7 days in portugal
EraSMUS+ Exchange Experience
18/04/26 ~ 26/04/26
✈️ A journey full of culture, friendship, memories...and way too much walking
gREECE-> porto
>>start the journey
what is ERasMus+ ?
Erasmus+ is a European program that brings students together through travel, culture, education and collaboration.
It gives young people the opportunity to:
* discover new countries
* meet new people
* experience different school systems
* improve communication skills
* create unforgettable memories
OUR DESTINATION
Porto, officially called the “Ancient, Very Noble, Ever Loyal and Undefeated City of Porto,” and in English as "Oporto", is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. 🌊 Porto is also recognized internationally as a "Gamma+ global city" by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, reflecting its importance in culture, economy, tourism, and international connections. ✨ The city is famous for: > Port wine 🍷 >The colorful Ribeira riverside district >The Dom Luís I Bridge > Historic architecture and azulejo tiles
PORTO
View map
📍 Portugal
18/04/2026 – 26/04/2026
starts
"Everything felt exciting, unfamiliar
and slightly chaotic…
which made it even better."
Day 1
The Journey Begins
DAY HIGHLIGHTS
✈️ Flight to Portugal
📍 First impressions of the city
🍴 First Portuguese meal
📸 First group photos
😵 Trying to survive with minimal sleep
1st day
we arrived late at night at the airport in porto and then we headed to our hotel (HOTEL STAR IN) that it can be seen in the backround an got some sleep in order to begin our trip with excitement
HIGHLIGHTS
The first day started for us with a visit to the centre of Porto. This day brought us into contact for the first time with the sights, the culture, the local food and, of course, with traditional activities of Portugal.
We initially visited the interior of the historic São Bento railway station in Porto, Portugal. The station is globally renowned for its atrium, which is decorated with around 20,000 azulejo tiles. These tiles, created by the artist Jorge Colaço, depict significant scenes from Portuguese history. The building, completed in the early 20th century, is often considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the worlde.
Then our visit to the Palácio da Bolsa (Palace of the Stock Exchange) in Porto, Portugal, was impressive. This building was constructed in the 19th century by the city's Commercial Association on the site of an old monastery destroyed by fire. The hall shown in the photo is probably the 'Court Room', known for its elaborate wooden constructions and decoration. The palace is famous for its impressive architecture, including the Arab Room (Salão Árabe) inside the Palácio da Bolsa in Porto, Portugal. The hall is decorated in a Moorish Revival style, inspired by the Alhambra of Granada. It features intricate decorative ceilings, carved arches and columns.
However, the highlight of the day was the tile painting workshop. Portugal is famous for its azulejos, the painted ceramic tiles that decorate houses, churches and streets. The tradition began with Arabic influences in the 15th century and developed into a national symbol. The tiles tell stories, historical events and everyday scenes, combining art, architecture and cultural heritage with unique colours and designs.
Workshop
São Bento
Palácio da Bolsa
Of course, the walks in the city of Porto were not missing
By Day 2, we were no longer tourists.
We were now professional explorers…
Day 2
Monday at the school...
The 2nd day was filled with a mixture of school and summer - We visited the Escola Segunda Oportunidade de Matosinhos for the first time in our journey and met the students and teachers there. We started with ice-breaking activities and then we were split into two teams: The music and the inventeveness departments! Then, we had our first lunch which the school provided for us.
We worked together to play music for the upcoming liberation anniversary and create the foundation of the painting on the wall.
Our meal
The Matosinhos beach
The afternoon we had a relaxing trip to the local beach and enjoyed the view while eating across the Atlantic...
02
01
03
We found seashells next to the castle
Our shoes were getting wet because we got too close to the water
Playing basketball by the seaside with our new retired American friend
Every corner of Portugal gave us
something new to discover:
culture, architecture, history and unforgettable moments.
Day 3
Day 3 felt like stepping into another world
⛪ Exploring a historic church with a dark and atmospheric interior
📚 Visiting Livrari Lello
One of the highlights of the day was visiting the famous Livraria Lello, whose architecture and magical interior made it feel like a place taken directly from a fantasy movie.
We also visited a dark, atmospheric church whose quiet interior, old stone walls and dim lighting created a mysterious and almost cinematic feeling.
