It was in the Porto and in the North regions that Portugal was founded in the 12th century and the Portuguese became a people and a nation.

Porto is not only the second largest city in Portugal but also a city of great historical past and listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage, since 1996. The narrow and labyrinthine streets of the old city centre will take you back in time while the cool and vintage neighbourhoods will make you discover the new trends and the unique atmosphere of this historical yet modern city.

Porto is the gateway and departure point for a journey across the natural and cultural diversity of the North region. It is known for the Port wine which is shipped from here all over the world, but also for a heritage which combines ancient churches and monuments, and modern buildings.

On a brief visit to Porto, there are some places that cannot be missed. In the words of many visitors, this city has something mystical that is difficult to describe and which varies according to the place, time of day and light.

Whatever it is, it certainly has to do with its people, known to be generous and easy-going, as well as the River Douro and its heritage on both banks, with its bridges and monuments, the tiles, the flowering balconies and the shopping streets. The historic centre of Porto and the River Douro on the Gaia side, where the Port Wine lodges are located, are classified as World Heritage.