Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and is located along the Douro river in the northern part of the country. It's one of the oldest European centres (it dates back to the 8th century BC), and its core was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. By the 15th century it was one of the biggest ship building centers in Portugal and a major trading port. It's known as the city of bridges and for one of it's famous exports - Port wine.
We've been getting our steps in as we explore different parts of the city as well as across the river into Vila Nova de Gaia. Everywhere we go I'm astonished at the colors and styles of the buildings as they straddle the river, the beautiful flat-bottom boats called 'barcos rabelos' (which traditionally brought Port wine downriver), the hilly neighborhoods, cobblestone patterns, gorgeous tiles, the views and friendly people.
One day we took the bus to the large Parque da Cidade do Porto and enjoyed the wildlife. Then we lounged in bean bag chairs on the beach and wandered in between rain showers. The weather here changes rapidly and the forecast seems to be different every time you check so we've learned to pack layers!
I loved doing this photo shoot with this guy....
Another time we crossed the bridge to see the views looking back, rode a cool cable car (6 euros each), had a yummy lunch and walked around part of Vila Nova de Gaia (the city that is on the other side of the river).
We discovered a wonderful little wine bar - Quay Wine - in the Ribeira and started outside with some yummy tapas and wine. We ended up participating in their 10 year anniversary Instagram celebratory video and then moved inside when some pretty incredible thunderstorms rolled in suddenly. It was a wonderful night.
Yeah those boats are really gorgeous. So much to love is right!! What a wonderful snapshot of this city. Love seeing your smiling faces and that IG video is so dang cute. ❤️