A visit to Portugal would not be complete without visiting Porto, the city that gave the country its name, and the home of the world-famous Port wine. Porto is not as well connected internationally compared to Lisbon, but it is just a few hours away from the capital city by train or car. MICE groups should have no problem meeting in Lisbon and then spending a few leisure days in Porto, or better still hold the entire meeting or incentive programme in Porto and North Portugal.

There is much to discover here in Porto, making it a natural destination for “Amazing Race”-styled, team-building activities. Treasure hunt through narrow streets, explore interesting landmarks including the Clérigos Tower, the exquisite LELLO͛ bookshop that inspired J R Rowling’s Harry Potter novels, the oldest grocery shop, Café Guarany, Bolhão market and more. Those in need of some shopping therapy after a long day at the conference will be delighted to find it in Catarina Street – the best pedestrian and shopping area where they can also sip coffee in the city’s oldest café – the Majestic. Into the night, new quarters of Cândido dos Reis and Galeria de Paris, provide the best of night life in Porto downtown with its trendy and design cafés and pubs. Go down the steep road towards the Douro River and you will find the Ribeira Old Quarters. Amongst these historical and heritage sites are modern, well equipped conference hotels and venues capable of handling small to medium-size meetings and incentive groups.

But this is just the city of Porto, neighbouring town Matosinhos has many restaurants that offers the freshest seafood, and is also where the largest expo and convention centre Exponor is located. And across the Douro River is the city of Gaia where most of the Port wine cellars are located, and where some of the best resorts and restaurants are located.

MICE organizers should really consider extending a few more days to visit the Douro Valley wine region and other historic North Portugal cities, as there are even more to discover. After all, they are all just a couple of hours away.

As in Lisbon, old neighbourhoods and quarters in Porto and its surrounds are slowly being spruced up and there are signs of economic recovery. For now, the accommodation and meeting rates remains competitive. MICE organizers must not miss out this four-Unesco Heritage Sites-in-one-region destination.

For more information, please visit: Portocvb.com