Sat. July 5/14 Regua to Porto with a tour of Guimaraes

We set sail for Porto early in the morning and I spent as much time as possible on deck taking in the sights.  We didn't arrive in Porto until approximately 2 p.m. but it was no hardship relaxing on board despite a cooler and partially overcast day.  There was more recreational activity on the River this time perhaps because it was the weekend.  John and I were keen on seeing a "campground."

 Porto was just as fascinating as it was when we left.  The colours, sights and sounds of this city are wonderful. This afternoon we chose to take a tour by bus to the nearby town of Guimaraes, known as the "Cradle of the Nation."This is due to the intertwining of its history with that of the country.  It is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE  site since 2001 and was designated in 2012 as the European Capital of Culture.  We thoroughly  enjoyed our tour of the castle which dates back to the 10th century and then a walk through the exceptionally well preserved Medieval streets of the city center.  To add to the atmosphere, preparations were being made for "The White Night" festival,  with elaborate decorations and entertainers  setting up.  "White Night" is something that originated in St. Petersburg (so I heard) when it does not get dark. It has caught on all over the world and is really an excuse to party all night!  People here were going all out though not everyone appreciates it I am told.   

The old Castle

Unique galleries and stores 

Love the laundry

White decorations

Tiny streets, lovely squares, strange sculpture

 What a beautiful city and we only got the tip of the iceberg in terms of the history.  Now back to Porto for our last night on board and I was feeling a bit sad.  Tomorrow, on to the Porto airport to fly to Frankfort and then home.  
Marvellous trip! We saw amazing sights and met wonderful people.  I would love to go back to Portugal.