Escape the heat in Porto: refreshing ideas

Escape the heat in Porto: refreshing ideas

To escape the heat in Porto, there are several activities that can be pleasant and refreshing. In this article, you will find some varied suggestions, which allow you to have a plan B on days with high temperatures.

1.     Port Wine Cellars

When the heat gets too hot, visiting the Port wine cellars can be a very cool option, as the buildings are underground and dark. The Port wine cellars, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, offer guided tours where you can learn about the history and production process of Portwine. As a suggestion, we leave the Taylor’s or Fonseca Cellars, both with a lot of history and excellent guided tours.

2.     Museums and galleries

Right next to these cellars you can choose between six museums: The Wine Experience, Planet Cork, Porto Region Across the Ages, The Bridge Collection, The Chocolate Story and Pink Palace. It is a rich cultural offering, with museums for all tastes and offering a break from the heat. The spaces are, naturally, air-conditioned and this can be an excellent idea to protect them from intense exposure to the sun.

3.     Restaurants with terraces

Another excellent way to refresh is to try local cuisine in restaurants with terraces. At WOW– Cultural Hub in Vila Nova de Gaia, there are five restaurants with terraces or shaded terraces. To this, there are also superb views of Ribeira and river, making this a program as delicious as it is enchanting.

4.     Cruise on the Douro

A boat trip along the Douro River allows you to enjoy the region's stunning landscapes, while refreshing yourself with the breeze caused by the movement. There is something for all tastes and durations: from long cruises that go to Règua and last several hours; cruises of the six bridges, which operate from Ribeira to Freixo and Foz and last 60minutes; or the Douro River Ferry that crosses the river from Ribeira do Porto to Beira-Rio de Gaia(and vice versa), for just a few minutes. Whatever the option, it will always be fresh and pleasant.

5.     Historic streets and centuries-old gardens

Now that you've crossed over to Porto, take the opportunity to stroll around Ribeira and the historic streets of the city center. There are many cool alleys, with shade and some breeze. Likewise, you will find some gardens with centuries-old trees that allow you to enjoy nature and relax on hot days.

These are just a few suggestions for enjoying Porto while avoiding the heat. We hope you find something that pleases you and refreshes you!