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Episode Title: Central Newfoundland: Exploits Island, Fogo Island & the Heart of Newfoundland Travel
Hosts: Tim Johnson and David
Series: Travel in 10
Destination: Central Newfoundland, Canada
Episode Overview
Central Newfoundland sits between the better-known draws of St. John’s and the Avalon Peninsula in the east and Gros Morne National Park in the west. For travellers willing to explore beyond those established routes, the region offers a closer look at the fishing communities, landscapes and traditions that have shaped the island.
In this episode, Tim draws on months spent travelling throughout Newfoundland, including time as a travel writer in residence, to explore some of his favourite experiences in the central part of the island. The conversation ranges from boat-access communities and encounters with humpback whales to fresh seafood, distinctive places to stay and Newfoundland’s long history of resettlement.
The episode also looks at the character that makes Newfoundland distinct within Canada, from Newfoundland Time and Irish and English influences to the warmth Tim and David have experienced while travelling across the island.
Topics Covered
Central Newfoundland – Why the region between Newfoundland’s better-known east and west coasts deserves more attention from travellers.
Newfoundland Culture – The island’s distinctive dialects, music, history and strong Irish and English influences.
Newfoundland Time – The unusual half-hour time difference that sets Newfoundland apart from the rest of Atlantic Canada.
Resettled Communities – How changing transportation and access to services reshaped isolated fishing settlements across Newfoundland.
Exploits Island – Exploring a former year-round community that remains accessible only by water.
Local Food – Homemade meals, locally caught fish and the tradition of buying lobster directly from Newfoundland fish plants.
Fogo Island – A look at one of Central Newfoundland’s best-known island destinations.
Where to Stay – From a design-focused luxury inn to B&B accommodations and a remote geodesic dome.

Top Things to See & Do
Exploits Island
Reachable by boat, Exploits Island offers a window into Newfoundland’s history of isolated fishing settlements and community resettlement. Tim explores the island on foot, learns about the people who once lived and worked there and visits the local cemetery while hearing stories from the community’s past.
Explore the Coast by Boat
The journey to Exploits Island is part of the experience. During Tim’s visit, a humpback whale surfaced roughly 10 metres from the boat, underscoring how closely everyday life in this part of Newfoundland remains connected to the sea.
Fogo Island
Fogo Island combines Newfoundland’s coastal landscapes and cultural traditions with one of the province’s most distinctive approaches to contemporary tourism. It is also home to a community where fishing, crafts and local traditions remain central to the visitor experience.
Grand Falls-Windsor
One of the main communities in Central Newfoundland, Grand Falls-Windsor makes a useful base for exploring this part of the island and travelling toward smaller coastal communities.
Gambo
Gambo is noted in the episode as the birthplace of Joey Smallwood, an important figure in Newfoundland’s entry into Canadian Confederation.
Where to Eat & Drink
Exploits Island – Tim’s visit included a simple meal of homemade pea soup, fresh bread and fish caught locally. It was an example of how food experiences in Newfoundland can be closely tied to place, season and the people who live there.
Local Fish Plants – During lobster season, Tim recommends checking local fish plants, where freshly landed lobster may be available directly from the source. Rather than a formal restaurant experience, it offers a straightforward way to experience Newfoundland seafood.
Where to Stay
Fogo Island Inn
A design-focused luxury property overlooking the North Atlantic and Iceberg Alley. The inn is notable for integrating the surrounding community into the guest experience, with opportunities connected to local fishing, crafts and traditions.
Carriage House, Grand Falls-Windsor
A small B&B-style stay where the communal atmosphere gives travellers an opportunity to meet and exchange stories about their experiences in the region.
Freshwater Inn, Gambo
A comfortable accommodation option in Gambo and one of Tim’s recommended places to stay while travelling through Central Newfoundland.
Haribay Adventures Dome
A geodesic-dome wilderness stay that combines a comfortable bed and necessary supplies with a more isolated outdoor setting. The emphasis is on experiencing the landscape, quiet and solitude without giving up basic comforts.
Can’t-Miss Experiences
Take a boat to Exploits Island and explore a resettled Newfoundland community.
Learn about the history of the fishing settlements that once depended primarily on water transportation.
Watch for humpback whales while travelling along the coast.
Eat locally caught fish alongside homemade Newfoundland staples.
Buy fresh lobster from a local fish plant when in season.
