The Spirit of Christmas in Porto: A Toast to Traditions and Wine

As Christmas approaches, thoughts turn to gifts, feasts, companionship, and travel. If extreme sports in chilly places like Zermatt or the Alps aren’t your thing, and you prefer a warmer climate, consider Portugal as your holiday destination. This Christmas, we invite you to explore the vibrant and warm city of Porto, a place as rich in architecture as it is in enogastronomy.

Recently, our team had the pleasure of visiting this enchanting city, returning with a wealth of vivid impressions. Opting not to confine our visit to the local wine boutiques, the Wine Travel Awards team ventured right into the heart of Porto during the festive season. We’ve compiled several recommendations on must-visit spots and dining options in this culinary haven for the discerning traveler.

Porto’s Port Wine Industry Reimagined

Porto is a haven for wine lovers, weaving together an enchanting blend of culture, history, nature, gastronomy, and, naturally, exceptional wines. Each corner of the city brims with delightful surprises, making every visit a new discovery.

Over the last fifteen years, Porto has seen a profound transformation, fueled by an ever-growing interest in its legacy. In 2023, the city welcomed nearly 6 million overnight stays, underscoring its status not just as a travel destination but as a vibrant gateway to Portugal’s deep-rooted wine traditions.

Central to this transformation is Porto’s storied port wine industry. Historic cellars have been repurposed into sleek visitor centers and chic accommodations, such as the luxurious Yeatman Hotel or the stylish Sandeman House. A standout experience from our visit was the World of Wine. Opened by Fladgate Partnership in 2020, this expansive wine-themed hospitality complex aims to establish Porto as the wine capital of Europe, celebrating and showcasing the city’s rich wine heritage to the world.

Porto’s transformation into a wine destination is just part of the larger picture. Portugal, recently honored as the Best Wine Tourism Destination in the World by FIBEGA in Madrid. This prestigious recognition not only highlights the individual charm of places like Porto but also cements the nation’s status on the global wine tourism map.

Porto – Essential Stops on Your City Tour

However, let’s return to our trip to Porto — the capital of Portuguese wine culture. This vibrant hub, rich in wine and cultural heritage, continually enhances its cultural landscape with new openings every week, from museums and hotels to bars and concept stores.

Arriving at Porto São Bento, not only do visitors marvel at this stunning monument, but they also access the western terminus of the line that traverses the scenic route between the Douro Valley and Porto.

Editors Note: We also highly recommend starting your discovery of Portugal in the magnificent Douro Valley, and when the time is right, taking a boat trip to Porto. This route, woven through terraced vineyards, not only offers stunning vistas but also carries the echoes of centuries-old wine trade. As you sail the historic waterways, you’re retracing the paths once navigated by the storied “barcos rabelos”, connecting you deeply with the heritage of Port wine. The ancient vineyards of the Douro Valley, recognized globally as the world’s first officially designated wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bask under the sun.

Just a week before our arrival, the Time Out Market Porto opened near São Bento Railway Station. We couldn’t resist the urge to check it out as one of the first visitors since its launch. Following its success in Lisbon, this venue brings together some of Porto’s finest chefs under one roof, featuring an array of outstanding dining options and an outdoor lounge that offers panoramic views of the city.

Later on, standing on the quay by the broad Douro River, with the majestic iron-latticework of the late 19th-century Dom Luís I Bridge to your left, a glance across to Villa Nova de Gaia reveals the renowned port lodges that dot its landscape. Names like Taylor’s, Graham’s, Cockburn’s, Calém, Fonseca, Sandeman, Noval and more and more conjure memories of past visits, where the rich aromas of aged wine linger in the air and the taste of exquisite ports becomes an unforgettable experience etched into our minds.

Rich Christmas Offerings at World of Wine

Yet, our current path was set towards another landmark, the World of Wine. With a sense of anticipation, we continued confidently, eager to delve into new experiences and add to our collection of cherished wine memories.

