ahoyne9After two days in Madrid, my girlfriend and I set off for Porto, marking my 31st country visited. At Madrid Airport, we used the Priority Pass to access the “Puerta de Alcala” lounge in Terminal 2. It was a pleasant spot with a buffet-style snack selection. We flew with Europa Air, which provided a smooth journey from Madrid to Porto in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Prices for Europa Air flights vary, and we paid around 750 NOK (75 USD) for our tickets. The flight was a convenient and efficient way to travel between these vibrant cities.
Walking the City Center – 06.24.23
Upon arriving in Porto, we faced some challenges figuring out the Uber pickup location at the airport, so be prepared for a bit of a search. We stayed at the Boeria Garden Hotel Porto, a Hilton property where we used the Amex Platinum $200 hotel credit and a $100 stipend, making it a fantastic value. The hotel’s location and service were excellent, and the credits made the stay worthwhile.
For dinner, we visited Veneza Cafe Restaurant, a short walk from the hotel, where I tried the traditional Portuguese Francesinha. This hearty sandwich, layered with ham, sausage, cheese, and steak, topped with an egg and spicy sauce, was a delicious introduction to local cuisine.
Later, we explored the city center via metro, crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Completed in 1886, this double-deck suspension bridge offers breathtaking views of the Douro River and connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. We walked back over the bridge during sunset.
Our first stop was the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), one of the city’s oldest landmarks, dating back to the 12th century. Its Romanesque origins are complemented by Gothic and Baroque renovations, providing stunning city vistas from its terraces.
We also checked out the world’s most upscale McDonald’s, housed in a 1930s café with elegant chandeliers and Art Deco architecture—a unique experience for fast-food enthusiasts.
Canyoning Rio de Frades – 06.25.23
The next day, we embarked on a thrilling canyoning tour with Canyoning PT, costing €65 per person. The tour, set in Rio de Frades, included rappels, zip-lines, slides, and spectacular jumps. Despite the chilly 15°C (59°F) water and some technical issues with my GoPro, the adventure was exhilarating. We capped off the tour with a snack break before heading back to Porto.
Our journey concludes with a train ride to Lisbon tomorrow. I booked a First Class (Only 5 EUR more) ticket through the hotel concierge, which offered a bit more comfort and free Wi-Fi, though the snack options were limited.
Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue exploring Portugal!