Spend time on Fogo Island and learn about its fishing and craft traditions.
Stay overnight in a remote geodesic dome for a quieter experience of the Central Newfoundland landscape.

Gateway to Newfoundland
Central Newfoundland provides a useful link between the island’s better-known eastern and western regions, but it also rewards travellers who treat it as a destination in its own right. Gander provides air access to the region, while road travel opens up communities such as Grand Falls-Windsor, Gambo and Lewisporte, with boats providing access to offshore communities and islands.
For travellers interested in understanding Newfoundland beyond its major tourism centres, Central Newfoundland offers a closer connection to the island’s coastal history, smaller communities and relationship with the North Atlantic.
Final Thoughts
Central Newfoundland is particularly well suited to travellers interested in culture, coastal landscapes, local food and smaller communities. Experiences such as visiting Exploits Island, staying in a remote dome or spending time on Fogo Island reveal a side of Newfoundland shaped by fishing, resettlement, isolation and strong community ties. It is a region that benefits from slower travel and time spent listening to the people who call it home.
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Connecticut rarely tops travelers' New England wish lists, yet it offers many of the experiences that make the region so beloved. Historic seaports, charming coastal towns, outstanding seafood, vibrant arts scenes, fall foliage, and centuries of American history are all packed into a state that remains surprisingly uncrowded.
In this episode, David Brodie sits down with Pauline Frommer, President of Frommer's Media and one of the most respected voices in travel publishing, to explore the hidden appeal of Connecticut. As Pauline updates the Connecticut chapter for the upcoming Frommer's New England guidebook, she shares the destinations, museums, restaurants, and experiences that surprised her most.
From world-class art collections and Yale University's stunning campus to lobster shacks, colonial villages, and scenic countryside retreats, Connecticut emerges as a destination that delivers authentic New England experiences without the crowds often found elsewhere in the region.
Topics Covered
• Why Connecticut Is Overlooked – The state's surprising mix of coastal charm, history, culture, and outdoor experiences.
• Historic New England – Colonial architecture, Revolutionary War sites, and maritime heritage.
• Museums & Arts – Yale's exceptional museums, historic homes, and unique cultural attractions.
• Food Scene – New Haven pizza, fresh seafood, and locally sourced dining experiences.
• Coastal Connecticut – Exploring Mystic, Long Island Sound, and charming waterfront communities.
• Outdoor Recreation – Hiking, kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, and scenic countryside escapes.
Top Things to See & Do
Mystic Seaport Museum
One of America's premier living history museums, Mystic Seaport combines maritime heritage, historic buildings, working ship restoration projects, and engaging exhibits that bring New England's seafaring past to life.
Yale University
The iconic New Haven campus offers stunning Gothic architecture, fascinating guided tours, student theatre productions, and several outstanding museums.
Yale University Art Gallery
One of the finest small art museums in the United States, featuring works by Picasso, Braque, Van Gogh, and significant collections from around the world.
Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library
An architectural masterpiece housing rare books, rotating exhibitions, and one of the world's treasured copies of the Gutenberg Bible.
The Glass House, New Canaan
A landmark of modernist architecture designed by Philip Johnson, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into mid-century design and American architectural history.
Putnam Memorial State Park
Known as Connecticut's Valley Forge, this Revolutionary War site preserves the history of George Washington's winter encampment and the hardships endured by Continental Army soldiers.
Mark Twain House & Museum
One of Connecticut's most famous historic homes, showcasing the life, success, and eventual financial struggles of one of America's greatest authors.
Where to Eat & Drink
Sally's Apizza
A legendary New Haven institution serving the thin-crust pizza style that has made the city famous among food lovers.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
One of Connecticut's most iconic pizza destinations and a key stop on any New Haven pizza pilgrimage.
Modern Apizza
Another celebrated New Haven favorite known for its classic pies and loyal local following.
The Shipwright's Daughter
A nationally recognized restaurant in Mystic focused on hyper-local seafood and farm-fresh ingredients sourced from nearby producers.
Mystic Seafood Shacks
The Mystic area is filled with casual seafood spots serving lobster rolls, steamed clams, oysters, and other New England classics.
Roly Poly
A well-regarded Hungarian restaurant in New Haven that showcases the city's surprisingly diverse culinary scene.
Neighborhoods & Regions to Explore
Mystic
A charming coastal town known for maritime history, seafood, waterfront scenery, and one of the state's most beloved attractions.
