'Hidden gem' European city 'many tourists don't know exists' has sights to rival Barcelona

When you think of a city break in Portugal, your mind may first go to Lisbon or Porto, but according to experts, there is another "hidden gem" city that might not be on your radar. Just one and a half hours drive from Porto is Lamego, nestled in the Douro Valley of Portugal.

According to Cycling for Softies, a specialist European holiday provider: "Many tourists don't even realise that the town exists, but it is a mere stone’s throw away from Porto."

Lamego is a charming city nestled on the shores of the Balsemão River in one of the wine-growing regions of the country, with a history dating as far back as the seventh century.

The travel experts note that, despite its close proximity to Porto, the city remains largely untouched given it is off-the-beaten-track from the usual tourist-trodden routes of northern Portugal. Cycling for Softies spokesperson added: "It is a hidden gem that is perfectly positioned amidst the rows of vineyards in the gorgeous countryside for a peaceful getaway.”

Given the numerous rows of vineyards which surround the city, it's the perfect spot for wine lovers, with vineyard tours starting from just £26, according to Viator.com.

However, it's not just wine on offer here. In fact, according to Cycling for Softies experts, the city also has numerous beautiful sights which can rival the likes of Barcelona.

Likened to Barcelona's Parque Guell, Lamego is home to a stunning area of green space, featuring a magnificent 700-step staircase made up of gorgeous blue and white tiled motifs, leading to one of the city's most iconic landmarks, the Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, a shrine with a dramatic facade and two impressive clock towers nestled in the beautiful gardens at the very top of the hill. From here visitors can indulge in some of the breathtaking views of the city.

Much like Barcelona, Lamego also has its own gothic structures, including the Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral. Set in the heart of the city, it is described as "a symbol of its long-standing history".

The experts said: "With a structure blending several architectural styles - including Romanesque and Baroque - and an intricate golden altar sandwiched between characteristic blue and white tiles, it’s another beautiful historical landmark to explore."

However, unlike similar cities in Portugal and neighbouring Spain, Lamego has notably fewer tourists.

Lamego’s lesser-popular status means the city can be explored peacefully, away from the hustle and bustle of other Portuguese hot spots, making for a relaxing escape and offering an unbeatable base to explore the surrounding region.

The city is also home to some fairly cheap accommodation options too. According to data from Booking.com, you can rent an apartment from £56 a night which has been rated by previous visitors as "exceptional".

Or, if you prefer a boutique hotel stay, 6/5 de Lamego has similarly received an "exceptional" rating from Booking.com customers, with select stays from 64 per night.