Portugal boasts some of Europe’s most dramatic coastlines, otherworldly beaches, and plush green countryside, but it also knows how to do a city.
Two Portuguese cities were featured in Time Out’s recent roundup of the world’s 50 best cities – but not just in the top 50, in the top 15.
The first of these was Porto, Portugal’s village-like second city, which landed eighth in our global ranking. The city is perched at the edge of the Douro Valley and is chockablock with Port houses, rooftops bars, lovely little restaurants and a brand-new Time Out Market.
But none of those places would exist without the creativity and passion of Porto locals. As Mariana Morais Pinheiro, Time Out Porto’s deputy editor, writes: ‘The people of Porto, who bring the city to life, also deserve a prize. Masters in the art of hospitality, our many galleries keep the city interesting, our iconic cafés keep tourists and locals fed and watered, and our well-kept parks and gardens ensure the city remains beautiful.’
Check out our favourite restaurants, bars, and things to do in our Porto hub.
Coming in close behind in twelfth place was Lisbon, Portugal’s lively, charming capital, which is currently experiencing an arts and culture boom.
‘Lisbon is increasingly multicultural, the result of an intersection of work, creativity, genius, and talent from all over the world. It can be seen, tasted, and felt in the outdoor cafés at the end of the day, around the tables of trendy restaurants, on the walls of alternative galleries, or in the shop windows of the most stylish stores,’ writes Vera Moura, editorial director of Time Out Portugal.
‘Take Praça das Flores, in Príncipe Real, as an example: a melting pot of new trends with a great atmosphere, seven days a week.’
Everything you need to know is on our Lisbon page, from the best rooftop bars and seafood restaurants to the best nearby beaches and the best museums.
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