Porto, like its larger and perhaps better-known southern sister Lisbon, has a long and storied history, sits on a photogenic river and is currently enjoying an explosion of interest from international travellers. But the two cities are very different, in looks and personality. Here are some suggestions to whet your appetite for a visit to

Lisbon is an old, layered and complex city, begging for a deep dive to really experience it. Each neighbourhood has distinctive charms, so it’s worth a little advance research to hone in on a personal itinerary. If time is short, any cut-to-the-chase picks to get a real sense of the city would have to include

“Romantic” and “magical” are words often used to describe Portugal as a whole, but they particularly apply to Sintra, a small town about 30 minutes from Lisbon. For centuries, this area offered the Portuguese royal court a cool and peaceful summer escape from the heat and bustle of Lisbon—hence the grand palaces and noble manor

The Camino de Santiago or Way to Santiago, is known for its yellow arrows and distinct scallop shell symbols leading to Santiago de Compostela – and to the tomb of the Apostle Santiago (Saint James). Whichever Camino or “Way” one takes: the Portuguese, Coastal, French or Basque, whether hiking, biking or riding on horseback, the