There's so much more to holidays in Portugal than the sunny beaches of the Algarve. Portugal is a vast country that is suited to car hire touring. The city of Porto for one is a wonderful place to soak up the cultural charms that are often absent from large-scale tourist resorts. Driving through the city of Porto allows you to experience the true essence of the city at a pace that suits you. Overshadowed rather unfairly by Lisbon in terms of city break potential, a city break in Porto is well worth your while. Brimming with attractions and character, Porto is definitely one to include in your must-see list of European cities.
Porto Mini-Guide:
Porto Airport is located approximately 11km from the Portuguese city of Porto. Porto Airport offers passengers a range of services including banking and ATM facilities as well as Bureau de Change, a post office and a duty-free.
To drive to the city of Porto, follow the Porto/Lisbon Highway or the A3 which links Porto and Braga.
Things To See/Do in Porto:
As Portugal's second largest city, Porto (Oporto in Portuguese) offers travellers a range of cultural, sporting and social activities.
Walking through the city is a great way to explore this historic destination. Oporto cathedral is one of the main attractions in the city. It is is the oldest surviving structure in the city, with its gothic architecture dominating the skyline.
Football is the most important sport in the city and Porto is the home of top European clubs FC Porto and Boavista FC. While in Porto, why not pay a visit to Estádio do Dragao or Estádio do Bessa-it's one way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Alternatively you could pack up your golf clubs and take advantage of some of the fantastic greens at Oporto Golf Club which is situated 17 km to the south of Porto.
Eating Out/Nightlife/Accommodation:
Local specialities in Porto include Tripas á Moda do Porto (tripe), Bacalhau á Gomes de Sá- a fish dish originating in Porto and found nationwide. Other famous local dishes include Francesinha, a cheap hearty snack, found on sale in most establishments. Porto is also world famous for its Port, a type of fortified wine. Given its coastal location, visitors to Porto are guaranteed to pay less for quality seafood dishes like sardines, lobster, crab and squid.
Porto's nightlife is centred on the Ribeira district in the old city centre. Clubs in the area include Industria, Chic and Estado Novo.
Accommodation in Porto varies from luxury first class hotels to cheap hostels for those on more on a more thrifty budget. For those looking for something different Porto Carlton Hotel has a guaranteed wow factor. Built on a world heritage site, this five star hotel has an unparalleled view of the Douro river and the old port.
Those looking for discount room rates should look no further than Hotel Peninsular which is situated close to San Bento train station. Double rooms here cost a thrifty €40 per night.
