We began our exploration with an immersive walking tour that guided us through the city's most prominent and photogenic gems. Our guide led us through the narrow streets lined with colourful houses, past charming cafes and bustling markets - of course, we also stopped for many photos in front of beautiful architecture and listened to captivating anecdotes of the local people and buildings. This was the perfect introduction to the area and really set the tone for the trip - I'd highly recommend it!
A truly enchanting highlight of my trip was visiting Lello bookstore, a place rumoured to be a core inspiration for J.K. Rowling's magical world. Built in the early 1900s, this grand establishment was so impressive to see in person. The centrepiece was a stunning dark wood staircase, with sunlight streaming through stained-glass windows and of course, the incredible collection of books. The warm glow illuminated the books that filled every corner of the shop, attracting many people to stop and take photos.
Through a discreetly placed doorway, we were lucky enough to gain access to a hidden sanctuary - the Lello bookstore's rare book room. Here, first editions of iconic novels like Wuthering Heights, Tom Sawyer and Alice in Wonderland lined the shelves. But the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly a signed copy of Harry Potter, and in a setting like this, it was a true bibliophile's dream come true.
For any self-respecting foodie, a trip to Porto wouldn't be complete without immersing themselves in the city's vibrant wine culture. The Portuguese hold their winemaking heritage close to their hearts, and it's evident in the vast array of delectable options and historic distilleries you'll encounter.
Our wine adventure began with a delightful exploration of the neighbouring vineyards scattered across the breathtaking Douro Valley. Each winery we visited offered a chance to savour its unique wines, showcasing the diverse flavours of the region. This culminated in a visit to the iconic Quinta do Bomfim, a family-owned estate steeped in history, dating back to the 1890s. Nestled in the heart of Pinhão, this esteemed estate, owned by the Symington family, is renowned for producing world-class Ports like Graham's and Cockburn's.
But the day's indulgence didn't stop there. We were fortunate enough to dine at the Bomfim 1896 restaurant which is led by the talented chef, Pedro Lemos. Paying homage to the working family's heritage, this traditional kitchen served up exceptional and wholesome food, paired with a selection of mouthwatering local wines. This exquisite meal, complemented by the breathtaking scenery, was the perfect way to end a day steeped in the rich tapestry of Port wine culture.
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