We were packed and ready to go to the Lisbon train station by 8:30 am but our driver was not scheduled until 10. So, Monica and I took a stroll around the block into the LXFactory to get some shots of the street art. Wonderfully whimsical. And then we were off.
The three hour train ride was uneventful through nondescript country side. However, when the train made the bridge across the Douro River at Porto, all jaws dropped and eyes bugged out. Our first glimpse of Porto was astonishing! The city is nestled into the steep banks of the river on both sides. Gorgeous! We arrived at Sao Bento station in the city center. This station is a work of art with blue “azulejo” tiles covering most of the interior depicting scenes of ancient Portugal. Then stepping outside the station, the first sight was the equally beautiful tile covered St. Anthony church. We cannot wait to start exploring this city tomorrow.
We checked into our apartment… cosmopolitan, modern and spacious with a central secret terrace. We felt like the rich and famous. We found a grocery store just down the street and stocked up on wine and breakfast goods. While we enjoyed the wine, we made dinner plans at a steakhouse brewery only 10 minute walk away. Delicious food, again, and home to bed.
Here are the photo highlights of Day 13 – Porto arriving.
nellyglass studio 