VIDA PORTUGAL:VINEYARDS & VILLAGES ALONG THE DOURO W/LIS

One of Europe's oldest cities, Porto, or Oporto, dates to the 4th century when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire and served as an important commercial port where the Atlantic Ocean and Douro River converge. As a thriving boat-building hub, the city served as the starting point for Prince Henry the Navigator's exploration of the western coast of Africa in 1415, initiating the Portuguese "Age of Discovery."

The old town area of Porto, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, encompasses Ribeira within 14th-century Romanesque walls, as well as the city's many architectural landmarks, ranging from the gothic Igreja de Sao Francisco to the baroque Torre dos Clerigos (Clerics Tower) to the neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace).

On the southern bank lies the Vila Nova de Gaia, an amphitheatre-shaped slope densely populated by port warehouses emblazoned with Hollywood-style white letters that spell out familiar names: Grahams, Taylors, Sandeman. The warehouses continue a tradition dating to the 13th century, with wine produced in the Douro Valley transported there to mature in giant oak casks.

Rich in history, littered with architectural treasures, home to delicious wines and melt-in-the-mouth pastries, and bristling with lively street markets, cafes, bars and restaurants, Porto is a tourist's delight. It is worthy of at least a full day's exploration, even if only to sip a glass of chilled white Port in Gaia and soak up the views of Porto opposite.

One of Europe's oldest cities, Porto, or Oporto, dates to the 4th century when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire and served as an important commercial port where the Atlantic Ocean and Douro River converge. As a thriving boat-building hub, the city served as the starting point for Prince Henry the Navigator's exploration of the western coast of Africa in 1415, initiating the Portuguese "Age of Discovery."

The old town area of Porto, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, encompasses Ribeira within 14th-century Romanesque walls, as well as the city's many architectural landmarks, ranging from the gothic Igreja de Sao Francisco to the baroque Torre dos Clerigos (Clerics Tower) to the neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace).

On the southern bank lies the Vila Nova de Gaia, an amphitheatre-shaped slope densely populated by port warehouses emblazoned with Hollywood-style white letters that spell out familiar names: Grahams, Taylors, Sandeman. The warehouses continue a tradition dating to the 13th century, with wine produced in the Douro Valley transported there to mature in giant oak casks.

Rich in history, littered with architectural treasures, home to delicious wines and melt-in-the-mouth pastries, and bristling with lively street markets, cafes, bars and restaurants, Porto is a tourist's delight. It is worthy of at least a full day's exploration, even if only to sip a glass of chilled white Port in Gaia and soak up the views of Porto opposite.

Régua, nestled in Portugal's Douro Valley, enchants visitors with its picturesque landscapes and rich wine culture. The town, flanked by terraced vineyards along the Douro River, offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Explore historic wine estates, cruise the Douro's meandering waters, and savour renowned port wines. Régua's warm hospitality and stunning vistas create an unforgettable experience, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape in Portugal's scenic heartland.

Pocinho is close to the Douro Riverin Northern Portugal and gives access to the Coa Valley. Explore the valley and visit the Coa Valley Museum or canoe on the Sabor River.

Nestled on the banks of the serene Douro River, Barca d'Alva is a charming Portuguese village that feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. With its quaint streets, picturesque houses, and a backdrop of rolling hills, it's a haven of tranquility. This welcoming village invites you to slow down, savor local flavors, and connect with the warmth of its people. As a gateway to the Douro Valley's beauty, Barca d'Alva offers a genuine escape from the bustling world—a place where time seems to stand still, and every corner holds a story to share.

One of Europe's oldest cities, Porto, or Oporto, dates to the 4th century when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire and served as an important commercial port where the Atlantic Ocean and Douro River converge. As a thriving boat-building hub, the city served as the starting point for Prince Henry the Navigator's exploration of the western coast of Africa in 1415, initiating the Portuguese "Age of Discovery."

The old town area of Porto, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, encompasses Ribeira within 14th-century Romanesque walls, as well as the city's many architectural landmarks, ranging from the gothic Igreja de Sao Francisco to the baroque Torre dos Clerigos (Clerics Tower) to the neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace).

On the southern bank lies the Vila Nova de Gaia, an amphitheatre-shaped slope densely populated by port warehouses emblazoned with Hollywood-style white letters that spell out familiar names: Grahams, Taylors, Sandeman. The warehouses continue a tradition dating to the 13th century, with wine produced in the Douro Valley transported there to mature in giant oak casks.

Rich in history, littered with architectural treasures, home to delicious wines and melt-in-the-mouth pastries, and bristling with lively street markets, cafes, bars and restaurants, Porto is a tourist's delight. It is worthy of at least a full day's exploration, even if only to sip a glass of chilled white Port in Gaia and soak up the views of Porto opposite.

One of Europe's oldest cities, Porto, or Oporto, dates to the 4th century when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire and served as an important commercial port where the Atlantic Ocean and Douro River converge. As a thriving boat-building hub, the city served as the starting point for Prince Henry the Navigator's exploration of the western coast of Africa in 1415, initiating the Portuguese "Age of Discovery."

The old town area of Porto, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, encompasses Ribeira within 14th-century Romanesque walls, as well as the city's many architectural landmarks, ranging from the gothic Igreja de Sao Francisco to the baroque Torre dos Clerigos (Clerics Tower) to the neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace).

On the southern bank lies the Vila Nova de Gaia, an amphitheatre-shaped slope densely populated by port warehouses emblazoned with Hollywood-style white letters that spell out familiar names: Grahams, Taylors, Sandeman. The warehouses continue a tradition dating to the 13th century, with wine produced in the Douro Valley transported there to mature in giant oak casks.

Rich in history, littered with architectural treasures, home to delicious wines and melt-in-the-mouth pastries, and bristling with lively street markets, cafes, bars and restaurants, Porto is a tourist's delight. It is worthy of at least a full day's exploration, even if only to sip a glass of chilled white Port in Gaia and soak up the views of Porto opposite.