Porto is a magical city located at the mouth of the Douro River. Walks along the river, through its alley-woven historic heart and into historic cathedrals, I experience the charm and friendliness of this port city.
I was in Porto as part of Viking Cruises’ Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary. The city tour includes the charming riverside community whose historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Centuries old buildings line narrow cobblestone streets. The country’s iconic tiles are everywhere including São Bento Railway Station dating to 1904, and the facades of houses and businesses. Even sidewalks are tiled in geometric patterns.
I spent the entire morning exploring with a knowledgeable local Viking Cruises’ guide and the afternoon exploring on my own. Porto’s charm may bring me back another day. One day just doesn’t seem like enough time!
