Porto
wine tasting tours and winery visits

Porto, Portugal’s second largest city behind the gleaming capital of Lisbon, is a Mecca for port lovers and the best place for a port tasting holiday. But there’s more to Porto than port and you don’t need to be a fortified wine fan to appreciate this picture-postcard city. History buffs will relish in Porto’s old-world charm; foodies will enjoy the local gastronomic delights and wine lovers should not miss the impressive World of Wine.

PORT (& WINE) TASTING TOURS IN PORTO
Porto is best-known for its production of port wines, which are still matured and stored in the cellars that line the banks of the Douro River. Some of the world’s most recognisable port producers, such as Cockburns and Taylors, can be found along the Douro’s southern bank in Vila Nova de Gaia. Expand your knowledge of this fortified wine and its distinctive varieties with a port tasting tour of one (or more!) of Porto’s best port lodges. 
The grapes used in the production of port have been grown for centuries on the steep terraced hillsides of the Douro Valley, which is located around one hour east of Porto. For a full appreciation of port, take a privately guided tour or join a small group for a day trip to the nearby Douro where you can explore the vineyards and meet the wine makers.  

MORE REASONS TO VISIT PORTO
Stroll through Porto’s maze of cobbled streets and you’ll discover architecture dating back centuries with hints of its ancient past still present in the azulejo blue tiles and buildings. From baroque cathedrals and gothic churches to medieval city walls and even an exquisitely beautiful 19th century book shop. It’s no wonder the city’s historical centre, Ribeira, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided tour is the best way to uncover the history behind Porto’s ancient buildings and Winerist can arrange private and small group tours that combine wine tasting with Porto’s cultural highlights.  

WINERIST INSIDER TIP
Don’t leave Porto without sampling a Francesinha. A sandwich like no other, Porto’s signature dish consists of several different meats layered between thick slices of bread, covered in melted cheese and a thick beer-infused sauce.