The city of Porto, located on the coast of Portugal, is a jewel that captivates the thousands of people who visit it throughout the year. It is a very rich place in terms of its history, its architecture and, of course, for its famous wine. Now, if this is the destination of your next trip, you are probably wondering what to see near Porto.
Portuguese culture is deeply rooted in Porto. It is a city known for its historic architecture, ancient churches and museums. It is also known for its gastronomy and very pleasant climate. Read on as we take a tour of the cities around Porto that are worth a visit on your next trip, so get ready to explore this beautiful region!
Discover the must-see cities near Porto
Guimaraes
Guimaraes is a city that is less than an hour's drive from Porto and if it is famous for anything it is for its impressive history. It is known as "the cradle of Portugal" for the fundamental role it played in the formation of the country. The historic center of Guimaraes has even been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO as a true architectural treasure.
Cobblestone streets, old houses and well-preserved castles transport visitors back to medieval times. The Castle of Guimaraes, the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza and the Praça de São Tiago are essential stops on your visit. You can also enjoy the local gastronomy in the cozy restaurants that offer traditional Portuguese dishes.
Aveiro, must see near Porto
Aveiro is known as the Venice of Portugal, a picturesque city located less than an hour and a half from Porto. The highlights of Aveiro are its canals, which are lined with colorful houses and moliceiros boats, similar to Venetian gondolas.
One of the most popular plans is taking a boat ride through the canals to enjoy the beauty of the city from the water. We also recommend a stop at the University of Aveiro, an impressive example of contemporary architecture. And if you are a fan of comfort food, try the ovos moles, traditional pastries that are a real treat for the palate.
Douro Valley
Another must-see city in Portugal is Douro Valley, located an hour's drive from Porto. It is a world-renowned wine region and the place to go if you are a wine lover. This beautiful valley is covered with terraced vineyards that extend over the hills.
You can visit some of the historic wineries and taste high quality Port wines and learn about the winemaking process. And for a much more memorable experience, think about taking a cruise on the Douro River. You will be able to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the vineyards and the beauty of the valley.
Braga, a city with a lot of history to see near Porto
Just an hour's drive from Porto, Braga is a city with a rich religious heritage and a history dating back to Roman times. One of the main points of interest is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, an impressive church located on top of a hill with a baroque staircase adorned with chapels and sculptures.
Braga's old town is a charming place to see in Portugal with its historic squares, cobblestone streets and beautiful churches. Braga Cathedral is one of the oldest churches in the country. Don't forget to try the local gastronomy in some of the city's traditional restaurants.
Matosinhos
If you love the sea, Matosinhos is a seaside destination just a few minutes drive from Porto. This city is famous for its golden sandy beaches and for having a very relaxed atmosphere. Matosinhos is another must-see in Portugal for a number of reasons.
Known for its fresh fish, it is home to one of the largest fish markets in Portugal. Grilled fish is one of the city's great delicacies and you can try it in almost any beachside restaurant. In addition, Matosinhos is also a popular place to surf and enjoy the sun and the sea.
If you are planning a trip to Porto and you also want to explore the surroundings of the city at your own pace, the best option is to rent a car in Porto with OK Mobility. Make as many stops as you want until you reach your destination, travel through each city at your own pace and enjoy the trip of a lifetime!
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