Portugal
Highlights
Porto Porto shares lots of qualities with the capital city of Lisbon. The streets here are steep and narrow with trams running up and down them, the food is vibrant and fresh, historic architecture blends effortlessly with modern buildings, and ancient neighbourhoods allow you to see how the locals have lived their lives for so many years. Unlike Lisbon, though, the river that runs through the city plays a much more important role. As well as bringing tourists on river cruises, the Douro and its valley supply the perfect conditions for port wine to be produced. This waterways was key to Porto’s fortified wine making such a big splash in this region. Colourful houses dot the hills on the waterfront and traditional Rabelo Boats ladened with port bob up and down underneath the impressive Luís I Bridge. In the city centre, medieval walls are adorned with street art and baroque churches stand side by side with lofty bell towers.
• Church of São Francisco – With a Gothic exterior and Baroque interior, this church is illuminated by a golden glow. • Ribeira District – One of Porto’s oldest neighbourhoods, this is the heart of the city and the perfect place to relax with an evening drink. • Palácio da Bolsa – Once the setting for the Porto Stock Exchange, the lavish interior of the building is awash with chandeliers and frescos. • Serralves Museum – This contemporary art museum has regularly changing exhibitions and is situated next the beautiful villa of Casa de Serralves. • Taylor’s Port Cellar Tour and Tasting – As one of the most famous names in the world of port wine, Taylor’s is a great place to sample the local tipple.
Did you know? Before he was famous for his Parisian tower, Gustav Eiffel worked on the designs for two of Porto’s bridges. However, he left the project for the Luís I Bridge as he didn’t want to share the plaudits with his apprentice.
Suggested break: 4 nights stay with 3* accommodation
From £349pp * Prices based on departing 22nd May 2018 from London Gatwick
Contact your travel agent, call 0800 988 3369 or email sales@fredholidays.co.uk
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