Day 1 in Porto
Meet the morning of your first day in Porto on the Luiz I Bridge. The metal arch construction spans across the Douro River between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, a city from Porto District that is responsible for the packaging, transport and export of the port wine. The total length of the bridge is of 385,25 meters, and the weight is of 3.045 tons.
Currently, the bridge carries road traffic, the Line D of the Metro do Porto light rail system, and a pedestrian walkway. This is the perfect place to begin your Portuguese adventure, the Luiz I Bridge offering great views on the historic center of Porto, the port wine caves and over the Douro river.
From the bridge, direct to the alluring Cais da Ribeira – the district of Ribeira. We guarantee you that you will fall in love with Porto by visiting this picturesque part which everyone is enticed to see. Particularly, the place is popular among couples. The district has multiple medieval narrow streets and alleyways entangled, with ancient buildings in different stages of decay. The harbor is filled with large and small boats. Take a seat at one of the numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants, order a bottle of port wine and relax under the shade of a colorful umbrella.
On your way, go to the Ribeira Square. The historical square is part of the urban parish Sao Nicolau and it was the place were trade activities were unfolding in the Middle Ages. You can reach it by walking along the Douro river. The northern side of the square comprises a monumental fountain, of three-storey height, built in 1780 and decorated with Portugal’s coat of arms. The niche of the fountain is ornamented with the sculpture of John the Baptist. As well, on the square, there is a modernist cubic sculpture located on the ruins of a well from the 17th century.
In the evening, in order to appreciate once again the grandeur of Porto, take a ride on the funicular dos Guindais. The funicular is situated along the wall of Freiras, running down a steep cliff between the quay at Guindais and Rua da Batalha. It rides just in one direction. It is 281 meters length and goes down 61 meters. The line comprises two vehicles, each having a capacity of 25 persons, and functions at a maximal speed of 5 meters per second. Although the trip is short, of approximately 3 minutes, the passengers enjoy a splendid panoramic view!