We flew back to the mainland from Madeira and ended our trip in the city of Porto, where we also spent two days. This city stirred completely different energies in us than Lisbon or Madeira. We were impressed by its diversity and the youthful, bohemian vibe that can be felt in every street.
One of our most memorable experiences was when we walked across the famous two-story iron bridge, the Dom Luís I. Bridge. We walked on the upper level to the highest point in the city, the Morro de Jardim (or Jardim do Morro) park. This place is one of the magical spots in Porto: every evening, huge crowds gather here, sit on the grass, and watch together as the sunset turns the Duero River and the rooftops of the old town golden.
The gastronomy here also spoiled us, and we found some great restaurants. My wife also tried the local specialty, Francesinha, at the restaurant Taberna Londrina.
Porto’s history dates back over two thousand years, and the city itself gave its name to the country (Portus Cale). It was an important trading port in Roman times, but it really began to flourish during the Age of Discovery, when the mouth of the Duero River became a center for overseas goods and shipbuilding. The city’s residents are proud and independent; It is not without reason that Porto is called the “Invincible City” (Cidade Invicta), as it has withstood numerous sieges throughout its history and has never surrendered without a fight.
The city’s skyline is dominated by Baroque architecture, which flourished in the 18th century, during the gold trade. This is the reason for the richly decorated churches and the characteristic blue-and-white azulejo tiled facades that have become Porto’s trademark. The old town, Ribeira, has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its almost intact medieval structure and unique riverside atmosphere.
However, Porto’s name is inseparable from its port wine worldwide. This special, strong wine is made from grapes grown on the slopes of the Douro Valley and is floated down the river to the city on boats to be aged in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side of the river. It became world famous in the 17th century thanks to English merchants who added brandy to the wine to prevent it from spoiling on the long sea voyage – thus accidentally giving birth to the sweet, fiery character we still love today.
The industrial revolution also left its mark on the city at the end of the 19th century, when the monumental iron bridges, partly designed by Gustave Eiffel’s students, were built, which are now the most important elements of Porto’s modern skyline. Today, Porto is a perfect blend of historical depth and contemporary art, where old wine cellars are adjacent to vibrant nightlife and modern galleries.
