Porto & the Douro Valley
Porto, once an unassuming city, is now the epicenter of river cruising in Portugal given its prime location. The Altantic Ocean meets the Douro River in Porto. The water access, now controlled by a lock system, has elevated Porto as the gateway to Portugal’s celebrated wine country, the beautiful Douro Valley. Most visitors only see a small part of Porto, which expands beyond the riverfront. From a tourist’s perspective, the city appears small. But it is much larger. Porto is comprised of eight districts. And, the population is near one million and growing. The official Visit Porto website does an excellent job providing detailed information to help you plan your itinerary. There are also several tourist offices throughout the city to assist once you arrive. The two main locations are near City Hall and the Cathedral.
Exploring Ribeira, the City Center and Vila Nova da Gaia
I extended my time in Porto after a recent river cruise. And, was so happy that I did. Sadly, my two days in Porto was simply not enough to fully experience every part of the city. I am already planning a return in late Spring or early Fall. The city offers stunning views and a lively ambiance with so much to see and do. One needs more than a cruise excursion or a weekend to be fully immersed.
The three popular tourist areas are in the Historic District: Ribeira, the City Center and Vila Nova da Gaia. Each has a distinct personality and attractions.
Ribeira is considered party-central and is generally packed with tourists. There are outdoor cafes and the usual peddlers selling souvenirs and hawkers promoting scenic river boat rides.
The City Center
The City Center covers a greater part of Porto and requires an uphill climb. It is marked by a grand boulevard, Avenue dos Aliados. And, the Clérigos Tower is its most famous landmark. Navigating a maze of winding streets, you will find shops, monuments, restaurants and more. A visit to the São Benito Train station with its walls adorned in beautiful Portugal’s azulejos, blue-hued painted tiles, should not be missed. Each tile panel with intricate design details tells a story.
The Douro defines Porto with a split down the middle. On the north side of the river, the Ribeira neighborhood hugs the riverbank. But on the opposite side, you will find the centuries-old home to a regional treasure, port wine. Vila Nova da Gaia or simply Gaia, technically a separate town, is speckled with rabelos, replicas of the traditional flat-bottom boats that once transported the wine. The boats are moored near the embankment with cellar house flags waving in the wind encouraging tourist to indulge in a tasting. Over 15 port wine cellars, aka caves do vihno do porto, offer tours and tastings.
Where Port Wine Was Born
Fast Fact: Historically, wine could not be called Port unless it was aged in Gaia. But regulations changed over the years.
I enjoyed a tasting at Gaia’s Quinta do Noval tasting room and shop. It was intimate and inviting. The manager provided me with a fabulous overview, explaining the various port types from Tawny to Late-Vintaged-Bottled (LBV) port. After an hour, I felt like an expert. I learned that tawny ports are aged in smaller oak casks and are aged for 10+ years and are ready to drink upon release. Ruby/Vintage ports spend less time in the barrel and age best in the bottle. The LBV port, a single vintage wine aged in wood up to six years, was my favorite. Smooth and full- bodied with notes of black fruit, chocolate, and spice, the LBV port is affordable ($25 US) and once opened will last in the fridge for weeks.
Noteworthy: The most expensive and rarest Port wine in the world is produced by Quinta do Noval
This Porto 101 YouTube video, from The Vino Wine Show channel provides an easy-to-understand quick lesson. Comprehensive and definitely worth watching!
Douro River Bridge Challenge
Port is a city of bridges. And, a bridge climb is a favorite tourist outing. I gave it a try, crossing the Dom Luís Bridge, which spans the Douro, multiple times traversing from several bridge levels. The upper level was the most challenging. The views from atop this multi-level metal arch bridge are amazing! Well worth a bit of huffing and puffing. But be forewarned, comfy shoes are a must. Check out all the bridges by water with a 50-minute scenic boat tour with Rota Do Douro in Gaia for under $20 Euros. The company also offers a variety boat tours to the Douro Valley.
Tip: You can avoid the climb for a fee by opting for a Gondola ride to the top.
Shopping in Porto
Shopping is another activity that doesn’t disappoint. Skip the tourist-trap stalls along the riverfront and explore deeper into the city for artisan shops. A favorite is Prometeu Artesanto, with four locations throughout Porto. The artisan shop offers a tile workshop where you can create your very own Portuguese Azulejo. Authentic cork products and hand-painted tiles are the top souvenirs of choice. I gifted myself a stylish cork hat that channels my adventurous nature. And, purely by accident, I found Bolhão Market, a delightful place where locals sell everything from salted cod to crafts. There are even adjacent restaurants and smaller stalls where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a snack. A wonderful place to visit especially during holiday season.
The Fantastic World of the Portuguese Sardine, is one touristy destination that is simply hard to resist. It is colorful and quirky with a several store locations around Portugal. The Gaia location is easy to spot with its illuminated sign. Pop in for a quick look at the walls of tins and snap a selfie in the shop’s oversized sardine chair.
Filigree and Fragrances
Joalharia do Carmo in Porto was a mesmerizing find with an absolutely incredible array of traditional filigree fine gold jewelry. The company was founded in 1924. The company’s newest shop and museum is located on Porto’s historic goldsmiths’ street near the Bento train station. Words cannot describe the emotional experience when viewing each intricate masterpiece. Awe-inspiring! The shop’s luxe interior design elements, displays and filigree staircase are magical.
Another popular filigree boutique and artisan workshop, The House of Filigree, can be found north of Rua dos Clérigos. The on-site museum features a permanent exhibition entitled “Portuguese Filigree: From Technical Expertise to Elegant Usage” showcasing this historic art form.
A visit to Claus Porto, a specialty soap and fragrance store, is a treat for the senses. The history of the hand-crafted brand and unique Porto treasure stretches back to 1887. Founded by two Germans, Claus Porto continues to remain true to its legacy of luxury. Hand-wrapped soap with a distinctive lacquer seal and six unisex fragrances dominate the collection. Claus Porto offers elevated and distinctively classic Portuguese gifts for everyone on your list. An interesting timeline exhibit, showcasing the evolution of the brand’s label art, is on display on the upper level of the store.
The Porto River Soul Hotel
A Room with a View takes on new meaning at the Porto River Soul Hotel.
This small boutique hotel property is nestled on the Gaia side of the river, just a short walk to the Dom Luís Bridge. The location was perfect, minutes to the riverfront and tasting rooms. I secured a standard double room with no balcony. The room was modern and spotless. I was impressed. But it only got better. I pulled up my room window shades, and was blown away by the amazing views.
Each morning, I enjoyed a hearty breakfast in the small restaurant, served up with more incredible views. The hotel also featured a small terrace and outdoor pool overlooking the Douro. I traveled in off-season, so my room rate was lower. It is best to shop around on several booking sites to lock in a deal. The Porto River Soul is a true gem that is worth consideration. Highly recommended.
Art and Architecture
Explore Porto and you will find a treasure around every corner. Art, Architecture, History, Cuisine and More!
Porto has captured my heart. I cannot wait to return, discover more finds and venture out to Porto’s many beach areas like Matosinhos, Foz do Douro and Praia de Espinho. CNTraveler provides insight to a few beach favorites. Some are an easy day trip, just 20-30 minutes via tram from the city center.
Be sure to check out my Portugal cruise feature where I explore the scenic Douro Valley on the Viking Hemming. An unforgettable cruise with just under 100 guests.
Happy Travels!
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