About Porto
It was in the Porto and in the North regions that Portugal was founded in the 12th century and the Portuguese became a people and a nation.
Porto is not only the second largest city in Portugal but also a city of great historical past and listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage, since 1996. The narrow and labyrinthine streets of the old city centre will take you back in time while the cool and vintage neighbourhoods will make you discover the new trends and the unique atmosphere of this historical yet modern city.
Porto is the gateway and departure point for a journey across the natural and cultural diversity of the North region. It is known for the Port wine which is shipped from here all over the world, but also for a heritage which combines ancient churches and monuments, and modern buildings.
On a brief visit to Porto, there are some places that cannot be missed. In the words of many visitors, this city has something mystical that is difficult to describe and which varies according to the place, time of day and light.
Whatever it is, it certainly has to do with its people, known to be generous and easy-going, as well as the River Douro and its heritage on both banks, with its bridges and monuments, the tiles, the flowering balconies and the shopping streets. The historic centre of Porto and the River Douro on the Gaia side, where the Port Wine lodges are located, are classified as World Heritage.
Portugal, World's Leading Destination
With its mild climate, 3000 hours of sunshine per year and 850 kms of splendid beaches bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is the perfect holiday destination all year round.
This is a country that has the oldest borders in Europe, with an exceptional range of different landscapes just a short distance away, lots of leisure activities and a unique cultural heritage, where tradition and modernity blend together in perfect harmony. Its superb cuisine, fine wines and hospitable people make this a tourist paradise of the highest quality.
Situated in the extreme south-west of Europe, just a few hours from any of the other European capitals, also includes the Madeira and Azores archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean. Mainland Portugal occupies an area of 88,889 km2. It is 218 km wide and 561 km long. It has 832 km of Atlantic coast and a 1,215 km border with Spain.
Portugal has seven regions, which in itself indicates that there is a lot to visit and get to know, it is the perfect choice on the list of trips you should do in your lifetime.
The country’s history and culture, gastronomy and wines, are among the main attractions, not to mention the beaches, surfing, music festivals, golf, the varied landscapes and, above all, the Portuguese people, who are seen as affable, open and sincere.
The recent award from the World Travel Awards, which considered Portugal the World’s Best Destination has just confirmed the current trend, also acknowledged by many guides, travel writers, bloggers and the media from around the world specializing in travel and tourism.
