My trip to Porto

19 October, 2024

My trip to Porto

A visual journey through Porto: Where history meets modern art

Porto, a city where ancient tiles meet contemporary art, where seagulls dance above six iconic bridges, and where the Atlantic whispers stories to those who listen. Let me take you through my five-day adventure in this enchanting Portuguese city.

My journey began in a charming local park, where pigeons gathered in the dappled sunlight beneath leafy trees.

The real highlight came when I discovered one of Porto's architectural gems – a church adorned with stunning azulejos (traditional Portuguese tiles). The blue and white ceramic tiles created intricate patterns across the façade, while its bell tower reached toward the sky, a testament to Porto's rich religious heritage.

On the second day, the morning was spent gliding along the Douro River on a cruise, passing under Porto's famous six bridges, each with its own character and story.

As the day waned, I treated myself to dinner at a rooftop restaurant. I was impressed by the chef's creativity, as each dish was a work of art, a fusion of traditional Portuguese flavors with a touch of French elegance.

Porto's creative spirit revealed itself today through an impressive street art installation – a striking rabbit sculpture made from what appeared to be found materials and debris, somehow both chaotic and perfectly composed against the yellow wall of an old building. This unexpected discovery perfectly encapsulates Porto's blend of tradition and contemporary artistic expression.

The day took an otherworldly turn at Matosinhos beach.

The sky was painted in surreal orange hues, a result of nearby wildfires. Despite the apocalyptic atmosphere, the seabirds soared gracefully through the amber sky, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene that I was fortunate to capture.

It's finally time to go back to France. As the plane flew over impressive landscapes, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the unforgettable memories I made in Porto. This city has a way of captivating your heart and soul, leaving you with a sense of wonder and longing for more.

Porto surprised me at every turn – from its architectural splendors to its natural wonders, from traditional tiles to modern street art. Each day brought new discoveries, making this Portuguese city a photographer's paradise and a traveler's dream.