Segways have really taken off in the last few years. They are an ingenious and fun way to visit a new city. If you decide to ride a segway in Porto, here is what to see.
Fun on a segway in Porto
A segway is a bit like a self-balancing bicycle. The good news is you don´t have to pedal. The bad news is that you need to practice controlling it. Don´t fear, after a few practice runs, your driving will be perfect!
Riding a segway in Porto is an entirely new method of seeing the city. Porto, much like Lisbon, is a hilly city which can be hard on your feet. So save your soles and rent a segway. Many organised tours will follow similar routes. Most segways in Porto will travel through the Ribeira neighbourhood. This UNESCO-listed district is one of the prettiest in Portugal. This neighbourhood houses Baroque buildings and the Porto cathedral. This church is really the focal point of the city. As construction began in the 12th century, the entire city of Porto was built around it. The cathedral is a testament to the rapid expansion of Porto at this time. It is also a magnificent glimpse into the past. From the outside, you will be able to see it´s twin stone towers and Romanesque facade. If time permits, it recommended to leave the segway outside and take in the stained glass windows inside. Riding your segway in Porto will also allow you to take in some excellent vantage points for photos. The vistas from the cathedral are truly spectacular and well worth stopping for to take a look.
Riding a segway in Porto´s neighbourhoods
After this, you should ride your segway to see Dom Luis I bridge. Thanks to your segway in Porto, you should be able to cross the bridge, taking in views of the Douro river. This is another excellent place to take photos and see the landscape of the city.
Taking a segway in Porto will also allow you to cruise down the main boulevards. One recommendation is Avenida dos Aliados. This has many bars, cafes and shops, and is one of the most picturesque in the city. From your segway, you will be able to view many of the architectural delights of Porto.
Speaking of architecture, take your segway to the Palácio da Bolsa. Taking a segway in Porto is the perfect chance to spend a few moments appreciating the facade of this building. The Stock Exchange is one of the most visited sights in Porto. It has a striking neoclassical front and is truly remarkable.
To round off your segway tour, stop off at Igreja de Sao Francisco (Church of St. Francis). This church is one of the most famous Gothic landmarks in the world. It is also a World Heritage site and is in the heart of the historic center of Porto. It is worth visiting the interior but viewing the church from outside also demonstrates how exquisite this building is.
From here, it would be a shame not to ride through the historic center of Porto. Riding a segway in Porto has many advantages. Indeed, viewing the highlights of Porto from a segway allows you to see more than on foot. You can take your time exploring the streets and have a great panorama of the city. Seeing the evolution of the city from the vantage point of a segway is an experience difficult to forget. Why not enjoy one of Europe´s most beautiful cities on wheels?
For more information on city breaks and ideas for your trip, visit Iberinbound for more information.
English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Danish
Dutch
Finnish
French
German
Hebrew
Italian
Japanese
Polish
Russian
Spanish
Swedish