Standing on the panoramic platform of this ancient city, you are greeted with a breathtaking view of the Ribeira district, its steep streets and architectural masterpieces, and a vibrant scene along the Douro River where colorful boats shuttle tourists and barrels of port wine. As lively thoughts swirl in your mind, at least two are prominent: what to drink and where to eat. So, don’t rack your brain – simply gaze at the city panorama. Among the terracotta roofs, you’ll spot a distinctive black and white sign. It’s not a seagull, though there will be plenty of those around; it’s the sign of one of the most remarkable places for wine lovers, not only in Portugal but around the world – the WOW. This must-visit destination includes the Wine Experience, Planet Cork, Chocolate Story, The art of Drinking – The Bridge Collection, Porto Region across ages and Pink Palace museums, plus a Wine School, offering a variety of master classes on Portuguese wines. For those who always link wine with culture, the options to visit WOW Art Gallery and the newly opened Atkinson Museum are the cherry on top.

When you are already there and have picked one or two great experiences that suit all ages and interests, WOW also doesn’t want to let you go, enchanting you with high-quality gastronomic offerings to suit all tastes and budgets: from the relaxed settings of Suspiro and Vinte Vinte Café to the upscale environments of Golden Catch and Vegetarian Root and Vine, along with the innovative Angel’s Share Wine Bar, and the refined dining at 1828 – touted to be Portugal’s best steakhouse. Not to miss is Mira Mira, where celebrated Portuguese chef Ricardo Costa presents fine dining in true Portuguese style. Places are very different, but what unites them is the brilliantly curated wine lists.

Again, the breathtaking views – as most restaurants face the terrace with one of the best views of old Porto!

Among the local restaurants that WOW offers, our favorite was Golden Catch, which brings together the treasures of the sea and land. Traditional fish and seafood dishes are served with a modern twist. The menu’s highlight is the mariscada, a two-tiered platter serving flavors from across Portugal, from oysters from Ria de Aveiro to clams à Bulhão Pato.

It’s no wonder that this museum became a winner of the Wine Travel Awards in 2024! Thus, WOW is the number one spot on our list of enogastronomic places to visit and it stayed us inspired and amazed.

There is so much to see in this city, but we found ourselves leisurely continuing to explore the WOW space. With only one day to explore Porto, we found ourselves captivated by WOW. Its museums, art galleries, restaurants, and wine bars, each offering unique tastings, presented such a wealth of experiences that we simply couldn’t bring ourselves to leave. By the end of the day, it was clear: WOW deserves at least two days to fully immerse in everything it has to offer.

Moreover, around Christmas time, WOW transforms its space into a magical winter wonderland. The area is adorned with a huge, beautiful huge green tree, evening holographic projections, and specialized events that include a Christmas market complete with live music and offerings to suit all tastes. Alive with the glow of festive lights and the cheerful sounds of holiday music, the air becomes crisp and filled with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, inviting everyone to partake in the joyous spirit of Christmas.

As we delved into the magic of Christmas 2024, we uncovered some key details to help you truly embrace the spirit of the season and make the most of your holiday there:

The Enchantment Begins

Upon entering the grounds, visitors were greeted by the mesmerizing sight of a colossal Christmas tree, towering over the central plaza. Adorned with twinkling lights and shimmering ornaments, it stood as a beacon of the holiday season, casting a warm, golden light over smiling faces. Nearby, a carousel spun merrily, its colorful horses carrying giggling children and nostalgic adults, their laughter blending with the festive tunes that filled the air.

Culinary Delights and Merry Gatherings

The heart of the celebrations was undoubtedly the array of dining experiences offered. On the 24th and 25th of December, the restaurants at World of Wine opened their doors to host spectacular Christmas dinners. Each restaurant, unique in its ambiance and menu, offered something special, catering to every palate from the traditional to the exotic. Friends and families gathered around tables laden with delicious food, toasting to good health and happiness, making the task of organizing holiday meals delightfully simple and profoundly enjoyable.

