Society

Porto is the city to visit this year, according to Forbes

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Miguel Nogueira

"Why Porto Is the City to Visit This Year" is the title of an article that Forbes Europe online publishes this week and was written by Angelina Villa-Clarke.

Porto is located in the north of Portugal and, according to Villa-Clarke "is one of the most eclectic destinations in Europe. With its medieval architecture, its defining Luis I Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel and Art Nouveau cafes, there's something for everyone."

If you are a History aficionado, Lello Bookshop will marvel you with its amazing Neo-Gothic interiors as well as the São Bento railway station, said to be one of the most beautiful in the world. Head there and be delighted at the 20,000 azulejos (tiles) that decorate its walls. 

For those who are keen on food delicacies, rest assured; the Mercado do Bolhão food market and the renowned Port wine cellars, which are hundred years old in the banks of the Douro River, will not disappoint you.

Adrian Bridge, owner and CEO of The Yeatman, one of the top wine hotels of the world, is a Porto lover. He states that "Porto is unique - still showing its Roman and Medieval faces to the world. It has an extraordinary history".

He remarks that in Porto, instead of old derelict buildings being demolished or replaced by modern infrastructure, they are being renovated.

Bridge affirms that the city "is safe and has welcoming people, most of whom can speak English if needed".

The CEO suggests that climbing to the top of the Clérigos Tower is very rewarding and that the charm of the city of Porto "comes from the people, the ambience, the architecture and the true sense of place."