Portugal’s second largest city lies in the northwest of the country on the Atlantic coast. Among its many attractions, the city is famous for its Port wine.

Porto is also called the city of bridges (Cidade das Pontes), currently six bridges connect it to Vila Nova de Gaia, famous for its cellars on the southern bank of the river. The historic city center is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

I have been two days in Porto, the travelogue is here!

Porto attractions

Vila Nova de Gaia

The section running along the southern bank of the Douro River offers a great view of the old town, and there are also many wineries here. In addition, there are many cafes and restaurants on the promenade.

White-washed inscriptions on red roof tiles, huge illuminated neon letters at night, and names decorating the sails of characteristic barco rabelos boats standing on the shore all advertise the major British wine trading companies (Taylor, Graham, Cockburn, Sandeman).

You can also book a cellar visit, with presentations combined with tastings available at various prices.

Make sure to visit the Espaço Porto Cruz shop! Everything here is about wine, and the rooftop terrace offers a great view of the city.

Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte Luís I)

The iconic double-deck cast iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto’s historic center with Vila Nova de Gaia.

The upper level carries trams and pedestrians, while the lower level is for car and pedestrian traffic. Its total length is 385 meters, with the main arch spanning 172 meters. Its upper level is 45 meters above the river, providing a stunning view of both cities.

Gaia Cable Car (Téléphérique de Gaia)

The cable car connects the upper level of Dom Luís I Bridge with the riverside promenade of Vila Nova de Gaia. There are many cafes and bars around the lower station.

It covers the 600-meter distance in 5 minutes with a 59-meter elevation change. There’s a beautiful view of the opposite Ribeira quarter during the ride.

All information here!

Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar

The 17th-century monastery is located on a hill not far from the southern part of the bridge and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The circular church was likely inspired by the Roman Pantheon in Italy. The interior of the church is also circular, which is rare in Portugal.

The view of the old town from here is the most beautiful, as it overlooks the opposite side from a higher point than the bridge.

Access: Take metro „D” to Jardim do Morro station.

Church of Saint Francis (Igreja Monumento de Sao Francisco)

The oldest church in the city. It doesn’t show much from the outside, but it’s very special.

Its construction began at the end of the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century. It’s basically Gothic in style, with the interior of the church richly decorated in Baroque style in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Stock Exchange Palace (Palácio da Bolsa)

The Stock Exchange Palace, standing next to the Church of Saint Francis, is the most visited building in the city.

Its construction began in 1842 and lasted for more than 60 years, initiated by the Porto Chamber of Commerce. Its architectural style is eclectic, incorporating neoclassical and neo-Romanesque elements.

Its most famous room is the Sala Árabe, the Arab Room, which is a gold-decorated room where guests were formerly received.

It can only be visited as part of a guided tour!

All information here!

Clerigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos)

The 75-meter-high granite clock tower was built in the 18th century. It’s a symbol of Porto for many.

It stands next to the Igreja dos Clérigos, the Clerigos Church, and it’s called the „tower of the clerics” because its construction was financed by priests.

A spiral staircase leads up to the top through six floors, offering a good view. The viewing platform is paid, and the entrance ticket also allows access to the Clérigos Museum.

All information here!

São Bento Railway Station

The 19th-century train station is famous for its elaborately crafted azulejo tiles in the main hall.

The frescoes made of more than 20,000 tiles depict significant moments in Portuguese history.

Ribeira

The old town west of the Dom Luís I Bridge is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Viewed from the river, this ancient city core is a colorful and lively sight, most beautiful in the afternoon sun.

The houses, alleys, and churches clustered around the former riverside fish market provide a truly diverse cityscape. It’s worth wandering around the district for an hour or two, as there are many good restaurants and lots to see here!

Guindais Funicular (Funicular dos Guindais)

It connects Riberia and Batalha quarters in just 2 minutes. The journey offers a great view of the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge.

Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)

The Porto Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Its construction began in the 12th century and continued for several hundred years, incorporating various styles.

The cathedral’s facade is dominated by two massive towers, one of which still retains features of the Romanesque style. In the 14th century, a Gothic-style chapel was added, famous for its special windows and vaults. There’s also a baptistery chapel rebuilt in Baroque style in the 17th century.

