Overlooking the Rio Douro, the northern Portuguese city of Porto has been described as a “must-visit European gem” for summer 2024. The city is famous for its rich history as one of the oldest European centres. In fact, the metropolitan core was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996.

As such, there are plenty of things to do in the city to keep tourists busy.

Experts from italki named Porto their number one “must-visit” European destination for the summer months.

They said: “Porto, Portugal, is crowned Europe’s best hidden gem for action-packed holidaygoers. The city is packed with historical and cultural significance and countless experiences waiting to be discovered.

Porto is a great holiday spot for tourists looking for an adventure with fewer crowds.”

But it’s not just its historic relevance that Porto is famous for. According to the local tourism board, the locals are another main draw.

“In the words of many visitors, this city has something mystical that is difficult to describe and which varies according to the place, time of day and light,” stated Visit Portugal.

“Whatever it is, it certainly has to do with its people, known to be generous and easy-going.”

As you might guess from the name, the city of Porto has strong links with the heritage of Port, which was first made in the nearby Douro Valley. When visiting the city, wine-lovers should make a vast to the south bank of the river to go to a Port Wine lodge and taste some of the beverage in its unique setting.

The area is also known for its gastronomy, with the local tourism board promising: “You can be sure of a good meal, accompanied by fine wines from the Douro or the fresh Vinho Verde typical of the region, in any restaurant, from the finest to the most popular.”