Short breaks in Porto: discover the heart of Portugal’s wine country

What should I do during a city break in Porto?

There's good news and bad news for visitors to Porto. On the plus side, the city is small and walkable, so you'll be able to see all the major sights in just a few days. The bad news? Expect lots of steep hills, so bring comfy shoes on your minibreak in Porto! Start with a stroll through the colourful Ribeira district, built right on the banks of the Douro River. From there, head uphill to the Sé do Porto, the spectacular cathedral, which is perched high on a hill in the centre of the old town. Near here you can also visit Livraria Lello, renowned as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, and the Torre dos Clérigos. If you can tackle the 225 steps to the top of the tower, you'll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the city that help make your short trip to Porto unforgettable.

Where should I stay on a short getaway in Porto?

If it's your first time visiting the city, you might want to look for holiday lettings in Porto in the Baixa neighbourhood. This is the central area, with most of the popular attractions just a short (but steep) walk away. Ribeira, the riverside neighbourhood, is also an excellent choice to look for apartments in Porto; it offers vibrant nightlife and great bars, but it's on the pricey side, so it may not be suitable for budget travellers. Planning a short break to Porto on a budget? Boavista is one of the best areas for wallet-friendly B&Bs in Porto, and has an authentically Portuguese vibe. For something a little more special, look for villas in Porto across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. This is the area where the best Port wine comes from, and you'll be surrounded by wine cellars.