In this photoset, I am focusing on my time spent in Porto, Portugal, during my study abroad program in Barcelona and the many beautiful sceneries and traditions that I experienced while there. I was able to book a short one-hour flight from Barcelona and found an amicable hostel right on the Douro River! 

A personal photo taken next to the Ponte de Dom Luís I! 

The Ponte de Dom Luís I, displaying the medieval-like architecture behind it. 

One of the most breathtaking sights during this trip was the viewpoint from the Ponte de Dom Luís I Bridge. I remember looking over the water and admiring one of the cathedrals across from it, while listening to live jazz music on the streets. I was also able to enjoy a picnic on a nearby hilltop overlooking the entire city while being serenaded by several musical performances! No matter where I was standing, there was always a new perspective to see, each portraying the landscape and the ambiance of the town in its own way.  

Local jazz musicians in front of the Douro River!  

A landscape view of the city, taken from the viewpoint of the Porto Cathedral. 

Whether admiring the city from afar or experiencing it up close, you are guaranteed to be overwhelmed by the authenticity and the beauty of Portuguese culture. For example, witnessing simple, yet rich traditions such as the custom Portuguese dance and the incorporation of sardines into almost any dish were experiences that I will forever cherish and appreciate!  

The stunning interior of the Livraria Lello. 

Additionally, my roommate and I visited the Livraria Lello, a worldwide attraction and one of the most famous libraries in the world—known for its stunning architecture and its connections to the Harry Potter series. It is rumored that JK Rowling used the Livraria Lello as inspiration for Hogwarts scenery because of her time living in Porto!  

Afterwards, we walked to the nearby farmers market, Mercado do Bolhão, and tried some fresh fruit, as well as the Portuguese pastries, pastel de nata and bolas de Berlim.  

A glimpse of the fresh products sold at the local Portuguese Mercado do Bolhão! 

A close-up photo taken of the medieval tower, Torre de D. Pedro Pitões! 

From the start of this trip to the end, I felt so welcomed by the friendliness of the locals and the overall mood of tranquility that is deep-rooted in the culture. I was even able to take a walking tour of the city, while trying different types of wine special to Porto including the local port wine and the famous Portuguese green wine! Our tour guide was so friendly as she took us to many different small businesses to experience the local cuisine from all over the city.  

A perspective of the Douro River from the staircases leading up to one of the historical churches in Porto. 

The serene atmosphere of Porto captured by local performers and a breathtaking view! 

Overall, the down-to-earth and peaceful atmosphere was something so special to Porto, as I will never stop admiring the serenity and the humility that is so evident with every interaction and every experience you have! As Barcelona is equally culturally rich, I have found that while still sharing the warm and hospitable aspects, it embodies more of the hustle and bustle of a city while still maintaining its unique traditions and customs. It was a great experience to get a glimpse into Portuguese culture and to see how it compares to Barcelona’s culture! 

Some of the beautiful Portuguese architecture seen from above.