Highlights of Porto and the Douro Valley

UNESCO World Heritage sites, exquisite food and exceptional Portuguese wines make this eight-day tour of Porto and the Douro Valley a superb short-haul itinerary. What’s more, we’ve selected some of the region’s top hotels for you to stay in, from an exclusive and grandiose address in the heart of the city, to a 19th-century manor overlooking vine-covered terraces.

This suggested itinerary begins in the city of Porto. While Portugal’s second largest city might be best known for its port wine, it’s Porto’s history which truly intoxicates its visitors. The centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, and wandering its streets and alleyways will uncover a treasure trove of architecture at every turn. Camera in hand, drop by at the elaborately decorated Palacio da Bolsa (the Stock Exchange Palace), the medieval cathedral, and The Clérigos Tower.

Inspiring’s Highlights of Porto and the Douro Valley tour then heads for a day trip to Braga and Guimarães. The former is a city that dates back to Roman times, being a part of the roads of the Empire of Augustus that crossed the Iberian Peninsula, connecting it with Rome. While in Braga you’ll visit its cathedral, the oldest in Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city of Guimarães is considered the birthplace of Portugal because Alfonso Henríquez, who would become the first king of Portugal, was born here. Again you’ll explore the most famous of the city’s historical sites on your guided tour of its narrow streets, cloisters and complex of architectural wonders.

Your next stop is Douro Valley, staying at the luxurious Six Senses Douro Valley. Another World Heritage site, the region is one of Portugal’s most stunning landscapes, renowned for being home to the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. While the superb Portuguese food and wines of your tour continue, the pace slows for the next few days as you have leisure time to enjoy your hotel’s pool and garden, and take a private 4x4 tour of the valley.

Your final stop before travelling home is at Porto’s The Yeatman hotel, with its views of the river and city, and a two-Michelin Star restaurant.