[2024 Porto Attraction] Travel Guide for River Douro (Updated Sep)

Rivers

Address:

Porto | Arrabida, Porto, Portugal

Recommended sightseeing time:

1-3 hours

Phone:

+351-22-3722415,+351-22-37231166

Iconic symbol of Porto

The famous bridge in Porto, Portugal is the Dom Luís I Bridge, and it is a beautiful example of 19th-century engineering and design. The bridge spans the Douro River. The Dom Luís I Bridge is a double-decked metal arch bridge. It has two levels, with the upper level carrying a roadway for cars and pedestrians, and the lower level carrying a metro line. The upper level offers stunning views of the city of Porto, the Douro River, and the surrounding hills. The bridge's metal arches are beautifully designed, with intricate details and elegant curves, and they create a striking contrast against the blue sky and the river below. At night, the Dom Luís I Bridge is illuminated, creating a stunning display of lights that reflect on the river and add to the bridge's beauty. The bridge is not only a functional structure but also a work of art and a beloved symbol of Porto, attracting visitors from all over the world. #mytripvlog #tripblazers #freehotelstay

GarrettChow

Porto, where scenery and time intertwine

In the gentle sea breeze of the Atlantic Ocean, the ancient city of Porto stands quietly, as if telling endless stories. Walking through the winding cobblestone streets, every stone has been washed by the years. The Douro River, like a jade belt, divides the city into two banks, reflecting the rows of red-roofed houses on the water, flowing with ancient maritime legends🗺️. Porto is not just a picturesque port but also a haven for the soul. Every corner is filled with the breath of art, music, and life. Here, time slows down, and the years quietly pass under the soft sunlight. 🧳Preparation before the trip: ✅Book your hotel in advance! Porto is a very popular tourist destination, so it's best to book your hotel in advance to avoid limited choices and high prices. ✅The temperature difference between day and night in Porto is greater than in southern Lisbon, so it is recommended to bring some jackets and long pants in case it gets cooler at night. ✅There are many slopes in Porto's urban area, so prepare comfortable shoes to make walking more comfortable. ✅The sunlight is strong at noon, so prepare sunscreen. 🚉Transportation guide: International: Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal, so there are many international flights, such as direct flights from London, Madrid, Frankfurt, etc. If departing from within the country, you can transfer from Beijing via Istanbul or Dubai to reach Porto. Domestic: You can take a train directly to Porto from cities like Lisbon and Coimbra; there are also flights from Lisbon to Porto. Within the city: Porto has a metro system, and you can buy metro tickets to reach various places in the city. Most attractions in the city center are within walking distance, as they are not very far apart. If you are really tired, you can take a taxi (Bolt app), which costs less than 5 euros per ride within the city! 🗓Recommended spots: 📍Dom Luís I Bridge This bridge was built in 1886 and was designed by an engineer who had participated in the construction of the Eiffel Tower. It features a typical iron structure and arch design. Standing on the bridge, you can overlook the Douro River and the beautiful scenery on both sides, and you can also enjoy the sunset. 📍Lello Bookstore Lello Bookstore is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Founded in 1906 by the Lello brothers, its unique Gothic exterior and luxurious interior decoration give people the feeling of walking into a palace of art. 📍Church of Saint Ildefonso The most stunning feature is the church's exterior, which is covered with traditional Portuguese blue and white tiles depicting biblical scenes, offering a unique visual feast. 📍São Bento Railway Station It is one of the most famous train stations in Portugal. The station building itself belongs to the French neoclassical style and is famous for its stunning blue and white tile murals inside. (…and many more) ❤Travel impressions: Porto is a city where history, culture, and nature harmoniously blend. The ancient streets, exquisite buildings, and the tranquil Douro River give this city a unique charm. Whether strolling through the historic city center or admiring the art of blue and white tiles, Porto offers a profound cultural experience. Savoring local wines and delicacies, feeling the leisurely pace, it seems as if time slows down here. Porto is not only a visual feast but also a peaceful haven for the soul, making it hard to leave.

