Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Located in the northern region of Portugal, this city is a charming combination of history, culture, and modernity. Porto is consistently ranked highly as a top tourist destination. Forbes hailed it as “The City to Visit This Year” in 2017. In 2019, it was named Best European Destination for the third time by the European Best Destinations organization. The city was also included in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2019 as one of the top 10 cities to visit. And in 2022, Porto proudly earned the title of “World’s Best City Destination” at the World Travel Awards, a testament to its irresistible charm and warm hospitality.
Porto is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which spans the Douro River and offers breathtaking views of the city. The city is also famous for its wine, especially port wine, which is produced in the Douro Valley and aged in the historic wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river from Porto. Visitors can take a tour of the cellars and sample some of the finest wines in the world.
In addition to its rich history and culture, Porto is also a thriving modern city. The downtown area, with its pedestrian streets and lively cafes, is the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the vibrant arts scene, with galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing everything from contemporary art to traditional Portuguese music.
Another delightful are is Foz. Foz is a neighborhood in Porto that is located along the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury villas, and picturesque streets lined with cafes and restaurants. Visitors to Foz can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the famous Castelo do Queijo.
Another unique aspect of Porto is the prevalence of blue tiles, also known as azulejos. These tiles can be found on buildings throughout the city and are an important part of Porto’s cultural heritage. Many of the blue tiles depict scenes from Portugal’s history, including battles, religious events, and daily life. Visitors can take a walking tour of the city to see some of the most beautiful examples of azulejos, including those at the São Bento train station, the Porto Cathedral, and the Church of Saint Ildefonso. The blue tiles of Porto are a true testament to the city’s rich history and artistry, and are not to be missed.
So, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just good food and wine, Porto has something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful city for the upcoming conference in Porto.