Porto
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Porto (3 Days)
Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Located in the north of the country, Porto is known for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is situated on the Douro River and is famous for its production of port wine.
Some of the top attractions in Porto include the Ribeira district, which is filled with colorful buildings and narrow streets, the Clérigos Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city, and the Livraria Lello bookstore, which is known for its stunning interior design. Visitors can also take a stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, where many of the port wine cellars are located.
In addition to its historic sites, Porto also has a vibrant culinary scene, with plenty of seafood, traditional Portuguese dishes, and of course, port wine. There are also several museums and cultural institutions in the city, including the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and the Casa da Música.
Overall, Porto is a charming and picturesque city with a rich history and culture, and it is well worth a visit for anyone traveling to Portugal.
Day 1
• Arrive Into Porto Airport (RAK)
The best way to get to Porto is by flying directly into its airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport or simply Porto Airport is an international airport near Porto, Portugal (OPO) as numerous direct flights exists from number of countries. Upon arrival, driver will pick you up and transfer you to a chosen hotel located approximately 20 minutes from the airport
• Hotel Check-in
There is a plethora of the upscale hotels that we recommend.
Vinha Boutique Hotel — Vinha Boutique Hotel is a small boutique hotel where all the details have been carefully prepared for the guests. Surrounded by flowering gardens and lawns, here you can enjoy a sense of wellbeing in a unique and inspiring atmosphere and where the warm hospitality of our staff will enable you to experience some unforgettable moments. Whether it be in the Sisley Paris SPA or Vinha restaurants, every detail will be taken care of so you can replenish your body and soul.
The Editory Artist Baixa Porto Hotel — The Editory Artist is a place of memories, stories, art, creation and creativity. An exclusive 5-star boutique hotel, in a building that continues to make history in the city of Porto. Once a factory, a school and now a hotel inspired by the arts, with a comfortable and contemporary atmosphere.
Torel Palace Porto — True luxury has a name: Torel Palace Porto.
Our elegant palace, in the heart of Porto, is housed in a stunning mansion, which we have transformed into a charming, five-star hotel, with 24 rooms and suites, a restaurant and a swimming pool. At Torel Palace Porto we have a total of 11 rooms and 13 suites , divided into 8 different categories , some of them with a balcony , overlooking the pool or the city.
Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace — You discovered your Portuguese address: historically luxurious and predestined to remarkable travellers. You will discover that this luxury hotel in the heart of Porto, does not have monumental only as a name. Ancient most renowned “café” of Porto since 1930, the Café Monumental, has become the hotel of choice for a high-end stay in Porto. Such as the locals you belong to history by choosing this 5-star hotel exceeding the ordinary, member of Leading Hotels of the World.
The Yeatman — The Yeatman is a luxury wine hotel and spa in Porto with spectacular views over the UNESCO World Heritage city and the Douro River. Member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection of hotels and distinguished with two Michelin Stars, The Yeatman Hotel is widely regarded as the best hotel in Porto and is a unique and distinctive landmark in the world of classic luxury hotels. Set amidst the Port wine lodges, The Yeatman nestles on a hill, overlooking Porto and is set within 7 acres of land, and has outdoor and indoor infinity swimming pools.
Blind put into practice their skills, their Master’s memories, of a constantly evolving world where authenticity and taste are its ultimate expression. The purest way of seeing life. Your senses will be tested through a fresh, renewed, evolutionary and sensitive cuisine. They seek in the detail of each moment, a combination of unique sensations experienced in a relaxed and fun environment.
• Walk around Old Town
The Old Town of Porto, also known as the Ribeira district, is a historic area located on the banks of the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. This picturesque neighborhood is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its narrow winding streets, colorful buildings, and charming old-world atmosphere. The area is full of historic buildings, including the Porto Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. The narrow streets are lined with traditional Portuguese houses, many of which have been converted into restaurants and cafes, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Take some time to explore the narrow streets of the Ribeira, stopping at local shops and cafes to sample traditional Portuguese food and drinks.
