ABOUT
Porto is the second-largest city of Portugal, with a population of around 230 000 inhabitants and combines a strong cultural heritage with growing research and development activities, offering visitors scenery with plenty to see. Porto is the centre of a metropolitan area of great vitality with a population of around 1,7 million and it is known for its unique combination of tradition and modernity as well as for its cuisine and wines (including the world famous port wines).
The city lies on the right bank of the Douro River and its historical centre (four main areas: Sé, Miragaia, S. Nicolau and Vitória) was awarded UNESCO World Heritage in 1996 due to its numerous Medieval, Baroque and Neo Classic monuments. But it is on the narrower streets where the unique atmosphere of old Porto is to be found, where “cultural heritage” can be seen, felt and grasped.
The people of Porto received in the 15th century the honourable nickname of “Tripeiros” (tripe eaters), since all the good meat was sent for the men who went to conquer Ceuta in 1415 (Portugal’s first stronghold in Africa) and later to those who went in caravels to discover other lands. So the inhabitants of Porto only had the tripes of the cow to eat. That’s how the most typical dish – tripe Porto style – came into being.
In 2001, Porto was the host for the European Capital of Culture that offered a great opportunity for the city to boost its cultural events and benefit from the social and economic advancements that came along. It is fair to say that there is a Porto before and after 2001 as this was the starting point of a cosmopolitan and culturally active city. As a result of holding this title, the city of Porto also witnessed an extensive renovation and rehabilitation projects involving a team of renowned architects and engineers.
Porto is also the starting point for exploring the Douro river in an unforgettable upstream journey where nature has been vigorous, solemn and profound. The Port vineyards are planted along the steep and spectacular hills overlooking the Douro river. The Alto Douro Wine Region has also been considered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
BEST EUROPEAN DESTINATION & LEADING CITY BREAK DESTINATION
Portugal is the best European Destination 2023 (it is the 6th time it has been voted as the best European Destination since 2017).
The city of Porto has been elected as the World’s Leading City Break Destination 2023 by World Travel Awards 2023. Porto, the vibrant gem nestled along the Douro River in Portugal, stands proud as a multi-award-winning destination, capturing the hearts of travellers with its unique blend of historic charm and contemporary allure. Recognized as the “Europe’s Leading City Break Destination” in both 2020 and 2023, and crowned as the “World’s Leading City Destination” in 2022, Porto is a city that unfolds a narrative of rich history and modern sophistication.
The accolade of “Europe’s Leading City Break Destination” for multiple years attests to Porto’s ability to provide an exceptional short escape. Visitors are welcomed by Porto’s captivating cityscape, featuring the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, historic Ribeira district, and the renowned wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Each corner of Porto narrates tales of centuries past, creating an atmosphere that resonates with cultural richness and architectural splendor.
