Uncork Your Sense of Adventure: Our Delectable Porto, Portugal Food & Wine Guide

The Sights and Delights of Porto

Our first stop was the famed Livraria Lello, a breathtaking bookstore rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Pro tip: if the line is long, splurge on the €16 fast pass to skip the queue and score a limited-edition book with a Porto emblem. Or, arrive at 9:00 am when the €5 admission line moves swiftly (you'll get €5 off any book purchase too!).

We then joined a free three-hour walking tour with Sandeman's New Europe, which proved to be an excellent introduction to Porto's history and landmarks. The knowledgeable guides work solely for tips, making it a budget-friendly way to orient ourselves. Another highlight was our day trip to the stunning Douro Valley for wine tasting and a river cruise - an absolute must for any oenophile! We also embarked on a delectable food tour, sampling the city's iconic bites.

Tips for Your Porto Adventure

Consider getting the Porto Card if you'll be exploring for multiple days - it covers public transportation and offers discounts on attractions.

The Porto Bucket List

• Livraria Lello Bookstore (Open 9:30 am until 7:00 pm). Go early to beat the crowds!

• Igreja dos Clérigos (Open 9:00 AM until 7:00 pm). Climb the iconic tower for stunning views.

• Estação de São Bento: Marvel at the azulejo tilework in this historic train station.

• Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral): A 12th-century Romanesque gem.

• Church of Santa Clara: This Gothic church houses a famous azure-tiled cloister.

• Muralha Fernandina: The remnants of Porto's ancient city walls.

• Praça da Ribeira & Ponte Dom Luis I: The lively waterfront area and iconic bridge.

• Parish Church of St. Nicholas: Another azulejo-adorned church by the river.

Day Trips:

Douro Valley: Must do for gorgeous views, boat rides and the best Portuguese wines.

The culinary journey began at Molete Bread & Breakfast Saint Lazarus, where we fueled up with a hearty yet budget-friendly breakfast of coffee, orange juice, a croissant sandwich, a traditional tart and a roll - all for under €5! Midday hunger struck, and we popped into the lively Casa Guedes for a quick bite. The star? Their iconic Casa Sandwich, along with some crispy cod and chicken balls on the side. But the real showstopper was the Papas de Sarrabulho. A rich, velvety pig-blood soup that's a Porto specialty.

For dinner, we let our senses lead the way at Blind - To Feel. Touch. To Test. As the name suggests, this unique dining experience is one to remember, including all senses in the dining experience. On the wine tasting tour the next day, we stopped for a scenic lunch by the river, indulging in succulent salmon over potatoes and tender pork over potatoes.

No trip to Porto would be complete without sampling the iconic Francesinha (stuffed sandwich) and Cachorro (Portuguese hot dog). We got our fix at Republica Dos Cachorros, where we devoured the Cachorro Especial and the Francesinha c/ ovo - a heavenly creation topped with a runny egg. Their second outpost, Republica dos Cachorros 2, was our go-to for more Cachorro goodness!

Must Eats:

• Francesinha: This gut-busting sandwich is stuffed with cured meats, covered in a beer-and-tomato sauce and topped with a fried egg.

• Cachorrinho: Porto's version of a hot dog, with smoky sausage tucked into a crispy roll.

• Alheira: A smoked, garlicky sausage that's been a local staple since the 15th century.

• Tripas à Moda do Porto: A hearty pork stew that's pure comfort food.

• Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: Salted codfish baked in a creamy potato casserole.

• Bonus: Pastel de Nata: You can't leave Portugal without trying these iconic custard tarts!

Where to Eat & Drink in Porto

• Cervejaria Gazela: Grab a cachorrinho (Porto hot dog) and a beer with gooseberry syrup.

• Bota&Bira: Make a reservation for their famous Ovos Rotos, steak and bacalhau dishes.

• Porto Cruz Rooftop: Sip cocktails with 360-degree city views.

• Real Companhia Velha: Tour and taste at this historic port wine cellar.

• Sandeman, Cálem or Ferreira: Excellent options for port tastings and tours.

• Sai Cão or Pedro dos Frangos: For mouthwatering piri piri chicken.

So, there you have it! Our whirlwind tour through the vibrant sights, flavors and experiences that make Porto so enchanting. Pack your walking shoes and an appetite for adventure!

Escape to Portugal's Breathtaking Douro Valley: A Wine Lover's Paradise

If you're a wine aficionado or simply someone who appreciates stunning natural scenery, the Douro Valley in northern Portugal should be at the top of your travel bucket list. This UNESCO World Heritage region is a true feast for the senses, offering a harmonious blend of world-class wines, charming villages and landscapes that will leave you utterly spellbound.

After exploring Porto's colorful riverfront and indulging in its famous Port wine, it's time to venture inland along the winding Douro River, where the real magic unfolds.

As you navigate the serpentine roads that hug the river's banks, you'll be greeted by a tapestry of vineyards that seem to cascade down the valley's steep slopes. These terraced vineyards, meticulously tended by generations of winemakers, are the heart and soul of the Douro Valley's winemaking tradition.

One of the highlights of your journey will undoubtedly be visiting the region's renowned quintas (wine estates). Imagine strolling through sun-drenched vineyards, learning about the intricate winemaking process from passionate producers and savoring the rich, complex flavors of their finest vintages. Some of the must-visit quintas include Quinta do Crasto, Quinta do Seixo and Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, each offering unique experiences and unforgettable wine tastings.

But the Douro Valley is more than just wine; it's a living, breathing canvas of natural beauty. Take a leisurely boat cruise along the Douro River, marveling at the terraced vineyards that seem to defy gravity, and the picturesque villages that dot the riverbanks. Or, for a more adventurous experience, embark on a hiking trail that winds through the valley, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

As the sun sets over the Douro Valley, find yourself in one of the charming towns like Pinhão or Peso da Régua, where you can savor traditional Portuguese cuisine and soak in the region's laid-back ambiance. Indulge in hearty dishes like cozido à portuguesa (a flavorful meat and vegetable stew) or the famous Douro-style roasted kid, paired with a glass of the region's finest red wine, of course.

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or simply seeking an unforgettable travel experience, the Douro Valley promises to captivate your senses and leave you with memories that will linger long after your return. So, pack your bags, uncork your sense of adventure and embark on a journey through this enchanting corner of Portugal – a true paradise for wine lovers, foodies and nature enthusiasts alike.