Introducing Porto

Porto, or Oporto as it is sometimes known in English, is the second largest of Portugal’s cities, and one of the main urban areas on the Iberian Peninsula. It is also one of the oldest settlements in all of Europe, and in 1996, UNESCO recognised it as a World Heritage Site.

Holidays to Porto are perfect for anyone looking for something a little different – it’s a city quite unlike any other, and though it provides the usual resort standards of beaches, bars and restaurants, you’ll find there’s something about the colourful and vibrant atmosphere of Porto, which is quite simply unique.

Porto Holidays

Porto enjoys a superb location, situated on the Douro river estuary in the north of Portugal. This area was once an important outpost of the Roman Empire and the city features many examples of ancient ruins and sites of archaeological significance. In recognition of its rich culture and heritage, in 2001 Porto was named the European Culture Capital.

You’ll be able to explore a great selection of galleries, book shops, music venues and theatres during a holiday in Porto, as well as some truly fascinating museums; in particular, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the National Museum Soares dos Reis, which focuses on Portuguese art between the 16th and 20th centuries. Porto is also home to ‘Fantasporto’, an internationally recognised film festival that is held here every year.

Other exciting annual events which you may have the chance to experience during a holiday to Porto include the São João Festival, with its poetry performances and traditional banquets, or the colourful celebrations known as Queima das Fitas – these take place each May, and involve music, arts, and vibrant processions through the streets of Porto.

A holiday to Porto is a great opportunity to try some of the traditional Portuguese cuisine… you’ll find plenty of traditional tavernas and restaurants around the city, which serve both international dishes, and regional delicacies. The fortified port wine is one of Portugal’s most internationally recognised exports, and takes its name from the city of Porto; in recognition of the area’s consistent production of fine port. Check out holidays to Porto city

Cheap Holidays in Porto

A holiday to Porto is more than just a standard beach holiday. Here in the cultural capital of Portugal, you will be able to enjoy a real sense of heritage, and an artistic climate that is not limited to museum exhibits; instead, the cultural current of Porto is very tangible, and present in all aspects of the city. Book all your holidays to Portugal with lastminute.com