1. Porto has a pleasant climate year-round. The summers are comfortable, dry, and mostly clear and the winters are not-so-cold in comparison to other European cities. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 7ºC to 30ºC
2. There are several types of landscapes separated by a few kilometers: mountains, beaches, Douro valley. Whether you are looking for surfing beaches or ancient ruins, fine museums or hiking paths, you will find it all nearby.
3. Portuguese people are kind and gracious and they will go out of their way just to make you feel welcome. When you add to that the excellent food and wine, it is a winning combination
4. In Porto, there’s no need to own a car. Porto is such a walkable city and the old town is best experienced on foot. There are an extensive bus network and a tramway – the first on the Iberian Peninsula – using vintage cars. The metro will take you everywhere you want to go – from the city center to the golden sands of the Atlantic ocean. Also, it’s very easy to visit great nearby destinations. One or two hours by train is enough to get to some of the most beautiful cities in the north (and center, actually) of the country. We’ve put together a list of the 5 best day trips from Porto. Moreover, the international airport that serves the area of Porto has non-stop passenger flights scheduled to 94 destinations in 24 countries.
5. Besides history and culture, Porto loves to party. Winter brings Carnival. In the last days of Spring, there’s Primavera Sound Festival at Parque da Cidade. In midsummer, there’s the Festival of Saint John. The list goes on forever. Portuguese never say no to a party!
6. In Porto, you will have more time to spend doing what you love. Statistically, we spend more time outside than most of the countries in eastern Europe. Blame it on the weather or on the culture. But it’s true that in Porto you’ll feel you have more time to grab a cup of coffee with a friend, going for dinner at one of the amazing old-schools restaurants, and then get a drink at one of the cool bars. The next day there’s time to go for a walk and enjoy the Atlantic view on the beach.
7. Love shopping? Well, Rua Santa Catarina is the main shopping street in Porto. Here you’ll find trendy stores, fine jewelers and souvenir shops that offer a satisfying variety for every taste. Part of the street is closed off to traffic, so you can stroll freely.
8. It doesn’t take long walking around the city before you start noticing all the wonderful architecture in Porto. For instance, it’s absolutely mindblowing what’s happening in S. Bento train station. As soon as you walk inside that place be prepared: your breath will be taken away. If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll also enjoy a visit to Guarany Cafe and Majestic Cafe (the crown jewels of Porto). Going inside these places will make you feel you are walking back in time and, as soon as you grab a cup of coffee, the surroundings will make the coffee taste even better.
