It’s been a magnificent day here in Porto. As I’ve walked the streets I have come to the realisation that this is one on my favourite cities of all time. I think we’re all in agreement that it’s not just the architecture (which is sensational), or the history (which is beautifully complex), or the people (who are gracious and kind) it’s the combination of all three that make this such a wonderful city. I am early sad that we don’t have at least one more night here as I don’t feel like I’ve had enough time in this beautifully imperfect city.

Our first stop today was at Livraria Lello which has been coined the most beautiful bookstore in the world, and it is gorgeous (but way too crowded). It opened in 1881 and has a staircase in the middle , bookshelf after bookshelf and exquisite decor. The story goes that JK Rowling used to visit this bookstore and that was the inspiration for a number of Harry Potter scenes including Ollivander’s story – I would not be surprised. It cast us $5 EUR each to get in and then the cost of your ticket is taken off the purchase price…. And yes I may have bought a couple of books.

From here Vic, Robyn and I went on a 50 minute bridge cruise down the Rio Douro. It was $18 EUR each and was a fabulously relaxing way to spend almost an hour learning about the history of the city and bridges from the perspective of the river. I always love these and todays was no different and look at the unbelievable clouds.

Then a lovely lunch with Pip and Dave down by the Rio Duoro.

From here we went to the Monastery of Serra do Pilar which has a fantastic view overlooking the Dom Luis Bridge. The Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site built in 1672 it is notable as the church and cloister are circular.

And then to Catedral da Se do Porto another fantastic church with a long interesting history. Work commenced on the Cathedral in 1110 and completed in 1737. As a result of the 600 years of construction there are a number of different architectural themes, from Romanesque to Gothic to Baroque, fascinating. Before going through it my unsophisticated eyes referred to it as the Wedgwood Church 😃.

A quick trip back to the hotel and then Steve headed back out for a beautiful sunset over Rio Duoro ( pictures taken from the Cathedral by Steve).

And finishing off our final night in Porto with white port – yummy. Vic and Robyn had a port tasting today so were able to highly recommend one.