About this experience
My tour is a pleasant walk and an interesting story: you will not only get acquainted with Porto, but also remember a lot of useful information. You will learn about the happy and tragic events of the city and understand why the Portuguese value freedom so much. You will hear about great kings, the walls of the Clérigos Tower, weddings in the Episcopal Palace, and the Ribeira district. We will enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the left bank of the Douro River, and in the end, we will taste port wine in a cozy cellar.
What to expect
Main attractions and more
Porto is a unique city; unlike Lisbon, it was not affected by earthquakes and has preserved its historic center. On my tour:
- You will visit the city's symbol – Clérigos Tower: the very first round church in Portugal. You will learn about the special structure of the dome and understand why the tower was never a landmark for experienced Portuguese sailors.
- On Pedro IV Square, you will see a monument to the king who bequeathed his heart to the city, and hear about the four monarchs of Portugal, most beloved by the residents.
- You will see six beautiful bridges in Porto, including the famous Luis I Bridge – I will explain why the Portuguese removed the title 'Dom' from its name.
- You will visit São Bento Station: its walls are adorned with huge azulejo tile panels.
- You will admire the imposing Cathedral and walk along Santa Catarina Street – the city's commercial heart, always bustling with life.
- You will understand why the Episcopal Palace is so valuable to the Portuguese, and learn about the longest treaty of friendship between states.
- You will visit the only McDonald's cafe in the world with its own name, located in a building with original 1920s interior: with stained-glass windows and chandeliers, mirrors and paintings – I will tell you how it came to be like that.
Raise a glass of port wine for freedom
During the walk, you will understand the mentality of the locals and their love for freedom – even the toponymy of squares and streets speaks about it. You will learn how residents defended the city's independence, how they fought for their rights, and resolved conflicts with the capital.
In the New City, we will relax in a cozy cellar and try different types of port wine. I will tell you about the secret agreement regarding this drink, as well as the story of the only queen of port wine – Antónia Ferreira. This amazing woman surpassed the importance of the king himself!
Organizational details
- Port wine tasting is charged separately: 15 euros – 5-6 samples
- Other additional expenses – at your discretion. Visiting the bookshop that inspired J.K. Rowling – 3 euros, visiting museums and some temples – 3-5 euros.