Casa da Musica

Various musical performances are held in this building, opened in 2005.

The building itself is worth seeing, symbolizing modern architecture with its irregular shape. It’s possible to participate in guided tours.

Access: Take metro A, B, C, E, F to Casa da Música station.

Livraria Lello Bookstore

This beautiful bookstore is considered one of the most beautiful of its kind in the world. However, the store is famous for something else too.

JK Rowling lived and taught English in the city for years. Several locations in the Harry Potter novels were inspired by this place. The stairs of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the novel were clearly inspired by the bookstore’s interior.

Because of this, the bookstore’s tourist traffic has greatly increased. You need to purchase a 5 euro redeemable entry ticket to enter the store. This can be bought at the Armazéns do Castelo shop two buildings away or online.

Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas)

The azulejo-covered church is one of Portugal’s characteristics with its blue color.

Tile-covered churches can be found elsewhere, but in Portugal, white with blue painting became established. This church also shines in these colors, covered with 15,947 tiles.

Among the scenes depicted on the tiles are St. Francis preaching to the birds, the martyrdom of St. Catherine, as well as other biblical scenes and moments from the lives of saints.

Bolhao Market (Mercado do Bolhão)

Porto’s largest market where we can also taste products from local producers.

We can find all kinds of products, if we want to buy souvenirs, it’s worth looking around here.

Serralves Museum (Fundação Serralves)

We can see works by 20th-century contemporary artists here. Its building was designed by famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira in a modernist style.

It’s worth looking around not only inside the building, as there are many creations in its garden too. The park covers more than 18 hectares and includes various sections, sculptures, and ponds.

Access: Take bus 203 to Serralves stop.

All information here!

Tram Museum (Museu do Carro Elétrico)

It showcases Porto’s iconic means of transport and its history. It opened in 1992 in the building of the former Massarelos tram depot, which is itself of historical significance.

In addition to numerous beautifully restored trams, we can also admire the old network transformer and distribution station. There are more than 20 historical trams dating from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.

The entrance fee is cheaper if you have an Andante Card, Port Card, or tram ticket!

All information here!

Access: Take tram 1 or 18, or bus 500 to Museu C. Eléctrico stop.

Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico do Porto)

A beautifully landscaped garden. Excellent for a relaxing walk. We can also see exhibitions about wildlife in a gallery.

Entry is free!

Access: Take bus 200, 204, or 207 to Jardim Botânico stop.

Crystal Park (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal)

Porto’s most beautiful park, if you have free time, it’s definitely worth visiting for a peaceful walk.

From the southern part of the park, there’s a very beautiful view of the Douro River and the opposite bank.

Access: Take bus 200, 201, 207, 208, 507, or 601 to Palácio stop.

Felgueiras Lighthouse (Farol das Felgueiras)

Porto’s iconic lighthouse is located at the mouth of the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean.

In calm weather, it’s very pleasant to walk and relax here, and it’s great to sunbathe on the nearby beach at such times. It’s worth coming out in slightly windy weather too, as the wind induces huge waves rising high with great force. This is also a beautiful sight!

Access: Take tram 1 to Passeio Alegre stop.

Fortaleza de São João da Foz

This 16th-century fortress, located near the lighthouse, was built against pirates and other attacks.

It has remained in good condition and although it’s a small area, it’s worth a short walk.

Port wine

Port wine is among Porto’s attractions. It’s a somewhat interesting phrasing, but the wine is an integral part of the city and world-famous.

It’s made from grapes grown about 100 kilometers from Porto, in the upper Douro River region, in a Mediterranean climate tending towards continental.

The wine produced in the Douro Valley was traditionally floated down the lower, navigable section of the river on galleys to the estuary to be aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia – nowadays, the harvested grapes are transported there, and the finished wine is also bottled there.

Interestingly, although it’s produced in Portugal, it’s considered a sort of „national drink” of the English.

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On March 18th, a Saturday late afternoon, my Wizz Air flight left from Budapest, landing at 7.30 PM.

To get to the city center, there’s a direct train, and tickets can be bought from a machine. It’s available in English and offers two types of tickets: single journey and a 24-hour Andante card. The card itself costs 0.60 euros, the 24-hour pass 7.55 euros. The city is divided into zones, and you should choose the z4.

