Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Porto offers two high-impact sightseeing thrills: the postcard-perfect ambience of the
riverfront Ribeira district and the opportunity to learn more about (and taste) the port wine
that ages here. Porto also features other unexpected treats, including sumptuous Baroque
churches and civic buildings, a bustling real-world market hall, and quirky but worthwhile
museums.
Though the weather is always changing, it's usually marginal. You're likely to get sun
and rain at the same time—causing the locals to exclaim, “A widow's going to remarry.”
Porto offers one very busy day's worth of sightseeing (or better yet, two relaxed days).
Begin your day by exploring the city center above the town (poke around the market hall
and climb Clérigos Tower for a visual orientation). Wander past the cathedral and clamber
down one of the steep lanes to the Ribeira district for lunch. Enjoy touring the breathtak-
ing interiors of the Stock Exchange Palace and São Francisco Church. Then head across
the river to tour a couple of port-wine lodges before returning to the Ribeira for dinner.
With a second day, slow down, taste more port, cruise the river, and add a visit to the Ser-
ralves Museum, its Art Deco mansion, and its plush park.
Ideally, combine your visit to Porto with a trip up the Douro Valley (about two hours
away—see next chapter).
