Sights & Flavours of Porto
Porto, the second largest city in Portugal, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that is steeped in history and culture. Situated in the northwestern part of the country, Porto is best known for its port wine and picturesque views of the Douro River.
While Porto has a rich history that dates back centuries, the city has also undergone a major transformation in recent years. Today, it is a modern destination that offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication.
One of the most striking features of modern day Porto is its architecture. The city is home to a wide range of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque styles of the historic city centre to the modern designs of the contemporary buildings.
Visitors can also explore the historic city centre, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 and features stunning landmarks such as the São Bento train station and the Clérigos Tower.
The most iconic feature of Porto is the Dom Luís I Bridge, which spans the Douro River and flows through the city and offers fantastic views. You can take a boat tour along the river.
A major draw of Porto is its famous port wine, which is produced in the Douro Valley and aged in the cellars that line the riverbanks of Vila Nova de Gaia. Visitors can take a tour of the cellars and taste some of the world's finest ports, or enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many bars and restaurants that populate the city. Some of the most popular wine cellars in Porto are Taylor's, Sandeman, and Graham's.
In addition to port wine, Porto is also known for its culinary delights that includes seafood, meat, and pastry dishes. Some of the must-try dishes are Francesinha (a sandwich made with ham, sausage, and steak, covered in cheese and tomato sauce), Bacalhau (salted codfish prepared in various ways), Tripas à Moda do Porto (a traditional dish of tripe stewed with beans and vegetables) and Pastel de Nata (a custard tart). You can find these and many other delicacies in local restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
Porto has a lot of surprises, see who I stumbled upon while strolling the streets? 😂
Porto is simply stunning with its picturesque streets and charming architecture. From the colorful houses to the impressive landmarks, there's an abundance of beauty to be found at every turn.
After two weeks of exploring the beautiful cities and scenic countryside of Portugal, our trip finally came to a close in Porto, and what a perfect way it was to end our journey! With its charming streets, picturesque waterfront, and delicious local foods and Port wine, Porto provided the ideal backdrop for our farewell to this incredible country.
Portugal is a country full of life and colour, from its lively cities to its stunning natural landscapes. Portuguese food were absolutely fantastic, and the local wines were perfect. It was a truly amazing culinary experience as well.
As we reflect on our trip, we can't help but feel a special connection to this country. Thank you, Portugal, for an unforgettable adventure!
