Porto: one of the hottest and gayest cities in Portugal

Apr. 01 2013

by misterb&b

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is also one of the most visited in the country. Like a good Portuguese wine, Porto has aged very well. For more than three centuries, the city has been producing fine wines that are recognized throughout the world. The city's impressive historic wine cellars contain real treasures for the pleasure of sommeliers and wine lovers.

Ribeira
The name says it all. Going to Porto requires a tasting of the legendary spirit. Porto is more than wine or spirits. But the city takes advantage of its visitors to show them a rich history. In the heart of the Ribeira district, classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1996, you will find many medieval houses that climb up the Douro hill. Founded in the 12th century, the Cathedral of Porto overlooks this district as well as the whole city.

This area can be quite challenging, as the streets are narrow and winding. You can even get lost easily and come back on your way even if you don't notice it. This area is worth visiting and revisiting. Each alleyway has its own little character. Between the baroque churches, the iron bridges and the medieval buildings, you will discover charming small art stores, proof of the richness of a commercial people.
One of the most romantic places in the city is undoubtedly on the banks of the river Cais da Ribeira. One can admire there very beautiful colored houses. A lively crowd is also present in the restaurants and cafes of the area. It is the ideal place to admire sumptuous boats.

Drinking port in a gay friendly place
When the evening starts, you should head to the trendy Clérigos neighborhood. Café Lusitano offers its gay-friendly clientele many Brazilian cocktails, but also the city's famous port. When it's hot in Porto, the place becomes ideal to cool down.

Gay Pride in Porto
in Porto, you don't need a gay pride to celebrate. Here, the atmosphere is festive at all times. Nevertheless, since 2011, Porto has offered a pride march in the heart of the tourist season. The event is usually held in July and brings together thousands of people to be entertained by the DJs present.

Sleep in a luxury gay friendly hotel in Porto
at the end of 2010, the owners opened a new luxury hotel located in the hill of Vila Nova de Gaia near the Port. The Yeatman Hotel is located in the middle of many wineries and all the major tourist attractions of Porto. The five star hotel offers you a place to relax with its panoramic indoor pool and hammam.

Porto's beautiful weather makes it a year-round tourist destination. If you don't like the heat, you should plan a visit in the fall or spring. For those who like hot nights, summer is a season especially for you. If you like art, culture, history and architecture of houses, a visit to Porto is a must.