Porto (Leixões), Portugal

The Best of Porto: Fado, Vistas & More

Two Views of One Historic Wine-Producing City See one of Europe’s most authentic and intimate cities by land and river. Porto, the cultural capital of northern Portugal, boasts a rich architectural heritage and enviable position near the mouth of the Douro River. Drive to the city and begin your excursion at Porto Cathedral, locally known as Sé Cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque building adorned with works by brilliant Portuguese artists. Continue to the Ribeira district along the Douro, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and embark a traditional rabelo , a specially built boat once used to transport barrels of wine. Cruise along the Douro, passing beneath some of the city’s bridges and admiring views of the historic district’s narrow streets, houses and buildings draping the riverbanks. Visit an ancient wine cellar for a tasting of the city’s world-famous port, served with typical tapas from northern Portugal and accompanied by the sounds of fado music. Soak up the atmosphere on this quintessentially Portuguese experience. * Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.