• Dinner @ InDiferente Restaurante
It is not in the centre of the city or on the main tourist routes… however, it is worth going to this restaurant, calm, cozy and up-to-date. Angélica Salvador, the young chef of Brazilian origin, gives her personal vision of traditional Portuguese and international cuisine with quite elaborate and very well-presented dishes. She seeks to offer a different and personal proposal, with signature details, making the most of both the wonderful fish that come from the nearby markets of Matosinhos or Aveiro and the fantastic meats of the region.
Day 2
• Breakfast in the Hotel
• Private Tour of Porto
We start at the São Bento Train Station, located in the heart of the city. This beautiful station is known for its impressive tilework, depicting scenes from Portuguese history and culture. From there to the Porto Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture that dates back to the 12th century. Explore the cathedral’s ornate interior and take in the sweeping views of the city from the terrace. Next, we make way down to the Ribeira district, one of the oldest and most picturesque areas of Porto. Stroll along the riverside promenade, admiring the colorful buildings and watching the boats pass by on the Douro River. Visit the Palácio da Bolsa, a grand 19th-century palace that houses the city’s stock exchange. Be sure to check out the stunning Arab Room, a magnificent hall decorated with intricate stucco and tilework.
• Lunch @ Mário Luso
Outstanding local eatery which Mário Moreira dos Santos, known to everyone as Mário Luso, opened here in 1942. Mario Luso is the best example of Portuguese culinary magic, specializing in traditional Portuguese dishes prepared according to old local recipes that distinguish it from the wide range of Portuguese restaurants that line the streets of Vila Nova de Gaia, the restaurant also stands as a rustic reminder of Portuguese heritage through its decor, food and fresh products. And excellent and of high quality.
Livraria Lello is a famous bookstore located in the historic center of Porto, Portugal. It is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world and is known for its collection of rare and antique books, as well as its selection of contemporary titles in both Portuguese and English. It has also hosted literary events and book signings, and was even reportedly a favorite spot of author J.K. Rowling when she lived in Porto.
• Dinner on the Terrace @ Pedro Lemos
Off the beaten path at the mouth of the Douro river is Pedro Lemos’ eponymous restaurant, where the chef serves tasting menus of five or seven courses, as well as an à la carte option. Seafood and game feature heavily on the menu, with degustation dishes including foie gras ravioli, farm-raised quail with mushrooms and asparagus, suckling pig or seabass
• Drink @ Terrace 360
Perched on top of Espaço Porto Cruz, a space developed to celebrate the culture of port wine. Located just of Luís I Bridge, on the Vila Nova de Gaia side, the space offers wine shop, tasting rooms, restaurant and a lovely cocktail bar and rooftop terrace. Modern in decor, with comfy lounge sofas and a fantastic 360º view over the Douro River and the Porto and Gaia riverfronts, the rooftop bar offers innovative ways to taste the Port wine. All in a great and vibrant lounge.
Day 3
• Breakfast in the Hotel
• River Cruise (2h)
As you sail up the Douro River, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Porto’s colorful buildings and historic bridges, as well as the terraced vineyards that line the hillsides. You’ll pass under several of Porto’s iconic bridges, including the Dom Luis I Bridge, which offers a great photo opportunity.
The landscapes along the river and the food are the perfect combo for a memorable experience in Porto. A fire’s kitchen and a mix of flavours are their kitchen’s secret.
• Port Tasting @ Taylor
Cross the Dom Luis I Bridge to visit the Port Wine Cellars on the south bank of the river. Take a tour of one of the cellars and learn about the history and production of Port wine, and then enjoy a tasting of this famous local beverage.
The Casa da Mariquinhas is located in the heart of the city, in front of the Arco de Santana, immortalized by Garret and at the foot of the Sé cathedral. With 50 years of history this mythical site exudes fado by the pores of the granite walls. Through here they passed and continue to pass all the great names of the national fado, without microphones, with the greatest intimacy and proximity to the public, make the Casa da Mariquinhas the ideal place to enjoy the best fado that the Oporto sings and plays, accompanied by the best traditional Portuguese gastronomy by the hand of the Chef. Sandra Santos and the best nectars of our Douro.
