Opening the Door to Porto

*A sun-drenched lunch at Cafe do Cais, featuring Gamas ao Alho and Pimnetos Padron*

It should be easy to see how the Portuguese city of Porto has sparked a love affair with us. Every street, it seems, every glance around a corner awards the traveller with a surprise. The charm, history, cleanliness, friendly folk and innovative bars and restaurants. This is a city of alleys and nooks that delight the senses.

Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and is more lush and cooler during the hot summer months than compared to Lisbon or the Algarve. It’s easily accessible via its international airport, as well as by road and rail from Lisbon. Getting into the city is a cinch with the subway connection linking the airport.

Speaking of transportation, if you arrive by rail be prepared for a free treat upon arrival: São Bento railway station has some of the most amazing tile work and murals depicting important moments in the country’s history. The station, constructed in 1904 and designed by architect José Marques da Silva, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and as a National Monument of Portugal.

If you’re into Airbnb accommodation you’ll be spoiled for choice. We found a spacious two bedroom flat with plenty of colonial touches and a large dining room and modern kitchen right in the city centre (message us for the details as it’s a special savvy find)!

The dining and shopping options are limitless. You’ll also find cheaper prices and more gentler people compared to Lisbon. Finally, make time for many tastings of…what else - Portuguese port. You’ll be amazed at the options available!

Must Visit:

Lunch

Cafe do Cais, Cais da Estiva 101A, 4050-243 Porto
Riverfront views and breezes. The burgers, Gambas ao Alho (garlic shrimp) and Pimentos Padron (padron peppers) are highly recommended. Friendly service

Dinner

Mistu, R. do Comércio do Porto 161, 4050-430 Porto
Housed in a former locksmith’s shop behind the Stock Exchange Palace, this is one of the top restaurants in Porto. Try the tuna tartar, ceviche and sea bass. For the more adventurous: grilled tiger prawn, cuttlefish risotto and seaweed. Afterwards, head to the downstairs bar for a night cap prepared by the skilled and hospitable staff. Exceptional! Says Mistu: “Several gastronomic cultures of the World with references of Asia and South America arrive at the table with a dash of portugalidade. Chef Rui Mingatos seduces the palate with a mix of sensations to explore.”

Grazing

Mercado do Bolhão. R. Formosa 322, 4000-248 Porto
Lovely covered market. For coffee, lunch and gifts. The origins of the Bolhão Market, one of the most iconic buildings of the city of Porto, date back to the mid-19th Century, when the Porto City Council decided to build a market on land acquired from the Church. It was at that time that architect Joaquim da Costa Sampaio Lima ordered the allocation of spaces for the "Bolhão Indoor Market". From the market: “The Bolhão Market is a jewel of Porto: the building, one of the city's most iconic, is municipal heritage and a monument of public interest and preserves the memories and stories of the great fresh produce market, which beats in the heart of the city, of the people of Porto, and of those who visit it. Its character is unique and valuable, and its identity and history have been intertwined for over a hundred years with the identity and history of the city of Porto.”