The traveling adventures of Midwest photographer Courtney Tompson

On our drive to Sintra we stumbled across this Castle. It was a nice stop to explore and stretch our legs.

SINTRA…
We were only in Sintra for a night but this city is definitely worth a stop. Check out the Moor’s Castle!

And then the fog rolled in…

Welcome to Porto…

I love this city so much. The people, the food, the atmosphere—I can’t wait to find myself back one day.

STAY
While in Porto, we stayed in a cute little AIRBNB near the water in the historic center. In addition to our stay our host greeted us with a bottle of port wine and chocolate cake.

EAT
Francesinha is a Portuguese sandwich originally from Porto, made with bread, wet-cured ham, fresh sausage, steak or roast meat, and covered with melted cheese and a hot and thick spiced tomato and beer sauce. It is typically served with french fries.

Pastel de nata is a custard tart originating in Portugal. If you don’t try one you’re doing yourself a disservice. Just be careful because one is never enough.

Sardines

Restaurants:
Manteigaria (Pastel de nata)
Café Santiago (Francesinha)

DRINK
Port. Obviously you can’t go to Porto without trying port wine. The actual wineries are located in Gaia, which is the town across the river. Most of the wineries offer tastings.
Taylor’s is one of the wineries we visited that I’d highly recommend.

ADVENTURE
Taste Porto food tour. This food tour was excellent. If you enjoy trying authentic dishes and getting a little history while exploring the city, take a food tour.

Port Tasting. I reiterate, try port when in Porto.

Check out the azulejo tiles. These blue tiles can be found throughout the city. If you don’t know where to look here are a few spots you’ll easily find them. Igreja do Carmo, São Bento Station, Sé do Porto

SINTRA/PORTO, Portugal

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