Perched on a hillside overlooking the River Douro, Porto may not be the most obvious choice for a break, but it's one of the best. From one vantage point, the pastel-shaded houses with vibrant tiled facades appear to tumble down the hillside to the buzzing waterfront. From another, 2,000 years of history unfold. The historic city centre has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, honouring a place where vibrant contemporary living meets traditional culture. Porto is, of course, the home of port wine, and no visit would be complete without a trip to one of the wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. The river is at the heart of the wine industry, and you can still see the traditional Rabelos boats sail past laden with barrels on their way to and from the wine lodges. If time allows, head out into the countryside vineyards and quintas, the wealthy estates where wine and port are still produced according to traditional methods. Plan your trip for early Autumn and you should be lucky enough to experience the harvest.
Here are some of our recommended hotels: Eurostars Oporto 4* B&B Eurostars Oporto is a modern, 4-star hotel offering a good standard of accommodation in a convenient location. Porto Palacio Hotel 5* B&B The Porto Palacio is a stylish, contemporary hotel set right in the heart of Porto. A member of Leading Hotels of the World. Pestana Porto Hotel 4* B&B The Pestano Porto is a charming, historic hotel in Old Porto set on the city's medieval walls.
Intercontinental Porto Palacio Das Cardosas The Intercontinental Porto is a superb 5* hotel located near to Porto Cathedral. A former monastery, tastefully converted, it boasts an excellent restaurant, spa and fitness centre appealing to both the personal and business traveller. Pousada do Gerês - Caniçada, São Bento Pousada do Gerês is situated in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, 83km from Porto, among the breath-taking forests, the translucent cascading waters and the unforgettable sights. Gerês is one of Portugal’s more attractive Natural Regions, considered by UNESCO to be a World Biosphere Reserve. This gorgeous destination hotel is the perfect excuse for a twin-centre break. It overlooks the Caniçada dam in the Cavado River, giving you visibility of both Portugal and Spain.
You might like to combine 3 nights in Porto with 4 nights in Madeira. We will be happy to quote competitively on any combination of stays.