History & port unite in porto

​Oh, Porto!  This charming city in Portugal is the perfect location for your next European adventure with memorable experiences around every corner. Here are my top three favorite must-sees to get you started:
1. Churches and more churches
There’s an endless supply of magnificent, breathtaking churches to explore. Bonus: You can admire many at no cost. Igreja do Carmo is one of my favorites. Designed in a late Baroque style, the beauty of the main altar cannot be described—it must be seen. The outside features azulejo tiles depicting the founding of the Carmelite order and Mount Carmel. Igreja de Sao Nicolau also stands out with blue and white azulejos tiles lining the exterior. Inside, you’ll see baroque and neo-classical styles with gorgeous vaulted ceilings.
2. Cais da Ribeira
Relish in an afternoon of people watching as you stroll along the waterfront of the Douro River. Choose a quaint café to enjoy wine from the Douro Valley paired with local charcuterie eats. Looking up, you’ll see the colorful houses where many locals still call home. This makes for the perfect spot to view the iconic double-decker Ponte Dome Luis I bridge.  
3. Port
Of course, this is a must when in Porto. It’s the national drink, after all! And after a tasting at Taylor’s, I’m a believer. The 10-year-old Tawney Port far surpassed my expectations. We even had some surprise visitors as we sat in the beautiful courtyard and sampled their many varieties—the resident peacock and peachicks on a stroll.
One of best places to stay is Maison Albar Hotels Le Monumental Palace. I may be a bit biased, but the accolades speak for itself. The hotel is part of the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World collection, and it has been highly rated since its 2018 opening.
That’s my top three list of Porto must-see. Now what are yours? It’s an affordable destination, so if you haven’t already touched down in Portugal, make sure to tack it on to your bucket list.