The tickets need to be touched to the yellow sensor at the metro station; if it’s okay, the indicator lights up green. It’s important to validate again when transferring from one metro to another. There’s no need to touch in when getting off (both metro and bus). There were several ticket inspections, so it’s not worth fare-dodging.

On Sunday morning, I started from my accommodation in a bit of fog, which soon cleared up and it became sunny. The main attractions in the downtown are close, so it’s possible to walk around.

The main attraction, of course, is the Luis I Bridge (Ponte Luis I), and the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar towering above it. The view from there is the most beautiful. Go there not only during the day but also at sunset, as the view is splendid both times!

From there, I walked down to the riverside, to the famous Vila Nova cellars. The view of the opposite Ribeira district and the bridge is also excellent from there.

Portuguese are very religious, so it’s no wonder that there are many churches. Quite a few are decorated with typically blue tiles, among which the Capela das Almas and the Igreja do Carmo are perhaps the most beautiful.

I also visited the Livraria Lello, known from Harry Potter, but I didn’t go in because there was a terribly long queue both days. I preferred to walk around rather than stand in line.

Next to the library is the Clerigos Tower, which also serves as a lookout. From here you can take tram 18 to the oceanfront.

On Sunday afternoon, I „popped into” the main hall of the Sao Bento railway station, where you can also see blue tiles.

Then I took a bus to the oceanfront and the lighthouse on the western edge of the city. Bus 500 starts from Sao Bento and is popular with tourists. It’s a double-decker bus, so it can be called a tourist bus. It travels along the Duero River, so I highly recommend it for the view!

Trams 1 and 18 also go to the oceanfront, but the day pass is not valid for this. You have to buy the ticket from the ticket inspector when boarding.

On the way back, I visited the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal gardens. Both the view and the garden are very beautiful.

On Monday morning, I took the metro to the Porto football team’s stadium, the Dragon Stadium (Estádio do Dragão). You can have a limited view into the stadium. Football fans should definitely visit! (It’s about a 10-minute metro ride from the downtown.)

I had an early lunch at the Bolhao market. It’s located at the entrance of the Bolhao metro station, where most tourists go. Nevertheless, the prices are fair.

The plane to Madeira left at 17:45, so I had plenty of time until about 15:00. I walked around, sat down on the Cais da Ribeira riverside promenade, and enjoyed the sunshine and the 20 degrees.

Overall, Porto is a pleasant place, similar to Lisbon. A perfect choice for a few days’ trip!

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The 15 most beautiful cities in the world

Bruges

This small Belgian city is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited! It’s no coincidence that a famous film describes it as a fairy tale.

Often referred to as the Venice of the North, Bruges is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and canal system. One of the best ways to explore the city is by boat, allowing you to see numerous historical buildings and charming bridges.

The historic center, with its impressive medieval buildings and the famous Belfry tower, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers many wonders.

Bruges attractions

Best museums in Bruges

Kyoto

One of Japan’s most magical cities, Kyoto is famous for its stunning temples, traditional teahouses, and well-preserved historic districts.

The city is home to more than 1,600 Buddhist temples and hundreds of Shinto shrines. Among these, the Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, stands out with its gleaming gold-leaf temple set in the middle of a pond. Another notable temple is Kiyomizu-dera, which features a waterfall and breathtaking views.

Japanese gardens and nature play a significant role in Kyoto’s life, with zen gardens being particularly famous.

Kyoto attractions, weather

My trip in Kyoto

Paris

Of course, one of the world’s most famous cities cannot be left out. The French capital is also one of the most romantic places.

Paris is a popular tourist destination, which is no surprise since it is considered one of the world’s four major cities. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame are names known to everyone, but there are many more beautiful sights to explore.

Paris attractions

Best museums in Paris

A long weekend in Paris

Cape Town

The jewel of South Africa, Cape Town is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, nestled at the foot of a mountain along the coastline.

Table Mountain is one of the most iconic natural attractions in Cape Town. Visitors can reach the summit by cable car or on foot, enjoying breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

Another significant attraction is the V&A Waterfront, a beautiful harbor area with restaurants, shops, and hotels, home to Africa’s largest contemporary art museum.

