I've travel many times to Porto, probably every 3 to 4 years, and I still can say I'm not fed up with this city. The city of the 6 bridges, and second biggest in Portugal, has in fact one of the most fascinating old towns I have ever visited. The contrast between the two sides of the Douro River makes it even more interesting. On the south side, probably a bit poor outlooking when compared with the old town waterfront, you can go on a Port Wine tour tasting and taste the different brands and sorts of this fine liquid. Many boats with old barrels of Port add to the riverfront sight and a lazy walk through the many alleyways there is highly recommended. On the north side there are a lot of things to see and the crossing can be done through the famous Luís I Bridge - either from below and then by taking the funicular up, or my personal favourite, from the level up where the subway also drives by and the typical panoramic photos can be taken. Not far away, and passing by the hillside fortification walls from Porto's medieval citadel, is Porto's Cathedral. Here, you can also take some good shots from the entire city and its descending premises. Going down, you'll find touristic waterfront restaurants and souvenir shops - the Cais da Ribeira - and of course the boat tours to the 6 bridges. From the S. Bento train station upwards there is still many monuments, theaters and churches to uncover. This includes the main square Avenida dos Aliados and Town Hall, where Porto's football team generally celebrates its winnings, and the Rua Santa Catarina, a pedestrian shopping street where the renowned Majestic Café from the 20's is also situated. Restaurants can be found in every corner and you will have no problem with food! I personally recommend a visit to the Bolhão Market, if you desire to buy fresh food, wines, some cheeses or even souvenirs which are much cheaper than in the Cais da Ribeira. On the west side of the station, also known as Clérigos, two places should not be missed - the Clérigos Tower and the Livraria Lello, famed for its stairs and inspiration to J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter series. In the bookstore an entry fee is required, this is due to the excessive visits from tourists that photograph but don't buy.
Further west, just next to the Clérigos area, the Garden of the Crystal Palace and the Casa da Música (House of Music) can be reached by bus or a really long walk. The first is worth the walk just for the views. The House of Music for its unusual architecture and roof top terrace. A few km from the city centre and along the Avenida Boavista, you'll meet somewhere in the middle the Serralves Museum, best known for its art collection, minimalist architecture and extensive gardens with many walkable paths. I find it quite perfect for family time or simply a book reading. Continuing along the Avenida Boavista there's only one direction - the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the São Francisco Xavier Fort is easily recognisable and even though there's nothing to see in detail, please do enjoy the sound of the waves and landscape.
Tip: eat (or try at least) the Francesinha!
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