New Haven
Home to Yale University, exceptional museums, renowned pizza, and a thriving cultural scene.
Litchfield Hills
A scenic region filled with colonial villages, hiking trails, countryside estates, and art installations.
Greenwich
Connecticut's most affluent community offers luxury shopping, impressive architecture, and an intriguing glimpse into the lifestyles of the ultra-wealthy.
New Canaan
A destination for architecture enthusiasts thanks to its concentration of significant modernist buildings.
Hartford
The state capital combines literary history, museums, and important cultural landmarks.
Where to Stay
Delamar
A stylish Connecticut-based boutique hotel collection known for incorporating local design influences into each property. With locations across the state, Delamar offers an upscale base for exploring Connecticut's coastal towns, countryside, and cities.
Spark by Hilton Mystic Groton
An affordable and convenient option near Mystic, offering easy access to the region's top attractions. Pauline highlighted its welcoming atmosphere, pet-friendly amenities, and excellent value.
Vicksburg Manor
A unique inn housed within a historic mansion attached to a nunnery. Known for its peaceful setting, beautiful grounds, and excellent value, it offers a retreat-like experience for travelers seeking quiet relaxation.
Can't-Miss Experiences
Explore the historic waterfront at Mystic Seaport.
Sample Connecticut's famous New Haven-style pizza.
Tour Yale University's campus and museums.
Visit the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library.
Discover the modernist architecture of The Glass House.
Experience Connecticut's spectacular fall foliage.
Enjoy fresh lobster rolls and seafood along the coast.
Visit the Mark Twain House in Hartford.
Explore Revolutionary War history at Putnam Memorial State Park.
Spend time hiking and exploring the Litchfield Hills.
Attend a Yale School of Drama performance.
Kayak or canoe along the Long Island Sound coastline.

Gateway to New England
Connecticut serves as an ideal introduction to New England, offering many of the region's signature experiences within a compact and accessible destination. Located between New York City and Boston, it is easy to incorporate into a broader Northeast itinerary. As Pauline argues throughout the episode, however, Connecticut deserves consideration as a destination in its own right, offering the culture, history, scenery, and cuisine that define New England without the crowds often found elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Connecticut combines coastal beauty, fascinating history, world-class museums, excellent food, and authentic New England character in a destination that remains refreshingly under the radar. Whether you're exploring the maritime heritage of Mystic, admiring masterpieces at Yale, hiking through the Litchfield Hills, or sampling some of America's best pizza in New Haven, Connecticut rewards travelers willing to look beyond the obvious New England destinations.
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This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads

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Tasmania is one of Australia's most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking a mix of nature, food, wildlife, and authentic local experiences. While many visitors begin in Hobart, the island's greatest treasures are often found beyond the capital, from secluded beaches and wildlife-rich islands to vineyard-covered valleys and charming coastal communities.
In this episode, Tim and David explore some of their favorite experiences across Tasmania, highlighting destinations that showcase the island's remarkable diversity. From helicopter winery tours and floating saunas to penguin encounters and pristine national parks, Tasmania offers a travel experience that feels both adventurous and deeply connected to place.
The conversation also emphasizes one of Tasmania's greatest strengths: its ability to deliver world-class experiences without the crowds often found elsewhere in Australia. Whether you're interested in wildlife, food, outdoor adventure, or simply slowing down and enjoying the landscape, Tasmania rewards travelers who take the time to explore beyond the obvious.
Top Things to See & Do
Maria Island
A short ferry ride from Tasmania's east coast, Maria Island combines convict history, Aboriginal heritage, spectacular scenery, and some of the island's best wildlife viewing. Wombats and wallabies are abundant, and the car-free environment makes it ideal for cycling and hiking.
Unique Charters Helicopter Winery Tour
Departing from Launceston, these scenic helicopter tours offer a memorable way to experience Tasmania's wine regions. Guests enjoy aerial views of rivers, farmland, mountains, and vineyards while visiting a variety of cellar doors.
Cataract Gorge Scenic Chairlift
One of Launceston's most iconic attractions, this historic chairlift crosses the dramatic Cataract Gorge and provides access to walking trails, scenic lookouts, and beautiful riverside landscapes.
Bicheno Penguin Experience
The coastal town of Bicheno offers one of Tasmania's best opportunities to observe little penguins returning to shore at dusk, particularly during breeding season.
