Porto, PORTUGAL
Airing Date: Jun 2nd, 2003
Porto is a city of contrasts, with an old section scrambled upon granite bluffs and a new section which runs out to sea. Both areas are divided by the Douro River, a distinctive landmark spanned by six dramatic bridges.
Touring the city is an enjoyable way to learn about the history of the area - and its famous port.
The heart of the city is a 19th century tangle of lanes tumbling down to the river. You could spend hours exploring the cobble-stone streets and historic buildings.
Aliados Avenue, the main axis of Porto, is the best place to start your tour. This beautiful avenue has a French Art Nouveau style and is steeped in history.
Perhaps even more popular is the riverside Ribeira district. With its shadowed lanes, cobbled passages and boats at the quayside, this area is a window into the city's past. Most of Porto's sights and nightlife are located on steep and narrow side streets that twist and turn.
The Heritage of the City of Porto tour delves into the world of port, with visits to some of the city's famous wine cellars. Once you've sampled some of the finest drops, board the tourist mini-train that cruises through the historic part of the city. As the train winds through the streets, take in the magnificent Se' Cathedral, the Luis I Bridge, the historic area of Gaia and the Porto Stock Exchange Building, along with many more historical sites.
Another popular way of exploring the city is on a traditional boat called 'barcos rabelos'. Via Duoro Tours runs trips down the river for around $14, offering a unique perspective of the city's attractions. You'll see beautiful monuments and cruise under an iron bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel, the same man who designed the Eiffel Tower.
After a day's drinking and sightseeing, head to the Postigo do Carvoa. This restaurant offers traditional dishes of tripe, a rich stew of cow's stomach. While it may not sound appealing, it's considered a local delicacy.
The facts
Travelworld can arrange flights with Cathay Pacific to Rome with connecting Air Portugal flights to Lisbon. Return prices start at $2998 from the west coast and $3322 from the east.
Travelworld
Tel: 13 14 35
The Pestana Porto Carlton Hotel is right on the river. Standard double rooms start from $228, including breakfast.
Pestana Porto Carlton Hotel
Tel: 0011 351 22 340 2300 (international)
If you need a vehicle, car rental starts at $36 a day with World Cars.
World Cars
Tel: 1300 65 66 01