Enchanting corners
🏛 Walking through the nearby squares and city center 📸 Taking photos around Porto’s colorful streetsyour memory. 🚶 Discovering that Porto’s hills are both beautiful and exciting.
More local food discoveries
🍽 Enjoying dinner together in the evening
Every day brought new experiences,new conversations and new perspectives that made the journey even more meaningful.
Day 4
Fourth day
Evening
Morning
In the evening we visited Caves Camel, which is a premier, history winery, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, directly across the Douro River from Porto, Portugal. It was a host on an immersive journey in a part museum and part working winery, revealing the art behind winemaking, ageing and distinctive flavour. After a very intriguing guidance about the procedure of wine production, we had the opportunity to buy the authentic porto wine,
The fourth day was really exciting! It included several activities and we had the opportunity to meet more students.Specifically, we visited another school,the Abel Salazar,in order to help younger students make soaps in their chemistry lab, which was very interesting. We made new friends and had a very good time there!
Night
Then we returned to the Escola de Segunda Oportunidade and had lunch. At the same time we could get in touch with our friends from the school.
After the guidance we had free time to explore the city, try the traditional sweet, called pastel de nata, and cross the famous Dom Luis I bridge, admiring the spectacular view of the river.
Noon
We started adapting to the rhythm of the city,
the culture and the everyday lifestyle.
Day 5
lovely mission
Fifth Day
Music at nursing home
On the fifth day after endless practice with the students, we finally played music for the elderly. We played a variety of songs that included, a greek song, a portuguese national song and more.
Lunch at the school
We dined at the school. We ate lunch which included meat or soup.
Night out
In the afternoon we went out in the city of Porto. We ate dinner at various restaurants and fast-food chains.
Every experience helped us understandhow different cultures can connect people through communication, curiosity and shared moments.
Day 6
6th day
last day in the school in portugal
- Friday was the last day of going to school in portugal and we all gathered to honor the 25th of April which for the portuguese is the end of a half a century dictatorship. We performed their local anti-junta song and also a greek one called "DROMOS" and then we said some poems and gave presents to them. Thats how the longlasted week at the portugish school ended. After this we headed to Guimaraes
- At the noon we arrived at guimaraes and we had a taste of the local cuisine and the local landmarks. The environment was also clean with a lot of parks and trees. In general guimaraes gave you the feeling that you are visiting a city in the 15th century.
- Thats the summury for the 6th day.
GUIMARAES
“At this point, our camera rolls had more storage problems than our suitcases.”
Day 7
what happened during the 7th day?
AFTERNOON
VISIT TO:Jardins do Palacio de Cristal
At the end of our visit, we invited two of the students of the school that accommodated us (Noah and Maria), who decided to go and drink coffee together. We headed to a neighbourhood of Porto and they showed us a place where they usually go and afterwards, we went to a mall to grab something to eat. We felt very happy to have come closer with them eventually, as it was unexpected. We really felt like natives there and when the time to say goodbye came, it was a bitter pill to swallow.
One of the most unique experiences! This park offers fascinatic panoramic view of the river Duro and the city of Porto. With abundant fresh air, all this greenery, the breath-taking view and amazing animals like peacocks roaming freely, it was a very invigorating experience.
What is this place about?
The gardens were designed by German landscape architect Emile David in the 1860s, to surround the original crystal palace. It was created to showcase industrial and botanic progression during the Romantic Era. Today, it constitutes a famous park, with its botanic gardens, peacocks and iconic views.
THE GARDEN
ΚΑΙ ΑΛΛΟ ΕΝΑ
Tsukiji Tama Sushi, Tokyo
El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain
Central Market, Mexico City
With each piece of sushi, you'll understand why Japanese cuisine is an art. Sit at the bar, watch the chef, and let yourself be guided. Here, freshness speaks for itself.
Three brothers, a limitless kitchen. This Michelin-starred restaurant reinterprets regional flavors with creativity, respect, and passion. Booking in advance is mandatory.
There are no luxurious menus here, but grandma's flavor. Try the freshly made stew tacos. Ask about the "dish of the day"... and prepare for a palate hug.
Street and glorious
Reserve
Reserve
Reserve
ΕΝΑ ΠΑΓΩΝΙ
Visiting the mineral and rock museum
Exploring an old historical laboratory
Historic center
Bohemian neighborhood, surrounded by nature
Exclusive area, front of the sea
Ideal for those who want to stay in the heart of the city without breaking the bank. Simple but comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and charming views from the terrace. Perfect for walking almost everywhere.
