Explore Porto & Portugal with Cooltour Oporto

Northern Portugal is where the country’s deepest roots still thrive — from the green wine traditions of Minho to the rugged beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park. In this unspoiled region, eco hotels, sustainable vineyards, and off-grid retreats offer travelers an authentic, low-impact way to explore mountains, rivers, and centuries-old villages far from mass tourism.

The Douro Valley is emerging as a model for sustainable tourism, where eco-friendly hotels, boutique wine estates, and nature retreats are deeply connected to the region’s landscape and heritage. From regenerative farming to solar-powered design and organic vineyards, these stays offer conscious travelers a low-impact way to experience the beauty, culture, and wine traditions of Portugal’s most iconic valley.

Although Portugal is small, it offers a remarkable diversity of terroirs, indigenous grape varieties, and winemaking heritage. With landscapes ranging from mountains to sunlit plains and climates influenced by both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, it encompasses 14 officially designated wine regions. 

Tourism plays a key role in Portugal’s economy, with a thriving hotel industry and a steady influx of international visitors fueling growth. This guide highlights top accommodation options in Porto—from luxury hotels to charming apartments—to help travelers enjoy their stay to the fullest. 

Every year on June 24th, the city of Porto hosts the Rabelo Boats Regatta, a unique event that honors the heritage of Port wine and the iconic vessels that once transported it along the Douro River. This lively competition, organized since 1983 by the Port Wine Brotherhood, draws crowds to the riverbanks from near Cabedelo to the Luís I Bridge, offering a vivid spectacle as traditional rabelo boats race along the Douro River through the heart of Porto.

 In Portugal, the month of June is filled with vibrant and traditional Popular Saints Festivals, deeply rooted in national culture and originating from ancient summer solstice rituals. These festivities, rich in symbolism and devotion, honor three beloved Catholic saints: Saint Anthony (June 13), Saint John (June 24),Saint Peter (June 29).

Discover everything about the Festas de Santo António in Lisbon, the city’s most iconic celebration. Learn about local traditions like colorful parades, popular weddings, and festive street parties that fill the capital with music, grilled sardines, and joy every June.

Every year, Braga transforms into ancient Bracara Augusta in one of Northern Portugal’s most anticipated events. With historical reenactments, Roman markets, and themed parades, this is a unique journey to Roman times in the heart of the Minho region.

Looking for a scenic walk near Porto? Discover the beautiful coastal route from Matosinhos to Foz do Douro — a flat, beginner-friendly path with stunning ocean views, fresh seafood stops, and iconic local landmarks. It’s the perfect half-day escape just a metro ride away

Porto is a charming and historic European city known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and famous Port wine. Highlights include Cais da Ribeira, Casa da Música, the Luís I Bridge, and Mercado do Bolhão. 

This article presents 15 must-visit spots in the city.