Hola, Porto!
Porto is a historically significant city in the northwestern part of Portugal. It is renowned for its famous landmarks like Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Sé Cathedral. The city's historical centre, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto is also a hub of cultural activities, with numerous museums, galleries, and theatres showcasing the city's rich artistic heritage. The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and the Casa da Música are two of the most popular cultural attractions in the city. The city is a splendid destination for food lovers. The cuisine in Porto reflects its cultural diversity, with influences from the cuisines of Spain and Africa. Visitors can try several local delicacies, including bacalhau (salt cod), Cozido à portuguesa (stew), and Francesinha (a sandwich with cheese and spicy sauce). You can try some of the best local dishes at restaurants like Chama and Muu Steakhouse.
Places to visit in Porto
Porto has something to offer for everybody. IndiGo has compiled a list of the top attractions.
- Ribeira District: The Ribeira District is the heart of Porto and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a historic neighbourhood located on the bank of the River Douro. The district is known for its exquisite and colourful buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and bustling atmosphere. The area is home to many historic buildings, including the Porto Cathedral which dates back to the 12th century, and the iconic Ponte de Dom Luís I bridge.
- Porto Cathedral: Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé do Porto, is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral in Porto. The cathedral boasts a variety of architectural styles, like Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. Its impressive façade features two imposing bell towers and a beautiful rose window. The cathedral also has a little museum that displays religious artefacts and vestments. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the River Douro from the balcony in front of the cathedral.
- Dom Luis I Bridge: The Dom Luis I bridge is an iconic metal bridge that spans the River Douro. It is also known as Ponte Dom Luis I. A Belgian engineer, Théophile Seyrig, designed the bridge. He was a student of Gustave Eiffel. This magnificent bridge was built between 1881 and 1886, and to date, it has remained one of the most prominent bridges. Visitors can also cruise down the river for a richer experience.
- Serralves Museum: The Serralves Museum is a contemporary art museum in Porto's Park. Visitors can enjoy the stunning art collections and the gardens. The museum's collection includes works by international and Portuguese artists, including Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, and Helena Almeida. The building looks otherworldly with its sleek, modern design and vast open spaces.
- Clerigos Tower: The Clérigos Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal. This baroque bell tower was designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. It was completed in 1763 and stands at a height of 75 metres. Visitors can climb the tower's 240 steps to reach the top and enjoy panoramic city views. The tower is an aspect of the Clérigos Church and its adjoining museum.
- Palacio da Bolsa: The Palacio da Bolsa is a stunning 19th-century palace in Porto. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens during the visit. The highlight of Palacio da Bolsa is the unbelievable Arabian Room. This room was built between 1862 and 1880, and intricate carvings, beautiful frescoes, and ornate plasterwork adorn it.
Important things to remember for a trip to Porto
- The currency used in Porto is Euro, so make sure to exchange your currency before you arrive.
- Have a copy of your visa and passport during your visit to the city.
- Porto has a Mediterranean climate, which means summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and rainy. Consider packing according to these seasons.
- Porto has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro.
- Wear comfortable shoes during your visit to the Ribeira District. Many attractions are within walking distance.
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Porto Airport, also known as Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), is the second-largest airport in Portugal after Lisbon and one of the most prominent ones in Europe. IndiGo flights to Porto, launched in codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines, arrive at this airport. It is in Maia, about 11 km from the city centre. Porto Airport has a single Terminal for domestic and international flights. There are a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes in the airport, as well as currency exchange services and ATMs.
Porto Airport is easily accessible by public transportation and private transportation. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the airport Terminal, and car rental agencies are in the airport.
Porto visa requirements
Visitors will need a Schengen visa or a short-term visa for a stay up to 90 days for business or tourism purposes. These are the documents you require while applying for a Schengen/Porto visa -
- A passport. It should be valid for at least six months.
- Your recent passport-size photographs.
- A return ticket. It should show the date of departure.
- Evidence of hotel bookings.
- Travel insurance. That would help to cover medical expenses.
- Testimony for financial support.
- A cover letter explaining the reason for visiting the country.
- A detailed itinerary. It should show the duration of your stay in the city.