Shared dormitories or private rooms with a lot of style and green spirit. Perfect for backpackers and those looking to connect with people from around the world. Vegan breakfast and organic coffee included.
10 min from the old town
Luxury, comfort, and an infinity pool with sunset views. This hotel offers a five-star experience in every way: spa, gourmet restaurant, and personalized service. For getaways that deserve to be unforgettable.
Modern design with local touches, attentive service, and details that make a difference. Ideal for couples or relaxed getaways. The best part? Its small rooftop with views and signature cocktails.
EcoHostel Roots
Grand View Palace
Alma Boutique Hotel
From 55 €/night
From 22 €/night
Book
Book
From 180 €/night
Book
From 95 €/night
Book
CONCLUSION
Our Erasmus trip to Porto was a unique experience full of new friendships, trips and beautiful moments. Spending a whole week in the Escola de Segunda Oportunidade made us realise that there are always oportunities for everyone, despite the age,difficulties and social status. School doesn't include only passive consolidation of knowledge, but forming a strong identity, through a process of discovering yourself. Our prosperity should be prioritised and not be neglected. This is what these students taught us, through dancing, singing and art. Also,we met people from different countries, lived a new daily routine for a week and gained experiences that we will remember forever. Taking advantage of the opportunity we were given, we admired a different culture in every aspect, discovering its beauty, trying new flavors and interacting with people of our age,who simply speak a different language. After our return to home, we all felt like true cosmopolitans.
It has a color suitable for its theme.
Represent data with graphs.
Matches with your audience...
Use timelines to tell stories.
And makes them part of the message.
CONCLUSION
We had a great time!
THANK YOU!!!
“We thought it would be an educational trip.
It was also a professional walking competition.”
Link
DAY HIGHLIGHTS
✈️ Flight to Portugal
📍 First impressions of the city
🍴 First Portuguese meal
📸 First group photos
😵 Trying to survive with minimal sleep
The journey begins
After weeks of preparation,
the adventure finally started.
New country.
New people.
New experiences.
And absolutely no idea how much walking was waiting for us.
We also wrote our names alongside with the names of the portugish students in a well-painted wall and they will stay as proof of an unforgettable collaboration!
Here we are all gathered listening to sotries from the portugish junta and also sharing some from ours
EraSMUS+ Exchange Experience
Jiahui~~~~~(m--)m
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Transcript
7 days in portugal
EraSMUS+ Exchange Experience
18/04/26 ~ 26/04/26
✈️ A journey full of culture, friendship, memories...and way too much walking
gREECE-> porto
>>start the journey
what is ERasMus+ ?
Erasmus+ is a European program that brings students together through travel, culture, education and collaboration.
It gives young people the opportunity to: * discover new countries * meet new people * experience different school systems * improve communication skills * create unforgettable memories
OUR DESTINATION
Porto, officially called the “Ancient, Very Noble, Ever Loyal and Undefeated City of Porto,” and in English as "Oporto", is the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. 🌊 Porto is also recognized internationally as a "Gamma+ global city" by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network, reflecting its importance in culture, economy, tourism, and international connections. ✨ The city is famous for: > Port wine 🍷 >The colorful Ribeira riverside district >The Dom Luís I Bridge > Historic architecture and azulejo tiles
PORTO
View map
📍 Portugal 18/04/2026 – 26/04/2026
starts
"Everything felt exciting, unfamiliar and slightly chaotic… which made it even better."
Day 1
The Journey Begins
DAY HIGHLIGHTS ✈️ Flight to Portugal 📍 First impressions of the city 🍴 First Portuguese meal 📸 First group photos 😵 Trying to survive with minimal sleep
1st day
we arrived late at night at the airport in porto and then we headed to our hotel (HOTEL STAR IN) that it can be seen in the backround an got some sleep in order to begin our trip with excitement
HIGHLIGHTS
The first day started for us with a visit to the centre of Porto. This day brought us into contact for the first time with the sights, the culture, the local food and, of course, with traditional activities of Portugal.
We initially visited the interior of the historic São Bento railway station in Porto, Portugal. The station is globally renowned for its atrium, which is decorated with around 20,000 azulejo tiles. These tiles, created by the artist Jorge Colaço, depict significant scenes from Portuguese history. The building, completed in the early 20th century, is often considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the worlde.
