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Tour the Wonders of a Historic Port City
Nestled along the banks of the Douro River, Porto and the North region of Portugal boasts a rich history, delicious food and wine, trendy rooftop bars and lush gardens. From fascinating street art to spirited nightlife and long walks among towering baroque churches, Porto and the North offers a little bit of everything for the world-weary traveller. Discover the unique experiences and adventures you can have on a trip to Porto and Portugal's northern region to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.
Things to Do in Porto and the North
Enjoy Beaches and Adventure
Known for its Blue Flag beaches and sunshine, Portugal's North region is a premier destination for fun in the sun. The coastal areas offer spectacular beaches that are perfect for a couple's day out or an afternoon of play and swimming with the kids. If you're looking for more adventure, the coastline is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can try all types of adrenaline-fueled sports, such as surfing, bodyboarding and windsurfing. Deep-sea fishing is also a popular experience to enjoy some of the region's delicious seafood from the cool sea waters.
Take Historic and Architectural City Tours
In Porto, medieval relics branch out from the lively historic centre of the city. An architectural tour is a must on a trip to Porto, whether you choose to walk or bike through the city, take a tram or sail along the river in a nostalgic Rabelo boat. During your tour, be sure to see highlights like the 6 bridges of the city, the Church of São Francisco, the Palácio da Bolsa, the medieval Ribeira and Miragaia streets and the Casa da Musica. To learn a little more about the city's history and culture, explore the Casa do Infante.
Sample Food and Wine on a Tour
The untamed slopes of the valley were instrumental in creating Portugal's most-prized wine, port wine. The successful viticulture in Portugal was a result of centuries of work creating terraces for vines. During a trip to the wine valley, you can see the stunning river landscape and sample delicious wines and gourmet meals that pair perfectly, all within renovated historic homes and buildings. For a touch of romance, plan a scenic train ride to the region, or enjoy a quiet river cruise.
See the Region by Boat
Providing the region with its fine wine, rich crops and fascinating heritage, the Douro River is the heart of the North. Taking a boat tour is the best way to experience the beauty of the landscape and architecture of the region. You can find river cruises from tour companies that take you past important sites, such as the 6 bridges, to experience the scenery and historic charm of the city from a unique perspective. There are plenty of places to stop and sample the cuisine and Portugal's prized delicacies, such as Francesinha and Tripas à moda do Porto.
Practice Your Swing at Golf Courses
If you want to play some golf on your holiday, the northern region offers championship courses in the mountains and near the ocean. You can find premier golf courses in Vidago, Amarante, Esposende, Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia and Ponte de Lima, all with their own unique charm. You can choose among courses along the banks of the river and its period homes and buildings, or you can opt for seaside courses that immerse you in the charm of an old seafaring city. Finally, there are the coastal strip golf courses that give you spectacular views while you play your round.
Shop Your Heart Out in Porto
As the North's capital city, Porto is a paradise for shoppers. You'll find everything from traditional goods to multinational brands and creative offerings from up-and-coming artists and artisans. No matter your budget, you can find shopping destinations at the right price point to bring home unique treasures. Stick with your favourites or look for new fashion options, unique jewellery, traditional crafts and high-quality shoes. Porto's city centre is the top shopping area, complete with a range of designer brands, vintage stores, traditional vendors and numerous souvenir shops.
Plan Your Porto and the North Trip
Getting to Porto
As the North's capital city, Porto has extensive transport options to get you to your destination and around the region. You can reach Porto by plane, bus or car. Once there, you can travel by car or take a river cruise to get to different cities and areas within the region. If you're staying close, you can take a tram or rent a bike to get around and experience the city at your own pace. The city is walkable as well, so you can take your time exploring hidden alleyways and off-the-beaten-track attractions.
When to Visit Porto and the North
Porto and the North has a moderate climate, so there's no bad time of year to visit. The best times for good weather are the spring and summer, from May to September, when it's warm and sunny. If you want to avoid peak times, it's best to visit in early spring or fall when there's still beautiful weather but fewer travellers.
Practical Information for Visiting Porto
If you're planning a trip to Porto and the North region, it's best to set aside a few days to explore. With so much to see and do, it's smart to plan in advance to make sure you have enough time to enjoy all the attractions and experiences you're interested in, especially if you're exploring the larger region outside of the capital. Ideally, you'll want at least a week to enjoy all that the region has to offer.
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