Porto

About

Dating back as far as 300 BC, this ancient port city is steeped in history and tradition. The city was built along the hills overlooking the Douro river, providing breathtaking vistas over the colourful buildings and narrow cobbled streets. Porto is known worldwide for it eponymous wine, but it's the UNESCO-listed historic center that's truly intoxicating. Start down at the lively riverside Cais da Ribeira for a real taste of the city before setting out to discover the many monuments that dot its picturesque streets. Most put a heavy emphasis on the ornaty, like the lavishly furnished Palácio da Bolsa, and gilt-filled Church of São Francisco. Even Porto's book shops, like Livraria Lello, are jaw-droppingly beautiful. Of course, in the home of port, you'd be remiss to miss sampling the iconic wine.