The Douro River Waterfront
Looking down the Douro River towards the Atlantic Ocean
One of the best spots to view both sides of the river is from the Mosteiro da Sierra do Pilar, the large church/monistary on top of the hill above the south side of the bridge.
As you can see, a great viewing spot. Let's begin with the south side.
On the South side
Summer view.
And winter.
Summer is better. One of our favorite restaurants for lunch is just beyond that orange tent structure on the left.
This is the Ar De Rio Restaurant. Many enjoyable lunches here.
The South side houses almost all of the Port wine bodegas - Sandeman, Ramos Pinto, Ferreira, Graham, Cockburns, Taylor and many more. Each one is a special treat for touring and tasting. Some also have great restaurants. See the Port Wine branch of this Porto website for a sample look at two of these bodegas.
There are also many small Port wine shops like this one. Also serving drinks on the walk in front.
Fun place to watch the world go by. All having fun.
On the North Side
The north side of the foundation of the bridge is now the location of a really neat restaurant. Not very fancy, but excellent food and superb views.
Same place from the bridge. Really great location above the river.
The Cais da Ribeira at high noon. Restaurants starting to fill up.
Same area in the evening.
The busy Praca da Riberia.
There are many restaurants along the Cais da Ribeira. Some much better than others. This is one of our favorites for dinner.
Really an enjoyable way to spend the evening. Great meal with excellent wine, as the evening fades into night.
Now a leisurely walk back to our apartment.