Porto is a Portuguese metropolis located three hundred kilometers north of the country's capital. It is included in the list of alpha cities (also called global cities); all megacities included in this list are the most important elements of the world economy, they are of great importance for vast regions of the planet, they influence them in the field of politics, economy and culture.
The historical center of the city is under the protection of UNESCO. This part of the metropolis is full of attractions.
We can say that the history of the city began several centuries before the onset of a new era. However, the city did not exist at that time: in its place there was a settlement built by the Galleys. The history of the Portuguese metropolis is replete with vivid and dramatic events. Here are just a few of them: in the II century BC, the city was conquered by the Romans; in the 6th century a fortress of an ancient Germanic tribe was built here; after about two centuries, the city was captured by the Moors, and it was finally liberated only in the 11th century … It is not surprising that a city with such a rich history has many interesting historical sights!
Do you want to visit this amazing place, feel its incomparable atmosphere? Then you need to choose exactly where to stay in Porto; This article will help you make the right decision.
City districts
At first glance, it may seem that the metropolis consists of only two districts - the historic center and the newer part of the city. This impression may arise among travelers who have come here for the first time and have seen so far only the most tourist areas of the metropolis.
In fact, the territory of the city is officially divided into seven districts, some of which have very long and difficult to remember names. Where did these names come from? They appeared several years ago, when three new large districts arose in the city, which appeared as a result of the merger of several smaller districts. The beginning of the name of each of these new administrative units sounds like this: "Unification of districts …", and then all the small districts included in the large one are listed.
So, here are the names of the districts of the Portuguese metropolis:
- Historic Center (Union of Sedofeita, San Ildefonso, Ce, Miragaya, San Nicolau, Vitoria);
- Unification of the districts of Aldoar, Foz do Douro, Nevozilde;
- Consolidation of the Lordelo do Ouro and Massarelos districts;
- Bonfim;
- Campania;
- Paranush;
- Ramalda.
Let us now tell you more about each of these areas.
Historical Center
If you are looking to stay in this area, please note that prices are quite high. If you want to save some money, choose the less touristy area of the Portuguese metropolis.
It was here that the history of the city began. The remains of the fortress wall that surrounded this territory have survived to this day. Many people think that walks around the city should be started from here. Most of the city's attractions are located here. Among them are the ancient Cathedral, the unusual House of Music, an 18th century hospital, the Mermaid Palace and many other buildings. I would also like to say a few words about the bookstore; it is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Even if you are not fond of reading, be sure to visit there! The interiors of this store are impressive.
The choice of hotels, hostels and apartments in the area is huge. If you decide to stay here and choose accommodation on the river bank, a breathtaking view of the city and the river will open from your windows. True, then for sightseeing you will have to walk up the streets every day (the city is located here on the descent to the river). Therefore, some tourists prefer to stay in the center of the area, away from the river bank.
Where to stay: Goldsmith, Barsileira, OportoHouse, Nations Porto II - Studios & Suites, Villa Mouzinho Apartments & Suites, Mystay Porto Batahla, Porto Essence Apartments, Vibrant Porto Apartments.
Aldoar, Foz do Douro, Nevozilde
This is the western part of the city. It is famous for its wonderful beaches. The area is one of the most prestigious in the city.
The main attraction of the area (except for the beaches) is the old garden, which is more than a hundred years old. A shady palm grove rustles here and a fountain decorated with sculptures beats. Here, even an ordinary public toilet is a historical landmark: it was built at the beginning of the 20th century. The building was built in accordance with the canons of Art Nouveau. Another attraction here is the castle of the 16th century.
The area is considered to be a calm, quiet place. Here you can take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the serenity that is poured around like sunshine.
Where to stay: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, Boavista Villa Guesthouse, FarolFlat by Flaville.
Lordelo do Ouro and Massarelos
The area is located in the west of the metropolis. Here you can see mansions built in the Victorian era, modern houses, and several industrial buildings of the 19th century … It is pleasant to walk along the river bed here.
One of the attractions of the area is the house where the ruler of Italy, who fled here from his state, died in the 19th century. Currently, this building houses a museum.
And, of course, speaking about the sights of the region, one cannot fail to mention the Crystal Palace. It is surrounded by magnificent gardens. Their alleys offer stunning views of the city, the river flowing through it and the ocean sparkling in the distance … Also on the palace grounds there is a museum, the exposition of which is entirely devoted to wine.
The area is also famous for its excellent market.
Where to stay: Porto Deluxe Guesthouse, Atlatico Flat Douro, Oporto Palace Apartments.
Bonfim
There are very few attractions in this area; you will not find any entertainment here either. But here there is no noise and a large crowd of people, typical for tourist places. Families with small children are recommended to stay here. By the way, it is not far from here to the historical center of the city. It is also very convenient to get to the airport from this area.
There are good hotels and hostels in the area, relatively inexpensive restaurants. The main local attraction is the 19th century church. This is a working temple, the entrance to it, of course, is free. The peculiarity of the area: older buildings are located in its southern part than in the northern one.
Where to stay: Eurostars Heroismo, Acta the Avenue, The Artist Poro Hotel, Vila Gale Porto.
Campania
You will not find a single attraction in this area. All its quarters are similar to each other. In each of them you will see only typical residential buildings and shops. This is a sleeping area of the metropolis. It is located quite far from the historical center of the city. But it has one big advantage: it has the lowest housing prices in the city. For example, if you want to live in a rented apartment, then you will not find more affordable prices than here in any other area of the city. The same can be said about the cost of hotel rooms (although there are exceptions here).
However, there are still interesting places for some travelers. This is, for example, the stadium of one of the famous football clubs.
On the territory of the district there is a station where trains arrive from the Portuguese capital.
Where to stay: Palacio Freixo, Quimera Guest House, CM Antas Studios.
Paranush
The area is very similar to the one we discussed in the previous section. The measured, everyday life of the city flows here. Despite the fact that this area is the most densely populated in the metropolis, there is no festive bustle that distinguishes the city center and all its tourist spots. However, for many tourists, peace and quiet are just important components of a good rest. If you are of the same opinion, you will most likely like it here.
However, the city university is located here, and therefore there are many cheerful, cheerful youth on the streets. But in this part of the metropolis, they are just learning, and most often they go to other areas to have fun.
There are several parks, grocery stores. There are many guest houses and hostels where prices are very affordable. In short, here you will find everything you need for a quiet, calm, comfortable and at the same time economical living.
The main attraction of the area is the 19th century Catholic church. This is a colorful building that you will most likely want to photograph. Its architectural style is typical of the temples of the Portuguese villages. This style is not surprising: once on the site of this area of the city there were fields. Agriculture flourished here.
Where to stay: Porto Cabral-Boutique Guest House, Ateneu Guesthouse, Casa Marques.
Ramalda
A fairly large number of offices are located in this area. Several business districts of the city are located here. If you are visiting for business purposes, your stay here may be convenient for you.
There are also many industrial premises here - this is an industrial area. There are almost no tourist spots here. However, you may be interested in the museum, the exposition of which is dedicated to pharmacies. There is also a 19th century estate built for one of the most famous Portuguese families. On the territory of the district there is a place where magnificent weddings usually take place.
Where to stay: BessaHotel Boavista, Star Inn Porto, BessaApartments.
