Exploring Porto with the sis: A Journey Through Culture, Cuisine, and Tradition

Portugal, had been on my travel list for quite some time, and when I finally set foot in this enchanting city, it did not disappoint. From world-class museums and mouthwatering cuisine to historic landmarks and soulful music, my visit was an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Art and Evening Strolls

My first stop was the Museu de Serralves, a contemporary art museum set within a stunning villa and surrounded by beautiful gardens. During my visit, I had the chance to see an exhibition featuring the work of Yayoi Kusama, the renowned Japanese artist known for her mesmerizing polka dot patterns and immersive installations. Walking through the exhibit was a surreal experience, and it was fascinating to see her artistry come to life in such a unique setting.

After the museum, it was time to indulge in Porto’s renowned cuisine. We had lunch at

Taberna Mercadores, a cozy restaurant where I tried Camarão na frigideira (shrimp in a skillet) and Feijoada de mariscos (a seafood bean stew). The flavors were rich, and the dishes perfectly showcased the freshness of Portuguese seafood. In the evening, we took a leisurely stroll through Praça de Gomes Teixeira, a lively square surrounded by historical buildings and the famous Fonte dos Leões (Fountain of Lions). As night fell, we wandered through Porto Vitoria, where the illuminated cityscape cast a magical glow over the Douro River, making for an unforgettable first night in Porto.

Day 2: Markets, Port Wine, and Local Delicacies

Our second day began with a visit to Mercado do Bolhão, a bustling market filled with local vendors selling fresh produce, pastries, and traditional Portuguese delicacies. Here, I finally got to try the famous pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart with a perfectly crisp and caramelized top. Later, we joined a group tour of the city, which included a Port wine tasting. Learning about the differences between red Porto and white Porto was a fascinating experience, and of course, sampling the wines made it even more enjoyable!

Along the way, we also tried some more local dishes, including bolinhos de bacalhau (fried codfish balls) and Bifana (a spicy pork sandwich). Both were incredibly flavorful and a must-try for anyone visiting Porto.

Day 3: Boat Tour, Livraria Lello, and Fado Music

On the third day, we set out on a boat tour along the Douro River, where I had the chance to admire Porto’s stunning bridges and colorful riverside buildings from a new perspective. One of the highlights of this experience was speaking Portuguese with the tour guide, which allowed me to connect more deeply with the culture and history of the city.

Later, we visited the famous Livraria Lello, often regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It’s no surprise that this bookstore is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling when she was writing Harry Potter! To end the trip on a high note, I attended a Fado show that night. Watching the musicians and singers perform this deeply emotional and melancholic music was a powerful experience. I learned about Fado’s cultural and social significance, and how it has been an expression of Portuguese identity for generations.

Final Thoughts

Porto exceeded all my expectations. Its vibrant arts scene, incredible food, welcoming locals, and rich history made it an absolute pleasure to explore. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful scenery, Porto has something special to offer. I was also glad I was able to share this experience with my sister.