Americans Can Fly Nonstop To This Gorgeous & Affordable European City This Fall

With the leaves turning a vibrant amber, the girlies bringing their hand-knit sweaters out, and pumpkin spice lattes again on the menu, it might solely imply one factor:

Fall is right here, a lot to the dismay of the summer time mourners, and if you happen to suppose nothing says ‘autumnal’ fairly like just a little escapade throughout the pond, the place lovely fall colours mesh with Outdated World appeal, you are completely heading in the right direction.

However hey, we really feel you. Europe is an enormous continent, and narrowing down choices will be arduous. That is why Travel Off Path exists, and as at all times, we have got your again.

For a European metropolis break, with all of the tradition and hearty meals you may slot in, and that, 1) won’t set you again 1000’s of {dollars}, 2) will be reached hassle-free from the States, Porto is your port of name:

The unofficial ‘capital’ of Northern Portugal, Porto is a vibrant metropolis on the banks of the fast-flowing Douro River, greatest recognized for its well-preserved historic middle, plethora of wineries, and extra laid-back ambiance when in comparison with Lisbon.

Lisbon might get all the eye, however Porto is equally lovely in our e book:

The Ribeira District, which straddles the river, is minimize via with cobble-paved winding paths and dotted with family-owned eating places serving Portuguese-style codfish, pastries, and different native delicacies at reasonably priced costs.

Restaurante A Marina is our private favourite go-to spot right here: ordering freshly caught, grilled sea bream and a glass of port wine will set you again round $15.

Whereas Lisbon has a San Francisco-inspired twenty fifth of April Bridge, Porto has the shorter, just-as-scenic Dom Luís I Bridge, a double-deck iron crossing boasting views of Ribeira, its rival district Vila Nova de Gaia throughout the Douro, and the meandering river itself.

Now, if you happen to’ve come to Portugal for the Outdated World appeal, you may’t miss Livraria Lello. This bookshop was made fashionable via its affiliation with Harry Potter.

Legend has it that J. Okay. Rowling acquired impressed by its Neo-Gothic structure, ornate wood carvings, and curving staircase when describing Hogwarts.

A Baroque tower rising 250 toes above the cityscape, on a outstanding hill within the historic middle, Clérigos presents the very best Outdated City views, and naturally, it is not a visit to Portugal till you’ve got seen your fair proportion of azulejo-clad church buildings.

Azulejos are Portugal’s signature blue-and-white-patterned tiles, and Igreja do Carmo might be probably the most iconic of all, resulting from its detailed stonework and sculpted facade.

Although not as fashionable, Capela das Almas can be fully lined in azulejos, depicting the lives of saints, and the opulent inside, with its gilded altar lined in gold leaf, is certain to depart an enduring impression on you.

That is extra of a hidden gem, however hey, we’re Journey Off Path, in any case. You understand you may depend on us to unveil a spot’s best-kept secrets and techniques which can be but to be spoiled by tourism.

The McDonald’s on Rua de Santa Catarina is arguably probably the most lovely on the earth. Its inside partitions are lined from floor to ceiling with historic azulejos, and it is one thing you simply would not look forward to finding in a fast-food chain.

Fortunate for People, Porto isn’t one other a kind of inaccessible European locations that may contain taking a number of flights, after which a 3 to five-hour practice journey to get there.

You may fly direct to Porto (OPO) from the next U.S. airports:

With TAP Air Portugal or United, 3 flights per day

With TAP Air Portugal, 1 flight per day each Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday

Simply this week, Delta additionally announced they are going to be launching their first-ever direct flights to Porto from their New York (JFK) hub, starting Might 21, 2026.

The route might be serviced on board the Boeing 767-300, geared up with Delta One, Delta Premium Choose, Delta Consolation and Delta Predominant seats, and it is a part of a broader Transatlantic growth subsequent yr:

From subsequent summer time, Delta prospects can select from a myriad of sun-drenched, Southern European locations, from Porto itself, to the tiny Mediterranean nation of Malta, to the underrated Italian island of Sardinia.