With the capital being such an established conference and incentive destination and the Algarve being very familiar to most, we were keen to explore what else Portugal had to offer. 

Porto might be Portugal’s second city, but it certainly has its own identity, appeal and unique features. With its blend of history, balmy weather, culture, great food and nightlife it has the perfect ingredients for corporate groups. Perhaps its biggest draw is the Douro River running through it – which can be followed for miles into the breath-taking valley and offering programmes that effortlessly combine city and countryside. This blend is one of Porto’s strongest unique attractions.

So a bit more on The Douro Valley:

• Scenically it’s beautiful – a wide, winding river, set amongst rolling hills and vineyards that stretch for miles
• Only 90 minutes from the city by road, but consider an overnight boat trip if you’ve time in the itinerary – or take the train
• You're spoilt for choice with the numerous Quinta’s (wine producing estates) – for private visits, dinners, tastings, traditional experiences (we visited the House of the Farmers and made bread) and a bit of grape crushing…a rather strange sensation, but a ‘must-try’
• We stayed at the Douro Royal Valley Hotel – a 5* contemporary hotel on the banks of the Douro and a seriously cool view from the pool

Finally, a few points worth noting:

• Porto is well connected with both major national and low cost carriers
• Only 20 minutes from Porto International Airport to the city centre
• Warm balmy Summers, mild in Spring and Autumn - a little more rain in Winter to keep it green; I visited at the end of September and the weather was fantastic – sunshine, blue skies and temperatures comfortably in the mid-20’s
• Porto is a 900 year old ancient city crammed full of stunning architecture and offering a really diverse range of venues
• Porto was awarded the Best European Destination 2017 by Best Of Europe
• Porto is crammed full of excellent 4* and  5* hotels
• Some of the best river cruises in the world along the Douro River
• The Port…of course!