Guided Walking Tour of Porto
We continued the morning’s sightseeing with a guided walking tour of Porto. Meeting our guide at Liberty Square, we were at the very heart of Porto by the statue of King Peter IV, before making our way to the stunning Baroque Igreja dos Clérigos (Church of the Clergymen). Don’t miss the Torre dos Clérigos tower here for great views.
Our next historic building was the Igreja do Carmo, a former Carmelite convent with extraordinary tile-covered walls, before seeing the historic Livraria Lello bookshop-café, which was the inspiration for Harry Potter’s library at Hogwarts. Author JK Rowling taught English in Porto back in the 90s. The bookshop is so popular with fans; you have to form an orderly queue outside.
We then headed to Infante D Henrique square, the Palacio da Bolsa (Exchange Palace), and walked down for ice cream at the Cais da Ribeira and the riverfront square. If you have a head for heights, I recommend the bridge walk on the Ponte da Arrábida. You get to climb 262 steps (in a safety harness) to the top and enjoy superb views over the river. We walked from the Cais da Ribeira, but you can get an Uber – they are cheap and reliable across Porto or take tram 1 to the Ponte da Arrábida stop.
Fado Dinner at Casa da Mariquinhas
Our final evening was a bucket-list highlight: a Fado dinner at the famous Casa da Mariquinhas. Fado is uniquely Portuguese: The lamenting song tradition accompanied by viola and guitar that hails from the 18th-century and originated in the port areas of Lisbon. Fado Queen, Amália Rodrigues, reigned supreme during the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and sold more than 30 million copies of her records.
Casa Mariquinhas Fado bar/restaurant was named after one of her songs and is just a short stroll from the Cathedral. A medieval-like cosy space with low ceilings, stone walls and wooden banquettes that felt like being inside a wine cave. The codfish and petiscos were superb, as was the surprise of seeing the waiter emerge from behind the bar to give us an outstanding Fado song session.
I loved Porto with its warm, laid-back vibe; friendly locals who were genuinely interested (and interesting) and greeted us with a smile. The unhurried pace that places food and love and communication above commerce. The food in Portugal is out of this world, and if you love wine, and Port especially, then Porto should be number one destination on your next visit to Portugal.
And if you’re looking for a well-placed luxury hotel with the best views of the city, stay at The Yeatman. As manager Adrian Bridge said: “Ten years ago when The Yeatman was under construction, everyone thought we were mad, as business tourism, not leisure tourism, was popular. Since then, we have put Porto firmly on the tourism map. What makes Porto so special is its people, its rich history and culture. And of course, we have the best wines and Port in the world. We are confident that tourists will return to Porto post-COVID-19.”
I couldn’t agree more. Porto is enchanting, and like a siren’s call, will lure you back to this beautiful city again and again.
Iberian Escapes – Where and How?
Iberian Escapes is a bespoke luxury concierge and destination management company specialising in Portugal and Spain. They create authentic experiences in collaboration with locals, with crafted activities focusing on sustainability, escapism, adventure, wellness and gastronomy. For more information, visit www.iberian-escapes.com or call +44 808 189 0647.
The Yeatman, Porto – Where and How?
The Yeatman is located at Rua do Choupelo, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal. For more information, or to make a reservation, visit www.the-yeatman-hotel.com. Rooms start from £230 per night.
This travel feature was written by Gina Baksa.
This travel feature was written prior to the outbreak of COVID-19. We would urge readers to check with their governments’ official websites for details and guidance on the current state of travel and whether there are any current restrictions in place.
Read more guides, reviews and articles in our dedicated travel section here.
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