Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, has an abundance of character, heart and soul. Everything you’ll want to see and do (and you’ll want to do it all) is either a walk or short drive away. From the Clérigos Tower to the São Bento Train station, the city oozes traditional Portuguese culture. Stroll the river front, walk the neighborhoods, learn the history, appreciate the architecture and taste the regional cuisine. Let us recommend a charming boutique or unique luxury hotel to elevate your stay in the city.

Of course, Porto is also the city that, for hundreds of years, has been the downstream storage and distribution center for Port wine. Wine enthusiasts will want to visit Porto’s cellars to learn about and taste some the finest Port wines produced.

While you’re in the north, don’t leave without a visit to Braga and Guimarães, both a short drive north of Porto. Braga, Portugal’s third largest city, is laced with ancient narrow lanes and strewn with plazas. Just outside of town, a visit to Bom Jesus do Monte cathedral with its iconic Baroque stairway is a must. Considered the birthplace of Portuguese culture, and the original capital of the country. Guimarães is honored as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001 for being an exceptionally well-preserved and authentic example of an evolved medieval settlement in Europe. Be sure to visit the castle and the historic city center.