What Are The Top Things To Do In Porto, Portugal? A Porto Travel Guide

Dec 2, 2025

Last Updated on: Dec 4, 2025

Europe

Porto was on my mind for the longest time. It is the home to the best Port Wine, the beautiful Douro River, and colorful buildings.

Also, Porto has a crucial role to play in Portugal getting voted as the “Best Destination in Europe” at the World Travel Awards 2025. Porto itself has bagged the honor of the “Best Urban Destination of Europe.

When I reached Porto, I found it very walkable. It is not as hilly as Lisbon. So, strolling was breezy, and the tram rides! Those rides were the highlights of my trip to Porto last year. I even found many adorable cat graffiti on the walls of the many buildings in Porto.

I met many volunteers at a hostel near the Old Town, and with such opportunities, Porto is now more open to budget travelers and backpackers. I also got a chance to meet many digital nomads and freelancers, and the most happening expat community.

While strolling across the Old Town and enjoying the tram rides are the activities I loved the most, there are many other things to do in Porto. I will talk about them in this Tour and Travel Blog guide.

How To Reach And How To Get Around Porto?

Porto is well-connected to the rest of the world through the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) or Porto Airport. It is just 11 km away from the City Center.

Thanks to the well-established public transport system, you will easily get a tram, metro, bus, cable car, or funicular to reach the City Center from the airport.

I took a tram ride from the airport to the City Center, living my ultimate Porto dreams. 

Also, as I had done my research correctly, I bought a Standard Andante Card.

It was easier for me because I didn’t need to buy tickets separately for the train and metro rides during my days in Porto.

You can buy an Andante Card from any Andante Shop at airports or subway hotels. Also, check if the hotel you are staying in sells an Andante Card.

The Andante Card is rechargeable, and you can check the balance and recharge it at any kiosk at metro stations. The card will cost you 0.60€, and based on your travel plan, you will have to recharge the card. 

What Are The Top Things To Do In Porto?

Porto once again drew the limelight with its signature Port Wine. The celebration of the Port Wine Day on 10th September 2025 included a “free-guided tasting,” a show of the vintage wine labels, and a one-of-a-kind tour of the Douro and Port Wine Institute (IVDP) building.

Yes, exploring the port houses and tasting the sweeter and richer versions of regular wines are some of the most delightful things to do in Porto. However, from the iconic tram rides to getting the amazing views of the city from the River Cruise, the city offers you endless options for exploration. 

1. A Boat Cruise In The River Douro 

A Boat Cruise In The River Douro

Taking a Rabelo boat ride on the River Douro is the best way to enjoy a slice of Portuguese history. These boats were earlier used for the transportation of port wines and people.

Today, these are cultural symbols of Porto, with the annual boat race during the Festa de São João do Porto or St. John’s Festival being a major attraction.

A rabelo ride exploring the major cultural sights visible from the river and the six iconic bridges cost me 20 Euros.

It was a slow-paced, relaxing, and enriching ride.

2. Enjoying A Ride In The Vintage Tram 

Enjoying A Ride In The Vintage Tram

The city I come from also has a story of tramlines and vintage trams, thanks to British Colonization. I am from Kolkata, the City of Joy, and Google says that the distance is 9,068 kms.

See how traveling brings two cities, thousands of miles apart, together.

The trams here usually run on two lines, and on special occasions, you will find trams running on three lines.

I took a ride on the Line 1 route, from the Ribeira neighbourhood to the Foz Area. The Foz Area has beautiful beaches, and here you will see the mouth of the Douro River.

I had to pay €8 for the round trip, and you can even book a one-way ticket at €6.

3. Exploring The Port Houses 

Exploring The Port Houses

Vila Nova de Gaia, connected to Porto through the Douro River, is home to the famous Port Wine. In fact, the strict rules of the 17th century said that for a wine to be qualified as Port Wine, it had to be matured and stored in the premises of Vila Nova de Gaia. 

So, the Port Houses are concentrated. So, it is easier to explore most of them on foot. I was at Taylor’s a Port House celebrating a legacy of 333 years in Port Wine-Making. It is one of the Port Houses, still owned by a family.

The tour at Taylor’s was self-guided. So, I loved how I could appreciate each process of wine-making and tasting at my own pace.

Along with Taylor’s, you can also plan a wine-tasting tour at Cockburns, Ferreria, and Calem.

