto’s significance in the nation’s identity. Over the centuries, Porto grew in importance due to its strategic position on the Douro River, which facilitated trade and contact with different civilizations across the Mediterranean and beyond.
The Middle Ages saw Porto evolving into a significant commercial hub, with its status cemented by the marriage of Prince Henry the Navigator’s mother, Philippa of Lancaster, to King John I of Portugal in 1387. This union not only strengthened Portugal’s ties with England (oldest country-alliance in the world) but also heralded the beginning of the Age of Discoveries, during which Porto’s shipyards contributed to the exploration of unknown parts of the world.
Although Porto was never fully under prolonged Moorish control, Moorish influence can be seen in architectural elements, such as decorative tile patterns (azulejos), arches, and fortifications.
Some street layouts and fortresses reflect the defensive strategies introduced during the Moorish period in northern Portugal.
Cultural influences also extended to crafts, agriculture, and cuisine, leaving subtle traces that blend with later Portuguese traditions.
Today, Porto’s historic center subtly showcases this fusion of Moorish and Portuguese styles, enriching its architectural and cultural heritage.
Porto seamlessly blends its medieval streets, historic buildings, and traditional neighborhoods with contemporary architecture, trendy cafés, and modern cultural spaces.
Visitors can admire centuries-old landmarks like Clérigos Tower and São Bento Station while enjoying vibrant art galleries, innovative restaurants, and lively nightlife.
This mix of old and new gives Porto a unique personality, where history and modern life coexist harmoniously.
Porto is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its cultural vibrancy, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The city is a living museum, where medieval relics coexist with modern innovations. Porto’s historic center, characterized by its Baroque churches adorned with azulejos (ceramic tiles), narrow medieval alleys, and grand squares, tells the story of a city that has always been a crossroads of cultures.
As visitors wander through the D. Luis I Bridge, explore the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore, the 12th century Sé Cathedral, or sip on a glass of fine port wine overlooking the Douro, they are partaking in the legacy of Porto—a city that has preserved its soul through the ages, offering a window into the essence of Portugal itself.
Let's get to the good part, shall we?
Below you can find a super helpful article compilation that will tell you everything you need to know about Porto (what to visit, where to eat, what to enjoy!)
By Taxi / Ride-Apps
Taxi: About 20–25 minutes depending on traffic. Cost: ~€20–25.
Uber / Bolt / Free Now: Similar duration with slightly cheaper price.
By Bus
Bus Line 601 – Direct connection from Porto Airport to Trindade Metro Station.
Frequency: every 30 minutes
Duration: ~30–35 minutes
Cost: ~€2
By Metro
Take the Metro (Line E – Purple) from Aeroporto station.
Get off at Trindade station (about 30 minutes).
Metro tickets cost ~€2.
Ribeira District
The historic heart of Porto, Ribeira is a picturesque waterfront area with colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and charming cafés overlooking the Douro River.
Dom Luís I Bridge
An iconic double-deck metal bridge connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, offering stunning views of the city and river, especially at sunset.
Aliados Avenue
Porto’s grand central avenue, lined with impressive neoclassical buildings, cafés, and the iconic Porto City Hall. A vibrant hub for events, parades, and a great starting point for exploring the city.
Livraria Lello
One of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, known for its neo-Gothic architecture, grand staircase, and stunning stained-glass ceiling. A must-visit for book lovers.
Clérigos Tower
Climb the 225 steps to the top of this baroque bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and the Douro River.
Palácio da Bolsa
This neoclassical building, once the stock exchange, boasts an opulent Arabian Hall and impressive architecture, making it a significant cultural and historical site.
São Bento Train Station
One of the most beautiful train stations in the world, famous for its stunning azulejo (blue tile) murals that depict historical events in Portuguese history.
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
A Romanesque cathedral with impressive architecture, stunning views, and a cloister decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles.
Bolhão Market
A lively, historic, traditional market where you can buy local cheeses, cured meats, fresh produce, and regional delicacies.
Vila Nova de Gaia & Port Wine Cellars
Just across the river from Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is home to famous Port wine cellars where visitors can enjoy guided tastings and learn about the wine-making process.
Foz do Douro
A scenic coastal district with sandy beaches, a beautiful promenade, and excellent seafood restaurants, perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.
Serralves Museum & Gardens
A contemporary art museum set in lush gardens, featuring exhibitions, modern installations, and an elegant 1930s villa.
Majestic Café (An iconic Belle Époque café, perfect for coffee, pastries, and a taste of Porto’s history)
Taxca (Famous for bifanas, caldo verde and other delicious petiscos, offering an authentic taste of Porto’s street food culture)
Adega São Nicolau (Traditional Portuguese cuisine, known for dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and octopus rice)
Cervejaria Brasão (Popular for francesinha, Porto’s iconic sandwich layered with meats, cheese, and beer sauce)
The Yeatman Restaurant (A fine-dining experience with incredible views over Porto, specializing in high-end Portuguese cuisine)
Douro River Cruise
Take a boat tour along the Douro River to admire Porto’s skyline and the vineyard-covered hills of the Douro Valley.
Port Wine Tasting
Visit one of the many wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia to taste Porto’s famous fortified wine.
Fado Music Nights
Experience traditional Portuguese fado music in intimate venues like Casa da Guitarra or Casa do Fado.
Galerias Nightlife
Porto’s “Piolho” and Galeria de Paris streets are filled with bars, rooftop lounges, and clubs for a fun night out.
São João Festival (June 23-24)
Porto’s biggest annual folk festival (over 600 years old), features fireworks, street parties (and the unique tradition of hitting people on the head with plastic hammers).
Sunsets and Viewpoints
Stunning sunset spots like Jardim do Morro and Palácio de Cristal, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Douro River and city skyline.
Parque da Cidade
Porto’s largest urban park, a peaceful retreat with lakes, walking trails, and lush greenery, extending all the way to the Atlantic coast.
Football at Estádio do Dragão
Watch a match at FC Porto’s stadium and experience the passion of Portuguese football.
Porto Awards
Portugal Awards 2020 (27 awards)
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