Cape Town attractions, weather

Porto

From Portugal, I didn’t choose Lisbon, although it’s a city with a great atmosphere, but Porto appealed to me more.

The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with stunning sights and narrow cobblestone streets. The Ribeira district is particularly worth exploring, with many shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Another main tourist attraction in Porto is the port wine cellars, located across the Douro River in Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s a great experience to sit down with a glass of wine and enjoy the view of the Dom Luís I Bridge and the surrounding area.

Porto attractions

Two-day trip to Porto

Queenstown

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Situated beautifully on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The city is famous for its thrilling jet boat rides on the Shotover River, racing through canyons. In the winter months, it becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding.

In addition to active adventures, it’s an excellent place for relaxation. The nearby wine regions, such as Gibbston Valley, are famous for their Pinot Noir wines.

Florence

The heart of Tuscany is known as the cradle of the Renaissance, and its architectural and artistic heritage make it one of the most beautiful cities.

Its symbol is the cathedral, renowned for its massive dome, intricate marble decorations, and impressive interiors, which are integral to Florence’s cityscape. We can admire this from Michelangelo Square, the best viewpoint.

Among its museums, the Uffizi Gallery stands out, showcasing works by Botticelli and Michelangelo. Additionally, the Palazzo Pitti should not be missed, as the palace and gardens reflect the power and taste of the Medici family.

Florence attractions

Best museums in Florence

San Francisco

The most charming city on the west coast of the USA, though I believe many would rank it first.

The Golden Gate Bridge is naturally its most famous landmark, offering stunning views of the city, the surrounding bay, and Alcatraz Island, which once housed America’s most notorious prison and now operates as a museum.

In this hilly city, be sure to try the iconic cable car, which connects downtown to the waterfront area, Fisherman’s Wharf. For a truly enjoyable ride, stand on the steps and hold onto the rail!

A must-see photo spot is Lombard Street, one of the world’s steepest and most winding streets, beautifully lined with landscaped gardens.

San Francisco attractions

USA West Coast trip – part 1: San Francisco

Prague

The capital of the Czech Republic boasts one of Europe’s most beautiful old town areas, filled with Gothic architecture.

Everyone knows the Charles Bridge, Prague’s iconic structure. The bridge is always bustling with local artists, musicians, and street vendors, making the walk a memorable experience.

Overlooking the city is the world’s largest castle complex, which includes St. Vitus Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. The view of the city from here is breathtaking.

And of course, a visit to a pub or brewery is a must! Czech beers are widely recognized for their quality, and you can sample them in many small pubs.

Prague attractions

Prague (beer) trip – Two and a half days in one of my favorite cities

Singapore

The city-state in Southeast Asia is a model of modernity, cleanliness, and innovation. The vibrant culture and futuristic architectural style create a fantastic atmosphere in Singapore.

The skyline is defined by the Marina Bay Sands building, with a stunning view from its rooftop observation deck and infinity pool.

It has become one of my favorite places; it’s a spectacular city in every aspect. Singapore places great emphasis on eco-conscious living, resulting in numerous green spaces.

Singapore attractions

Rome

The Eternal City is almost mandatory to include on this list! Italy’s capital offers a wealth of ancient monuments.

When we mention Rome, everyone thinks of the Colosseum. However, this is just one of many sights! Everywhere you turn, you’ll find a magnificent ancient attraction or a church, not to mention the Vatican!

Rome attractions

Rome in a day and a half

Vancouver

Located on the western coast of British Columbia, Canada, Vancouver is one of the most popular North American cities for both nature lovers and city dwellers. The city is famous for its mountainous backdrop and multicultural community.

Vancouver also places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, leading in green initiatives and technologies. Its goal is to become the world’s greenest city by 2050. Even today, it is considered one of the most livable places in the world.

Vancouver attractions, weather

Marrakesh

Nestled at the foot of the beautiful Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.

One of Morocco’s iconic cities, it is also known as the Red City due to the distinctive terracotta color of its walls. Its center is Jemaa el-Fnaa square, home to one of Africa’s largest and most famous markets.

The city is also known for its historical landmarks, such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city and its symbol.

Marrakesh attractions

Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is often underrated on lists because it’s not a large city.