Imelda Senger

St John’s Festival

St John’s Festival, June 24th, is the grandest festival in Porto. On the evening of the 23rd, which is St John’s Festival Eve, it is just like Christmas and Christmas Eve. Before checking in, I was notified by email: try to check in before 4 PM, otherwise, after that time, the city will have traffic control. Reluctantly bidding farewell to the manor shrouded in light mist and rain, I hurried to Porto. While secretly delighted to have once again stumbled upon a grand festival, I couldn't help but worry about restaurants closing and not finding good food, just like on the Feast of Corpus Christi in Coimbra. As soon as I stepped out of São Bento train station, the festive atmosphere was palpable. Street vendors lined the streets, selling mostly various snacks, drinks, and plastic hammers. The former replenishes energy, while the latter embodies the spirit of revelry. As a 'self-defense weapon,' getting one for 3 euros was quite necessary. The festive atmosphere ignited the whole city, with explosive music coming from different directions on the streets and from upstairs. Walking on the road, if you are not careful, you might get hit on the head by a plastic hammer swung from who knows where, making the world spin. At night, Ribeira Quay was crowded with people, either sitting on the ground or dancing to the upbeat music. Some hid in a corner, using 'long-stemmed purple flowers' and fishing techniques to gently brush the purple flowers over passersby. This 'flirting' method is quite creative. At midnight, fireworks burst into the sky on time. Initially, it didn't seem particularly surprising, but the explosive finale was like the earth shaking, refreshing the senses! ⛱️Must-visit attractions: Clerigos Tower, Avenida dos Aliados, São Bento Train Station, Misericórdia Church, Casa do Infante, Ribeira Square, Dom Luís I Bridge 🌄Travel tips: Walk to the above attractions 🏨Accommodation tips: Along the Douro River 💗Other tips: Don't miss the port wine tasting. Taylor's and Granham's wineries are good choices. What could be more pleasant than enjoying the scenery and sipping a few glasses of fine wine from Porto? The Douro River area around Porto is also worth exploring. I will introduce it in another article next time.

LunarSerpent7fvb

The comfort level of Porto is still too advanced

The comfort level of Porto is still too advanced. In my eyes, Porto may not be considered the best tourist city. If you focus on sightseeing, it may not be that suitable for tourists. But if you enjoy the unique atmosphere of a city and don't like check-in style tourism, then immersing yourself here, you will definitely become addicted to its unique charm and flavor! During the two days I stayed in Porto, I especially enjoyed wandering aimlessly around the city. Although the buildings in Porto are a bit dilapidated, they have a kind of broken classical taste, very distinctive and leisurely~ From time to time, you will also discover some small surprises! For example: very characteristic patterned tiles, you don't need to deliberately look for them, the buildings you pass by will make you stop and admire. In addition, the Douro Riverbank may be one of the most comfortable places in Porto. Sitting by the riverbank, quietly appreciating the scenery on the other side, waiting for the sunset to arrive, listening to the lazy rhythm of the songs, enjoying the slowed-down time, it is pleasant and satisfying, the comfort level is directly maxed out! Slow down, enjoy the moment, this may also be one of the meanings of travel!!

SparkWhisp4

Porto, Portugal at it's very finest

Porto is an absolute must-visit on your Europe travels. A Catholic city at heart, you'll find around every corner you turn a relic of its history. What's not to miss? - The city revolves around the Ponte Luís I Bridge which carries the main tram network at an astonishing height over the River Duoro. - Taste the finest Port the world has to offer, very close to its source. - Take in some history and striking views across the unblemished city from the Clérigos Church and it's tower. - Experience the vintage tram network on a tour along the river shore. - Take in the sights on a tour of the city, including a view of the somewhat bizarre but unique 'She Changes' - a glimpse of Porto's architectureal offering. What to know before you go: - Bring a good pair of walking shoes (there are lots of steps, hills and cobbles streets) - Porto does not really have a 'centre' - many tourists flock to the Ponte Luís Bridge area and this appears to have become the natural focal point of the city - Consider bringing beach equipment in the summer months; Porto unexpectedly has a lovely beach area - The locals are among the friendliest around but they appreciate a small effort to learn basic greetings and phrases Enjoy your travels in sunny Porto, you'll remember it for a lifetime 🇵🇹📷☀️#porto #portugal #Europe #travels #summer

Sqrz_96

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