Why You Should Visit Porto

Porto is one of the most beautiful urban centers on the Iberian Peninsula. Only outsized by Lisbon in Portugal, this global city is nestled along the Douro River estuary and is one of the oldest centers on the continent.

Declared a world heritage site in 1996, the settlement here goes back to the Roman Empire when it served as an outpost.

While in Porto, one must have the port wine, which is named after the area.

Begin your visit in Porto along the left bank of the river. You’ll find a Renaissance church with a round cloister and a monastery worth visiting while you gaze upon the hills on the other side of the river.

As you cross the river, you’ll want to begin your tour of this historic city at the 12^th century Cathedral. The bell towers of the structure also served as a method of defense during the early days of the city, giving the building an appearance that looks more like a fortress than a church. Many of the defensive walls still defend the hills and protect the old city.

You’ll want to catch the homes of Miragaia during your time in Porto as well. This colorful neighborhood overlooks the mouth of the river and give you a stunning view of the city.

Then you have the entire coastline to explore at your convenience.

Porto is a majestic city with a shipbuilding past and has served as the foundation for many colonization efforts in its past. Today’s Porto allows you to walk in those footsteps as you contemplate what your own future can hold. That is why it is such a stunning destination.