VISITING PORTO, IN THE LITERARY STYLE OF ERNEST HEMINGWAY*
Porto Stories: Unveiling the Perfect City Break
In this chronicle, I want to share with you my recent visit to the city of Porto. From the moment I arrived, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant and picturesque energy of the city. Porto, a destination that combines culture, gastronomy, history, and unique landscapes, proved to be the perfect place for an unforgettable city break.
From the very second I set foot on the cobblestone streets of its historic center, I was enthralled by its authentic and genuine atmosphere. Porto exudes an authenticity rarely found in other cities. Its colorful façades, narrow alleyways, and bridges over the Douro River transported me to a bygone era, where every corner hides a story.
When it comes to gastronomy, Porto is a paradise for food lovers. Codfish, an unavoidable ingredient in Portuguese cuisine, is prepared in a thousand and one ways, from the simple Boiled Cod to the traditional Porto-born Gomes de Sá Codfish plate. And we must not forget – nor miss the chance to taste - the Francesinha, a gastronomic monument that combines bread, meat, ham, sausage, and cheese, covered with a spicy sauce and served with French fries. Does it sound excessive? It is. But it is also a feast for the palate, I must warn you.
During the day, the historic cafes come alive with animated discussions among locals about football, politics, and culture, while having a cimbalino (espresso coffee). But the city is not just about daytime. Nightlife in Porto is equally vibrant. Downtown, many bars and nightclubs fill entire streets, offering a wide variety of ambiances and musical styles, where the party goes on until the early hours of the morning. While there, do order a Port Tonic, the refreshing and sophisticated drink that became trendy in the city.
For beach and water sports enthusiasts, Porto does not disappoint. Just a few minutes away are the beaches of Matosinhos, where it's worth sunbathing, taking a refreshing dip in the sea, or, if you're up for it, surf the waves of the Atlantic. Right next to it, you'll find the Matosinhos fish harbor and the many restaurants offering fresh fish and seafood - an unforgettable experience for lovers of good cuisine with the flavors of the sea.
And then there's the Douro Valley. Right nearby, it's a must-visit. In the Douro Wine Region, vineyards are organized across neatly arranged terraces, and the river winds through the mountains. As the birthplace of the famous and inspiring Port Wine, the Douro invites you to visit its historic Quintas (Wine Estates), taste its wines, and marvel at the landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Porto is a city that breathes culture. Its historic center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its centuries-old churches, imposing buildings, and classical or contemporary museums, all worth visiting. It's worth getting lost in its narrow streets and discovering the city's hidden corners, where every wall and every tile seem to have something to tell. Take the time for a visit to Lello Bookshop, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, which has inspired writers and readers throughout the ages.
The city of Porto is a destination that exceeds expectations. Culture, gastronomy, vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, surfing, renowned wines, genuine people, and magnificent landscapes are just some of the elements that make this city an ideal choice for a desired and well-deserved break. Allow yourselves to be seduced by Porto and discover these - and many other - valuable secrets.
*This "chronicle" was written using AI, in an exercise that combines the machine and the human mind to recreate the literary style of Ernest Hemingway, the renowned American writer who brought the concise and succinct style of journalism into literature, presenting us with extraordinary works that reflect the realistic contexts experienced by the author himself.