4. Visiting The Porto Cathedral, Se Do Porto 

Visiting The Porto Cathedral, Se Do Porto

The Porto Cathedral, next to the remnants of the medieval walls, stands out with its fortress-like exterior. The cathedral remains open from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, and it offers free entry.

However, you will have to pay €3 if you want access to the cloister.

Predominantly Baroque in its architecture, the cathedral also shows the influence of the Gothic and Neoclassical styles. It is because the cathedral was first constructed in the 12th century, and it has been renovated many times.

5. Visiting The Palácio Da Bolsa 

  • Address: R. de Ferreira Borges 11, 4050-253 Porto 
  • Hours Open: 9 AM to 6:30 PM 
  • Entry Fee: €14 for Adults, €9.50 for Students and Seniors, Free for Children below 12 Years 

Palácio da Bolsa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is now home to Porto’s Commercial Association. It was built on the ruins of St Francis Convent, which was engulfed by fire during the Liberal Wars.

The building was built in 1842, and it was opened in 1891. The Pátio das Nações, or the central courtyard of the palace, with a glass enclosure, ensures adequate lighting throughout.

You can explore its beautiful architecture and learn more about its history by taking part in a 30-minute guided tour.

6. Enjoying A Cable Car Ride 

Enjoying A Cable Car Ride

A funicular or cable car ride is the best way to enjoy amazing views of the Dom Luis I Bridge, the Douro River, and the Port cellars. The cable car or the Teleférico de Gaia in Porto connects Jardim do Morro with Vila Nova de Gaia.

This five-minute ride costs 6 euros one-way and 9 euros round-trip. For children aged 3 to 12, the ticket price is €3 for a one-way trip and €4.50 for a round trip.

You can use the Porto City Card if you are looking for discounts on this cable car ride.

7. Taking A Photo At The Dom Luís I Bridge 

Taking A Photo At The Dom Luís I Bridge

Théophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, is behind the construction of the Dom Luís I Bridge. This bridge on the Douro River serves as a prominent transportation link and icon of Porto. It connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia.

I loved walking through the low point and along the top. I took some lovely photos there and enjoyed a panoramic view of the city.

For more fun, you can take a cable car ride to the top of the bridge and then walk to the Cathedral and medieval walls.

8. Visiting The Historic Bolhao Market 

The Bolhao Market is not just a place to find fresh fish, vegetables, and other produce. It is important for the history of the city and the people living there. The market is as old as the mid-1800s, and once the two-story building opened in 1914, the market shifted there.

In 2022, the building underwent a major renovation, and it is now accessible to visitors. The market remains open from 8 AM to 8 PM, and it remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

The market also hosts many events, including opera performances and workshops.

9. Try Pastel De Nata: The National Pastry Of Portugal 

Try Pastel De Nata The National Pastry Of Portugal

Pastel De Nata, the century-old delicacy and the national pastry of Portugal, is the best dessert one can have in Porto. This dish has egg custard in a tart.

I had the best pastry at the Bolhão Market, and it cost me €1.50. I did not have much time. Otherwise, I would have loved to join a pastry-making class offered by many locals at their homes.

Food and attending cooking classes are some cool practices to break the ice and have an authentic cultural experience.

10. Indulging In The Quaint Little Charm Of The Time Out Market 

After trying the best Pastel De Nata at the Bolhao Market, my next destination was the Time Out Market. I had some Caldo Verde soup and a Francesinha sandwich at the Time Out Market. These two items cost me €18.

The market opens at 10 AM and remains open till 11 PM (Up to 12 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).

Furthermore, if you want to try the best of the best in the Time Out Market, you can explore restaurants such as Padaria Ribeiro, Casa Inês, and Meia-Nau.

11. Exploring The Central Train Station Of Porto 

Exploring The Central Train Station Of Porto

The Central Train Station of Porto comes alive with the history of the city depicted through its blue and white ‘azulejo’ tiles. The main hall with 20,000 azulejo tiles is the main attraction of the architecture of this train station.

It was built in 1916, and you will get trains to the Douro Valley and other popular villages in the neighborhood from here.

The Central Train Station of Porto, or the São Bento Railway Station, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and previously it was the site of a Benedictine monastery.

