The small Portuguese town boasts several similarities to Barcelona (Image: Getty) A "hidden gem" in Portugal 's Douro Valley is often overlooked by tourists in favour of more popular destinations. Nestled on the banks of the Balsemao River and surrounded by lush vineyards, the picturesque city of Lamego boasts a rich history dating back to the seventh century. Despite its proximity to Porto , it remains off the beaten track, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of northern Portugal's more frequented routes.

Lamego's status as a less popular tourist destination means it offers a peaceful retreat from the busier Portuguese hotspots , providing an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. function loadOvpScript(){let el=document.createElement('script');el.

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