Delivering knockout vistas of the Douro River and a shared waterfront swimming pool, this apartment has it all going on. Great for long stays close to Porto, there's a made-for-action kitchen for cosy meals in, light-filled bedrooms with river views, and we love the artist flares giving the place a homely feel. Set upriver from Porto in the small town of Valbom, while you can reach the medieval hotspots of Riberia on foot (forty-five minutes), it's just as easy to hop in a taxi. Or charter a private boat to arrive at Porto's Cais da Ribeira waterfront in style – the apartment shares a private docking, don't you know.

Home truths:
*The apartment has a garage with ample space to park two large cars.
*This home is part of an apartment building, and you'll share an entrance and lift access. Expect to bump into other guests during your stay.
*You’ll share an outdoor pool, basketball and games field, numerous green areas, and a private dock at this home.
*Some of the bedrooms overlook a nearby road, so expect some traffic noise with the windows open. Light sleepers might want to pack earplugs.