A Four-Night Escape to Porto: Wine, River Views & Cobblestone Streets
Where I Stayed. I based myself at Hotel Bessa Baixa, which I’d highly recommend. It has an indoor pool and sauna (perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring) and a supermarket right next door for easy snacks and essentials. Best of all, it’s only a short walk into central Porto, which meant I could stroll everywhere without relying much on transport.
My first Impressions of Porto
What struck me right away is how walkable the city is. Porto feels safe, compact, and easy to navigate on foot which meant I could really soak in the atmosphere of each neighbourhood. I did, however, opt for a 60-minute guided city tour, and it was a highlight. Having a local share stories and viewpoints made me appreciate the city even more (and having a photographer along didn’t hurt either!).
One spot that really surprised me was São Bento Train Station. Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s worth stepping inside to see the incredible blue-and-white azulejo tiles that cover the walls, each one telling pieces of Portugal’s history. There is also plenty of food stalls here if you want a little snack on the go.
Some Highlights of My Trip...
WOW Porto (World of Wine) – A cultural hub in Vila Nova de Gaia, WOW is packed with museums, restaurants, and experiences. I loved exploring the “World of WOW” and then heading to Taylor’s Port Wine Cellars nearby for a tasting session — a must when in Porto! While in the WOW area, I also hopped on the cable cars on the Gaia side of the river. Gliding above the rooftops with views over the Douro and Porto’s skyline was a beautiful way to take it all in.
Douro River Cruise. No trip would be complete without the classic six bridges cruise. Seeing Porto from the water gave me a whole new perspective, and the Ribeira district along the riverbank was buzzing with life it's full of cafés, bars, and narrow lanes to wander through.
Gaia Side Sunsets – A tip for anyone visiting: cross the river into Vila Nova de Gaia. Not only are food and drinks generally cheaper, but this side also gives you the best panoramic sunset views over Porto. Watching the city glow in golden light was unforgettable.
Day Trip to the Douro Valley. One of my favourite excursions. We visited two local vineyards, sampled incredible wines, and enjoyed another cruise, this time along the scenic Douro Valley itself. Rolling vineyards, calm waters, and endless views made it feel like a completely different pace of life.
Mercado do Bolhão is Porto’s most famous market is a feast for the senses. On the lower level, you’ll find stalls overflowing with fresh fruit, vegetables, and cafés. Upstairs, there’s a mix of crafts and artisan goods. I even picked up some local olive oil to bring home. The best part? Tucking into a **pastel de nata for €1 and sipping a glass of wine for just €3.
Food in Porto. Porto is a dream for food lovers. My absolute favourite dish of the trip was the croquettas crispy, golden, and filled with rich, savory goodness. I could have eaten them every day!
There are still some famous local dishes I didn’t get to try, like grilled sardines (especially popular in summer) and tripas à moda do Porto (a hearty tripe stew that’s a true local specialty).
Taking It Slow. Despite fitting in so much, I still had plenty of downtime. Porto lends itself well to a relaxed pace. I swam in the hotel pool, enjoyed slow evenings, and let myself just wander the city on foot. Honestly, you could easily make this a three-night break and still have time to spare.
Final Thoughts. Porto won me over with its charm, walkability, and mix of culture, food, and views. Between the Douro Valley day trip, riverside sunsets, and market snacks, it’s the kind of destination that feels both relaxing and full of discovery. A great city to enjoy as friends or couples.
If you’re looking for a city break that combines history, wine, and scenic strolls, Porto should be at the top of your list.
Please contact me if you want to turn that dream into a reality!
