The city of Porto is Portugal cultural capital and the birthplace of the Portuguese wine industry. You will immediately feel the unique atmosphere of the city. Who said that Porto is a gloomy city of workers? Do not believe it! Rich colours of sunshine often replace mysticism of rainy Porto. But in both situations there no hint of boredom and sadness! Porto inspires you!
Quay of the river Douro, wine cellars along it and colourful houses all around complement each other in the magnificent picture of the city of Porto!
As they say in Portugal: "Lisbon is for fun, Coimbra is for studying, Porto is for work and Braga is for praying." This proverb describes the essence of every city very precisely. Every working person in Porto, due to a presence of a thriving cult of work, is well respected.
If you are a fan of antiques and your trip is dedicated to cultural and architectural attractions, you will not be disappointed at the north of Portugal. Porto is a vivid proof of that!
North Portugal is surrounded by greenery. Green colour is everywhere, even local wine has emerald! The famous "Vinho verde" has no analogues in the world; it is perfect for dishes of fish and shellfish, as well as can be used just as a soft drink during a short break on a hot summer day. The homeland of this wine is Minho – the land of mountains and steep slopes covered with lush vegetation, rivers and parks.
Green Minho is followed by even more picturesque Douro Valley. Sun-drenched hillsides covered with vineyards and meandering river is classic view over the region. A train ride along the river will give you the unforgettable emotions! The natural beauty of this area made it the subject of "fetish" for Portuguese cinematography. The incredible beauty of landscapes can be often seen in many Portuguese films.
Finally, the most northern and severe region of the country is Trás-os-Montes. Its remoteness was actually the reason of such a name - "behind the mountains". The mountains are marvellous! Some Portuguese used to say that world ends behind Trás-os-Montes. The climate of this region is characterized by significant temperature differences. Winter is usually cool, and summer is hot and sultry.
The world's largest complex of Palaeolithic rock carvings was recently discovered in the Douro Valley, near the town of Vila Nova de Foz Coa. During the centuries, rock formations that frame both sides of the river were turned into panels covered with thousands of prints of our ancestors. That is such a mysterious and attractive area that greatly differs from the rest of Portugal!