As winter descends upon Porto's cobblestone streets, the city transforms into a festive wonderland with nine enchanting Christmas markets dotting its historic quarters. From late November through early January, these magical mercados weave through the city – from the grand Palácio de Cristal to the charming Praça da Batalha – offering visitors and locals alike a uniquely Portuguese holiday experience. Here, the scent of roasted chestnuts mingles with twinkling lights, while local artisans showcase traditional crafts and seasonal delicacies, creating an unforgettable celebration where centuries-old traditions meet modern festive cheer.

August in the Douro Valley is full of unique experiences, from delicious food festivals to natural wonders. Don’t miss the Oxheart Tomato Festival, where local vineyards compete to showcase the best tomato dishes, and witness the traditional almond harvest in Vila Nova de Foz Côa. And for a magical night under the stars, catch the Perseid Meteor Shower, peaking mid-August, for a breathtaking display of shooting stars. It’s the perfect time to experience the Valley’s rich flavors and natural beauty!

Porto is a walkable city, even in rainy weather, but a good umbrella and an extra pair of socks can make all the difference! While taxis and Ubers might seem tempting to avoid the rain, they often get caught in heavy traffic. Instead, opt for Porto's efficient Metro system, which bypasses the city's congestion and keeps you dry. With its zone-based ticketing, the Metro is simple to use once you get the hang of it—making it the perfect solution for rainy days.

November in the Douro Valley isn’t just about the vineyards—it's time to celebrate the olive harvest! As the grape season wraps up, the focus shifts to olives, marking the beginning of another cherished tradition. While the region may not produce vast quantities of olive oil, the dedication to quality shines through. By blending age-old techniques with modern methods, the Douro Valley creates some of the world’s finest olive oils—a hidden gem that’s just as integral to the region’s culture and flavor as its famous wines.

Driving in a new country can be intimidating, but it’s also one of the best ways to explore Portugal’s diverse landscapes. Whether you're navigating historic towns with narrow streets or enjoying the open highways, a car gives you the freedom to see the country at your own pace. In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of renting a car, key tips for driving, and what to expect on Portugal’s roads—from tolls to signage. If you’re considering a road trip, read on to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

When booking tours for your trip, consider going directly through the guide or their website. While platforms like Airbnb Experiences and Tripadvisor are great for browsing, they often charge high commissions—sometimes up to 50%. Booking directly not only saves you money but also supports local guides more fairly. Plus, you’re likely to get a more personalized experience by avoiding mass-market tours. So, do a bit of research, book directly, and enjoy a more authentic adventure!

Immersive experiences take travel to a new level. Rather than just tasting local cuisine, imagine learning to cook it yourself, guided by a local chef in an authentic setting. Recently, I hosted a cooking class at my family house in the Valley, where we not only prepared delicious food but shared stories and laughter around the table. Experiences like these go beyond observation—they create deep connections and memories that last. If you're looking to dive deeper into a culture, consider an immersive experience like a cooking class. You'll take home not just recipes, but unforgettable moments.

Just like opting for a cheap, off-brand phone charger can damage your device, booking a “copycat” tour can lead to a disappointing experience. Reputable tour operators put years of effort into creating unique, well-crafted tours with local connections and thoughtful details. Copycat tours often skip these essentials, delivering a subpar experience that may not be worth the cost. Whether it's tech or travel, quality matters—choose trusted brands and original tours for the best value and peace of mind!

Starting October 1st, Porto implemented new regulations restricting tourism vehicles from entering the city center. This affects all touristic vehicles, including tuk-tuks and classic cars, which now require special permits requested 20 days in advance for limited access. These rules, however, don’t apply to taxis and Ubers, leading to debate within the tourism industry. Many tour operators, including myself, are adjusting by setting pick-up points just outside restricted areas to comply.