Yet, it remains a personal favorite! Besides its beautiful buildings, it has a unique atmosphere that can’t be described – you have to visit to feel it!

The old town best preserves its medieval character, especially along the famous Royal Mile, which stretches from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the castle. The street is filled with historical buildings, churches, and museums.

Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural life is driven by its year-round festivals, notably the Edinburgh Festival in August and the Fringe, the world’s largest international arts festival.

Edinburgh attractions

Budapest

Hungary’s capital isn’t on this list just because I live in this country. 🙂

Tourist data also shows that it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Just think of the castle, which alone holds numerous attractions. The view of the city and the Parliament is also fantastic!

Additionally, Budapest is famous for its baths. Many thermal baths await tourists, with the Széchenyi, Rudas, and Gellért baths standing out.

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Travel and wine

Porto

Port wine. You’ve probably heard of it, and it’s not hard to guess where it comes from.

The vineyards are located along the Douro River, about 100 km from Porto. The wine was then floated down to Porto on boats, where it was aged in the famous cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Today, on the river’s left bank, there are rows of cellars and wine bars waiting for tourists, offering a magnificent view of the old town and the iconic Luis I Bridge.

Porto attractions

Tuscany

The region centered around Florence is not only one of the most beautiful places in Italy but also the cradle of Italian wine culture.

The mountains and valleys of the Apennines have created numerous different microclimates, which are favorable for viticulture. As a result, several famous wines are produced in Tuscany.

The most well-known Italian wine, Chianti, comes from here. This wine-producing area extends to specific municipalities in the central part of the region. Here, you can find many small wineries and cellars where, in addition to wine, you can enjoy the wonderful sights of Tuscany.

Best places in Tuscany

Bordeaux

The French city is famous for its red wine, and it’s no coincidence that there is a large wine museum here.

It’s the largest wine region in France, where thousands (!) of wineries produce wines. These are the famous chateaux. About 89% of the wines here are red.

In Bordeaux, you can „sip” some of the best quality red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

I visited in February 2020. My main goal was to enjoy a good red wine on the terrace of a local bar. I must say, it wasn’t cheap, but the two glasses of Sauvignon on the pedestrian street of the city center left me completely satisfied.

Best places in France

Malaga

The center of the Costa del Sol or the sunny coast became famous for its wines centuries ago.

The region typically produces high-alcohol wines, making it a perfect destination for sweet wine lovers in the Andalusian city.

The region mainly specializes in white wines, with the most famous types being Moscatel, Pedro Ximénez, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc.

Malaga attractions

Best museums in Malaga

Malaga, where we can escape in winter

Napa Valley (California)

To not only recommend European “wine places”, let’s hop over to North America, where one of the USA’s most beautiful places is also a renowned wine region.

Northeast of San Francisco, we find one of the world’s most famous wine-producing regions, the Napa Valley.

Interestingly, the region only became world-famous as a wine-producing area a few decades ago. Although there were wineries in the mid-19th century, it only gained fame after the 1976 Paris Wine Tasting.

And like everything in the USA, they made a real show out of this. With the Napa Valley Wine Train, you can tour the region with a fantastic view. And of course, on the train, experts introduce the region’s grape varieties and wines.

Provence (France)

Provence, a historic region of Southern France north of the Cote d’Azur.

Viticulture here was not introduced by the ancient Romans, but by the Greeks, creating one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world.

The area itself is among the most beautiful. It is often said that vineyard workers must have good morale, as they can see the French Riviera when they look up.

Provence is world-famous for its rosé wine, specifically because here the grapes are grown explicitly for this type of wine. (In most places, rosé is a by-product of red wine production.)

The region has five famous wines, of which Syrah is perhaps the most well-known to us.

Best places in France

Madeira

You’ve probably heard of Madeira, a liqueur wine produced on this Portuguese island.

Legend has it that it was discovered when English sailors took a large quantity of wine from the island, and during the long journey, the beverage matured to a particularly flavorful state in the warm, sealed barrels.

Vine cultivation takes place on the terraced northern and southern slopes, where the vines are almost exclusively hand-cultivated.

Madeira can be made from eight types of grapes, including the well-known Muscat. The resulting liqueur wine has an alcohol content of 17-20%.

