Porto is one of those European cities which you will enjoy
visiting regardless of the season.
Featuring the Mediterranean climate, with an annual average temperature
of 14.5 °C and 0 snow days, Porto offers perfect conditions for a
getaway all year round.
Here is a table with some more details about Porto’s climate
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high in °C | 14 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 |
| Average low in °C | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 11 | 14 |
| Av. precipitation - mm | 171 | 169 | 112 | 112 | 89 | 53 |
| Days with precip. | 14 | 13 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 6 |
| Hours of sunshine | 130 | 135 | 190 | 218 | 257 | 267 |
| July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high in °C | 25 | 25 | 24 | 21 | 17 | 14 |
| Average low in °C | 15 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 8 | 6 |
| Av. precipitation - mm | 16 | 22 | 64 | 131 | 152 | 176 |
| Days with precip. | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 12 | 13 |
| Hours of sunshine | 303 | 294 | 227 | 178 | 138 | 126 |
We might have to put up with some rain, but compared to the
freezing cold in most European cities, Porto will be a breath of spring in the heart
of the winter season.
Here is a list of things you wouldn’t want to miss when in
Porto in the winter time. And please make sure you take along your
raincoat/umbrella/hat and, most importantly, your positive attitude:
1. Bridges
- Ponte D. Luis I - Most certainly one of the landmarks of Porto. This impressive bridge connects Porto and Gaia and is roughly about 120 years old. Magnificent views along the bank of Douro River. A moonlight stroll over the illuminated bridge will give you a new perspective of the city, however, it might be quite windy in the winter.
- Ponte Infante Dom Henrique – less crowded than Ponte D. Luis I, it is worth visiting for uninterrupted views over Porto.
- Ponte da Arrabida – this one is closest to the mouth of Douro River and the sea. It carries road vehicles only.
2.
River Douro – you can either walk along the
banks, cross it over one of the bridges or take a boat trip. But you don’t want
to miss it.
3.
Churches and Cathedrals
·
Igreja de Sao Francisco – Gothic exterior,
combined with breathtaking gilt interior. More of a museum than a functioning
church.
·
Igreja de Santa Clara – a beautifully hidden small
church with a unique atmosphere. A glorious Baroque jewel reminding of the
glorious past of Portugal.
·
Se Catedral – wonderful views from the terrace
and beautiful interior.
·
Igreja do Carmo – stunning external tiles
typical for Portugal.
4.
Cais da Ribeira – the old town of Porto, facing
Douro. Multicolor medieval houses, narrow streets and traditional cafes and
restaurants. The quarter is under UNESCO National Heritage protection and is
worth a stroll.
5.
Palacio da Bolsa – the former stock market
palace. Astonishing exterior and even more magnificent interior. Each one of
the rooms is worth seeing, however, the Arabic one seems to be the gem in the
crown. A tour around the palace will cost around 5-6 Euro.
6.
Museums
·
Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis – wonderful museum
featuring Portugal’s most famous paintings and sculptures.
·
Museo Serralves – contemporary art which might
not be everyone’s cup of tea, however the garden is astonishing and the
building is dramatic.
·
Casa de Musica – an iconic piece of
architecture, this concert hall gives a modern taste of the city. The acoustic engineering
is remarkable.
·
Palacio de Cristal – unexpected architecture
with heavenly gardens.
7.
Porto City Hall – one of the most dominant
buildings in Porto, a classical building from the 20th century,
majestically overlooking the old part of the town.
8.
Livraria Lello – one of the most beautiful book
shops in the world, with an impressive staircase. Beautiful example of art
nouveau architecture and decoration.
9.
Clerigos Tower – remarkable Baroque landmark, a
great place to overlook the city.
10.
Caves de Vinho do Porto – a tour through
Porto wine cellars featuring wine tasting is a must.
These were my ten suggestions of things to do and see in
Porto in the winter time.
Enjoy!
Diyana
