Porto
Oporto (Porto) is a very ancient city, its original name being "Portucale", which was later to give its name to the country. The city has also lent its name to the world-famous wine produced on the banks of the River Douro and aged in the wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia, the city that stands across the river on the south bank. Porto is the capital of the North and the second largest city in the country; its hardworking inhabitants are noted for their commercial enterprise, always standing firm against outside impositions and foreign invaders, which explains why Porto has become known as the "unvanquished" city.
Being built on the slopes of the steep hills that overlook the River Douro, Porto has a truly unique appearance and its historic center has already been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. If you want to get to know the city better, we recommend a gentle stroll through its streets, taking time to admire the typical granite houses and monuments, enjoying a tram ride along the banks of the river, or even going for a boat ride under the city's five bridges, from where you can enjoy an entirely different view of the city.
Every year the events held in this city bring together thousands of people. Amongst the city's most important events are Fantasporto (an International Festival of Science Fiction and Fantasy Films) held in February/March and the city's popular festivities held in June in honour of St. John the Baptist.
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