Sauna Boat at Little Oyster Cove Marina
A uniquely Tasmanian wellness experience, this floating sauna combines waterfront views, a relaxing atmosphere, and optional cold plunges in a beautiful marina setting.
Wineglass Bay Cruises
Cruises through the Freycinet region showcase some of Tasmania's most spectacular coastal scenery, including white sand beaches, granite cliffs, and opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, seabirds, and penguins.
Freycinet National Park
One of Australia's most celebrated national parks, Freycinet is known for dramatic coastal landscapes, hiking trails, wildlife encounters, and the famous Wineglass Bay lookout.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Lobster Shack, Bicheno
A relaxed waterfront seafood spot known for fresh Tasmanian rock lobster and lobster rolls.
Stillwater Restaurant, Launceston
One of Tasmania's most respected dining destinations, celebrated for its seafood, local ingredients, and waterfront setting.
Tasmanian Wine Country
The vineyards surrounding Launceston offer opportunities to meet winemakers, sample cool-climate wines, and experience the island's thriving food and wine culture.
Neighborhoods & Regions to Explore
Launceston
Tasmania's second-largest city serves as a gateway to wine country, outdoor adventures, and one of the island's strongest culinary scenes.
Bicheno
A laid-back coastal town known for seafood, surfing, beach culture, and penguin viewing.
East Coast Tasmania
Home to some of Australia's most beautiful beaches, marine wildlife experiences, and scenic coastal drives.
Turners Beach
A quiet seaside community on Tasmania's northwest coast offering beach walks, local charm, and a slower pace of travel.
Where to Stay
Satellite Island
A private island retreat offering an exclusive Tasmanian experience. Guests enjoy waterfront accommodations, exceptional privacy, marine wildlife, and the feeling of staying in a luxurious island hideaway.
Stillwater Seven, Launceston
A boutique hotel created within a historic former mill. Each suite is individually designed using local craftsmanship and offers easy access to Launceston's dining and cultural attractions.
Can't-Miss Experiences
Cycle around wildlife-rich Maria Island.
Photograph wombats and wallabies in their natural habitat.
Take a helicopter flight over Tasmania's wine regions.
Ride the Cataract Gorge Scenic Chairlift.
Watch little penguins return to shore in Bicheno.
Relax in the floating sauna at Little Oyster Cove Marina.
Cruise the coastline around Wineglass Bay.
Sample fresh Tasmanian seafood on the east coast.
Explore Freycinet National Park's beaches and walking trails.
Spend at least a week discovering Tasmania beyond Hobart.

Gateway to Tasmania
While Hobart remains the primary gateway for most visitors, the true depth of Tasmania reveals itself once travelers venture further afield. Launceston, the east coast, Freycinet National Park, Maria Island, and smaller communities such as Bicheno offer a broader understanding of the island's landscapes, culture, and way of life. Renting a car and exploring beyond the capital is one of the best ways to experience Tasmania's diversity.
Final Thoughts
Tasmania combines exceptional wildlife, outstanding food and wine, dramatic coastal scenery, and welcoming communities into one remarkably accessible destination. For travelers seeking an Australian experience that feels authentic, uncrowded, and deeply connected to nature, Tasmania offers far more than many visitors expect.
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Hobart is one of Australia’s most distinctive destinations, combining a thriving food scene, world-class contemporary art, dramatic waterfront landscapes, and a welcoming small-city atmosphere. Located on Tasmania’s southern coast, the city serves as the gateway to an island known for its exceptional produce, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
In this episode, David and Tim explore what makes Hobart such a rewarding destination for travelers seeking a deeper Australian experience beyond Sydney, Melbourne, and the Great Barrier Reef. From bustling waterfront markets to one of the world’s most unconventional museums, Hobart blends creativity, heritage, and natural beauty in a way few destinations can match.
The hosts also share their favorite places to stay, eat, and explore, along with insights into why Tasmania continues to feel refreshingly authentic despite its growing reputation among travelers and food lovers.
Topics Covered
• Tasmania’s Unique Identity – How Tasmania differs from mainland Australia through its climate, culture, and pace of life.
• Hobart as a Gateway Destination – Why the city serves as the ideal base for exploring southern Tasmania.
• Food & Produce – Fresh seafood, artisan producers, local markets, and Tasmania’s world-class food culture.
• The MONA Effect – How Hobart’s iconic contemporary art museum transformed the city’s creative scene.
