Invited by Zoover, Astrid from Bonapetit.nl visited Porto, Portugal, for MamsatWork. Discover her expert insights on the best things to do and see in this vibrant city and beyond.
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As a travel enthusiast with years of exploring Europe's hidden gems, I was thrilled for this press trip to Porto, Portugal—my first visit. With no preconceptions, I dove in, and the diverse itinerary from Zoover exceeded expectations: port wine cellars, adventure parks, scenic boat rides, city strolls, and exceptional cuisine. Here's my firsthand account to guide your trip.
Our TAP Air Portugal flight was seamless, complete with a wrap, aqua cookies, cheese, chocolate nuts, and your choice of drink. Upon landing, a welcoming van from the Porto and Northern Tourism Board awaited, led by an engaging guide. Porto's outskirts felt chaotic at first, but the city center's stunning architecture, towering Douro bridges, and panoramic views quickly won me over.
Taylor's Port cellars boast an impressive array of aging barrels, with the rich port aroma unforgettable. Our knowledgeable guide shared the history, production, and storage secrets—essential for any Porto visitor.
Adjacent Barão Fladgate offers dinner with breathtaking city views, especially at sunset. We savored appetizers, a standout white port tonic cocktail, filo pastry cannelloni with regional sausages and turnips, sirloin steak with cabbage and mash, and apple pie in puff pastry with cinnamon ice cream and toasted almonds. A true feast.
Exhausted yet delighted by 11:30 PM, we checked into Praia Golf Hotel. Despite front renovations, our rear rooms overlooked the Atlantic and boulevard undisturbed. Waking to ocean waves and that view was magical. The breakfast buffet impressed with croissants, fresh fruits, yogurts, homemade jams, juices, teas, coffees, and cappuccinos.
A 45-minute scenic drive through mountains and vineyards led to charming Amarante. Timing our visit near Festa do Junho (markets, parades, fireworks) or July's free MIMO Festival (concerts, films, exhibitions) is ideal—check the tourist office for details and local treats (ultra-sweet pastries!).
This museum honors Amarante-born modernist painter Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso (1887-1918), influenced by Picasso in Paris. His works are a highlight. Nearby, Igreja de São Gonçalos church merits a visit for its beauty.
Lunch at Restaurante O Mineiro offered vino verde, ham with melon, tuna salad, squid with cabbage and potatoes, and heavenly desserts—all with stunning views.
Perched on a mountaintop, Pena Aventura Park delivers adrenaline: paintball, canoeing, climbing, rafting, tobogganing (I did two runs!), ziplining, mini-golf. Breathtaking views make it family-friendly, especially for older kids. Relax post-adventure at adjacent Pena Park Hotel's modern rooms, wellness, and pool.
Dinner at renovated O Caneiro featured mushrooms, fish salad, bacalhau rice, steak, and crepes with cream—mountain air ensured sound sleep in our comfy rooms with Nespresso.
Just 1.5 hours away (near Spain), photogenic Chaves evokes timeless charm. Climb the 14th-century castle tower for epic views, sip coffee with pastel de nata, cross the Roman bridge on Tâmega River stones (kid-friendly), and visit the 73°C thermal springs—perfect for a full-day spa escape.
This grand palace, amid rose gardens and a private salty spring, exudes luxury. Indulge in wellness, golf, or Michelin-level dining. Our terrace lunch: crab-avocado, sea bass with shrimp and veggies, raspberry-almond dessert. "Feel like Royalty" fits perfectly.
Scale this 1963 concrete arch (world's longest then, 65m above the river) via 262 secured steps (€16.50, ages 12+). The summit views of Porto and sea are unparalleled.
Trace traders' Rabelo boats under Porto's six bridges, including Gustave Eiffel's student-designed Ponte Dom Luís I (two levels) and Ponte Maria Pia. Relaxed sightseeing at its best.
Our bus tour and stroll scratched the surface—allocate more time for this vibrant hub.
J.K. Rowling drew Harry Potter inspiration here while teaching in Porto (Hogwarts uniforms echo Coimbra's). Boutique shopping abounds—plan accordingly.
Dinner at Voque Café: port rosé tonic, ravioli with cheese-bacon, truffle stew, and indulgent desserts sealed the trip.
Portugal's diversity—stunning nature, towns, food—captivated me. Porto offers endless adventures. For more, check Zoover.nl sights.
Note: This trip has Porto atop my Portugal list, alongside Martinhal visits!
