Portugal
is a country located in Southwestern Europe . It is bordered to the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean and to the north and east by Spain. Lisbon is the capital and largest city by population.
One of the oldest countries in Europe, Portugal made numerous discoveries and maritime explorations outside the Mediterranean and by the 15th and 16th centuries established one of the longest-lived maritime and commercial empires, becoming one of the main economic and political powers of the time.
First Circumnavigation of the world….
Ferdinand Magellan
was probably the most famous Portuguese explorer. On Sept. 20, 1519, Magellan, with five ships and a crew of 270 men, set sail from Sanlucar de Barrameda in southern Spain, on what would become the first circumnavigation of the world. En route, he found what is now known as the Strait of Magellan and became the first European to cross the Pacific Ocean. The voyage was long and dangerous, and only one ship returned home three years later.
Porto
is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Located on the Douro River, it is one of Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations. A beautiful city to visit and also great place to enjoy a glass of it’s famous Port Wine. In 1996, Porto was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. If you are headed to Portugal this would be a must stop recommendation - at least three days.
Livreria Lello
is one of the most famous bookstores in the world for two reasons: (1) the common claim that it inspired Harry Potter author JK Rowling and the Hogwarts library and (2) that it's found on countless lists of the world's most beautiful bookstores. This is a must stop in Porto. Definitely book online and pay for the premium pass to jump the que. Very cool, just a bit too crowded.
Umbrella Tours
are the best way to get orientated to Porto. Red, Yellow and even Black umbrella tours are seen everywhere. Advertised as free, they work on a tip basis. I would highly recommend connecting with one of these tours on your first morning in Porto. After you’re done, you will a have much better idea on how to see the real Porto.
Vila Nova de Gaia
is the town directly across from Porto. A hub of the Port wine industry, it has many cellars offering tours and Port tastings. Definitely worth a trip over the Douro River to check out. You can take the Yellow tram, water taxi, or just walk over the bridge. It has a different vibe along its waterfront. First stop should be a Port tasting on the patio of the Sandman winery.
Sample a 10 Year, 20 Year and 30 Year old Tawny Port - then try the Ruby Ports.
Looking back across the river you see how beautiful Porto actually is. Not sure if Porto will be your first stop on a trip to Portugal, but it should definitely be on your itinerary.