12. Visiting Livraria Lello 

Visiting Livraria Lello

Built in 1906, Livraria Lello remains the epicenter of Porto’s literary scene. It was named after prominent aristocrats and the founders, the Lello Brothers. And all the Potter Heads know this place as it inspired J K Rowling while writing Harry Potter,

Also, I was surprised knowing that I would need a ticket to enter this bookstore, the most beautiful in the world. The ticket costs 10 Euros, and the charge will be deducted from the price of any book you purchase.

Along with being a treasure trove of books, Livaria Lello stands out with its architectural magnificence. It has a stained-glass skylight, a unique staircase, and some brilliant woodwork.

13. Visiting The Chapel Of Souls 

Visiting The Chapel Of Souls
  • Location: R. de Santa Catarina 428, 4000-124 Porto, Portugal 
  • Hours Open: Tuesday – Friday: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Saturday: 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, Sunday: 7:30 AM to 13:30 PM, Monday: Closed 

Porto made me fall in love with the iconic blue azulejo and white facade of the churches. Capela das Almas, or the Chapel of Souls, is another prominent structure, bearing these characteristics.

When I visited the chapel, it was in the afternoon, and the blue and white azulejos on its exterior looked more dramatic as the Sun changed color.

The beautiful facade of the building and its Neoclassical style are ideal for Insta-worthy photo ops. However, the place remains crowded, and the street is busy with cars.

So, I had a difficult time clicking the photos of the chapel. 

14. Visiting The West Coast Of Portugal 

Visiting The West Coast Of Portugal

It takes a bus ride and costs less than 10 Euros to reach the West Coast of Portugal from Porto. The bus ride takes just 15 minutes, or you can explore the route on foot.

I could not be there due to time constraints. However, Praia do Carneiro, the closest beach to Porto, offers the most relaxing beach experience. The esplanade is surrounded by palm trees, and the lighthouse and the 16th-century forts add to its historical significance.

Other popular beaches on the west coast of Portugal are Praia do Molhe, Praia de Gondarem, Praia dos Ingleses, etc.

15. Watching Sunset From The Guindalense Football Club 

  • Address: Escada dos Guindais 43, 4000-337 Porto, Portugal 
  • Hours: Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 11 AM, Saturday – 1 PM to 11 PM, Sunday and Monday – Closed 
  • Entry: Free 

The Guindalense Football Club is one of the best sunset points in the city. It also offers an amazing view of the river, Don Luis Bridge, and the city’s orange rooftops.

The food and beverages available at this club are reasonably priced. I talked to a few locals there, and the gentle breeze coming from the river made my sunset moments even more special.

16. A Day Trip To Braga And Guimarães 

I loved the day trip to Braga and Guimarães from Porto. Braga is about 55 km from Porto, and Guimarães is about 48 km away.

I took a bus to Guimarães, and it took me less than an hour to reach Guimarães. I visited the Guimarães Castle and the historic center of Guimarães.

Braga is famous as the home to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also, the Baga Cathedral is an important landmark.

17. Enjoy A Fado Show 

Enjoy A Fado Show

Watching a Fado Show at Ideal Clube de Fado was something I was not prepared for. For instance, I’d know that a musical performance in Porto would make me feel the melancholy and the sprinkles of warm yellow lights like an autumn afternoon.

Of course, I did not understand word-for-word, but every note, depicting emotions such as sorrow, love, and sadness, stirred me. It was the people, culture, and history of Porto talking to me through music.

Furthermore, you can explore options such as the Fonseca Cellar Tour & Fado Show or visit Calém Cellars to enjoy a Fado Show with the best Port Wine. 

My Days In Porto, Portugal: A 3-Day Itinerary

My days in Porto were a little rushed, I admit, and I had to cover many places. However, you make it more relaxed if you have a trip plan of 5-7 days. 

1. Activities On Day 1: Exploring The Heart Of Porto 

Morning Visiting Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) 
Morning Exploring the Old Town (Ribeira District) 
Midday Exploring the Bolhão Market 
Midday Lunch at Time Out Market 
Afternoon Vintage Tram Ride 
Afternoon Taking Photographs at Dom Luís I Bridge 
Evening Watching the sunset at the Guindalense Football Club
Evening Attending Fado Show at Ideal Clube de Fado 

2. Activities On Day 2: Wine, Culture, And Scenic Views 

Morning Exploring Port Wine Houses 
Midday Taking a Douro River Cruise Ride 
Midday Lunch in Ribeira 
Afternoon Reading and Buying Books at Livraria Lello 
Late Afternoon Visiting the Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas) 
Evening Cable Car Ride 
Evening Dinner and Late Night Riverside Walk 

3. Activities On Day 3: Day Trips And Hidden Gems 

Morning Day Trip to Braga & Guimarães 
Midday Lunch in Braga 
Afternoon Returning to Porto and Exploring the Central Train Station (São Bento) 
Afternoon Walking and Discovering Hidden Murals 
Evening Dinner and Leaving for the Airport 

Is Porto In Portugal Safe For Women?