Then our visit to the Palácio da Bolsa (Palace of the Stock Exchange) in Porto, Portugal, was impressive. This building was constructed in the 19th century by the city's Commercial Association on the site of an old monastery destroyed by fire. The hall shown in the photo is probably the 'Court Room', known for its elaborate wooden constructions and decoration. The palace is famous for its impressive architecture, including the Arab Room (Salão Árabe) inside the Palácio da Bolsa in Porto, Portugal. The hall is decorated in a Moorish Revival style, inspired by the Alhambra of Granada. It features intricate decorative ceilings, carved arches and columns.
However, the highlight of the day was the tile painting workshop. Portugal is famous for its azulejos, the painted ceramic tiles that decorate houses, churches and streets. The tradition began with Arabic influences in the 15th century and developed into a national symbol. The tiles tell stories, historical events and everyday scenes, combining art, architecture and cultural heritage with unique colours and designs.
Workshop
São Bento
Palácio da Bolsa
Of course, the walks in the city of Porto were not missing
By Day 2, we were no longer tourists. We were now professional explorers…
Day 2
Monday at the school...
The 2nd day was filled with a mixture of school and summer - We visited the Escola Segunda Oportunidade de Matosinhos for the first time in our journey and met the students and teachers there. We started with ice-breaking activities and then we were split into two teams: The music and the inventeveness departments! Then, we had our first lunch which the school provided for us.
We worked together to play music for the upcoming liberation anniversary and create the foundation of the painting on the wall.
Our meal
The Matosinhos beach
The afternoon we had a relaxing trip to the local beach and enjoyed the view while eating across the Atlantic...
02
01
03
We found seashells next to the castle
Our shoes were getting wet because we got too close to the water
Playing basketball by the seaside with our new retired American friend
Every corner of Portugal gave us something new to discover: culture, architecture, history and unforgettable moments.
Day 3
Day 3 felt like stepping into another world
⛪ Exploring a historic church with a dark and atmospheric interior
📚 Visiting Livrari Lello
One of the highlights of the day was visiting the famous Livraria Lello, whose architecture and magical interior made it feel like a place taken directly from a fantasy movie.
We also visited a dark, atmospheric church whose quiet interior, old stone walls and dim lighting created a mysterious and almost cinematic feeling.
Enchanting corners
🏛 Walking through the nearby squares and city center 📸 Taking photos around Porto’s colorful streetsyour memory. 🚶 Discovering that Porto’s hills are both beautiful and exciting.
More local food discoveries
🍽 Enjoying dinner together in the evening
Every day brought new experiences,new conversations and new perspectives that made the journey even more meaningful.
Day 4
Fourth day
Evening
Morning
In the evening we visited Caves Camel, which is a premier, history winery, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, directly across the Douro River from Porto, Portugal. It was a host on an immersive journey in a part museum and part working winery, revealing the art behind winemaking, ageing and distinctive flavour. After a very intriguing guidance about the procedure of wine production, we had the opportunity to buy the authentic porto wine,
The fourth day was really exciting! It included several activities and we had the opportunity to meet more students.Specifically, we visited another school,the Abel Salazar,in order to help younger students make soaps in their chemistry lab, which was very interesting. We made new friends and had a very good time there!
Night
Then we returned to the Escola de Segunda Oportunidade and had lunch. At the same time we could get in touch with our friends from the school.
After the guidance we had free time to explore the city, try the traditional sweet, called pastel de nata, and cross the famous Dom Luis I bridge, admiring the spectacular view of the river.
Noon
We started adapting to the rhythm of the city, the culture and the everyday lifestyle.
Day 5
lovely mission
Fifth Day
Music at nursing home
On the fifth day after endless practice with the students, we finally played music for the elderly. We played a variety of songs that included, a greek song, a portuguese national song and more.
Lunch at the school
We dined at the school. We ate lunch which included meat or soup.
Night out
In the afternoon we went out in the city of Porto. We ate dinner at various restaurants and fast-food chains.
Every experience helped us understandhow different cultures can connect people through communication, curiosity and shared moments.
Day 6
6th day
last day in the school in portugal
GUIMARAES
“At this point, our camera rolls had more storage problems than our suitcases.”
