Porto and the Douro Valley Luxury Holidays

One of the most enchanting regions in Portugal, Porto and the Douro Valley has breathtaking scenery at every turn. Follow the mighty Rio Douro as it winds its way to the sea, past the hillside vineyards and fairytale towns and villages that spring up along the banks as though straight out of a storybook. Fall for the charms of Porto, where the historic centre is interwoven with enticing alleyways, and the modern new architecture blends seamlessly into the skyline. Dazzling street art is everywhere, from the brightly coloured hand-painted tiles of the metro to the frescoes adorning the medieval walls of villas. Beautiful, opulent and charming, Porto and the Douro Valley will both delight and beguile.

Azure holidays take you to 5 star hotels in Portugal situated on the Algarve coast, which is ideal for all travellers. Whether you’re going with your partner, alone or with your family,  you can enjoy indulgent spas, sea views and excellent cuisine.

A taste of the region

Porto and the Douro Valley is famous for its port and table wine, so take the time to explore some of Douro’s vineyards and learn about the history of wine making from the experts. Proud family traditions and closely guarded knowledge is handed down through the generations, resulting in some of the best wines in the world. Old rabelo boats, used to take the wine barrels down river to Porto, can still be seen along the banks of the Rio Douro. Porto is also home to some amazing restaurants, including Michelin-starred fine dining, the many ‘petiscarias’ or tapas-style bars, and the revered port cellars. Dine on everything from 10-course taster menus, to gourmet steaks or fresh Atlantic seafood.

Explore and discover

Exploring Porto and the Douro Valley is a true delight. There are scenic river cruises that meander slowly upstream, and exhilarating train rides that carefully hug the dramatic landscape. Porto itself is best discovered on foot, the myriad of alleyways taking you on a magical mystery tour of the historic centre. Breathtaking views pop up out of nowhere, showcasing beautiful vistas and intriguing scenery. For art lovers, the ultra-modern Musea de Arte Contemporânea is a joy, and the stunning Jardins do Palácio de Cristad will delight and inspire with its many fountains and palm-lined paths.

When the sun goes down

With a charisma all of its own, Porto and the Douro Valley come alive at night with a wonderfully high-spirited yet laid-back vibe. Hospitality is high on the list of priorities for the locals, and the welcome is not just warm but downright sizzling. Drink in the stunning views of soaring bell towers, picture-postcard tumbledown rooftops and majestic baroque churches from one of the many roof terrace bars, or sample the seafood at a harbourside restaurant as the sun slowly sets over the Atlantic.

There is so much to love about Porto and the Douro Valley, from the soaring heights of the ‘miradouros’ or lookouts over historic Porto, to the beguiling serenity of the Rio Douros, gently lapping the shores overlooked by ancient vineyards. Picture-perfect villages – such as Barcos, Provesende, Salzedas and Trevões – tell the tale of traditional winemaking, while the lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia showcase where the wine is aged. With outstanding food and wine, unparalleled hospitality, and breathtaking views and scenery, Porto and the Douro Valley treats the senses and lifts the heart and spirit.

At Azure, we’re here to make sure you enjoy the ultimate holiday to this magnificent region. To discover more about your options and to arrange a trip that’s perfectly tailored to your needs, simply contact our team today.