Douro River

— When in Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, you owe it to yourself to experience a sunset by the Douro River. Do it as we did in 2018. Go across the Dom Luís I bridge to the Vila Nova de Gaia and find your spot overlooking the Douro River. You can lie down on the hills of Jardim do Morro (Hillside Garden) or find a place at the cafe to drink to that beautiful sunset. Another vantage point is at the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar (Serra do Pilar Monastery) patio. As the sun begins to set, you’ll realize why the river has its name. Douro is Portuguese for golden. Across the bridge you have the most magnificent view of Porto. The colors are vibrant, and the architecture is impressive. The Cais da Ribeira — the commercial area you see along the river — comes alive at the end of the day. You’ll have live music, street vendors and dancers, and some of Porto’s best cafes.