This colorful pearl of the Atlantic filled with so much history and hereditarily stood before me with its warm splendor, elegance and delicacy. Definitely Porto is a great jewel for both Portugal and Europe.
The name of the country Portugal comes from the city of Porto (famous for its water trade years ago). In ancient times it was called Cale – from the Greek “beautiful”. It was an important port called the Latin Portus Cale, which subsequently changed to Portugale.
Even with the arrival of the airport, I somehow felt that this was my place – peaceful, with a rich history, magnificent architecture, culture and lifestyle. As I always do, I have already reserved an apartment for several nights in the center of the Old Town. By searching on the Internet, one can find countless apartments in this part that are by no means expensive. 
One tip – make sure you have an air conditioner while keeping your apartment. During the rainy months, and especially in winter, it is important to have one. Don’t rely on local heating because you run the risk of sleeping with your clothes. There is another solution – to emphasize their exceptional wine! But for that later. It is important to know that the city has a Metro, and not just one line. One can freely move from point to point if he does not want to walk and will not find it expensive. But do you know … those paintings that will be revealed to you as you stroll through the cobblestone streets are definitely not to be missed and have a much greater feel than traveling the subway to the cathedral; stand in front of her and take some pictures, as long as you realize you were there. Spirit is important, and it can only be captured when one surrenders to a given place, gives him time to get to know him at slower speeds, and not to forget to “breathe” during this time. I definitely met excluded people at this place. It was as if qualities such as “unkindness” and “hubris” did not exist for them. Everything was wonderful.
Unlike most articles you can find, I spend a lot of time on cultural sites. Anyone can read a lot and find information anywhere. Of course, I will mention what I think is to be seen, but I understand that each person is different and his interests would be quite different from mine. So everyone has the right to choose what is their own and to admire the beauties and splendor of Porto in their own way.
• Louis I Bridge – the connection between the two banks of the Duro River (the old part of Porto – Ribeira with the new Guy) and a symbol of the city. It is on two levels and the view from it is exceptional for those who are not afraid of the high. Walking along the bottom of the bridge, you can enjoy a great view of the old part of Porto and the port cellars.
• Porto Cathedral; St. Francis Church
• Ribeira Coastal Alley – old houses in different colors and facades; small cobblestone winding streets; neat little playgrounds that offer magnificent views. You can also see the stretched expanse of the street just above the heads of passing and flowers, many flowers.
• Along with the typical baroque elements, many of the landmarks in Porto are also covered with traditional “azulejo” tiles. They can not be missed and definitely attract your attention. After inquiring, I realized that during construction, the buildings were tiled with such tiles because of the high humidity.
• Porto is also known for one drink – Portwine. It is a fortified sweet dessert wine and is unique in this region of Portugal. There are different wine cellars where you can taste and get quite detailed information about this drink directly from the manufacturer. I recommend that you go to these tastings in the afternoon, because if you start earlier, you run the risk of ending the walk faster than expected.
I visited Porto 3 months ago and despite the weather, I do not stop to think about it, its impact and it seems like everything was yesterday. I remember every day as if it were yesterday. I can even feel the warm rain that has been raining me the day before. And when it comes to rain, be sure to bring a little umbrella with you. You don’t know when the weather will frown.
As I mentioned above, I’ll write something about gourmet tourists. As a city on the coast, Porto is famous for its delectable cuisine. If you are a connoisseur of wine and fish, paradise will be here for you. I was definitely skeptical at first, but was amazed at the quality drink they offer. Their food is wonderful, especially if you love Tapas – olives, prosciutto, cheeses galore and their special little green peppers “Pimientos de Padron” – the perfect wine appetizer! And their fish specialties are divine. As their local specialty is considered “Bacalao” or in our Atlantic cod fish. It is salted for longer storage and dried. The Portuguese say there are about 365 ways to prepare this fish, so they can cook different tasty recipes every day with the same basic product – namely cod fish. Most typical of these fish is served with potatoes. But the temptations of fish specialties do not end with Fever. You can try Swordfish, Grilled Octopus, Lambreux Fish and more … and in the company of a wonderful bottle of wine. One tip: you can go to the Atlantic coast, enjoy the magnificent view, even look at surfers.
There is a Fish Market near the coast. And there are countless restaurants offering freshly caught fish; they cook it almost before you; they are extremely cozy; they are not expensive and definitely locals go there. A wonderful dinner for two, in a luxury restaurant with a nice bottle of wine, costs about 40 euros. Don’t miss it and put it in your program! Some people will tell you that you should try Francesina, but this is definitely not my dish – a ham sandwich covered with melted cheese, drizzled with beer sauce and served with fries. You decide ….
In Porto you can try everything: enjoy the beautiful sea views; shore views, aboard one of the many cruise ships, or relax at one of the many wine establishments in hand.
This so exceptional city, surrounded by river and ocean, is so picturesque and beautiful, so vibrant and cozy. Sighs and romance, wine and the ocean … I fell in love with you! Wait for me again!
