It may be considered one of the cheapest European places but upon landing in Portugal’s northernmost region, the feeling couldn’t have been more opposite. A mix of rich orange and red terracotta buildings and tuk tuks down windy cobbled streets, Porto’s first impressions were magnificent. As the hours followed after flying in with Jet2 from Manchester , it was apparent that the striking atmosphere was there to stay.
After all, parts of the city centre have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site so I wasn’t surprised. Only a two-hour flight from the UK I did question why it had never been further up my bucket list to visit, and as a first-timer in Portugal , I immediately knew it was going to become a favourite European spot. A hearty gastronomy flushed down with Porto and wine, architectural beauty and buildings covered with unique retro tiles everywhere you look- even the local Starbucks dons a fitting blue and green tile so different from its usual look - It’s easy to question why this hasn’t become such a British flocked hotspot, but it may just be the main reason that makes Porto’s quirks even more special.
Best of Porto Authentic, intimate, and tradition all poke through, whether it’s the old but loved buildings, generational family-run cafes, or the local food market that’s still bustling today despite being open since 1914 - Bolhão Market. The Sao Bento train station and the Capela das Almas church are other must-see sights, both central and sho.