Porto’s Endless Sunshine:
Porto is a city blessed with perpetual sunshine, where the azure skies meet the scenic Douro River. Strolling through its ancient streets transports you back to Portugal’s age of grandeur during the Age of Discovery.
Historic Ties with Taiwan:
One may recall the storied connection between Portugal and Taiwan from history lessons. In the early 16th century, Portugal, a then naval superpower, encountered the verdant isle of Formosa en route from Macau to Japan. Sailors, struck by its beauty, exclaimed “Formosa!”—the Portuguese word for “beautiful island.” This lush island, akin to Formosa’s charm, was then immortalized in travel logs and the world map, known today as Taiwan.
The Nobility’s Retreat:
During Portugal’s illustrious period, the nobility flocked to Porto, their residences, churches, and streets from that era standing intact to date. Exquisite carvings and Azulejo tiles narrate stories of affluence and artistry. Even the city’s train stations and coffee shops, like where J.K. Rowling penned the beginnings of “Harry Potter,” are nestled within these historic quarters.
Porto’s Wine Legacy:
Celebrated for its viticulture, Porto owes its past wealth to the export of fine wines, most notably Port wine—named after the city itself. Visitors often indulge in winery tours or savor a glass of Port in local eateries.
Vibrant Porto:
Who could resist the ancient allure of this wine-beguiled city? Hop on an electric tuk-tuk, or embark on a river cruise to relish the splendor of the Douro—Porto awaits you with an open heart.
Splendid São Bento Station:
Open year-round, the São Bento train station, deemed “the most beautiful in the world,” greets travelers with its grand blue and white Azulejo murals depicting Portugal’s golden days. Intricate and numerous, these tiles alone are a marvel worthy of attention.
Majestic McDonald’s Imperial:
Just a 5-minute walk from São Bento, behold the “world’s most beautiful McDonald’s.” Once Porto’s famed Imperial Café, this eatery oozes regality without the inflated prices, despite its McDonald’s branding.
Historic Praça da Batalha:
Nearby lies the Praça da Batalha—square of the Battle—honoring those who resisted Moorish invasion. Today, it’s a bustling locale, with theatres, hotels, and charming cafés seamlessly blending with age-old tram routes amidst stunning European architecture.
St. Ildefonso’s Blue Grace:
A minute’s stroll from Praça da Batalha unveils the azulejo-covered Igreja de Santo Ildefonso. Though not as extensively tiled as others, it offers a Baroque majesty all its own.
Azure Splendor at Capela Das Almas:
Emerging from Bolhao Metro Station, the Capela Das Almas stuns with its azulejos, telling biblical tales amidst its enchanting architecture. Its presence accentuates Porto’s surprises at every corner.
Café Majestic: The Essence of Elegance:
Among the world’s most beautiful Cafés, the elegant Café Majestic, birthplace of Harry Potter drafts, demands a visit. Expect exquisite woodwork, vintage chandeliers, and a touch of 1920s grandeur.
Porto’s City Hall: A Modern Epic:
Despite its relative youth, finished in 1957, Porto’s City Hall boasts a towering presence in the heart of the city. Ideal for photography enthusiasts, its reflection pools mirror the skies and architecture, contrasting with the historical core.
Sé do Porto: Cathedral of Giants:
Porto’s Sé Do Porto, once the baptism site of Prince Henry the Navigator, exudes royal ecclesiastical heritage. This fortress-like Cathedral is worth the trip for its astonishing azulejo-decorated cloisters alone.
Next-Door Nobility at Paço Episcopal:
Adjacent to the Cathedral, the world-heritage Paço Episcopal do Porto resonates with history, once home to the city’s bishops who wielded immense ecclesiastical and political power.
Ponte Luís I: Bridge to Tranquility:
The evening promenade near Ribeira Square by the Douro, with views of the Ponte Luís I bridge, epitomizes Porto’s laid-back charm. Walk across it for breathtaking vistas, or witness its nighttime grandeur from elevated spots like Cais da Ribeira de Gaia.
Livraria Lello: A Literary Gem:
The iconic red spiral staircase of Livraria Lello, a possible muse for “Harry Potter’s” magical stairs, showcases the sheer enchantment of one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops.
Torre dos Clérigos: A Towering View:
The Clerigos Tower, a beacon during the Age of Discovery, offers panoramic views of Porto, encapsulating its maritime heritage and beauty.
A Stone’s Throw to Igreja dos Clérigos:
Just beside the Clerigos Tower is the opulent baroque Igreja dos Clérigos, free to the public and adorned with extravagant gold artwork.
Igreja do Carmo’s Azulejo Artistry:
A small walk from Igreja dos Clérigos leads to Igreja do Carmo, celebrated for its massive side wall of azulejo murals—a captivating sight in Porto.
A Porto Summary:
After touring Porto’s numerous attractions, one is reminded of the city’s richness. A simple stroll by the Douro River, the vintage charm of its alleys, and the decadent architecture speak to why it remains a favored European getaway.
