5 Surprising facts about Porto that you (probably) didn’t know
Porto is a city of contrasts and timeless charm, where granite meets the river and innovation blends with tradition. However, there are unique things to know about Porto, Portugal, that many visitors don’t discover on a typical tour. For this reason, this article presents five fascinating facts that will, undoubtedly, add even more flavor to your next visit.
1. Port wine isn’t made in Porto.
Despite its name, the famous Port wine is born in the Douro Valley, about 100 km from the city. Producers harvest and vinify the grapes on the steep slopes of the Douro. After vinification, they transported the wine to Vila Nova de Gaia. There, it continues to mature in the iconic cellars that overlook the river, adding depth and character to its flavour.
Discover the complete process on the Douro Valley Tour, with exclusive tastings at authentic wine estates. Or explore the historic cellars with our Porto City Tour.
A bunch of ripe red grapes in a vineyard in Portugal, a typical scene from wine tourism tours in the Douro or Alentejo, ideal for wine and nature lovers.
2. São Bento Station is also an art gallery
São Bento Station is one of the most beautiful in the world. Inside, over 20,000 blue-and-white azulejos illustrate historical and rural Portuguese scenes, hand-painted by artist Jorge Colaço.
This and other visual secrets are part of the Porto City Tour, where art lives on the streets and walls.
The interior of São Bento Station in Porto, with historical azulejo panels depicting scenes from Portugal’s history, is an emblematic spot included in the cultural tours of Porto city with Premium Tours.
3. The Douro River was once one of Europe’s most dangerous waterways
Before dams and tourist cruises, the Douro was a river full of rapids and treacherous rocks. Boatmen expertly piloted the boats that transported the wine barrels. Today, boats remain symbols of this river heritage.
Sail with context and comfort on the Douro Valley Tour, where tradition meets luxury.
Panoramic view of the terraced Douro Valley vineyards next to the river, a typical landscape from the Port Wine region, ideal for wine tourism and Premium Tours in northern Portugal.
4. A disciple of Eiffel inspired the design of the Dom Luís I Bridge.
A Belgian engineer who collaborated with Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower, designed the imposing Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto and Gaia. The two-level metal structure has become one of the city’s icons and continues to impress with its elegance and innovation.
On the Porto City Tour, walk the bridge and explore the Ribeira, taking time to absorb every detail of the urban landscape.
View of the Dom Luís I Bridge over the Douro River, with Porto’s historic center in the background. The bridge is a city icon and a must-see on private tours and guided visits with Premium Tours.
5. The most famous dish in Porto is called “Francesinha”
Despite its name, Francesinha is, in fact, 100% from Porto. This iconic dish was created locally. Over time, it evolved into a beloved classic and became a valid symbol of the city’s rich culinary identity.
The creators ironically gave the name, in the French style, to something inspired by the French croque monsieur. This generous sandwich, filled with grilled meats, melted cheese, and a secret spicy sauce, is a valid gastronomic symbol of the city. Travel + Leisure magazine even named it one of the 10 best sandwiches in the world, after its creation in the 1950s.
Try the original (or a gourmet version) on the Private Porto Food Tour, where every stop offers a taste of history.
Premium Tours includes the traditional Francesinha—served with fries and a fried egg—in its private food tours, inviting guests to discover the authentic flavors of Porto.
Porto lives with heart and curiosity. At Premium Tours Portugal, we believe that the unique things to know about Porto aren’t just facts — they’re stories waiting to be felt, savored, and remembered.
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