Afurada

Technically part of Gaia, Afurada is a picturesque fishing village near the mouth of the Douro where many older residents still cling to traditional ways - men fishing and women washing their laundry at communal fonts. Houses are decked with azulejos and cafés are redolent with hearty caldeirada (seafood stew). For the most scenic route, take a tram from the Ribeira to the Fluvial I stop just west of the Ponte da Arrábida. From here, catch a small ferry across the river to the village.

Hours are not fixed, but if the ferry is not operating, fishing vessels regularly make the crossing and will generally accommodate, so just ask around. Alternately, buses 93 and 96 from Cordoaria to stop just across the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia. From here, it's a short walk downhill to Afurada.