The City of Hospitality

One of Porto's defining characteristics is its warm hospitality. The locals, known as "Tripeiros", have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to visitors. When exploring the picturesque streets of the historic centre or stopping off at a riverside café, it's easy to strike up a conversation with the locals. Genuine friendliness and a willingness to help create an atmosphere conducive to building lasting friendships.

Culture and Tradition

Porto is a city rich in culture and tradition, which provides a solid basis for creating meaningful connections. From popular festivals such as the St John's Festival to the St Anthony's celebrations, the city offers countless opportunities to meet people and share unique experiences. The love of Fado, traditional Portuguese music, is also a way of touching the hearts of many, and the live shows are a great opportunity to get involved in the local culture.

Feel the culture and join in Porto's festive tradition with a St John's Day cruise on the River Douro.

Romantic settings

Porto is undeniably a romantic city. The Douro River, the majestic bridges, the colourful houses clinging to the hills and the viewpoints with breathtaking views provide the perfect backdrop for romantic encounters. Strolling along the riverside at sunset or taking a river cruise is an experience many couples won't forget. In addition, the Port wine cellars in Gaia are ideal places for an intimate stroll and a wine tasting.

Discover 7 Curiosities about Port Wine.

You can't talk about Porto without mentioning its rich gastronomy. Food is a fundamental part of Porto's culture, and sharing a meal is an excellent way to build relationships. Trying local dishes such as the famous francesinha or a plate of Gomes de Sá cod, accompanied by a good Port wine, is an experience that brings people together around the table. Cosy restaurants and traditional taverns invite you to moments of conviviality that can easily develop into friendships and romance.

Events and Festivals

Porto is a city that pulses with events and festivals throughout the year. From international music concerts to local festivals, art exhibitions and sporting events, there's always something going on. Taking part in these events is a marvellous opportunity to meet people with similar interests and create bonds based on shared experiences.

According to the Time Out City Life Index (Time Out London's annual barometer), which gathers the anonymous opinions of thousands of people from all over the world, Porto is the second best city in which to enjoy life. Every year, the British magazine develops a city life index and, in 2018, Porto was highlighted by the opinions of more than 15,000 people.

According to Time Out London, Porto is the second most exciting city in a group of 32, behind Chicago. Porto is therefore a great city for making friends, finding love and keeping in touch with family.

In 2022, the World Travel Awards surrendered to Porto, awarding it the distinctions of Best City Destination in Europe and, in the global competition, Best City Destination in the World.

In 2023, Porto was voted Europe's Best Urban Getaway Destination, and the city has already won the same category in the 2020 edition of the WTA.

The cities were analysed according to various parameters, from gastronomy, culture, hospitality, neighbourliness, accessibility and happiness.

Porto, with its hospitality, rich culture, romantic scenery, delicious gastronomy and a packed calendar of events, is a place where the magic of meeting is always present, and where friendship and love flourish. So if you're looking for a city that nurtures deep and meaningful human relationships, Porto is an exceptional choice. Take the time to visit, explore the city and allow yourself to fall in love with its beauty and its welcoming people. Who knows what Porto has in store for you: perhaps a lifelong friendship or the love you've always dreamed of finding.