Porto, Pronto!

Unveiling Porto: Three Days of Charm and Adventure

Day One: Arrival and First Impressions

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. My journey began with a scenic Megabus ride from Cardiff to Bristol Airport, making travel both affordable and convenient. A swift two-hour Ryanair flight from Bristol brought me to Porto, where I took a Bolt ride to my accommodation—a seamless 18-minute journey costing around €11. (Flights costing £43.05 return!)

Arriving late at Casa do’s Louis Boutique Guesthouse, nestled in Porto’s vibrant center, was a delightful find. This elegant guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a sumptuous breakfast, all for a last-minute rate of €150 for two nights. Its central location made it an ideal base for exploring the city’s many attractions.

Day Two: Exploring Porto’s Rich Heritage

Porto is a city that begs to be explored on foot. To start my Porto adventure, I visited Odete Bakery, a charming vegan bakery where I indulged in a pastel de nata for just €2. This delicious treat set the tone for a delightful day of exploration.

Wandering around the city, I marveled at the blend of old-world charm and modernity. My first significant stop was São Bento Railway Station, renowned for its exquisite azulejo tilework depicting historical scenes.

This free attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting Porto. Next, I climbed to the top of the Sé Cathedral, an iconic landmark in Porto. The climb was invigorating, and the panoramic views of the city from the top were simply breathtaking. Entrance is free, though donations are appreciated.

A short walk from the cathedral brought me to the Majestic Café, a beautifully preserved Belle Époque café. Here, I enjoyed a coffee (€7), savoring the ambiance and elegance that make this café a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Nearby, the Via Catarina Shopping Mall offers more than just retail therapy. The stunning architecture upstairs is worth the visit, blending modern shopping with a touch of historic charm. Crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge was next on my itinerary. This double-deck iron bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, provides stunning panoramic views of Porto’s skyline and the Douro River.

On the other side, the vibrant Ribeira district awaits with its colorful facades and lively atmosphere. From there, I made my way to Taylor’s Vineyard on the picturesque south bank of the Douro River. Taylor’s offers an insightful tour into the world of port wine. The sweeping views of terraced vineyards and the Douro River make this experience unforgettable. I purchased the guided tour through GetYourGuide for €17.19, and it included tastings of their exquisite port, making it worth every penny.

Later in the day, I took an Uber from Taylor’s Vineyard to Matosinhos Beach, a charming coastal town known for its seafood and vibrant beach scene. This beach is also home to the SEA LIFE Porto aquarium, offering a delightful escape from the city. As evening approached, I embarked on a sunset cruise along the Douro River, purchased through GetYourGuide for €12.89. The sight of Porto bathed in the golden hues of sunset, with its historic buildings and iconic bridges, was a highlight of my trip. The cruise provided a serene and picturesque end to a day filled with exploration.

Dinner at Botanico capped off the day perfectly. The restaurant offered a delightful culinary experience, with the steak tartare and Sandeman’s Ruby Port being standout choices. After dinner, I headed to a nearby wine bar next to my hotel for a few glasses of port while enjoying a view of the city.

Day Three: A Short but Sweet Farewell

Although my final day in Porto was brief, it was filled with memorable moments. With a 12:25 flight back home, I made the most of the morning by visiting Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Known for its stunning architecture and ornate staircase, this bookstore is a must-see in Porto. The entrance fee is €8 for a timed entrance, or €17 for a golden ticket, which comes with a beautiful book! It’s a small price to pay for such a unique experience. After enjoying a coffee nearby at Amorino Gelato, I headed back to my guesthouse to prepare for my departure.

Despite the short stay, the affordability of my trip (only €40 for round-trip flights) made it all worthwhile. An Uber ride costing around €12 took me back to the airport, marking the end of a delightful journey. ## Why Porto Should Be Your Next Destination Porto is a city that captivates with its blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. The affordability, combined with the wealth of experiences on offer, makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

From the historic streets of the Ribeira district to the serene banks of the Douro River, Porto promises an unforgettable experience.

Budget-Friendly Attractions in Porto

1. Livraria Lello: Famed for its stunning architecture and ornate staircase. Entrance fee: €8.
2. Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto): A masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Entrance: Free (donations appreciated).
3. São Bento Railway Station: Known for its exquisite azulejo tilework. Free to admire.
4. Mercado do Bolhão: A bustling market offering local delicacies. Free to enter.
5. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: Expansive park with lush gardens and scenic viewpoints. Free to enter.
6. Foz do Douro: Waterfront promenade where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Free to explore.

Attractions with Higher Costs

1. Casa da Música: Iconic concert hall with striking modern architecture. Guided tour: €10-€15.
2. Palácio da Bolsa: Neoclassical architecture housing the Porto Stock Exchange. Guided tour: €10.
3. Porto Wine Cellars: Tours and tastings at famous wine cellars like Graham’s and Sandeman. Tour and tasting: €15-€20.
4. Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis: Museum with an impressive collection of Portuguese art. Admission: €5.
5. Porto River Cruises: Scenic cruises along the Douro River. Cruise: €15-€20.
6. Porto Segway Tours: Guided tours of the city on a Segway. Tour: €30-€45.

Whether you’re seeking rich cultural experiences, scenic beauty, or simply a relaxing getaway, Porto offers something for everyone. With its warm hospitality and captivating charm, Porto is a destination that will leave you longing to return..