Porto

Porto is a city in the north of Portugal which is only worth by itself to make a city trip to it a couple of days. Apart from a visit to the colorful buildings and the historic centre you can take a cruise on the river Douro which is a good way to spend your time. In addition to that, you can climb the hills and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Ponte Luís I. This bridge is an iconic bridge in Porto and you won’t miss that because of its prominent place.

Next to Porto is Vila Nova de Gaia located. You only have to cross the Ponte Luís I to enter this city. This city contains many cellars where port wine has been stored and aged. During my visit in 2013, I have visited Calem and Quevedo. During these tours, they show you how the port wine is made and stored. After the tours, you will taste some port wines.

For restaurants, my experience is that Vila Nova de Gaia is slightly cheaper than the touristic parts of Porto. In Porto, one local delicacy not to miss is the Francesinha. This well-filled meat and cheese sandwich is an excellent filling lunch. Maybe not too healthy but sometimes that is not needed. It is more important to enjoy good food and matured port wines.

In case you want to escape the city day tours can be made to Aveiro, Braga, or Guimarães. Porto is well-connected by train to Coimbra or Lisbon. For these places, you should stay overnight there.