I found Porto safe and warm. Also, a vacation home booking portal, Holidu, has named Porto one of the safest cities in Europe for women digital nomads.

The portal has enlisted the safest cities after a data analysis from sources such as Nomads.com and Numbeo.

Furthermore, according to Numbeo, the crime rate in Porto is only 30.31, which is pretty low. In addition, the crime rating in “a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender, or religion” is just 13.61, which is very low.

Moreover, the rate of assaults is low in Porto, with a rate of 27.86.

Getting Lost Is The Best Thing You Can Do In Portugal

Nothing can be better than a city that allows you to breathe and get lost. Porto does exactly the same! I loved the Old Town area, especially where I could cherish the beautiful murals, the warmth of people, and the scent of freshly baked Pastel De Nata. Everything offered me a wholesome experience.

The more you walk through the alleys, the more you will discover cool buildings, architecture, and gardens. I am not sure whether you will agree with me because it’s not easy to put your mobile phone on flight mode while exploring a new country solo.

Still, I took the risk, and I carried my camera to take the photos. People talk about free things to do in Porto, I would say that it was something that did not charge me a penny, yet was priceless! Eu amo-te, Porto!

Also, this walkability factor adds a lot of soul to the city’s character. The “human-scale streets” keep reminding you that the city was built long before cars were invented. And as you walk through these streets, there is no barrier between you and the experience you soak in.

In the end, you have a story that is deep and personal.

With the World Travel Awards conferring the title of “Europe’s Best Tourist Destination, 2025,” Porto is emerging as more than a popular tourist spot.

The city’s big win shows what the travelers truly value these days. As travelers, we love a city that is walkable, sustainable, authentic, and culturally rich. Also, you have to remember that the city has left names like Berlin, Barcelona, and Amsterdam behind to win this laurel.

The layered heritage of the city has played a major role in making it so rich in experience. You will love the Baroque churches, the Ribeira Riverfront, arty neighborhoods, and medieval lanes. So, despite rapid growth, the city has been careful to protect its heritage.

In addition, as major cities such as Venice and Barcelona struggle with overtourism and its impact on the environment and local communities, Porto is showing the way to low-impact travel. Walkability and tram rides contribute to the city’s low-impact tourism.

Overall, the win shows that authenticity is preserved and respected, and it is not a performance or a show. It also shows how successful the city has been in balancing authenticity with amenities, growth with sustainability, and mobility with walkability.

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France?  Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft. 

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Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Couples Get Ready!

