Top 10 Best Of Porto

1. Cais de Gaia
   The city's postcard skyline and the birthplace of one of the world's most famous wines.


2. Serralves Museum
   Two buildings that are as much a work of art as the collections they exhibit inside, surrounded by a magnificent park.


3. São Francisco Church
   One of Europe's most extraordinarily lavish church interiors, completely covered in gold.


4. Ribeira
   Atmospheric, colorful, World Heritage riverfront medieval district.


5. Porto Cathedral
   The 12th-century fortress-cathedral where Prince Henry the Navigator was baptized.


6. Clérigos Tower
   Porto's tallest monument and an iconic landmark overlooking the city.


7. Palácio da Bolsa
   The exuberant interior of the former Stock Exchange Palace.


8. Dom Luís Bridge
   Before the Eiffel Tower, there was this ironwork showpiece.


9. Casa da Música
   An architectural masterwork by world-renowned architect Rem Koolhaas.


10. Soares dos Reis Museum
    A notable national art museum named after one of the country's top artists.

Top 10 Experiences

Look at a "World's Most Beautiful" list and you'll most likely find a refrence to Porto under "world's most beautiful book stores," "world's most beautiful train stations" and "world's most beautiful cafés". Here are the world beauties and other experiences you shouldn't miss in this city:

1. LIVRARIA LELLO
   Go inside this beautiful bookshop, a historic space with a Neo-Gothic interior featuring a grand staircase and stained glass.


2. CAFÉ MAJESTIC
   Have a drink at this classic European Art Nouveau café, which is a Porto landmark.


3. GIGANTIC TILE MURALS
   Admire the gigantic tile panels inside São Bento Station and on the façades of Carmo and Capela das Almas churches.


4. DOURO CRUISE
   Take a cruise or a tour down the World Heritage Douro Valley.


5. ART GALLERIES STREET
   Check out the contemporary art down Rua Miguel Bombarda.


6. TIME-WARP SHOPS
   Shop at the retro shops downtown, many preserving wonderful Art Nouveau façades. Recommended: A Vida Portuguesa and Pérola do Bolhão. More info about them and others on the Porto shopping list.


7. THE LOCAL MARKET
   Browse through the colorful Bolhão Market.


8. THE BEACHES
   The beaches in Lisbon are among that city's top experiences because they are some of the best beaches in Portugal, but many people forget that Porto also has a coastline with some great beaches for the summer days. Take a stroll by the sea in Foz, all the way to Matosinhos, and you'll find the perfect spot for a day in the sun and the sea.


9. THE MONUMENTAL HEART OF THE CITY
   Watch the world go by on Avenida dos Aliados.


10. THE GARDENS OVERLOOKING THE CITY
    Relax at the Crystal Palace Gardens.

10 Great Places to Stay

Porto remains a relatively inexpensive city, and you may stay at some great hotels at half the price of other major European cities. Here are ten of them:

1. The Yeatman
   In a stunning location across the river, this wonderful wine hotel has breathtaking panoramic views of Porto and is an experience worth the trip to the city.
   More details and bookings »


2. Palácio das Cardosas
   This renovated 18th-century palace places you in the heart of Porto. You wake up to a view of the city’s monumental main square, and are within walking distance of most attractions.
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3. Pestana Palácio do Freixo
   The beautiful baroque Freixo Palace dates back to the 1700s but has a modern decor surrounded by the stately architecture. It’s right on the river’s edge and is perfect for those looking to relax on a city break.
   More details and bookings »


4. Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel
   Found in the atmospheric Ribeira district, right on the waterfront, the walls of this romantic hotel date back to the 1500s. There are views of the river, and the Douro cruises depart from right outside the front door.
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5. PortoBay Hotel Teatro
   Those who like to stay in style, should choose this theater-inspired design hotel. It’s right in the center of the city, close to some of the best restaurants and nightlife.
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6. Flores Village
   In a renovated building from the 1700s in the city’s most beautiful pedestrian street, this hotel mixes rooms and apartments in contemporary and classic styles, and offers a wellness center and an indoor pool.
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7. Le Monumental Palace
   A monumental building from 1923, in Porto's most monumental street, is now this (literally) monumental hotel, featuring a luxurious interior blending Porto and Paris styles.
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8. Pensão Favorita
   Right in the heart of the gallery district, this charming hotel combines contemporary and retro-style furnishings. It’s a favorite of those who prefer more intimate spaces.
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9. Hotel Infante de Sagres
   This classic has been able to keep up with the times. Although it has a palatial setting, it manages to have a contemporary feel.
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10. NH Collection Porto Batalha
    Facing the city’s main classic theater and looking over Batalha Square, this hotel has light-filled rooms in a simple contemporary style.
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