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Porto, Destination Guide

Overview of Porto Bridges and port are what characterises Porto, Portugal's gracious northern capital and second largest city after . Porto sits astride a great gorge at the point where the River enters the Atlantic. Although it is mainly industrial, the city centre has plenty of charm with art treasures, medieval cathedrals and museums. The narrow streets sport wrought-iron balconies decorated with splashes of potted geraniums. The main reason tourists visit Porto is to sample its legendary , processed, blended and aged in the various lodges of the Vila Nova da Gaia district across the river from the city, reached via the spectacular two-tiered Dom Luis bridge. Visitors can tour the lodges and finish up with a tasting session. The city also has a historic riverside district called Ribeira, which is undergoing restoration and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within easy reach of Porto are numerous coastal resorts and fishing villages along the Atlantic coastline, well known for their seafood restaurants. It is the perfect end to a day spent cruising down the River Douro, perfect for taking in the scenic splendour of the area.

Key Facts

Language: Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood. Passport/Visa: All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, , , Denmark, Estonia, Finland, , , Greece, Hungary, Iceland, , Latvia, Lichtenstein, , Luxembourg, Malta, The , Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, , Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. There are numerous banks, bureaux de change and ATMs available in main cities and tourist destinations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and automatic currency exchange machines. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Porto Climate for Porto Porto has a with warm, dry summer weather and mild, wet winters. The average summer temperature is 68°F (20°C) but can rise as high as 104°F (40°C). Winter temperatures typically average at about 50°F (10°C) but occasionally drop below 32°F (0°C) at night. Weather-wise, best time to travel to Porto is probably between June and September, when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is low.

Health Notes when travelling to Portugal There are no health risks attached to travel to Portugal. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is necessary for entry for anyone travelling from an infected area and destined for the or . Health facilities are good and reciprocal health agreements exist with most European countries, including the UK, whose citizens can receive low-cost emergency care at state hospitals. It is advisable that travellers obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travel. Dental care and repatriation costs are not covered under this agreement, and medical insurance is therefore advised. Safety Notes when travelling to Portugal Generally, safety is not a problem for travel in Portugal but there is a rising incidence of petty theft and pick pocketing in tourist areas, so reasonable care should be taken. Portugal has a very poor road safety record so exercise caution and drive defensively when exploring in a rented car. Customs in Portugal It is a legal requirement for foreigners to show some form of identification on request. Duty Free in Portugal Travellers over 17 years arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarrilos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 4 litres of wine, 16 litres of beer and 1 litre of spirits over 22% or 2 litres of liquor less than 22% volume; 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette; other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers. Doing Business in Portugal Business culture in Portugal observes a strict hierarchical 'top-down' approach to management and leadership. Subordinate employees are expected to do as they are told. Strong business relationships are built on trust between colleagues, and personal connections are important. Business etiquette is formal, yet relaxed. Use titles ('Señhor' and 'Señhora') until strictly instructed not to do so, and show deference to those in obvious positions of authority. Business meetings in Portugal must be made by appointment, and should not ordinarily be scheduled for times when they might conflict with important family or religious holidays (Christmas, Easter, etc.). The dress code in Portugal is strictly smart and formal - with a strong emphasis placed on presentation. Business hours in Portugal vary, but are generally from 8.30am to 1pm, and 3pm to 6pm, from Monday to Friday. Communication in Portugal The international access code for Portugal is +351. Pre-paid sim cards can be bought at airports and used in unlocked mobile phones. Wifi is available in most hotels, cafes and some restaurants throughout Portugal. Tipping in Portugal Service charges are not usually added to hotel and restaurant bills but it is customary to leave a 10 percent tip. Bar staff and taxi drivers also expect tips, which usually entails rounding up of the bill to the nearest Euro. Passport/Visa Note All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

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Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period. A passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay is required.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadians do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject', 'British Overseas Territories Citizen', and Identity Cards issued by Gibraltar must be valid for the duration of intended stay. British passports with any other endorsement must be valid for three months beyond period of intended stay. Visas are not required for British Citizens, British Overseas Territories Citizens, British Subjects, and those with Identity Cards issued by Gibraltar.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish nationals do not require a visa to visit Portugal. A passport valid on arrival is required.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay, and a Schengen visa.

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Getting around in Porto, Portugal Porto has a comprehensive bus network, as well as a limited underground Metro. The is a network that runs underground in central Porto and above ground into the city's suburbs. If all else fails, taxis are also plentiful and cheap.

