Summer travel, joining all the masses who choose to do so, to all of the top destinations, at the same time, isn't usually our thing. Occasionally we make exceptions, this is one of those occasions. With our Nephew Jaden Visiting between graduating High School and starting College, we wanted to show him Portugal. We've spent a lot of time eating, exploring and festivaling (probably not a word) around the Algarve so now its off to the North of the country to spend a few days doing similar things in Porto
A Chauffeured (Jaden handling the task) ride to the airport and short flight to Porto
Late lunch on the busy pedestrian street of Rua das Flores just across from our hotel. Crispy Pork Belly, Octopus, and a club sandwich. Then we were off to an evening Boat ride on the Douro under the six bridges. The smaller period wooden sailboat was perfect and the perspective of Porto and Gaia from the river is a must see. Jaden got the "E" ticket ride on the Hammock hanging over the back of the Boat.
We stayed at the Pousada Porto right on the pedestrian street of Rua das Flores. Great hotel and our room had a small balcony that opened onto the street. There was a variety of street entertainment daily but the best by far was the Birdman playing the hand cranked calliope. Every morning the circus like music would fill the street and float up through our window. Seeing this sight on the street, however strange it was, brought a smile as we walked by.
Next day a morning Sidecar tour of Porto. These guy are great and provided a very informative, entertaining history of Porto along with some great viewpoints. We stopped mid-tour, like the Portuguese would, at a street side Snack Bar for a traditional Pastel de Nata, coffee, and a taste of the local Muscato do Douro. At the end of the tour they offered to drop us off at the fishing Village near the fishing docks for lunch and recommended a great local place Restaurante Vapor. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu but be sure to try the Bell Pepper Salad and the House Green Wine.
Walking back to the historic center took us along the Gaia side of the river
Walking up through the old center passing the Igreja do Carmo/Igreja dos Carmelitas and stopping in to see Clérigos Church and the museum. You can climb the 240 steps to the top of the tower for amazing views.
The Crystal Palace Park and sunset views. Except for the behemoth structure built during dictatorship, replacing the original Crystal Palace, this Park is a must visit for relaxing stroll under ample shade trees surrounded by fountains and gardens. You'll find local resident Peacocks, ducks, geese, and occasional chickens as you wander through the park. The views over the river and city are exceptional especially at sunset. We noticed several locals who brought a picnic and sat on the grass or one of the tables in the gardens while watching the sunset, Brilliant idea!
We made a few trips to the new "Time Out Market" in Porto. Located on the side of the Sao Bento train station, and close to our hotel, it's a great place to hang out and choose from a variety of food from local chefs who have opened small kitchens here. We have been to the one in Lisbon which is great too but this one feels more spacious due to the outdoor seating and open space. Our experiences include a first night late night smoked/cured duck pizza, other stops we tried the burgers, Lobster on brioche, Duck rice, and Tuna Tataki. All were very good and expressed the tradition and creativity of today's Portuguese Chefs
Morning walk to the Cathedral. An impressive monument highly sought out by visitors to Porto. It's vast history and preservation are well worth the visit as well as the climb to the tower for the views of the city from here
Crossing the Ponte LuÃs I. Porto is known for having quite a few bridges, this one was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris. At the time of its completion in 1886, this bridge was the longest iron arch in the world.
Walking toward Lapa Church, Past the Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas de Santa Catarina) and the Army Facility (Comando Pessoal do Exército). Although Lapa Church was not open due to today's holiday we had fun wandering through the streets.
Impressive view for dinner at Portucale. A little difficult to find and a menu with heavy French influence. The Food was just okay but the views were fantastic. Jaden tried Foie Gras for the first time and we had Lobster Thermador, Wild Boar, and Sea Bass
Trolley out to Foz do Douro then walking through the park, along the breakwater to the Farolim da Barra do Douro (light tower), and through the village before stopping for lunch in a neighborhood restaurant.