BY  Sibashree Apr 21, 2025

Europe is a significant player in the global beach tourism industry, holding a 38.3% share. Further, the thriving beach tourism scenario in Europe has the solid backing of the European Commission.  The Commission is supporting all European countries with beautiful beaches through action plans, smart strategies, and sustainable growth initiatives.  Therefore, it is no surprise that by 2032, the European beach tourism industry is expected to reach $357 billion. Now, as a traveler, if these stats look mundane to you (I love them as I think traveling is all about touching and improving lives, and you cannot do that without an economic boost!), the glorious stretches of sand and the dramatic landscape give you enough reasons to plan a trip.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I have curated the most popular summer destinations in Europe, along with the hidden gems.  So, couples, you know where you need to sail for some serious coastal fun! The Best Summer Destinations In Europe Beach: Forget The Count!  Think of the dramatic landscape of the Mediterranean Coastline. Some are sandy and fun, while others are gothic and involve a lot of drama.  On the other hand, the Atlantic beaches are full of marshlands, inlets, and barrier islands.  Now, despite the difference in the landscape and coastal geology, beaches are the best summer destinations in Europe, thanks to long hours of Sun and pleasant weather conditions.  Also, summer months are ideal for various outdoor activities on the beach, including sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving. Furthermore, intimate activities such as sunbathing against the serene water backdrops make the beaches in Europe ideal for summer romance.  Moreover, I cannot think of a more romantic venue for a candlelight dinner than the Mediterranean beaches in Europe. Here, I present the beaches I have been to in Europe, and while there are some regular staples on our list, mostly I have talked about the beaches that have impressed me the most.  1. French Riviera: Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles Was Our Sweet Spot ‣ Closest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) With approximately 180 km of coastline, the French Riviera, the setting of popular movies such as GoldenEye and Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief, is dotted with stunning beaches.  The over 90 beaches in the French Riviera offer an unmatched diversity. So, you have beaches like Pampelonne, where the vast sandy stretches will grab your attention.  On the other hand, the French Riviera boasts Paloma, an adorable spot with its dramatic pebble beach.  However, we found our sweet spot at Plage Notre-Dame Porquerolles, a beach that is just 15 km away by a water taxi ride from the French Riviera.  Porquerolles, one of the best summer destinations in Europe, is a not-so-developed island with a length of 9 km and a width of 2 km.  So, we started our day by bicycling through red trails. The eucalyptus trees on both sides of the trail blessed us.  After the ride, we visited the contemporary art museum at Villa Carmignac and enjoyed the best rosé champagne and local delicacies at their outdoor dining setup.   We came back to the beaches by noon, and the cafes with the musicians playing the old-day tunes created the perfect backdrop for the change of shades and lightplay we were witnessing on the sandy stretches.  And it was sunset time! We knew we had to take a dip. We could listen to the grinding of cicadas and see how the last rays of the Sun for the day weave magic on the sand and water.  After our moments in the water, it was our time to get back to the French Riviera. We had a great time at the beach with memories of broken wooden chairs and weary bicycle stands as beautiful frames from a movie.  Au revoir, Porquerolles! ⁕⁕⁕ Tour And Travel Note ⁕⁕⁕ Don’t miss a visit to the resort town of Nice if you are in the French Riviera. It is one of the best European cities with beach and nightlife.  2. Amalfi Coast: A UNESCO World Heritage Site And The Prettiest Coast Of Italy ‣ Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport (NAP) The Amalfi Coast requires no introduction. From beaches with dramatic rocky coves to those with sandy stretches, every beach stands out with its unique appeal, and Mediterranean delicacies here are out of this world.  Nevertheless, among all the beaches, Fornillo Beach in Positano won our hearts. With pebbled beaches and fewer crowds, everything about the beach defined the word “intimate.”  It was our Punto Dolce, where we enjoyed all the beach chores to the fullest. However, the highlight of the visit to this beach was exploring the nearby Grotta di Fornillo, as the scenic views were amazing.  3. The Egadi Islands: The Best Fusion Of Natural Beauty And Ecological Attractions View this post on Instagram A post shared by Giovanni Vasta (@gvasta2) ‣ Nearest Airports: Palermo Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) and Trapani-Birgi Airport (TPS) Also known as the Egadi Islands, these islands in Italy are some of the best European summer beach destinations.  Our destination was Favignana, which has beautiful beaches, such as Cala Azzurra and Cala Rotonda.  However, our favorite among all was Bue Marino. The rocky coastline here is unique, and we fell in love with the sunrise views.  Furthermore, we decided to explore Favignana, and we took a ferry to the nature reserve of the Saline Trapani. It is around 40 minutes to reach the nature reserve.  