Madeira attractions, hikes

My experience in Madeira

Santorini

Now, you might be surprised to see one of the most beautiful and romantic Greek islands on the list.

Considering that Santorini is a volcanic island, it’s not so surprising. The island’s Assyrtiko white wine is world-famous.

The grape is special not only because of the volcanic soil but also because it grows in a basket shape due to the strong winds. These give a distinctive flavor to the wine.

Santorini attractions, beaches

Lavaux (Switzerland)

The vineyard region located on the northern shore of Lake Geneva has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007.

The south-facing hillside, with its moderate climate and limestone soil, provides ideal conditions for viticulture and winemaking. Spanning 898 hectares, around ten thousand stone-walled terraces stretch along the gently sloping lakeshore between Lausanne and Montreux. The region’s most famous grape variety is Chasselas.

The vast vineyards on the hillside and the sparkling blue waters of Lake Geneva offer a breathtaking view.

Best places in Switzerland

Kakheti (Georgia)

You probably wouldn’t think that there’s a famous wine-producing region in this Caucasian country!

Yet the region has more than 500 grape varieties! Wines are made using the traditional qvevri method. This method involves fermentation and aging in clay jars, a practice with centuries-old traditions.

Among its most famous varieties are Saperavi, which produces deep red, rich-flavored wines, and Rkatsiteli, which yields fresh, fruity white wines.

Best places in Georgia

Stellenbosch (South Africa)

This region, located 50 km from Cape Town, is popular among tourists, with many wine tasting tours organized here.

It’s particularly known for its quality red wines, among which Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinotage stand out. The latter is a South African variety that originates from crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsault.

Best places in South Africa

Mendoza (Argentina)

One of the country’s most significant cities is located in the western part of the country, at the foot of the Andes.

The region is famous for its unique microclimate, shaped by high altitude and meltwater from the Andes, creating ideal conditions for grape growing.

Among its wines, Malbec stands out, producing deep-colored, rich, and fruity red wines. The region also produces excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Torrontés wines.

Best places in Argentina

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Having visited several times and in various places myself, I can also confirm the above statement. It’s one of the most pleasant countries I have been to.

Best places in Portugal

Porto

Although it’s usual to start with the capital, I’ll begin with Porto. Many consider it one of the most atmospheric cities in Europe.

Located along the Douro River, this city is the center of Portuguese wines. When visiting Porto, don’t miss the Vila Nova de Gaia district, where wine bars and cellars line up one after another!

The Ribeira district captures the essence of Porto’s past. Its alleys hide many bars and cafés, transforming into a lively area at night.

And of course, the Lello bookstore is a must-visit! Not familiar with the name? Then you might not know the Harry Potter series. Hogwarts’ staircase was modeled after the stairs in this bookstore.

Porto attractions

Lisbon

Perhaps this capital city should be the first stop. The city is crisscrossed by charming, old-school trams that have become a tourist attraction, with their unique design becoming a symbol of Lisbon.

In the city’s famous districts (Alfama, Bairro Alto, Baixa), immerse yourself in the narrow, atmospheric streets, where numerous bars, restaurants, and cafés evoke the true Portuguese spirit.

Lisbon is permeated with the era of great maritime discoveries. The memory of these times can be seen in many places, which have become popular tourist destinations.

Lisbon attractions

Madeira

There is an island between the Azores and Canary Islands that is a mix of a jungle and a botanical garden.

For those who love active relaxation and hiking, Madeira is the perfect terrain. The outstanding routes are the levadas, where you can hike along lengthy water channels.

Wonderful vegetation, quaint villages, and beautiful viewpoints await those who choose this island!

Madeira attractions, hikes

Óbidos

This town near the capital is famous for its city walls and castle, which were originally built by the Moors in the 8th century.

The city walls were severely damaged in the earthquake of 1775, but fortunately, they were beautifully restored in the mid-20th century. You can walk along the high city walls.

Óbidos was the town of the Portuguese queens until 1833, being the personal property of the queens. Therefore, it was given special attention.

For chocolate lovers, the best time to visit is during spring. The International Chocolate Festival here is one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Azores

There is an archipelago between Europe and America, which I think many people would like to visit. Often referred to as Europe’s Hawaii, it’s not an exaggeration to call it a paradise for nature lovers.

