Porto City Guide

The capital of the Northern region and the second largest city in the country, Porto is one of the busiest industrial and commercial centers in Portugal. The city, constructed along the hills overlooking the Douro river estuary, has been constantly populated since the 4th century, when the Romans referred to it as Portus Calle.

Due to its matchless resistance against Napoleonic troops, during the peninsular war, Porto has come to be known as "Citade Invicta" (the invincible city). Porto has always been a commercial city, and this is reflected in its varied architecture, ranging from medieval to modern, to be seen especially in the center, which is granite and monumental, unlike other Portuguese cities. Inhabitants of Porto are known as Tripeiros (tripe eaters) supposedly because the city had to survive without meat for a long time in 1415, during the conquest of Ceuta in North Africa, people had to keep on living on tripe soup, still a specialty of the city.

The official language is Portuguese, however if you speak Spanish most people will understand you and they will be willing to help you. English is also understood, but mainly among the younger generation. A phrase book, or a mini dictionary and a few basic Phrases in Portuguese will come in handy, not to mention that locals will highly appreciate it. Porto is not a dangerous city, but it is good to keep your eyes on your valuables, especially in crowded places and when using public transport. Just use your common sense, and stay out of dark areas and deserted alleys, as these are not safe for a solitary walk!

Porto enjoys a semi-Mediterranean climate, being heavily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it bit fresher than other Mediterranean cities. Summers are sunny and warm, with temperatures rising up to 30ºC, while during heat waves they even reach 40ºC, especially in August. Winters can be characterized as meek and moist, with temperatures ranging between 6°C and 14°C, and on some occasions it can drop below zeroºC. As for spring and autumn months, they are somewhere in between the neighboring season, with mild but rainy weather, especially October!

Porto is an amazingly beautiful and vibrant city that has a lot to offer when it comes to culture, history, and art and fun, so that whenever you may plan you trip make sure you have enough time to fully enjoy this remarkable place.

Other cities you may like: Amsterdam - Ankara - Antwerp - Athens - Barcelona - Berlin - Cologne - London - Pamplona - Paris - Venice

Porto guide