The streets of Porto

If you want to get to know a new city, it's best to use its local transport. You get much closer to people that way, you can talk to them or have a discussion. Like the good elderly lady to whom I just offered my seat in the metro and who declined with thanks and then continued talking for another two minutes before I confessed that I hadn't understood a word. She thanks me again, that much I have understood.

Then I'm in Porto and wander aimlessly through the neighbourhoods. It's hilly - that should make for some nice views, I think to myself (I have no idea yet how nice the views will be!).
The neighbourhoods are to my taste: there are many crooked streets: you don't see everything immediately, but you will be surprised around every corner.
Many houses are tiled on the outside and thus probably well protected from the weather, and overall in good condition.
I notice that many artists play music here (today) and I notice how positively that influences the atmosphere.
Almost at the highest point of the city, the bridge of Luiz I spans 400 metres over the Douro river and offers me a beautiful view of both banks. On both sides the waterfront promenade stretches with shops and more artists (you can even hear the music up here! 🥰).

The promenade is also worth a visit. Among the many market stalls selling cork handicrafts is the largest collection of tin cans I know of (see gallery).Read more