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Attractions in Porto, Portugal A holiday to Porto usually consists of consuming a lot of what the city is best known for: port wine. However, the diverse city of Porto can offer far more than just drinking, as the city is equally famous for its and many intricate bridges. Despite being principally an industrial centre, Porto also enjoys a great many historical and cultural attractions. An array of cathedrals and interesting museums are dotted around the city, including the exquisite church of St. Frances which stands on the Porto waterfront. Another hugely popular sightseeing opportunity in Porto is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site in the form of the historic riverside Ribeira district, a must see attraction when visiting the city. Although there is plenty to do for the cultural enthusiast, when it comes down to it, a visit to Porto is never complete without savouring the legendary port wine that is lovingly processed, mixed and matured in the Vila Nova da Gaia district across the river from the city. Once visitors have sampled the delicious beverage, an excellent way to explore the scenery is via a boat cruise on the River Douro, or a trip to one of the many neighbouring fishing villages.

Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis The National Museum Soares dos Reis (Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis), located in the ancient Carrancas Palace in Porto, is one of the most renowned Portuguese museums. This extensive opened in 1840 and is today dedicated to Antonio Soares dos Reis, the famous sculptor born and bred in Porto. The gallery also houses a foreign art collection which includes works by the Dutch, Flemish, Italian and French masters. There is a large collection of Portuguese 19th century works, including those from the Porto school, and exhibits of ceramics, glassware, gold and silverwork, and furniture. Address: Palacio dos Carrancas, Rua de Dom Manuel II Website: mnsr.imc-ip.pt

Igreja de São Francisco On the Porto waterfront stands the church of St. Frances, dating from 1383. While not very imposing from the outside, it has a lavish Baroque interior that was created in the 17th and 18th centuries. Pillars and columns within the vault are festooned with gold-gilded cherubs and flower garlands, entwined animals and fruit cornucopia. This feast for the eyes is set off by wide Gothic made of marble that soar into the roof. The Igreja de São Francisco (Church of Saint Francis) is the most prominent Gothic monument in Porto. It is located in the historic centre of the city and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Address: Rua do Infante D. Henrique

Solar Vinho do Porto Many visitors come to Porto for its foritified . The place to head for samples of every port produced in the region, and also the rest of Portugal, is the Solar Vinho do Porto. It is found in the splendid grounds of the Crystal Palace Gardens and in the vicinity of the Romantic Museum of Quinta da Macieirinha. Inside the rose-bedecked villa is a relaxed, upmarket tasting room. Staffed by knowledgeable hosts who offer glasses or bottles of port, you can enjoy complimentary snacks and learn about the port-making process. Also in the villa is a small museum containing a collection of 18th century furniture and paintings. Address: Rua de Entre-Quintas 220

Vila Nova de Gaia This suburb of Porto lies along the south bank of the River Douro, on the site of an ancient fortified village. Today, is home to more than 50 wine companies who operate their lodges in the winding narrow streets flanked by red-roofed buildings. Most of the lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia welcome visitors for tours and tastings. Among the best known are Sandemans, housed in a former 16th century convent, and Taylors. The suburb also features a 16th century monastery that has interesting circular cloisters and a terrace where the Duke of Wellington planned his attack on the French in 1809.

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Guimarães The historic town of Guimarães is regarded as the birthplace of Portugal. Here, in 1128, Afonso Henriques became the first king of the country. Guimarães has many medieval buildings and fortifications, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the main attractions is the tiny Romanesque church where Afonso was allegedly baptised, and the imposing Palace of the first Duke of Braganza. There are numerous other Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque delights to discover in walking around the town. There are also two excellent museums: The Museu Alberto Sampaio contains religious art and relics and is housed in a monastery, while the Museu Arquelogico Martins Sarmento displays the finds from a nearby Celtic hill settlement.

Bragança In the remote northeast province of Tras-os-Montes, the small provincial capital, Bragança, lies close to the Spanish border and is slowly being discovered by tourists. This is mostly because of its fine local museum and the small medieval village and castle on a hillock overlooking the town. Between the medieval citadel and the cathedral is the garden of the Museu do Abade de Baçal. The museum itself houses a collection of sacred art and watercolours painted by Alberto Souza. In the medieval citadel is the Domus Municipalis, a pentagonal 12th century civic building which is unique in .

Vila do Conde A small town at the mouth of the River Ave, 20.5 miles (33km) north of Porto, has become a popular summer holiday resort because of its sandy beaches and rocky reefs. This is despite that it does not often feel like a resort. The town has some entertaining local industries, mainly hand-hewn boat building, lace-making, hand-knitting and sweet making. Visitors are welcome at the Rendas lace-making school, where fine examples of the local lace can be purchased while the large Friday market is a good place to find both souvenirs and excellent local food.

