The Douro valley, between Mesão Frio and Pinhão, is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Portugal. The banks of the meandering Douro, Portugal’s longest river, are lined with terraced vineyards and wine estates producing the famous port wine.
Only 124km from the Spanish border is the capital of the North and the second most important city in Portugal. Situated at the mouth of the River Douro, Porto is an interesting base (especially for port wine lovers!) and the centre of the green and beautiful region of Northern Portugal. Today, Porto remains a thriving industrial centre, which manages to blend its commercial activities with characteristic Old World charm. A perfect example is the riverside district of Ribeira, which is a vibrant, atmospheric quarter with a growing number of bars, bistros and restaurants.
Festivals in Porto
Throughout the year the city of Porto plays host to a number of festivals, the largest being the Festa de Sao Joao (23-24 June). Celebrating the patron saint of lovers, this is one of Europe’s largest street festivals and sees the streets of the historic centre bustling with life. Stalls selling grilled sardines and peppers, musical performances, streets adorned with bunting and illuminations and local residents (old and young) celebrating together. As the night progresses fireworks begin to rumble through the night sky above the port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia – this is a spectacular sight!
