Porto

Porto is a beautiful and welcoming city known for its historic centre, riverside views, and great food. A good walking route starts at São Bento Station: turn left and walk uphill towards the cathedral, Sé do Porto, then continue to the top level of the Dom Luís I Bridge. Cross the bridge and take the funicular down to the riverside for great views of the Ribeira, Porto. From there, visit the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia or explore World of Wine, before crossing back into Porto via the lower level of the same bridge or by traditional Rabelo boat. Other highlights include Livraria Lello, trying a francesinha (multilayered sandwich covered in gravy, what is it with Northerners and gravy?!?), and seaside walks in Foz do Douro. On the night of 23 June, the city celebrates Festa de São João, with street parties, music, fireworks, and the tradition of hitting people on the head with plastic hammers. If you’re visiting then, book accommodation early, as people travel from all over the country to join the celebrations (it can get very busy and even crowded in certain areas).

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The North

The Douro River Valley - A day trip by boat, or by car through Portugal's beautiful undulating vineyards. 

 

Guimarāes - The birthplace of Portugal, a beautiful old city on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

 

Braga & Bom Jesus do Monte - One of the oldest Christian cities and a monastery up on a hill- great if you need to work on your step-count! 

  

Peneda-Gerês - Beautiful National Park with amazing waterfalls, walks and ancient trees (Eva's favourite place in the North of Portugal).

 

Viana do Castelo & Ponte de Lima - you can get the perfect taste of northern Portugal: dramatic Atlantic views, historic streets, green landscapes, and relaxed riverside charm. You must try "Pica no chāo" at Ponte de Lima (it may come with chicken feet)!

 

Further North - Vigo, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia... If Maria hasn't already told you all about her road-trip along the North Coast of Spain, then ask her and make her day. 

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Further South

Aveiro - The "Venice of Portugal". Once a fishing village, now known for its canals filled with colourful "Moliceiros". Or go a bit more inland to go across one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and walk the Paiva Walkways.

 

Coimbra - One of the world's oldest university cities, dating back to 13th Century and where Eva studied Law and spent 10 years of her life.

 

Nazaré - Beach with world record-breaking large waves.

 

Caldas da Rainha & Foz do Arelho - Ceramic Art Centre of Portugal where Maria stayed during her gap year. And a fantastic lagoon-beach, great for kids, kite and wind-surfing.

 

Peniche - Best surfing beaches and the best "Arroz de Marisco".

 

Lisbon - Capital of Portugal, great bustling city, filled with history. Sintra full of palaces and the small coastal village of Cascais are great day trips. If you want to do a beach holiday we recommend going south of Lisbon. Eva's favourite beach, still close to Lisbon is Portinho da Arrábida.

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Other locations

Algarve (the southernmost region) - Warmer, beautiful, and full of dramatic beaches. If you’re lucky, you may also enjoy warmer sea temperatures. Avoid Albufeira which is filled with Brits. 

 

Interior - Wherever you go in Portugal, the countryside is beautiful, with peaceful landscapes, waterfalls, river beaches and authentic villages. That said, inland areas usually take more time to reach due to more limited access. If you’d like to explore less-visited places, let us know and we’ll be happy to share some special recommendations.

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