This Ramsar Site, and a protected area entrusted to the World Wildlife Fund is home to the rare Aphanius fasciatus fish.  Further, we saw birds like the Saker Falcon and the Common Shelduck there.  4. Platja de Formentor, Majorca: A Calm Beach With Green Water ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) A calm “Blue Flag” beach located along the Formentor Peninsula, Platja de Formentor is surely one of the best that Majorca Island has to offer.   The landscape here defines the word drama, and the sight of the Tramuntana mountains amidst dense pine forests will stay in my memory forever. Furthermore, the blue and green colors of the water complement the backdrop.  The beach is not very long, and we took a walk of around 1 km to reach Cap de Formentor, the farthest point of the beach. Also, we took a ride in a rented sailboat. Catamarans are also available for rent. You can even try snorkeling for more adventure.  5. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia: A Romance With White Sand And Turquoise Sea ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefallinia (EFL) Airport One of the best summer destinations in the world, Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, has our hearts for its stunning natural beauty.  The beach, awarded a “Blue Flag,” features stretches of white sand with the most dramatic cliffs in the backdrop.  Furthermore, the turquoise water provides a serene experience for the eyes.  6. Hietaniemi Beach, Helsinki: Best For Summer Swimming And Beach Volleyball ‣ Nearest Airport: Helsinki Airport Hot summer days call for some serious beach fun at Hietaniemi Beach, Central Helsinki, Finland.  With its shallow water and picturesque setting, Hietaniemi Beach is perfect for playing basketball and beach volleyball.  Also, don’t forget to try the coffee and snacks at Badenbaden, the summer terrace. Want to try your luck at golf?  Pay a visit to the miniature golf course nearby.  7. Beach of Durres: The Most-Visited Beach In Albania ‣ Nearest Airport: Tirana Airport The beach of Durres, the most-visited beach in Albania, is also one of the best beaches in Europe.  Durrës, as a city, has a rich historical background, with the stories going back to 627 BC. Additionally, the Roman amphitheater was our biggest draw.  Additionally, the beach stands out due to its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, a prominent feature in the cultural, historical, and economic landscapes of Europe.  Recently, the Adriatic Sea was in the news after a Riesenhai, or basking shark, was seen off the Croatian Peninsula. 8. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia: Romance In A Secluded Beach With Turquoise Waters ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou With rugged hinterlands and candy-colored houses, Fteri Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, is the prettiest beach I have been to in Europe.  One of the best summer destinations in Europe, this beach on a secluded cove has beautiful white cliffs and the bluest water.  Don’t miss snorkeling in the water for the ultimate adventure.  9. Praia da Comporta: The Secret Sweet Spot In Portugal View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luis Mendes (@luismendeslm) ‣ Nearest Airport: Lisboa (LIS) Airport One of the best summer destinations in Europe, Praia da Comporta is a hidden gem in Portugal.  Summer months are busy at Praia da Comporta. However, the 19-km stretch of the shoreline ensures you get enough space for all the beach fun.  We had the most elaborate lunch at the Comporta Café, and we got into the water after hours of swimming.  However, the biggest attraction was the horseback ride during the Sunset. The surroundings looked magical.  10. Mala Beach: Cliffs, Sands, And Clear Water View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ekaterina Erokhin (@katiaerokhin) ‣ Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport I was almost done penning this blog, and then suddenly it struck me. I have missed Mala Beach, another wonder in the French Riviera.  With pebbles and sand on the shores, this secluded beach is ideal for some intimate moments with your partner.  Further, the views of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and cliffs leave you awestruck.  11. Vitali Beach: Best For The Quiet Romance ‣ Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport Vitali Beach in Andros, Greece, is one of the best summer destinations in Europe if you are planning a coastal getaway.  It is one of the quiet ones, too!  The shores are full of pebbles. So, it is quite a walk before you reach the blue waters. However, the nearby caves and the best Pina Colada available make every effort worthwhile.  12. Cala de Deiá, Mallorca: Falling In Love With The Rugged Charm ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) Cala de Deià, the rugged and bewitching inlet near Deiá, Spain, has a small beach with crystal clear water. This is a place for couples who love everything quaint and a close-to-nature experience.  After a fun swim in the crystal clear water, you can have your meal at the Can Lluc cafe and enjoy fishing while sitting on the rocky platform above the water.  You can also visit the beautiful hamlet of Lluc Alcari, just 15 km away from Cala de Deiá. Related Posts.. Here is a List of Best River Cruises in Europe! 10 Things You Must Cover On Your Europe Trip These Best Places To Travel In Europe Are Amazing In Winter

