TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN PORTO

Porto has been voted top European travel destination for the third time in five years. Situated on the River Douro, colourful historic buildings and homes hug the steep slopes either side of the river. Walk just about anywhere in Porto and you have magnificent views in any direction. Be prepared for lots of steps and steep climbs and reward yourself at the end with a Portuguese tart or a port tasting.

Everything is within walking distance or you could take one of the historic trams. This makes Porto an ideal destination for a long weekend.

TOP 5 THINGS

Take a Cruise down the River Douro There are long and short cruises which you can do. We enjoyed the hour long 6 Bridges cruise with accompanying commentary. A very refreshing way to see Porto from a different vantage point.

Walk across Ponte Luis Bridge All of Porto’s Bridges are out of the ordinary but Ponte Luis offers sensational views. You can walk across in ten to fifteen minutes or take a tram if you prefer. You will find many port wine tasting houses across the river.

Check out Sao Bento Railway Station More like an art gallery this station was constructed in 1900  and designed by Jose Marques da Silva in the Beaux Artes style using azulejo blue and white tiles to depict scenes of Portuguese history.

Walk, cycle or take tram along the Riverside to Atlantic Ocean Start walking from the Ribiera district next to Ponte Luis which is packed with cafes and tourists. A great walking and cycle path takes you about 3 kilometres to the Atlantic Ocean passing more cafes and museums along the way. Or take the tram one way or both ways.

Enjoy Portuguese tarts and more The Portuguese take their baking seriously and produce amazingly good breads, pastries, cakes and their specialty Portuguese tarts. I have consumed many. They are also inexpensive – less than one euro even at a sit down cafe. Hundreds of wonderful cafes. Look out for Menzos and Majestic Cafe, both on Rua Santa Catarina. Don’t forget to visit the Bolhao market for top quality local produce.