Blog by Healthy Wanderer

There’s something magical about Porto, isn’t there? The city has this wonderful blend of old-world charm and vibrant energy, with history etched into every cobblestone. One of the most iconic landmarks that defines Porto’s skyline is the Torre dos Clérigos. Whether you’re gazing up from the streets below or standing at the top looking out over the city, the tower has a way of capturing your imagination. If you're planning a trip to Porto or you're already there and looking for something that encapsulates the spirit of the city, a visit to Torre dos Clérigos is an absolute must. Let’s dive into what makes this towering beauty so special and why it should be on your travel itinerary. Porto’s Torre dos Clérigos, with its blend of history and striking presence, is a must-see landmark that perfectly captures the city’s unique charm A Brief History of Torre dos Clérigos To understand the significance of the Torre dos Clérigos, you need to know a bit about its history. The tower is pa...

Tucked away in the heart of Porto, the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) stands as a beacon of history, culture and architectural grandeur. If you're planning a trip to Portugal, this iconic landmark should be at the top of your list. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or someone who just loves to explore beautiful places, the Palácio da Bolsa offers something for everyone. Built in the 19th century, the Palácio da Bolsa was originally designed to serve as Porto’s stock exchange. However, its historical significance and breathtaking design have made it much more than just a place of commerce. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from all over the world. Nestled in the heart of Porto, the 19th-century Palácio da Bolsa, once a stock exchange and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture and cultural allure Let’s take a walk through the Palácio da Bolsa and uncover its m...

Ah, Porto wine. Just the mention of it conjures up images of sun-kissed vineyards, rustic cellars, and the charming streets of Porto, where history and culture intertwine with the rich flavours of this world-renowned fortified wine. If you’ve ever savoured a glass of Port, you’ll know it’s not just a drink; it’s an experience steeped in tradition and a reflection of the beautiful Douro Valley. Join me on a journey as we explore the ins and outs of Porto wine, from its history and production methods to how to truly appreciate this luscious beverage. Porto wine is more than a drink; it’s an immersive journey through the sunlit vineyards and historic cellars of Porto, where rich flavours, culture and tradition come together A Bit of History The origins of Porto wine can be traced back to the 17th century. At that time, British merchants began to trade wine from Portugal, but they often found that the wine wasn’t robust enough for long journeys at sea. So, they came up with the brilliant i...

Porto is a city filled with breathtaking sights, rich history and stunning architecture. Among its many iconic landmarks, the Church of Saint Ildefonso stands out as a hidden gem. Nestled on a bustling square near Batalha, this beautiful baroque church has charmed visitors and locals alike with its striking blue-and-white azulejos, stunning interior and fascinating history. While it may not be as well-known as the likes of Livraria Lello or the Clérigos Tower, the Church of Saint Ildefonso is one of those places that truly encapsulates the spirit of Porto—a place where art, history and religion come together to create something unforgettable. In this blog, we’re going to take a deep dive into what makes the Church of Saint Ildefonso so special. From its stunning architecture to its religious significance and the little details that make it stand out from the rest, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this hidden gem in Porto. The Church of Saint Ildefonso, a baroque gem adorne...