Top Things to Do in Porto: Portugal’s Cultural Gem

Porto is a historic Portuguese city, a beautiful assemblage of history, culture and charm, second largest in the country. A city widely recognizable through its colorful riverside, cobbled streets, and the world-renowned wine, Porto is a very obvious choice in the list of destinations where every traveler can enjoy a true experience of Europe. About the citizens of the UAE who intend to travel, the Portugal visa application UAE procedure will be the start of finding out this wonderful city. After obtaining your travel papers, you will now be prepared to dive right into what Porto can offer you, including a historical background of architecture and good food.

1. Walk in Ribeira District

The most famous neighborhood in Porto is Ribeira, the UNESCO World Heritage. It is an ideal place where you can start your visit as the colorful facades, narrow streets, and picturesque views along the river make it worth visiting. Take a stroll by the river Douro, with street entertainers, cafes and restaurants adding energy to the place. It is the perfect spot to take pictures, spend an evening having a light meal or just relax and soak in the ambiance of the area.

2. Make a visit to the Dom Luis Bridge I

The Dom Luis I Bridge is an architectural master as it links Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Constructed during the 19 th century, it provides breath taking panoramas of town and the Douro River along the upper deck. This is a free bridge where you can cross to the other side and views of sunsets here are incredible. Don&#39t forget to take some photos, this bridge is one of the most recognizable in the Porto.

3. Visit Lello Bookshop

Livraria Lello is a book store that any book lover would die in heaven as it is most definitely one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. You feel like you are entering a storybook with its Neo-Gothic walled exterior, elaborate wooden staircase, and the stained-glass ceiling. As the legend goes about, this bookstore inspired even J.K. Rowling when she lived in Porto. It does get crowded however the magical atmosphere is worth visiting.

4. Partake of the well-known Port Wine

Port wine is synonymous with Porto and visiting the place is not complete without tasting this much-known beverage. Go across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia, to old wine cellars which have tours and tastings. Discover how the grapes to the glass process works and have the chance of tasting different styles of Ports-- the sweet and rich, to the dry and complex.

5. Be awed by the Azulejos at the Railway Station of Sao Bento

The São Bento Railway Station is not just an ordinary transport station but it is an art gallery. The walls of the station are decorated with more than 20 000 blue/white azulejo tiles illustrating Portugal history and culture. This station is worth visiting even in case you are not on the list of those waiting to get in a train because of its beautiful architecture and the masterpiece of artworks.

6. Desfrute os Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

Looking for a little peace away from the crowds of the streets, then go to the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. These pretty landscaped gardens have walking trails, fountains, and views over the Douro River. It’s perfect place for picnics, a great reading spot or just relax in the middle of the city to enjoy the nature.

7. Eat Francesinha

Food plays a very significant role in the charisma of Porto so Francesinha is one of the dishes you cannot miss. It is a heavy sandwich that utilises layers of meat, and is smothered with melted cheese before being topped with a heavy tomato and beer sauce. It is normally enjoyed with fries and can only be enjoyed in a local traditional restaurants.

8. A Douro River Cruise Take

There is a river cruise taking you to observe the city of Porto in a different way. Through the brief “six bridges” excursions on the riverfront, you can capture the skyline and historic bridges in the city of Porto and enjoy the views of the neighborhoods along the water. In case you are less pressed on time, take a longer cruise and enjoy the Douro Valley with beautiful landscapes which is the wine country of Portugal.

9. Find out the Clrigo Tower

Clerigos Tower is the skyline representation of Porto. Scale its 240 steps to get a panoramic 360 degree view of the city and beyond. They include the Clericos Church and its tower built during the 18th century, a tower that you can visit.

10. Go shopping to Mercado do Bolhao

To get the flavour of the area, you can visit the market especially Mercado do Bolhau which is the historical market of Porto. There are vendors that sell fresh products, seafood, cheeses, and flowers, and hand-made items. It is the best place to shop as souvenirs or traditional Portuguese snacks.

Last Travelling Hints

The city of Porto is the one that is old-world mixed with the bright energy of the present day. Whether it is the sipping of Port wine along the river or getting lost on some of the old alley ways each corner of this city is memorable. To get your travel comfortable, secure your booking early, well before the actual trip, including flights and accommodation, but most importantly your Portugal visa, which of course you can and must do through the Go Kite Travel Portugal visa seeking facilitation who have been a trusted travel ally of the UAE travellers. When one is properly prepared, they can have a good time in any given moment in this gem of a cultural site in Portugal.