Porto is the quintessential Portuguese city: less internationalised than Lisbon, more authentic, with the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and some of the most beautiful sunsets over the Douro.
Porto: the city where everything seems authentic
Porto is proof that some cities improve when they do not become too famous. The capital of northern Portugal has a UNESCO historic centre that looks like a film set: houses clad in azulejos, stairways descending to the Douro, old cafes with creaking parquet.
The Port wine cellars
Vila Nova de Gaia, on the south bank of the Douro, hosts the great Port wine cellars: Graham's, Taylor's, Sandeman, Ramos Pinto. The visits (8-15 euro) include the cellar tour and the tasting of Ruby, Tawny and Vintage Port.
The best way to end the day: sit at a terrace on the riverfront with a glass of chilled white Port watching the sunset over the Douro.
The Livraria Lello
The Livraria Lello (1906) is considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world: the Art Nouveau interior with the red spiral staircase inspired (according to the fans) the Hogwarts scenes of Harry Potter. Entry costs 5 euro (deducted from a purchase). Visit at opening to avoid the queues.