• Waterfront Experiences – Seafood cruises, harbor views, and Hobart’s connection to the sea.
• Accommodation Recommendations – Character-filled hotels and unique heritage stays.
Top Things to See & Do
Salamanca Market
One of Australia’s premier farmers markets, Salamanca Market takes over Hobart’s historic waterfront district every Saturday. More than 300 vendors showcase local produce, artisan goods, books, crafts, and some of Tasmania’s best food.
Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
MONA is Tasmania’s most famous cultural attraction and one of the world’s most unconventional art museums. Its provocative exhibitions, striking architecture, and ever-changing installations make it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art and creative expression.
Bruny Island
A short ferry ride from Hobart, Bruny Island is known for pristine beaches, artisan food producers, wineries, cheese makers, honey producers, and spectacular coastal scenery. It makes an ideal day trip from the city.
Hobart Seafood Cruise
Experience Tasmania’s renowned seafood directly from the source on a small-group cruise departing from Hobart’s waterfront. Guests enjoy freshly harvested seafood while exploring the surrounding waterways and coastline.
Salamanca Place
The historic sandstone warehouse district surrounding Salamanca Market is packed with galleries, cafés, restaurants, and bars, making it one of Hobart’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Where to Eat & Drink
Aloft
A waterfront restaurant known for creative dishes built around Tasmania’s exceptional seafood and seasonal local ingredients. Sitting at the chef’s bar offers an especially memorable dining experience.
S.C.H.O.L.E.
An intimate tasting-menu restaurant where guests gather around a communal table for a multi-course experience focused on local ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The Hanging Garden
A lively open-air food hall, beer garden, and live music venue in central Hobart. With multiple food vendors and a welcoming atmosphere, it is an excellent choice for groups and families.
Salamanca Place
One of the best areas in the city for casual dining, drinks, and exploring Hobart’s growing culinary scene.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Salamanca & Waterfront District
Historic sandstone buildings, harbor views, restaurants, galleries, and market culture make this the heart of visitor activity in Hobart.
Hobart CBD
The city center combines heritage architecture, contemporary dining, cultural attractions, and easy access to the waterfront.
Where to Stay
MACq 01 Hotel
A distinctive waterfront storytelling hotel where every room celebrates a notable Tasmanian figure. Guests can also participate in the property's acclaimed storytelling tours that provide unique insight into Hobart’s history and character.
The Tasman
One of Australia’s finest luxury hotels, blending a restored 19th-century heritage building with contemporary design. Located just steps from the waterfront, it offers exceptional service, elegant accommodations, and Marriott Bonvoy participation.
David’s Recommended Historic Hobart Airbnb
A beautifully restored historic pub transformed into a stylish modern accommodation while preserving much of the building’s original character and heritage charm.
Can’t-Miss Experiences
Visit Salamanca Market on a Saturday morning.
Spend several hours exploring MONA.
Take a seafood cruise from Hobart’s waterfront.
Enjoy artisan food tastings on Bruny Island.
Wander Salamanca Place after dark.
Join the MACq 01 storytelling walking tour.
Sample Tasmania’s world-renowned seafood and local produce.

Gateway to Tasmania
Hobart serves as the ideal starting point for exploring southern Tasmania. With easy flight connections from Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, the city offers access to Bruny Island, Tasmania’s wine regions, national parks, wildlife experiences, and many of the island’s most celebrated culinary destinations.
Final Thoughts
Hobart combines the creativity of a cultural capital with the warmth and accessibility of a smaller city. Whether you are drawn by world-class contemporary art, exceptional food, waterfront experiences, or Tasmania’s remarkable landscapes, Hobart offers a distinctive Australian experience that rewards travelers looking beyond the country’s most famous destinations.
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Some links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the production of the Travel in 10 podcast.
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around
the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads

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Portugal continues to surge in popularity with travelers, but while many visitors focus on Lisbon or the beaches of the Algarve, Porto offers a distinctly different side of the country. Set along the Douro River in northern Portugal, Porto blends maritime history, steep hillside neighborhoods, world-famous port wine, and a deeply rooted culinary culture into one of Europe’s most rewarding urban destinations.
In this episode of Travel in 10, Tim and David explore what makes Porto such a compelling city for both first-time visitors and returning travelers. From historic riverfront views and centuries-old port lodges to vibrant markets, late-night dining culture, and unforgettable food experiences, Porto reveals itself as a city best explored slowly and on foot.
