Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, and is one of the most stunning places in all of Western Europe. It’s often overlooked as most people tend to visit Lisbon (which is gorgeous in its own right), but this is one city that should absolutely be one of your destinations if it isn’t already. Located on the Costa Verde shoreline, Porto is included as a part of a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Here’s what this beautiful city has to offer visitors.
Porto
Clérigos Tower
This is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Located right next to the baroque Clérigos Church this tower stands 250 feet tall and gives the best view in the city, just make sure you wear comfortable shoes in order to climb the 200 steps all the way up.
Clérigos Tower
Crystal Palace Gardens
The Crystal Palace Gardens, known as the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is a gorgeous way to spend the day, especially if it’s a sunny one. Wander through the wind and fountains and take the breathtaking sight of the Duoro River.
Crystal Palace Gardens
Ponte de Dom Luis I
The bridge that links Porto with Gaia is a stunning site on its own. It has a perfect vantage point from both sides of the metro. Many choose to come here to witness a beautiful sunset melt into the bright city lights of the night. You can take a cable car in Gaia and walk the upper level of the bridge back into Porto.
Ponte De Dom Luis I
Ribeira
This is a beautiful little neighborhood where you can stroll around all day long. There’s a square called Praça da Ribeira that’s right on the river. You don’t even really need a plan, just walking around here is an attraction in itself.
Ribeira Porto Portugal
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is hands down one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. You might not know this but J.K. Rowling would come to hang around this store while she was writing the Harry Potter series! That’s probably why the winding staircases in the store are eerily similar to the ones found at Hogwarts.
Livraria Lello
Azulejo Art
Throughout the city, you’ll find Azulejo tiles that are unique to Portugal and decorate homes, buildings, and streets. Porto has an abundance of these tiles, which you’ve definitely seen all around Instagram as well. Popular mosaics featuring the tiles are Igreja do Carmo, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and Estação São Bento.
Azulejo Art
