Yesterday we said goodbye to Porto and headed on to our next destination, Estoril/Cascais. We arrived around 1:00 PM and so far it seems as advertised, "The Portuguese Riveria". There'll be plenty on this area in future blogs. I wanted to wrap up Porto with a few pointers that you might find helpful if it ever gets on your destination list.
- There is no language barrier. Although Portuguese is the "official" language practically everyone speaks English.
- They are very good hosts. Everyone was friendly, helpful and seemed genuinely happy to engage in conversation or assist with directions. Like most big cities, I'm sure there are places you wouldn't want to go, but the area where we stayed and places we visited seemed very safe.
- You won't need a car in Porto. There is a very good Metro system and although we didn't use it there was a very extensive bus system as well. We took the Metro from the airport and had to make one transfer to get to our hotel. Driving in the historic center would be difficult (narrow streets and numerous one way streets that change direction during the day). Parking in the historic center is also very limited.
- Driving outside the city looked very easy. Although we didn't rent a car, I've driven in enough places to know what looks easy and what looks difficult. Outside the city the roads were modern, well marked and the drivers seemed very courteous.
- Visit the Douro Valley. You can book a tour or rent a car but by all means spend at least a day (preferably a couple of days) in the Douro Valley. The scenery is incredible. The two towns we passed through on our one day tour were Pinhao and Regua. Both looked like they would be fun places to spend more time. A one day tour is a long day and can involve a lot of time in a car or van, but it's worth it.
- There are options on where to stay. We stayed in the historic center (Ribeira), which we really enjoyed. There are hotels and/or airbnb options in the city, near the beach, in the suburbs and at the airport. Our recommendation would be the historic center. You are near many of the major sites, there are plenty of restaurants and the metro is very close.
- If possible, avoid the "high season". Portugal is becoming a very popular destination. From talking to locals we understand that Porto gets very crowded in the summer. It may not be possible, but visiting during the off season or shoulder season will save you some money and you'll avoid the biggest crowds. Right now it's "shoulder season" and heading towards high season. It was busy but not overcrowded. In the three and a half days we were there we had high temperatures that ranged from the low 60's to the low 90's. Pack a jacket and shorts!
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| It was ten degrees warmer than this on Sunday but it's going to be chilly this coming weekend. |
- Try a glass of port and a francesinha! If you don't know what I'm talking about, read the previous blog.
Porto was a great place to spend a few days. We would recommend at least a week if you have the time.