Serra de Estrela The Serra de Estrela, mainland Portugal's highest mountain range, is fast becoming one of Europe's hottest new resorts for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. The range is formed from a huge granite ridge that reaches 6,539 feet (1,993m) at its highest point, and its unique topography of strangely-shaped crags and gorges, fast-flowing streams, mountain lakes and pristine forests makes it one of Portugal's greatest natural attractions. The ski resort itself features five miles (7.4km) of skiable snow, nine runs ranging in difficulty from absolute beginner to intermediate, and a terrain park for snowboarders. There are also hiking trails, chic restaurants and high-class health spas.

Espinho The resort town of Espinho lies just 16 miles (26km) south of Porto. It has a casino and a , as well as a range of shops, restaurants, hotels and campsites. It possesses a long stretch of golden sandy beach popular with surfers, a number of excellent seafood restaurants, and one of the world's oldest golf courses. The Monday market is a popular draw, occupying three city streets with stalls selling local food, crafts, souvenirs and other items. Espinho is easily navigable, with many of its chief attractions located within easy walking distance of the train station downtown. These include local museums, a planetarium, music , and the João de Deus city park.

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Nightlife in Porto, Portugal

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Shopping in Porto, Portugal

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Dining in Porto, Portugal

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Airports in Porto (OPO) Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport www.ana.pt Location: Porto 6.8 miles (11km) northwest of Porto. Time: GMT (GMT +1 between the last Sunday in March and the Saturday before the last Sunday in October). Getting to the city: Porto Airport is served by the Metro's Violet Line. It runs to the Estádio do Dragão, operating every 20 to 30 minutes and dependent on the time and day of the week. Taxis are available outside the terminal. Passengers may prefer to order one via phone. Numerous shuttle companies transport passengers across the city from the airport. These include the Airport Shuttle, Barquense, getBUS, Goin'Porto, Ovnitur Viagens, Transdev and Autna. STCP bus lines 601 and 602 run to Cordoaria from 5:30am to 23:30pm. Resende bus services operate every day except Sunday from 06h10 to 19h30, every 30 minutes. Schedules are altered on Sundays and public holidays, running every 40 minutes from 07h25 to 14h05 and every 30 minutes from 14h30 to 19h30. Car rental: Car rental companies operating out of Porto Airport include Avis-Budget, Europcar, Goldcar, Guerin, Hertz and Sixt. Airport Taxis: Taxi's are available, and are the most convenient and fastest method of getting to the city centre. The journey from the airport to the city takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Facilities: Parking: Parking rates in section P2 for 15 minutes is the cheapest option, charging £0.70. Depending on parking section and duration of parking, the fee could rise up to £10.

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Currency The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. There are numerous banks, bureaux de change and ATMs available in main cities and tourist destinations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and automatic currency exchange machines. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro 1.12 BMD 1.12 USD 0.77 GBP 121.65 JPY 1.46 CAD 1.10 CHF Bermudan Dollar U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc 1.54 AUD 28.05 UAH 377.26 KZT 1,682.21 LBP 0.80 LYD 7.66 BOB Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 120.52 NPR 0.43 OMR 4.07 QAR 1.54 SGD 9.26 SEK 7.41 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 11.15 VEF 51.20 DOP 7.51 HRK 20.82 MXN 654.97 XOF 3.54 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 1.12 BSD 2.36 FJD 25.29 HNL 123.47 DZD 1,330.84 MMK 12.50 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 3.76 PEN 774.75 CLP 534.10 AMD 27.00 CZK 22.32 MDL 138.84 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 3,282.94 UZS 4.31 ILS 0.79 JOD 0.34 KWD 35.02 UYU 39.68 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 31.85 NIO 9.32 NOK 4.38 PLN 4.19 SAR 163.12 LKR 39.79 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 4.10 AED 4.02 BRL 4.52 RON 8.68 HKD 656.46 XAF 25,106.99 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 15.58 ARS 3.01 XCD 8.75 GTQ 10.92 MAD 0.42 BHD 1.12 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 1.67 AZN 3,482.98 COP 76.30 KGS 312.53 HUF 8.79 TJS 15,285.70 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 9.92 EGP 1,330.60 KRW 6,333.44 PYG 4.65 MYR 601.85 CRC 1.64 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 117.01 PKR 74.62 RUB 17.43 ZAR 2.37 TND 2.23 BBD 1.96 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 3.30 TRY 52.08 PHP 36.44 TWD 219.51 NGN 119.70 XPF 4.37 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 139.55 JMD 2.01 ANG 1.54 BND 123.51 RSD 7.35 CNY 22,229.06 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 7.43 DKK 3.84 TMT 75.14 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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