The ancient port city of Porto spans a gorge at the mouth of the Douro River . Located in the Oporto region in Northern Portugal, it is country's second largest city and is considered the economic and cultural heart of the entire region. Steeped in history

and tradition, Porto is renowned for its magnificent monuments, old Roman styled houses, museums and vibrant markets. Your stay in Porto vacation rental rests incomplete unless you tingle your taste buds to its world famous port wine, which is named after the city because it is produced in, and shipped from the area. Counted as one of the most charismatic cities in Europe, Porto spell bounds every discerning traveler with its great historic heritage, fabulous culinary delights, outstanding natural beauty and warm hospitality.

The impressive Oporto Cathedral, the oldest surviving structure, is one of the major architectural highlights of Porto besides the church of Saint Francis, the remnants of the city wall and a couple of 15th century old houses. Check out the neo- classicism and romanticism of the 19th and 20th centuries, which is evident many interesting monuments like the splendid Stock Exchange Palace, the hospitals of Saint Anthony, the buildings in the Liberdade Square, and tile donned Sao Bento Train Station and the beautifully landscaped gardens of the crystal palace. A guided visit along the narrow street of the city to the Palacio de Bolas, Casa do Infante and the Port Wine Museum is worth taking. Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a round of golf at the excellent courses, which are easily accessible from Porto accommodations, go surfing on Campismo Beach or hiking up and down the sand dunes on Granja Beach in Vila Nova de Gaia. Besides you can also practice many other thrilling outdoor sports including sailing, snorkeling, boating, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.

Dining options in Porto are varied ranging from small budget eateries and bistros to upscale restaurants for real epicureans. Many of the restaurants in the city serve a wide choice of tantalizing Portuguese delicacies such as rich tripe stews, which is the firm favorite amongst locals and vacationers as well. You can also pamper your palate to succulent seafood and exotic Asian and European fare with the finest of port wines of the Duoro region. And before you get in to the comforts of your vacation rentals in Porto browse through the vibrant shops and stores and buy lovely clothing, jewelry, and exquisite souvenirs at affordable prices.