Porto

The 10 things that a tourist can't miss in Porto

The second largest city in Portugal is famous for its namesake product - Porto. Combined with the traditional charm of the city, this strong 'n' sugary wine makes Porto the 'port of heaven'. Bad metaphors aside, it is true that the city developed its importance as a commercial port. It is also known in English as Oporto, because in Portuguese people refer to the city as 'O Porto' (The Porto).

Now that you know a couple of facts about the city - even if unimportant - you can jump directly into the top ten list that Ana Moura (one of HostelsClub.com Hi5 friends) so kindly helped us making. She won a free membership card, 'cause HostelsClub rewards the brave ;) Join us on Hi5 - you could be the winner next time!

So here's the 10 things that a tourist can't miss in Porto:

1. The Cathedral Sé do Porto - 'A cute, old monument', in Ana's words and very Romanesque, we may add;

2. The São Bento train station - with its rich collection of azulejos, a typical form of Portuguese painted ceramic tilework;

3. Jardins do palácio de Cristal (the Cristal Palace gardens) - if you're looking for nice pictures or the perfect scenary for a bit of romance;

4. Casa da Música - a major concert hall, very designish;

5. The panoramic view over the Douro river, between Porto and Gaia;

6. Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange) - Live you Arabian Nights fantasy - if you have one - in the Arabic Room, with gold and silver walls.

7. Torre dos Clérigos - in case you're into Baroque art;

8. The wine cellars on the banks of the rio Douro - free tours and samples will get you in the goofy mood;

9. A restaurant where you can eat at least one of the following: francesinhas - a must eat; Bifanas (Pork sandwiches); and Tripas à moda do Porto - for all the (few, I guess) people who love chewy 'n' greasy cow innards.

10. Boogie on a saturday night at Contagiarte.

You have the list... Now you just have to choose a Hostel in Porto! :)

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