Nestled along the Douro River, Porto is a city of layered charm—vibrant buildings, iconic bridges, and the lingering aroma of port wine winding through its ancient stone streets. In just a few days, we soaked up postcard-worthy views, incredible meals, and unforgettable moments. Here’s a glimpse into what made our time in Porto so special:
It’s tough to pick favorites, but one bite into the legendary francesinha at Gazela was all it took—we were hooked. This indulgent, sauce-covered, meat-filled sandwich exceeded every expectation.
For a lighter and refreshing start to the day, Honest Greens Santa Catarina was a dream. Their chai, fresh juices, and mushroom toast were wholesome and beautifully presented. Lunch at Sandeira do Porto offered simple but delicious dishes—our salmon salad and sandwich were packed with fresh flavor.
We couldn’t resist the pastéis de nata at Fábrica da Nata. These golden custard tarts—flaky on the outside, creamy on the inside—lived up to their reputation.
One of our most heartfelt meals was at Ribeira Square Restaurante, where we dined al fresco on creamy cod gratin with spinach and mozzarella. The warmth of the owner made the evening even more memorable.
No visit to Porto is complete without exploring the Mercado do Bolhão—a lively market filled with colors, aromas, and the hum of locals and travelers. Picture sipping wine while browsing cheese plates and sushi counters. Genius.
Crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset gave us one of our favorite memories. On the other side, Jardim do Morro came alive with concerts, karaoke, and vendors serving up cold drinks. The energy was infectious.
We took in a bit of culture—and wine—at the Caves Cálem Port Wine Tour, which ended with a stirring Fado concert. The soulful music, rich and melancholic, perfectly captured the spirit of Porto.
A stroll through the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal offered quiet beauty and sweeping views of the Douro River, with peacocks crossing our path and hidden corners waiting to be discovered.
Even crowded, Livraria Lello felt magical with its iconic staircase and stained glass ceiling, transporting us to a storybook world.
And then there’s Porto’s famous tilework. From the Chapel of Souls and São Bento Station to countless facades, the city is adorned in mesmerizing blue-and-white azulejos—art in every direction.
To end our trip, we ventured to Foz do Douro, where the Douro River flows into the Atlantic. Waves crashed against the rocks as we enjoyed fresh seafood with a view. The sea air and crashing surf provided the perfect, peaceful close to our Porto experience.
Porto is soulful, flavorful, and alive with color!