Photo courtesy of CC BY-NC-ND – Associação de Turismo do Porto e Norte, AR
Scenic crossing
The Luís I Bridge, built in 1886 by Teófilo Seyrig (a student of Gustave Eiffel), has become an icon of Porto. Pedestrians can cross the Douro River on the top deck, while lower decks carry traffic and the city metro across the river. Cross the bridge on foot for some of the best views of downtown Porto.
Photo courtesy of iStock / Starcevic
A taste of Porto
No trip to Porto would be complete without stuffing yourself to the brim on a francesinha, a sandwich made with thick bread, cured ham, Portuguese sausage and roast beef, covered in melted cheese, smothered in a tomato and beer sauce and topped with a fried egg.
Photo courtesy of iStock / Abeleao
Port tasting
Wine tasting is pretty much a mandatory activity in Porto, a city known for its fortified wines. Many of the city’s wine cellars offer guided tours and tastings, where you can learn about the history of Port wine while sipping different varieties.
Photo courtesy of CC BY-NC-ND – Associação de Turismo do Porto e Norte, AR
Christmas in Porto
By the end of November, colorful, twinkling lights illuminate the streets of Porto and festive decorations deck the city’s halls and monuments. Winter visitors can go ice skating on one of two seasonal outdoor rinks, shop at craft markets and sample seasonal sweets, like Bolo Rei cakes.