Affordable European city has scenic walks and is 2 hours from the UK

The coastal city of Porto has so much to offer in terms of history, art, and culture, as well as being the producer of the famous ‘Port Wine’. Porto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon with a population of 1,329,000 an increase of 0.3 percent from 2023.

For those who are tempted by the Portuguese city travellers will be pleased to know it’s a short flight.

For those travelling from the UK capital a direct flight to Porto takes just over two hours.

The likes of Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways, Vueling and Tap Portugal all fly daily to the European destinations with flights starting from £46.

Let’s take a look at what Porto has to offer in terms of things to do and eat.

Culture

For those interested in exploring the historic part of Porto, head to the Catedral do Porto or Porto Cathedral. The church was built in the 12th century and completed in the 17th century.

Due to the long construction period, the cathedral features many architectural styles such as Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque. Be sure to visit the gothic cloisture which features traditional Portuguese blue and white tiles.

Looking for something more fast-paced then visit the Palácio da Bolsa, the old stock exchange palace. Now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, travellers can book a guided tour which will take you around the 19th-century building, including the famous Arabian Room.

Art

For travellers interested in exploring the arts, the Serralves Museum and Villa, a Pink 1930s art deco mansion is well worth a visit. As well as the museum and villa, the estate boasts a park and cinema. With various exhibitions and activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Scenic walks

If a slower pace of life is more your style, take your time wandering the narrow, cobbled streets in the Ribeira district. The main square is lined with colourful houses and is home to small bars and restaurants serving up fresh seafood dishes such as grilled sardines.

Porto is also known for its bridges, its’ most famous being the Dom Luís I Bridge which spans the River Duoro, connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take some time to walk across the bridge for a great photo op.

Food and drink

After all the sightseeing travellers going to need something to eat and drink, luckily Porto has so much delicious food and drink to offer you will be spoilt for choice.

Francesinha, a traditional Porto sandwich, is a must-try. Thick slices of white loaf bread house ham, sausage, cheese, and steak. The sandwich is then topped with more cheese, usually taken to the oven to melt, and then a slightly spicy sauce is added on top.

To wet your whistle a drink of famous Port Wine is a must-have. If you’re looking for something stronger, Ginjinha, a Portuguese liqueur, made by infusing Ginja berries with alcohol is a great option. The drink is usually served in a shot form with a piece of fruit at the bottom.