Porto

Portugal

"Azulejo Tiles, Port Wine & the Most Soulful City in Europe"

Porto, perched dramatically on granite cliffs above the Douro River, is one of Europe's most atmospheric and rewarding destinations - a city that wears its ancient soul openly. The medieval Ribeira waterfront district (UNESCO World Heritage) is lined with colorful azulejo-tile-covered townhouses and wine bars. Cross the iconic Dom Luis I iron bridge on foot for sweeping river views, visit the magnificent São Bento railway station covered in 20,000 blue-and-white tiles depicting Portuguese history, and descend to the Vila Nova de Gaia riverbank for cellar tours and tastings of the world's finest Port wine. Porto's food scene is extraordinary - from iconic francesinha sandwiches to fresh Atlantic seafood.

Ribeira District (UNESCO), Dom Luis I Bridge, São Bento Railway Station, Port Wine Cellar Tours (Vila Nova de Gaia), Livraria Lello Bookshop, Clerigos Tower, Bolhao Market, Douro Valley Wine Tour

March-May & September-October

Take the Douro Valley day trip for world-class wine scenery; book Livraria Lello tickets online to skip the line; try a pastel de nata daily

Europe's best value cultural city break. Excellent add-on to Lisbon for a Portugal dual-city itinerary.