As night fell, the festivities continued at the Angel’s Share bar. Here, guests relaxed and reveled in the holiday spirit, enjoying expertly mixed cocktails and the company of loved ones. The bar, with its cozy setup and inviting decor, was the perfect place to unwind after a sumptuous dinner.

A Market of Wonders

Not far from the dining venues, the small market bustled with activity. Stalls brimming with unique gifts and handmade crafts lined the pathways, each one showcasing the talents of local artists and craftsmen. The market was a treasure trove for those seeking meaningful, one-of-a-kind Christmas presents, away from the hustle and bustle of typical shopping destinations. Here, there were no lines, no confusion – just the joy of finding the perfect gift in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.

Joyful Learning and Giving

For those looking to give more than just material gifts, the World of Wine offered something truly special. The WOW vouchers became a popular choice, providing loved ones with experiences to cherish – a workshop at the Wine School or entry to one of the engaging museums on site. These experiences promised not only fun and learning but also the opportunity to create lasting memories.

Enchantment for the Little Ones

Children found their own slice of Christmas joy with a range of entertainment options crafted just for them. From storytelling sessions under the giant tree to meetings with Santa Claus himself, every moment was designed to spark wonder in young hearts. The laughter and excitement of the children added a vibrant energy to the festivities, reminding everyone of the pure joy found in simple pleasures.

Celebrating Together

As the holidays unfolded, the World of Wine became more than just a place – it became a community of joy, shared experiences, and festive cheer. Whether it was through a quiet evening enjoying the view, a lively night out, or a thoughtful stroll through the market, the World of Wine ensured that every moment of the Christmas season was filled with something spectacular.

With each passing year since its inception, the Christmas celebration at the World of Wine has grown – not only in scale but also in the hearts of all who visit. It’s not just the dazzling lights, the towering tree, or the festive markets that make it special, but the sense of community and shared joy that lingers long after the season has passed. Each visit leaves behind cherished memories, inspiring a deep connection to the magic of Porto, and the promise of many more joyful and enchanting seasons to come.

Britt and Per Karlson’s Fortified Wine Recommendations — Perfect for Christmas

It was only after setting our course that we realized we had formed a great company: Britt and Per Karlson, co-founders of the renowned travel agency BKWine (Sweden-France), also fell in love with this charming country and even prepared a list of recommended Christmas wines from Portugal – and take note, the selection includes more than just the famous port wines, which quality has never been better.

We fully trust the tastes and experience of this pair of wine guides, so we’ll quote their festive wine list verbatim.

Their festive wine list includes:

1. Port Quinta da Devesa 10 Years Tawny Port, 0.5 l, ~20 euro: A tawny port that has been aged in barrels for a long time acquires a wonderfully oxidized, nutty flavor.
2. Fonseca Guimaraens Vintage Port 2012, ~40 €: A vintage port that, despite its sweetness, offers tannins and structure along with an intensely delicious black fruit flavor. Fonseca’s Guimaraens is also very affordable for a vintage port. (20€+)
3. Madeira Blandy’s Madeira Colheita Malmsey 2016, 0.5 l, ~18 eur: A high-quality Madeira made from one of four white grapes, malmsey, sercial, verdelho, or bual, as indicated on the label. Malmsey is the sweetest of the four.
4. Moscatel Bacalhoa Moscatel de Setúbal 2021: Not as well-known as Portugal’s other fortified wines but definitely worth discovering. Moscatel de Setúbal ferments slowly with the skins and, after a period of aging in oak, acquires intense aromas of orange peel, dried apricots, figs, nuts…a true Christmas wine.

It seems the selection from BKWine has anticipated pairing variations with any dish. Even the most discerning epicureans will find something to delight in at the Christmas table.

Merry Chrismas! 

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Photo: Veronika Busel, instagram.com/worldofwine, hellotickets.com, blog.winetourismportugal.com, catavino.net, cooltouroporto.com