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Pripyat Visit Or The Soviet Union Through Our Eyes

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2020

Have you ever wondered what destruction happens to a city or region post a nuclear radiation accident? Are you aware of the Chernobyl Plant and Pripyat city, the site of the nuclear accident situated in the erstwhile USSR? Did you know that there are countless documentaries and movies been made about the Chernobyl disaster? There are countless stories and myths, which abound about Chernobyl. While some say that it was just an accident at a nuclear plant, others point to a warring country being responsible for executing the same. The nuclear accident at Chernobyl happened in the erstwhile USSR era. This was roughly around the same time when the Cold War was raging between Communist USSR and the Western Capitalist world. The stories, myths, controversies have made Chernobyl somewhat of an urban legend. Chernobyl has become so famous that it has been featured in a Netflix series. It has also started attracting audiences and tourists from all over the world, who want to see one of the most significant remnants of our modern history. An Introduction to Pripyat, the city surrounding Chernobyl Visiting Pripyat today we could only imagine that it was a city of opportunity, where almost every resident had a prestigious job and a promising future. This city is located on the Pripyat River, 3 kilometers from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, has been prosperous and advanced since its foundation. Until April 26, 1986, when the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant forced more than 300 thousand people to leave their homes due to the threat of radiation. This is how the exclusion zone appeared – an area of 2,600 square kilometers, free of people. Before the Chernobyl incident, Pripyat was one of the most economically developed and bustling cities of the USSR. The trade, commerce, and lifestyle of the people were as good as it could get under a Communist regime. Culturally, Pripyat embodied the best of the USSR. The Chernobyl accident was a major turning point in the fortunes of the city and its inhabitants. The Problems faced by Inhabitants of Pripyat after the Chernobyl Accident Many inhabitants were forced to shift to government camps and medical facilities. They were monitored for radiation and many also faced isolation and therapy. Even after the nuclear winter ended, traces of radiation were found in water, soil, etc. The government could not ever settle inhabitants in the city. Many were forced to migrate thousands of miles to different regions, often starting from scratch. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant changed hundreds of thousands of destinies, caused enormous economic damage, and a crushing blow to the nuclear industry. In the shortest possible time, the whole city was to be empty, people were not allowed to take anything except documents. Visiting Pripyat now, we can see how much pain it was for people to leave in a hurry all their property acquired over the years. As Pripyat was a bustling center of trade and commerce, you can still see so many markets, big complexes, theatres, and auditoriums. Many historians have stated that Pripyat was as rich and powerful as Moscow was. However, after the accident, there was just chaos and destruction as far as the eye could see. How Chernobyl looks like today? Here is what you can expect if you visit Chernobyl today Visiting Chernobyltoday is like returning to the distant Soviet Union. Here you can still see elements of communist propaganda, personal belongings scattered on the streets, and abandoned buildings. The hammer and sickle adorn the lanterns on the eve of the May holidays, which were not destined to take place. Toys are scattered across the schoolyard, abandoned by children in the confusion. The clock in the city shows 11:55 – the time of the power outage. Visiting Chernobyl safe is possible with the help of the professional guides, who know all the impressive but at the same time safe places of the abandoned city. Chernobyl visit is available in several options: One-day tour (Includes 27 top locations, lasts for 11 hours including comfortable bus. The price is from 35 euro per person) Two-day tour (Includes 57 top locations, lasts for 36 hours including top comfortable bus. The price is from 95 euro per person) Private tour (No restrictions on the number of locations, no limitation on hours – one, two, or even five days in Chernobyl) Present-day Chernobyl: What is happening? Whatever tour you choose Chernobyl visit will give you an opportunity to see how nature conquers human error. Pripyat turns into a forest. Houses begin to collapse, asphalt turns into moss, houses grow into trees, wide avenues disappear. Visiting Pripyat, it will be interesting to see: Shelter "Sarcophagus". It covers the destroyed Unit 4 to protect the environment from continued exposure to radiation. The Exclusion Zone. Excursions along this area are conducted with visits to local "attractions", museums, and communication with self-settlers. Amusement Park. The official opening of the amusement park was planned for May 1, 1986. Red Forest. It has absorbed a huge dose of radioactive dust. Most of the trees died, and the survivors took on a rusty hue. The Bridge of Death. The townspeople came here to see the burning reactor, not knowing that the radiation level here was one of the highest in the city. Over the past decade, hundreds of thousands of tourists made a visit to Chernobyl and Pripyat. But, believe me, the emotions that you feel when you find yourself in this city cannot be compared with anything. The Final Word If you are someone who is fascinated by Cold War history or seeing the height of Communist Power in the USSR, you will love Chernobyl. Even though the city and the region lie in ruins, there is a quaint romance about the place. Describing how you would feel after visiting Chernobyl is something that even the best travel writers cannot do. Part of the reason is that Chernobyl and Pripyat remain one of those rare places on Earth, which can still give you goosebumps. You have a city, without inhabitants, you have markets without shoppers, and you have buildings without owners. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade