Baixa, a neighborhood just above the Douro River, lies close to the city’s main attractions and landmarks, with accommodations ranging from 5-star hotels to stylish hostels.

The heart of Porto revolves around Avenida dos Aliados, the city’s grandiose avenue lined with stately buildings with ornate facades. Close by, explore one of the most beautiful train stations in the world; São Bento Railway Station boasts more than 20,000 tiles depicting scenes from Portuguese history.

Wear your walking shoes in Porto and be prepared for stairs, as it’s a city built on hills. For a fantastic panoramic view, climb the 225 stairs to the top of the 18th-century Torre dos Clérigos.

For another scenic view of the Douro River, stroll through the romantic Gardens of the Palácio de Cristal or visit the tucked-away gardens at Jardim das Virtudes, where beautiful terraced gardens prove a perfect place to relax and picnic.

© Jan Schroder

When you see a long line of people, you know you’re at Livraria Lello, built in Neo-Gothic style and considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world.

For fresh produce, meats and flowers, visit the historical central market, Mercado do Bolhão. Stroll the nearly mile-long Rua Santa Catarina pedestrian street filled with shops and restaurants. Admire the elegant buildings along another pedestrian street, Rua das Flores, dating back to the early 16th century.

When you’re ready to indulge in Portugal’s native foods, head to Taxca for the best bifana, a sandwich made with sliced, marinated pork on a crusty bread roll. You may sit elbow-to-elbow with fellow diners at tiny, no-frills Gazela, but it’s worth it to watch the crew make the famous cachorrinho, similar to a hot dog, served with cheese on crusty bread and sliced into small pieces.

For a truly memorable meal, make a reservation at Chama, where you’ll dine on several elegantly presented courses, prepared using fresh-that-day ingredients.

Baixa also hums with lively nightlife, particularly on Rua Galeria de Paris, where you’ll find trendy bars and restaurants open until the wee hours.