Porto is the second biggest city of Portugal... but whatever you do, do not give a hint to that!!! There is a lot of rivalry between Porto and Lisbon.... and while in there, make sure to say that all in Porto is better, ha ha!
To Visit
We will give you some suggestions of places to visit in Porto... All tips have come from a Porto born and raise guy, so we hope it to be good!
Igreja do Carmo
Torre dos Clérigos
The streets Rua Santa Catarina and Rua Sá da Bandeira are the one's you want to go for shopping!
You can also go up Rio Douro in a boat and return on a train. This link is an example of a tour operator that does this!
Where to Eat
Well, first of all, mind the size of the portions in Porto... They are not meant for the faint of heart! Go hungry and be prepared to leave very full!
In Matosinhos, a very near by town, all fish is good. For shellfish, suggestions are:
- Marisqueira de Matosinhos
- Lusíadas
- Marisqueira a Antiga
For other seafood, typically grilled, try:
- Xaroco
- D. Zeferino
- Sempre assar
- Tito
- Any restaurant in street Rua Heróis de França!!!
You can also have a Francesinha... it is very typical in Oporto (although we admit, not our favourite in Portuguese cousine and you have so much to try...). Go to:
- Capa Negra in Porto
- Requinte in Matosinhos
Going Out
Try one of these places:
- Galerias Paris
- Piolho, which is near Torre dos Clérigos
- Cais da Ribeira bars
For other suggestions... check http://oportocool.wordpress.com/!!! You can also get Porto Timeout!
Braga
Braga is around 50 km from Porto. It is a very pretty town and, if you go, don't miss on Bom Jesus de Braga!
Guimarães
Guimarães is around 50 km from Porto too, also a cute town.
