Porto, Portugal
Even without its UNESCO World Heritage ranking, Portugal’s second city would be a historic gem in its own right.
Located slap bang on the mouth of the Douro river in Northern Portugal, the city has more than its fair share of antiquities, with Roman, Celtic and Moorish influences along the way. Today, it’s a modern trading city with an ancient heart contained inside a 14th century wall.
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Destination overview
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| Language: | Portuguese | |
| Currency: | Euro | |
| Time zone: | GMT (Summer GMT +1 hour) | |
| Flight Time: | 2 hours 15 mins | |
| Holiday type: | Sightseeing | |
| Weather: | Average maximum temperature: 14.5°C Rainfall: 1260.4mm a year |
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Airport Information
| Airport Name | Code | Distance to City |
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Must see:
If modern architecture’s your thing, head straight for the Rem Koolhaus-designed Casa da Musica concert hall – an 21st century icon if ever there was one.
Must eat at:
Get more than a slice of local culture at Dom Tonho on the Cais de Ribeira in the Old Town. As well as a corking view, you can eat safe in the knowledge the restaurant is said to be owned by a local rock star.
Must be there for:
The Festival of St John on the night of 23/24 June sees the whole town come together for a decent knees-up.
Well-travelled tips:
- If you’re into public sculpture, check out the eye-catching waterfront installation known as She Changes. It spans some 150 metres.
- The Porto metro system is one of the best ways to get around. Its 5 lines help make it the country’s largest.
Visa:
Not required for British citizens.