Day 7
what happened during the 7th day?
AFTERNOON
VISIT TO:Jardins do Palacio de Cristal
At the end of our visit, we invited two of the students of the school that accommodated us (Noah and Maria), who decided to go and drink coffee together. We headed to a neighbourhood of Porto and they showed us a place where they usually go and afterwards, we went to a mall to grab something to eat. We felt very happy to have come closer with them eventually, as it was unexpected. We really felt like natives there and when the time to say goodbye came, it was a bitter pill to swallow.
One of the most unique experiences! This park offers fascinatic panoramic view of the river Duro and the city of Porto. With abundant fresh air, all this greenery, the breath-taking view and amazing animals like peacocks roaming freely, it was a very invigorating experience.
What is this place about?
The gardens were designed by German landscape architect Emile David in the 1860s, to surround the original crystal palace. It was created to showcase industrial and botanic progression during the Romantic Era. Today, it constitutes a famous park, with its botanic gardens, peacocks and iconic views.
THE GARDEN
ΚΑΙ ΑΛΛΟ ΕΝΑ
Tsukiji Tama Sushi, Tokyo
El Celler de Can Roca, Girona, Spain
Central Market, Mexico City
With each piece of sushi, you'll understand why Japanese cuisine is an art. Sit at the bar, watch the chef, and let yourself be guided. Here, freshness speaks for itself.
Three brothers, a limitless kitchen. This Michelin-starred restaurant reinterprets regional flavors with creativity, respect, and passion. Booking in advance is mandatory.
There are no luxurious menus here, but grandma's flavor. Try the freshly made stew tacos. Ask about the "dish of the day"... and prepare for a palate hug.
Street and glorious
Reserve
Reserve
Reserve
ΕΝΑ ΠΑΓΩΝΙ
Visiting the mineral and rock museum
Exploring an old historical laboratory
Historic center
Bohemian neighborhood, surrounded by nature
Exclusive area, front of the sea
Ideal for those who want to stay in the heart of the city without breaking the bank. Simple but comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and charming views from the terrace. Perfect for walking almost everywhere.
Shared dormitories or private rooms with a lot of style and green spirit. Perfect for backpackers and those looking to connect with people from around the world. Vegan breakfast and organic coffee included.
10 min from the old town
Luxury, comfort, and an infinity pool with sunset views. This hotel offers a five-star experience in every way: spa, gourmet restaurant, and personalized service. For getaways that deserve to be unforgettable.
Modern design with local touches, attentive service, and details that make a difference. Ideal for couples or relaxed getaways. The best part? Its small rooftop with views and signature cocktails.
EcoHostel Roots
Grand View Palace
Alma Boutique Hotel
From 55 €/night
From 22 €/night
Book
Book
From 180 €/night
Book
From 95 €/night
Book
CONCLUSION
Our Erasmus trip to Porto was a unique experience full of new friendships, trips and beautiful moments. Spending a whole week in the Escola de Segunda Oportunidade made us realise that there are always oportunities for everyone, despite the age,difficulties and social status. School doesn't include only passive consolidation of knowledge, but forming a strong identity, through a process of discovering yourself. Our prosperity should be prioritised and not be neglected. This is what these students taught us, through dancing, singing and art. Also,we met people from different countries, lived a new daily routine for a week and gained experiences that we will remember forever. Taking advantage of the opportunity we were given, we admired a different culture in every aspect, discovering its beauty, trying new flavors and interacting with people of our age,who simply speak a different language. After our return to home, we all felt like true cosmopolitans.
It has a color suitable for its theme.
Represent data with graphs.
Matches with your audience...
Use timelines to tell stories.
And makes them part of the message.
CONCLUSION
We had a great time!
THANK YOU!!!
“We thought it would be an educational trip. It was also a professional walking competition.”
Link
DAY HIGHLIGHTS ✈️ Flight to Portugal 📍 First impressions of the city 🍴 First Portuguese meal 📸 First group photos 😵 Trying to survive with minimal sleep
The journey begins
After weeks of preparation, the adventure finally started. New country. New people. New experiences. And absolutely no idea how much walking was waiting for us.
We also wrote our names alongside with the names of the portugish students in a well-painted wall and they will stay as proof of an unforgettable collaboration!
Here we are all gathered listening to sotries from the portugish junta and also sharing some from ours