
Best Places
Welcome to Cooltour Oporto's blog – your guide to the heart and soul of Portugal! Embark on an exciting journey through the beauty, culture, and heritage of our country. Discover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path experiences recommended by our expert guides. From Porto’s historic center to the Douro Valley, uncover the essence of Portuguese life, including local festivals, ancient tales, and authentic food. Learn insider tips to navigate like a local. All content is prepared with love by Cooltour Oporto, ensuring you experience Porto and Portugal like never before!

Top Eco Hotels and Nature Retreats in the Algarve
The Algarve is revealing a new side of itself — one where eco hotels, nature retreats, and off-grid stays coexist with golden beaches and dramatic cliffs. From solar-powered lodges in the countryside to sustainable guesthouses near protected lagoons, this southern region is redefining sun-and-sea escapes with purpose. For travelers seeking a low-impact, high-reward journey, these green stays offer the perfect balance of nature, comfort, and authenticity.
September 2, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Portugal, Algarve,

Discover Lisbon: What to Visit, Where to Eat and What to Do
Discover Lisbon in its entirety: explore historic neighbourhoods, breathtaking viewpoints and savour the city's typical cuisine. Discover the best restaurants, enjoy Fado experiences and follow 1, 2 or 3-day itineraries. Book exclusive tours with Cooltour Oporto and enjoy excursions to Sintra, Cascais and Ericeira for an unforgettable trip.
August 29, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Lisbon,

Discover Northern Portugal: Minho Region, Braga, Guimarães & Vinho Verde
Discover Northern Portugal on a day trip from Porto, exploring the Minho region’s rich history, faith, and traditions. Visit Guimarães, Braga, and charming towns like Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, and Viana do Castelo, or taste authentic wines on a Vinho Verde tour. With Cooltour Oporto, enjoy small-group or private guided experiences that bring the birthplace of Portugal to life.
August 22, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Braga, Guimarães, North of Portugal,

Douro Valley from Porto: Which Is Better – Guided Tour or Train?
Discover the best way to explore the Douro Valley from Porto — by scenic train or guided wine tour. This guide compares both options with updated prices, pros and cons, and insider tips, helping you choose the experience that suits your travel style.
August 14, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Douro Valley, Porto,

Eco Hotels and Sustainable Stays in Lisbon, Sintra & Ericeira
The Lisbon region is where history meets innovation — and sustainability. From eco-certified city hotels in Lisbon to forest retreats in Sintra and surf-friendly eco-lodges in Ericeira, this area blends urban charm, cultural heritage, and coastal nature with a growing commitment to conscious travel.
August 5, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Portugal, Lisbon,

Eco Hotels, Vineyards & Mountain Escapes in Northern Portugal
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.
July 30, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, North of Portugal, Portugal,

The Best Eco Hotels and Green Wine Estates in the Douro Valley
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.
July 22, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Douro Valley, Portugal,

Best Places to Stay in Porto and Gaia
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.
June 17, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Porto,

15 Unmissable Places to Visit in Porto
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.
April 18, 2025
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,

The 5 Best Port Wine Cellars to Visit in 2025
Want to experience the best Port wine tastings in Porto? Skip the crowded, touristy spots and explore our top 5 must-visit wine cellars for 2025. From historic Port houses to intimate, family-run lodges, this guide highlights the best places to taste premium Ports while learning about centuries-old winemaking traditions.
March 14, 2025
Posted in:Food & Wine, Tours & Experiences, Porto,