Porto, Portugal

I was recently told a co-worker of mine would be traveling to Porto and asked for recommendations and I figured that I may as well post it to share, if the opportunity to make recommendations ever arose again. My family took a trip around several spots in Europe back in the summer of 2013. I think this is a good way to remember the trip. The hotel we stayed at was the Pestana Porto in the Bairro da Ribeira area on Praça da Ribeira. It was beautiful and we were greeted with a drink upon arrival.

This was the view out the hotel window, which gives a good view of where to get those tasty sandwiches and more. The section covered by the umbrellas closest to the water is where we ate several times and it was always good. The stage that you see had some entertainment somewhat regularly.

You must have one of these…

The wait staff is lovely. Additionally, this area was good for wandering. There are some shops through the archway ahead of the first row of umbrellas worth stopping in(pictured below). Now I'm craving one of those sandwiches.

The white building on the hill is Paço Episcopal (first photo) and is worth the walk for a wonderful view! 

Across the bridge (which I only recommend walking across one way, not both) is a gondola lift (Teleferico de Gaia). A bit touristy, but again a beautiful view.

The other side of the water is where there are a number of port houses (if you drink). There is a range of atmospheres, but I recommend walking up and down the roads over there and playing it by ear. Taylor's tasting room is gorgeous and I highly recommend their white port. They also sell bottles in small crates for easier travel if you want to take some port home.

Taylor’s Tasting Room

I also recommend going to the Casa da Musica. If you are at all interested in music, architecture, or acoustics. Get a coffee and enjoy it on the terrace. Again, a beautiful view, but different perspective. 

My dad enjoyed the newer area of town which I believe is Baixa.

That's all I've got! We went to a lovely restaurant, Taberna Do Bonjardim, but unfortunately it has since closed down. It is a lovely city full of culture and quaint beauty.