Setting Sail from Leixoes

As a travel writer and a mother of three, I am always on the lookout for family-friendly adventures that are both educational and fun. When I heard about the Porto Shore Tour from Leixoes Cruise Port, I knew it was a perfect opportunity to explore Porto with my kids. The tour promised a blend of history, culture, and leisure, all wrapped up in a day-long excursion.

Our journey began at the Port of Leixoes, where we were warmly greeted by our guide. The kids were thrilled to step into the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that would be our chariot for the day. As we drove through the scenic landscapes of Portugal, our guide shared fascinating stories about the region’s history and culture, keeping the kids engaged and curious.

The drive was a perfect introduction to the beauty of Portugal, and it set the tone for the rest of the day. The kids were particularly excited about the promise of seeing the famous Porto Cathedral and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.

Exploring Porto’s Historic Gems

Our first stop was the São Bento Railway Station, a place that seemed to transport us back in time. The station’s stunning azulejo tiles captivated the kids, and they eagerly listened to our guide’s tales of the station’s history. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to learn about Portugal’s artistic heritage in a way that was both engaging and memorable.

Next, we visited the Porto Cathedral, a magnificent Romanesque structure that stands as one of the city’s oldest monuments. The kids were in awe of its grandeur, and I was delighted to see them so interested in the architecture and history. Our guide was fantastic, answering all their questions and making the experience truly enriching.

We then made our way to the Livraria Lello, a bookstore that feels like a magical world of its own. The kids were enchanted by its whimsical design, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder myself. It was a perfect blend of education and enchantment, making it a highlight of our tour.

Leisure and Local Flavors

After a morning of exploration, we were ready for some leisure time. Our guide dropped us off at Ribeira Square, where we had three hours to enjoy lunch and explore at our own pace. The kids loved the freedom to roam and discover the local shops, and we indulged in some delicious Portuguese cuisine.

The Mercado do Bolhão was a hit with the kids, who were fascinated by the bustling market atmosphere. They enjoyed sampling local treats and picking out souvenirs to remember our adventure. It was a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and enjoy some quality family time.

As our day came to an end, we returned to the Port of Leixoes, our hearts full of cherished memories. The Porto Shore Tour was a perfect blend of history, culture, and leisure, making it an ideal family-friendly adventure. I highly recommend it to any family looking to explore Porto in a way that is both fun and educational.