The episode also highlights Porto’s role as a gateway to the Douro Valley, one of Europe’s great wine regions, and discusses why getting out onto the river is essential for fully appreciating the city’s dramatic landscape and atmosphere.
Topics Covered
• Port Wine Culture – Exploring Porto’s historic port lodges, tastings, and the traditions behind fortified wine production.
• Douro River Experiences – Why river cruises and waterfront views are central to understanding Porto.
• Food Scene – Traditional Portuguese sandwiches, tinned seafood culture, markets, and local dining traditions.
• Neighborhood Atmosphere – Porto’s steep hills, riverside districts, and residential neighborhoods.
• Where to Stay – Hotel recommendations ranging from wellness-focused luxury to modern lifestyle stays.
Top Things to See & Do
Douro River Cruises
Seeing Porto from the water is one of the city’s defining experiences. Short sightseeing cruises, sunset sailings, and full Douro Valley river cruises all provide dramatic views of Porto’s bridges, hillside architecture, and historic waterfront.
Port Lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia
The famous port houses across the river from central Porto remain one of the city’s biggest draws. Visitors can walk between legendary producers including Sandeman, Taylor’s, Churchill’s, Graham’s, and Ferreira while learning about the production and aging of Portugal’s iconic fortified wine.
Mercado do Bolhão
One of Porto’s most beloved food markets, Mercado do Bolhão combines traditional produce vendors with casual dining stalls serving everything from seafood to pastries and wine. The lively atmosphere makes it an ideal midday stop.
Rua de Santa Catarina
Porto’s main pedestrian shopping street offers cafés, boutiques, and historic gathering places. It remains one of the city’s best areas for wandering and people-watching.
El Corte Inglés
This massive Iberian department store became one of the episode’s surprise recommendations. Beyond shopping, the Porto location includes an expansive food hall and upper-floor dining options that showcase how department store culture still thrives in Portugal and Spain.
Where to Eat & Drink
Majestic Café
A historic café on Rua de Santa Catarina known for its elegant Belle Époque atmosphere and long association with Porto’s intellectual and cultural life.
Conga
A local favorite for the traditional bifana sandwich featuring slow-cooked pork simmered with garlic, paprika, and white wine.
Minerva
A standout stop for discovering Portugal’s tinned seafood culture, including sardines and tuna prepared with regional sauces and olive oils.
Mercado do Bolhão
The market’s food stalls provide an excellent introduction to Porto’s casual dining culture and local specialties.
Port Tonic Cocktails
Listeners are encouraged to try Porto’s refreshing port tonic, typically made with white port, tonic water, citrus, and mint.
Where to Stay
Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa
A polished luxury hotel known for its extensive spa facilities, including pools, steam rooms, and wellness areas. While slightly removed from the historic riverfront, it offers a relaxing retreat after long days exploring Porto.
Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel
A modern lifestyle hotel in Porto’s Lapa neighborhood featuring rooftop views toward the Atlantic Ocean, contemporary Portuguese-inspired design, and a destination-worthy restaurant led by Chef Miguel. The hotel’s “Navigator” concierge concept also helps guests build highly personalized Porto itineraries.
Can’t-Miss Experiences
Touring Porto’s historic port lodges and sampling different styles of port wine.
Cruising beneath Porto’s six bridges on the Douro River.
Trying a traditional bifana sandwich.
Exploring Mercado do Bolhão with a glass of Portuguese wine.
Sampling Portugal’s famous tinned seafood culture.
Watching sunset views over the Douro River.
Enjoying a rooftop cocktail overlooking Porto’s hills and waterfront.

Gateway to Northern Portugal
Porto serves as the perfect gateway to the Douro Valley and northern Portugal. Many travelers begin river cruises here before sailing toward Salamanca in Spain, while others use Porto as a base for exploring vineyards, wine estates, and smaller towns throughout the region.
Final Thoughts
Porto delivers a rich combination of history, food, wine, and riverfront beauty without feeling overly polished or manufactured. Its walkable neighborhoods, strong culinary identity, and connection to the Douro Valley make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking culture, atmosphere, and a more layered experience of Portugal.
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Disclosure
Some links in these show notes are affiliate links. If you use them to book, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the production of the Travel in 10 podcast.
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around
the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape Podcast Network. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities on this show and across the network, email advertising@voyascape.com or you can find more information at Voyascape Ads