Once upon a time in Porto… a sentence I have seen around town a bit. Somehow it suits, because Porto is a very magical, beautiful and vibrant city. After visiting Portugal a few years ago.. has it really been more than three years already? … I always wanted to come back here. It seems Portugal is on the ‘hot spot list’ these days. Everybody wants to go or live there. So, as I have only been to Lisbon and south of it, read here, I decided this time to go to Porto. And, is Porto worth a visit?
Definitely! I can certainly understand now what the hype is all about.
Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is renowned for its association with port wine, as its name suggests. Of course, it is not only the port wine that you can enjoy. Your taste buds will be pleased in Porto. Besides all the port distilleries, trying the local produce… the olives, the grilled fish, the various tins of sardines and the Portuguese custard tarts, the ‘Pasteis de Nata’ is a must in Porto. And I certainly tried it all. A lot!
Luckily I walked a lot as well. Trust me, the best way to explore the city is by walking. It is amazing how much there is to explore. And I highly recommend comfortable shoes. Because it is a very hilly city and feels like a small workout at times. However, it was never boring. The pebbled streets, the colourful houses, the old tiny shops and the stunning views all added to the character of Porto, and the enjoyment of walking all day and night. Each street is different and each house, and its beautiful tiled facade, very individual. It has been a while since I have taken so many photos of one city.
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The Architecture
The unique architecture and creative designs were not only outside but also noticeable inside the restaurants, cafe shops, and little stores. Wherever I looked, there was something unique to see. Not to mention that every building, corner or house seemed to have some kind of art display. The street art is everywhere and certainly adds to the character of Porto. I really enjoyed discovering it all.
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Walking the Luis bridge, that connects Porto city and Vila Nova de Gaya (the place where the port wine distilleries are) is an experience itself. Built a few years before the Eiffel Tower, in 1881 – 1886, it is actually the same structure. The ironwork resemblance is not a coincidence. The twin bridge of the Luis bridge, the D. Maria Pia (1876), sitting just next to it, was actually designed by Gustav Eiffel.
Read more about the bridge here.
You can walk the bridge on two levels. At the bottom or on top of the arch. Both levels give you a different experience. And with 60m above the Duoro River, the city views are quite stunning from the top. Especially around sunset time.
This vibrant city has become one of my favourite places I have visited and I would highly recommend it. Porto did not disappoint.
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The Beach
One of the other benefits of Porto is the quick escape to the beach. Had enough of the city? Just catch the old tram to get out of it. The final destination is the beach. From there, you can walk for hours along the coast line watching the waves, enjoying a refreshing drink or relaxing on the beach. Apparently the coast line is also part of the Camino de Santiago.
I spent a great afternoon at the beach, soaking up the European sun and watching the sunset while having a picnic. It was a beautiful afternoon and a perfect escape from the city. It is very different to the beach life in Phuket, but it is certainly a great place to be!
So, is Porto worth a visit? Yes! Definitely!
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Final tip: One thing you might want to think about is visiting the Livraria Lello in Porto. I was looking forward to go inside this stunning Harry Potter library/book store. However, the queues were soo long I didn’t want to spend hours waiting. Even with pre-purchased tickets. Shame. Maybe next time. I am pretty sure I will be back in Porto and certainly in Portugal.
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