About Porto
Porto is Portugal's second-largest city and one of the oldest urban centres in Europe, set along the banks of the Douro River as it meets the Atlantic. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre, Ribeira, is a maze of colourful townhouses, medieval churches, and riverside cafés that give the city its unmistakable character. Popular stops include the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, the stunning interior of São Bento railway station with its 20,000 azulejo tiles, Livraria Lello bookshop, and the Palácio da Bolsa. Across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, visitors can tour the famous port wine lodges and taste some of Portugal's finest wines while taking in views of the city skyline.
Porto is also a well-connected base for exploring northern Portugal and beyond by rail.
The Alfa Pendular high-speed train links the city with Lisbon, Faro, Albufeira, and other major destinations, with frequent daily departures and clear timetables. Whether you are spending a few days in Porto or using it as a starting point for a wider Portuguese adventure, the rail connections make it easy to travel the country without a car.