Porto

One of the richest cities in Portugal, built by and for the merchants since the 12th century. Porto holds the nickname "Invicta City”, due to the Liberal Wars that shaped the ideals of its locals. Yet, its origins go back to the foundations of Portugal as a kingdom, where the Cathedral lies on the top of the hill with the Douro River down below. Strolling through the old alleys around the Cathedral quarter to the Ribeira, you will witness tiled façades with distinct colors, narrow streets where the sun can hardly penetrate, four or five-floor houses with two doors that used to be old merchant houses from the Dark Ages, and fanciful squares with small and peculiar restaurants that would invite you in for a Port Wine tasting.

This northern city is much more than the Middle Ages building. Heading northwest, you will uncover one of the most beautiful bookstores that influenced the wizard saga of Harry Potter, as well as the Clérigos Tower, a beacon from the Baroque era and modern times. Another alternative, if you are a shopaholic, and would love to buy a nice souvenir, why not consider going to the Santa Catarina or Flores streets or even to the 200-year-old Bolhão Market? Locals often enjoy shopping here, browsing items before tasting a delicious custard tart.

Crossing the Luis I Bridge, an icon from the 19th century, similar to the Eiffel Tower, the borough of Vila Nova de Gaia with its Port Wine cellars waits for you.
Admire the Rabelo boats that used to transport this exquisite beverage from the Douro Valley and store the wine barrels in these old warehouses. One of the best views overlooking the city is from the Jardim do Morro. Make sure you’ll be a few minutes there before the sunset is about to start.

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