Pousada de Porto (Rua Flores)

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and, in recent years, has given Lisbon stiff competition for its popularity amongst tourists. The city is split into two by the Douro River with the South side known as Vila Nova de Gaia, and the North side the main city of Porto. You can move between the two areas via the impressive metal arch Dom Luis I Bridge.

From Vila Nova de Gaia you are treated to spectacular views of Porto and the historic centre, with special designated viewing platforms ideal for any budding photographers. This is also where you will find a majority of the famous Porto wine cellars where you can organise tastings and buy some of the fabulous Port to take home. There are also many restaurants and cafes along the riverside where you can relax and take in the views.

In Porto itself you will find a variety of activities and sights. The Clerigos Tower and Church are set at the top of the city and work as a great reference point to identify whereabouts you are in the city as it can be spotted from most locations. Close to the tower you will find the magnificent Lello & Irmão bookshop with its ornate staircase and packed bookshelves, a must-see for any booklovers. Other fantastic sights around the city include the São Bento train station, whose entrance hall is decorated in the typical blue Portuguese tiles (azuelejos), and the Palácio de Bolsa, a 19th century neoclassical building which was commissioned by the Commercial Association. There are many of these historical treasures that can be found in Porto and the city itself gained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996 thanks to its historic centre.

Porto is also a fantastic base for cruises along the Douro River to enjoy the valley’s fantastic scenery and visits to vineyards.  You can pick up day cruises from the city’s riverside quay where you can also find plenty of shops and restaurants.