Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, is home to the world-famous fortified wine of the same name and has many architectural gems throughout the scenic city which was built along the hills overlooking the estuary of the Douro River.
This week, we have a fantastic competition for two readers to spread their wings and see what the north of Portugal can offer with a two-day break for two in Porto courtesy of Hotel Vila Galé Porto.
The prize will include a two night stay at the Hotel Vila Galé Porto situated in the heart of the cosmopolitan city.
During the break, the winners are recommended a sightseeing tour of the city, with attractions such as the beautiful 12th century cathedral and the Ponte de D. Luís, the city’s iconic iron bridge, which can be crossed on foot to Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side.
There you will find the world famous Port Wine Caves in the Ribeira de Gaia area. A guided tour of the many wine cellars followed by a tasting session of the several ‘nectars’ on offer will no doubt feed your soul for what still awaits you.
Back in Porto (just cross the bridge again!), A visit to the São Francisco church and the Stock Exchange palace (Palácio da Bolsa) nearby, built in 1842 and reflecting the city´s commercial prosperity, should be included in your itinerary.
The 18th century Clérigos Tower, which is one of Porto’s most characteristic symbols, is the perfect place to take in spectacular views of the city.
Enjoy a tasty dining experience and local offerings of wine in the Ribeira do Porto area where you will find a cluster of bars and seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
The Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional market of fruits, vegetables, fish and meat, is also a must-see along with a cruise up the river Douro, affording breathtaking views of the vineyards that cover the surrounding hills like carpets.
There is simply so much to see in this beautiful city full of Portuguese tradition that you cannot afford not to enter this competition!
To be in with a chance of winning this two-day break for two at the Hotel Vila Galé Porto please answer the following question:
What is the world-famous fortified wine that originates from the city of Porto?
Please email your answer to [email protected] and ensure that your full name, the name of the person that is accompanying you, address and a contact telephone number are listed.
Any entries without a telephone number cannot be accepted.
All entries will be put into a draw and the first two people to be drawn with the correct answer will win the two-night break for two.
The closing date for this competition is Tuesday, December 22, at midday and the winners will be notified on the same day and announced in the Algarve Resident edition of December 25. Normal Algarve Resident competition rules apply. Please visit www.
algarveresident.com for full terms and conditions. The prize is valid for six months, starting from January 2010.
The stunning Hotel Vila Galé Porto
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Hotel Vila Galé Porto is a stunning four-star hotel in the heart of Porto. Situated just metres from Porto’s best shopping district in the lively Rua de Santa Catarina area and only 15 minutes away from the renowned Port Wine Caves, the hotel is the perfect place to stay for a perfect weekend away.
Staying in one of the hotel’s 292 rooms, you will be able to unwind from your day by sightseeing and shopping in comfort and style.
The hotel has the ultimate in relaxation with its Satsanga Spa facility which features a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, treatments and massages.
You will be able to try the area’s best regional cuisine at the hotel’s Paris Texas restaurant.
The hotel offers easy access from the airport and has direct access
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to Porto’s modern Subway system.
For more information, please visit www.vilagale.pt, available in English.
How to get to Porto
By Train
Taking the train to Porto is a relatively cheap and easy option when travelling to the city, apart from the fact that you can relax and admire the views on the way. Comboios de Portugal (CP) offers train services throughout Portugal. To travel to Porto, the easiest option is to take the Alfa Pendular train at Tunes, in the council of Silves. Visit the website www.cp.pt, which is available in English and has an easy-to-use application where you can buy tickets online for your journey by typing in where you are travelling to and from and when you wish to return. For more information, please call CP on 808 208 208.
By Road
To travel by car to Porto, it would take around six hours and the quickest way would be to travel by motorway. Visit www.google.co.uk/maps where you are able to type in where you are travelling to and from and it will give you very detailed information for the journey and estimate how long it will take you. The website, www.travelmath.com, which is available in English, will estimate how much it will cost in fuel to travel to Porto.
By Plane
Ryanair launched its new route from Faro to Porto in October and is also a cheap and quick option to travel to Porto. The low cost airline has regular flights from Faro to Porto on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. For more information please visit www.ryanair.co.uk, which is available in English.
