1. Alentejo
Elvas, Estremoz, Évora, Monsaraz & Vila Vićosa

2. Algarve
Albufeira, Faro, Lagos, Portimão & Tavira

3. Douro Valley
Barcos, Miranda do Douro, Pinhão & Ucanha

4. Lisbon & Surroundings
Cascais, Ericeira, Estoril, Lisbon, Óbidos, Peniche, Ribatejo Region & Sintra

5. Porto & North of Portugal
Braga, Guimarães, Ponte de Lima & Porto

Best time to visit: May-October

Go for this: Porto, for its laid-back vibe, distinctly Old World aesthetic, its defining Dom Luis I Bridge, intricate Baroque churches (including the 12th century Cathedral), Art Nouveau cafés and the many port wine lodges.

But try this: The charming Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal, because Alfonso Henriques (who went on to be the first king of Portugal) was born there. With narrow cobble streets and delightful plazas with open air cafes, Guimarães is a great example of a traditional and peaceful northern Portuguese city.

Favorite guest experience: The Claus Porto flagship store on Rua das Flores. Since its founding in Porto in 1887, this luxury soap maker built its name on hand-crafted, artisanal soaps and fragrances presented in iconic and vintage-inspired packaging. Their shop is the ideal place to immerse yourself into the world of their unique scents and discover the 130-years of savoir-faire behind this famed Portuguese brand.

Favorite hotel: The Yeatman (Porto). On a hill by the banks of the Douro River, it enjoys breathtaking panoramic views over the Old Town and the river. With a 25,000 bottle wine cellar, it’s a haven for wine lovers. With the only 2-Michelin-starred restaurant in the city, and extensive cellars, it not only offers gastronomic highs but is also regarded as one of Europe's leading wine hotels.

Favorite restaurant: Taberna dos Mercadores, a small, grandmother-style tavern with an open kitchen, featuring traditional and regional dishes like polvo com arroz no forno (octopus rice baked in the oven) and arouquesa meat pot.

Foods:
- Francesinha (a sandwich with different kinds of
meat covered with melted cheese)
- Tripas à Moda do Porto (a stew of cow tripe,
smoked meats and white beans)
- Alheira (traditional smoked white sausage)

Wine:
- Vinho Verde — Varieties: Alvarinho (Albariño)
- Loureiro