Porto is Portugal’s second city. It is divided by the Douro river. On the river coast on one side is Vila Nova de Gaia, where all the port makers are. On the other side is Old Town. This is primarily where we visited. Porto is all up and down, with many steep ascents from the river. Many of the narrow side streets turn into staircases and the city will take your breath away. It has dozens of museums (including a puppet museum), endless bakeries, some amazing food shopping, street performers, ham, sardines, cheeses and wines. All the major food groups. It has a subway system and a commuter rail. And vestiges of a street tram system that looks mighty dangerous both to riders and pedestrians. They say they are safe. The Portuguese are friendly, respectful and eager to share their bounty.
Some Highlights
- Majestic Café
- Bolhão Market
- Comer e Chorar por Mais – Gourmet Store
- A Pérola do Bolhão – Gourmet Store
- Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
- Livraria Lello – BeauxArt Bookstore
- Museu das Marionetas do Porto
- Centro Português de Fotografia
- Porto Cathedral
- Museu da Cidade do Porto
