Slowly, slowly, spring is approaching, and with it longer days, milder temperatures, and the desire to relax after work. All About Portugal suggests places and activities where you can rest and/or relax in Porto. From walks and hikes in mythical places in the Invicta city, to sunsets with a glass in hand, snacks overlooking the sea or even a jazz session with unparalleled views, we have suggestions for all tastes. All of them, however, have in common a beauty and uniqueness that revitalizes our body and mind. Choose, depending on your mood, a walk for two, or even alone, or a late afternoon socializing with friends. The main goal is to get out of the routine, especially if it's in the middle of the week. Life is short, so leave laziness aside and, instead of leaving work and going home to sit on the couch with a blanket, enjoy the longer, sunnier days around the corner. Spring, is that you?
Relax in BASE's urban garden
In the heart of downtown Porto, more specifically at Clérigos' Gardens, BASE is a very special urban garden. In a perfect combination of nature, history (it is right in front of the Clérigos Tower) and urbanity, with day and night events, it is one of the most popular places to rest after work. During the day, it is common to see families with children playing happily in the garden while their parents relax with a cocktail, enjoying themselves to the sound of DJs.
Listen to jazz at sunset at Mirajazz
Mirajazz is a project by Grupo Musical de Miragaia, with a unique spot, a nice terrace with privileged views over the Douro River. With this impressive setting, its jazz shows in the afternoons take on a whole new charm. It has a nice list of wines, which can be served by the glass, and some snacks to go with it. Don't be intimidated by the access via the Caminho Novo Stairs, we promise it's worth it!
Stroll in the Palácio de Cristal Gardens
Porto's well-known Palácio de Cristal Gardens, a project by architect Emille David dating from the 19th century, combine contact with nature with magnificent panoramic views over the ever-present Douro River. Strolling among exotic plants, in the lake with ducks and in avenues, where we find peacocks and roosters, is really relaxing. End the day at Jardim dos Sentimentos, watching the sunset from its impressive viewpoint.
Have a drink at Ibar - Praia do Aquário
Is there anything more relaxing than having a drink with friends, or as a couple, while looking out over the immensity of the sea? Among the various options on Porto's waterfront, we highlight the Ibar - Praia do Aquário, a simple and relaxed spot, perfect for good times with friends. Relax on its pleasant terrace, right on top of the rocks of Aquário Beach, where snacks are served and sometimes DJs play.
Walk in the City Park
Walking in City Park is one of the activities par excellence to do after work in Porto, as this is the largest urban park in the country. As if ten kilometers of paths with water with animals, lawns and small woods weren't enough, it has a dream location, right in front of the sea, which from certain points of the park can be seen from afar. Whether for walking or running (which is also a way to relax for the more active ones), come and discover this fantastic green space!
Sunset at Passeio das Virtudes
There's something therapeutic about a sunset, for the mind and soul, don't you think? One of the most mythical sunsets in the Invicta city is at Passeio das Virtudes, also known as Jardim das Virtudes. Here, the views are simply amazing, with a privileged view over the Pavilhão Rosa Mota, the Douro River, Miragaia and the city of Gaia. At the end of the afternoon, many people walk around here, glass in hand, enjoying the colors of the “golden hour”.
Snack at Praia da Luz Restaurant
The beautiful and multifaceted area of Foz do Douro has a lot to offer. After work, we suggest some snacks at the elegant Praia da Luz Restaurant, located on the beach with the same name. Right on the beach, you can opt for the glassed-in room or the terrace to taste the delicious snacks, with a very cold drink to go with it, lulled by the sound of the sea waves and the smell of the sea air.
Stroll along the Ribeira in Porto
Our last suggestion to relax after work is a walk along the mythical and charming Ribeira do Porto. Strolling along the banks of the Douro River and seeing the "Rabelo" boats, wandering through the streets full of sellers and artists, stopping at an outdoor terrace to rest or have a snack, or visiting the monuments that exist there, is a very interesting program, which cheers up any afternoon. In this area, known as one of the most authentic in the city, the sunset has another charm.
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