Each of the nine islands in the area offers something new. On one, you can find fantastic crater lakes, or calderas, on another, high green cliffs with cascading waterfalls. There are also volcanic caves, climbable volcanic mountains, and volcanic lava beaches.

In short, for those who want to explore a wild, beautiful landscape, the Azores are a perfect choice!

Azores attractions

Praia da Falesia

And while we’re in the Algarve region, we cannot miss out on a popular and fantastic beach, which rightly ranks among Europe’s most beautiful coastlines.

The beach between Albufeira and Quarteira is popular not just for its sand and turquoise water. Behind the beach, red cliffs rise, at the foot of which we can enjoy relaxation.

Lagos

One of the most beautiful cities in Portugal’s popular holiday region, the Algarve.

Lagos was the main starting point for Portuguese exploratory voyages in the 15th century. This is why the city’s promenade is called the Avenue of the Discoverers.

The city center is situated around a lagoon where you can stroll beside beautiful yachts. The city has a long, sandy beach, one of the most beautiful in Portugal.

However, its most famous part is not this, but Ponta da Piedade. It consists of several rock formations with caves. There’s a beautiful view of the ocean from above.

Sintra

West of Lisbon, there is a town famous for its colorful palace.

The palace, once the summer residence of the Portuguese kings, sits atop a hill offering fantastic views. The castle is seen in many colors, as each tower and balcony is painted differently.

Fortunately, it’s easily accessible by train from Lisbon, making it an unmissable attraction!

Évora

Located to the east of Lisbon, this city has a history spanning about 2000 years. It was a favorite residence of the Portuguese kings until the Spanish occupation.

Several architectural styles are noticeable throughout the city, easily discovered while walking around. It became a significant settlement during Roman times and later fell into the hands of the Moors. Évora’s historical quarter is part of UNESCO’s cultural world heritage.

Many consider the city and the Alentejo region to be the most beautiful part of Portugal.

Coimbra

If you’re traveling by train between Porto and Lisbon, it’s worth stopping for a few hours in this wonderful small town.

In the old town, on a hill, rises Portugal’s first university. The building, in Manueline style, was originally the palace of King John III. The university’s library (Biblioteca Joanina) is a popular attraction, with beautiful rooms to explore.

Immerse yourself in the hilly neighborhood of the old town, where charming little alleys hide great restaurants and bars.

Aveiro

Also found on the Lisbon-Porto railway line, this city is considered by many to be the most beautiful coastal town.

It’s not without reason that it’s called the Venice of Portugal. Although it might be a bit of an exaggeration, the canals, bridges, and boating do lend a certain similarity.

The city is great for a few hours of exploration, where you can also observe the famous Portuguese tiles, the azulejos, on the houses.

Braga

Located northeast of Porto, this city is home to nearly 300 churches, earning it the nickname „the Portuguese Rome„.

Its most famous church is the Bom Jesus Cathedral, a few kilometers from the city, which has been part of the cultural world heritage since 2019. In the city center, the Sé is the most imposing, with the Manueline style being the most prominent.

In addition, the city’s numerous historic streets and the remarkable Raio Palace all contribute to Braga’s unique atmosphere.

Mafra

This small town northwest of Lisbon is renowned for its magnificent palace, placing it among the most beautiful places.

The Mafra National Palace, a baroque building complex, served as a royal residence, monastery, and basilica. The palace and monastery boast a vast library, holding more than 36,000 volumes.

The town’s surroundings are also stunning, with the nearby Tapada Nacional de Mafra serving as a nature reserve, an ideal spot for excursions.

Sortelha

This village near the Spanish border is among Portugal’s best-preserved medieval settlements.

Medieval walls surround the village, situated on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Sortelha’s most distinctive feature is its well-preserved stone houses and narrow, winding streets.

Amarante

To the west of Porto, one can find a truly charming small town.

The town lies along the Tâmega River, famous for its picturesque beauty and bridges. Amarante is best known for the Church of Saint Gonçalo, with its exceptionally beautiful interior.

Additionally, it is a center for wine and gastronomy tourism, especially famous for its Vinho Verde wine, made from native Portuguese grapes, offering an authentic tasting experience.

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