Sipping, Savoring, and Sightseeing: A Tour of WOW Porto

I’m always looking for exciting this to do that pair fun with education and I was very happy to hear about WOW Porto during my last visit to Portugal. WOW Porto is a cultural hub full of exciting experiences. With seven museum experiences, twelve restaurants, shops, a temporary exhibition space, an events space, and a wine school, WOW pays homage to the region and shines a light on the most important Portuguese industries and traditions.

The Chocolate Museum

Are you ready for a chocolatey adventure that will tantalize your tastebuds and educate you at the same time? Look no further than The Chocolate Museum, one of the most immersive experiences in WOW. It’s a selfie-friendly interactive experience that will take you on a journey from cacao to chocolate.

Learn about the history and production of chocolate, from the ancient farming methods that have been used for thousands of years to the modern techniques used in today’s chocolate factories. I had no idea that it was the Portuguese who first brought chocolate to Africa and I was shocked to see what some of the old chocolate ads looked like.

I really appreciated seeing the history of chocolate from the beginning, I mean all the way to the beginning. The first exhibit is about the Aztec and chocolate. I didn’t know that chocolate was so sacred to their culture and I found the animated presentation very cool.

But the real treat is witnessing a fully-operating chocolate factory in action. Watch as skilled chocolatiers craft delectable treats right before your eyes. As a person who loves chocolate and one that often works with cocoa farmers and small-batch chocolatiers, I really appreciated this particular museum. You absolutely must visit this museum, and don’t forget to snap some sweet selfies at the various chocolate-themed exhibits along the way.

The Pink Palace

The Pink Palace is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike. This eccentric museum offers an immersive experience that shatters myths about Rosé wine while entertaining visitors with its vibrant and unique exhibits. From diving into a pool of pink balls to posing in front of a giant champagne bottle, every corner of the Pink Palace offers a memorable photographic opportunity. And let’s not forget about the tasting! Visitors can sample five different styles of Rosé wine and discover just how versatile this pink drink can be.

But the Pink Palace isn’t just about fun and games. The museum also offers a pedagogical vision, providing educational information about Rosé wine in each room. And while the experience is extravagant and Hollywood-style, it doesn’t neglect the importance of learning about wine.

One of the most charming aspects of the Pink Palace is its old Western theme. Beginning in a Cadillac and ending in an old saloon, visitors are transported to a different time and place as they explore the museum. And for those who love all things pink, this museum is a dream come true.

Pink is my favorite color and just seeing it brings me so much joy. I greatly enjoyed being in a space filled with all things pink. The Pink Palace is the perfect place for anyone who loves everything pink, MEEEE!!! 😀

Other Museums at WOW Porto

For those interested in history, The Bridge Collection is a museum that reveals the personal passion of collector Adrian Bridge. The collection of cups, goblets, and other containers dates back to 7000 BC and tells the story of human civilization through the drinking ritual.

The Cork Museum, also known as Planet Cork, is an interactive and educational experience that shows visitors how cork oaks are stripped and transformed into wine and sparkling wine corks. From blowing up a street in New York to imagining yourself in a cork fort, the museum is fun for all ages.

The Porto Fashion & Fabric Museum is a two-level collection that deals with the textile industry in Portugal and emphasizes the art of filigree, national footwear, and Portuguese fashion. Visitors can understand the role of Portugal in the textile industry and see how a piece of clothing is born from the cotton flower to its design and final manufacturing process.

Lastly, The Wine Experience is the best wine museum in the world. Visitors can learn about the grape and the different types of wine while tasting red, white, and port wine. The museum is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about wine and its different varieties.

Overall, WOW Porto’s collection of museums offers visitors a diverse range of topics to explore, from animation and film to science, nature, and wine-making. With interactive exhibits and engaging displays, these museums provide a unique and informative experience for visitors of all ages and interests.

Places to Eat at WOW Porto

Porto is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for food lovers, and WOW Porto is leading the charge. With stunning views of the Douro river and the iconic Ponte de Dom Luis I bridge, WOW Porto is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Here are just a few of the top dining options at WOW Porto:

Vinte Vinte Café: This café, located inside the Chocolate Museum, offers a range of delicious chocolate-based treats, from crispy biscuits to rich hot chocolate. Pair your treats with some port wine or Vinte Vinte chocolates for an extra special experience.

1828 x El Capricho: Known for the “best meat in the world”, El Capricho is a must-visit for any meat lover. Sourced from carefully selected, free-range old oxen, the meat is prepared and matured with the utmost care and respect. Head to 1828 for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Root & Vine x Subenshi: If sushi is more your style, Root & Vine is the place to be. With a panoramic view of the city and a menu faithful to the offer of restaurants with their own name, it’s the perfect spot for both newcomers to sushi and seasoned sushi lovers.

Angel’s Share: For wine lovers, Angel’s Share is a must-visit. The wine bar offers the best wines in the world served by the glass, as well as harmonious flavor combinations like cheese boards and sausages. And with an outdoor terrace area, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.

These are just a few of the dining options available at WOW Porto. From traditional Portuguese dishes to contemporary cuisine, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in Porto, be sure to check out WOW Porto’s culinary scene and indulge in some of the best food the city has to offer.

Recommend Checklist for WOW Porto

Here are some of the top activities that visitors can enjoy:

1. Take a guided tour of the museum: WOW Porto offers guided tours of the museum that take visitors through the history of wine, from its origins to the present day. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the wine-making process, the different types of wine, and the cultural significance of wine in different regions of the world.
2. Attend a wine tasting: After learning about the history of wine, visitors can taste different types of wine from the Douro Valley, one of the most famous wine regions in Portugal. The wine-tasting sessions are led by wine experts who provide guidance on how to taste and appreciate different types of wine.
3. Explore the wine cellar: WOW Porto has a massive wine cellar that houses over 3,000 bottles of wine from different regions of Portugal. Visitors can explore the cellar and learn about the different types of wine that are stored there.
4. Learn about cork production: Portugal is the largest cork-producing country in the world, and WOW Porto has a section dedicated to cork production. Visitors can learn about the cork harvesting process and see how cork is transformed into wine bottle stoppers.
5. Enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant: WOW Porto has an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Portuguese cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the Douro River.
6. Attend a workshop: WOW Porto offers workshops on different aspects of wine, such as wine pairing, wine production, and the history of wine. The workshops are led by experts in the field, making them a great way to learn more about wine.

Get ready to say “WOW” after visiting Porto! This vibrant city is a mecca for wine, history, and culture enthusiasts. And if you’re lucky enough to visit the unique museums at WOW Porto, you’ll be in for a treat! From interactive exhibits to guided tours and delicious wine tastings, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this fun and educational experience! Plus, the cafe and lounge areas offer the perfect spot to sip and savor while taking in the stunning surroundings. So whether you’re a wine snob, curious traveler or just looking for a fun day out, WOW Porto is a must-visit destination!