Port and good wine
1. PORTO: THE LAST KILOMETERS OF THE DOURO
Pay attention to these two experiences: see the impressive grandeur of the last kilometers of the Duero and try a port in its century-old distilleries , located just in front of the city, in Vila Nova de Gaia. From the promenade that runs parallel to the distilleries you will get a wonderful view of the city, especially at sunset, when the sun seems to tint Porto's decadent beauty with gold. Although, without a doubt, the best thing about the city is letting yourself be carried away by your appetite and strolling among its blue mosaics. Don't come back without seeing the Cathedral, the Palacio de la Bolsa and the Torre de los Clérigos . Very close to the latter you can admire the Lello e Irmao Bookstore, a neo-Gothic jewel from 1906 where scenes from Harry Potter have been filmed and where all the readers drool. They are right, it is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
In Porto you can treat yourself to an afternoon of shopping and coffee. The originality of the temptations is high and the presentation sumptuous. Cafes are one of the city's great attractions and you'll soon see why. Power up at the Majestic, especially if you like the Belle Epoque. It is second to none. Your mood will be perfect to visit Lobo Taste, an exquisite establishment specializing in leather gloves and felt hats. To browse, take a walk around the Candido Dos Reis Market, located on a street famous for its Art Nouveau buildings. You will find the perfect gift. Even for you.
The art of haggling
two. MARRAKECH: THE PLEASURE OF BARGAINING
The magic of the red city lies in its streets full of life and of course in the commercial hustle and bustle of its Medina, a labyrinth of alleys where getting lost and browsing is a pleasure. And free. You can't miss the souk, a paradise where you can buy cheap and haggle , hit the strand with the seller and put green tea up to your eyebrows . It's not that you put the price, it doesn't go that far, but you can lower it a lot and stay psychologically more satisfied. In addition, you will not be short of temptations. Whether you want to get yourself a new rug for your home or you want to sprinkle your style with oriental touches, you are in the right place.
Do not miss the spice shops but remember that it is not the only market in the city and that haggling is an art in all of them. The geographical location of Marrakech allows for milder temperatures in January . That is why it will not cost you anything to discover its palaces, mosques and gardens, the Majorelle Garden is essential, while the sun loosens you up and gives a pause to the lethargy of the European winter. To get the best views, take a bike ride along its wall.
malt of cinema
3. ISLAND OF MALTA: A BATH OF ART AND LEGENDS
Looking at it on the map you would never have guessed that such a small island could store so much art, so much fortified city, and so much student revelry. Take advantage of the reality one of the corners of the Mediterranean with the most hours of sunshine per year and take advantage of the prices . Where there are students there are bargains. To get situated, the first thing you have to know is that the cities of the island are joined to each other. Malta was built by the Knights of the Order of Saint John and everyone wanted to make their mark. So get ready to see palaces, especially in the fortified city of Mdina, an architectural gem.
If your mind needs a bit of order, you can get it at the Grand Harbor Viewpoint in Valletta. In front of you and framed by a spectacular blue bay, we find those known as Three cities: Conspicua, Senglea and Vittoriosa. Touring them is free. Another plan is to cross the bay by boat aboard a traditional dghaisa for only 5 euros (yes, they are the colorful boats that always appear in the photo). For great oceanfront fish and seafood, head to the restaurants on Vittoriosa Pier. Don't miss the Marsaxlokk fish market in the south of the island, but remember that the best time to see it is on a Sunday morning. And to leave your mouth open, visit the San Juan Co-Cathedral. A baroque wonder that will leave you speechless.
the best sunsets
Four. OIA. SANTORINI: THE BEST SUNSET IN THE WORLD
Take advantage of the general distraction in January to get a discount flight and plant yourself in the Greek islands without the stress of the typical summer crowds, and without the rise in prices that accompanies the high season. The mythical town of Oia, on the no less mythical island of Santorini, is a small fishing port nestled between cliffs. Flipa with the blue and white of its houses, built centuries ago by Venetian ship captains . Take the long-awaited photo of the blue dome that challenges the Mediterranean and browse through the typical cave houses of the locals.
In winter, everyone is much friendlier. Fundamental: do not leave without having enjoyed a sunset. Oia's is essential, and although the list of sweet adjectives is endless, we refer to the saying that a picture is worth a thousand words. Yes, it's really worth it. Depending on your budget, you can enjoy it from a viewpoint, in a cafe or on a boat. In any case, it will be an indelible memory.
Ferrara: much more than three products
5. FERRARA: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF LUCREZIA BORGIA
The quiet Ferrara, stately and traditional in equal parts, little is lavished on the most touristic circuits in Italy . Something that is certainly noticeable in their prices. For this reason, we suggest that you discover one of the best kept secrets in the country and let yourself be captivated by the unmistakable medieval essence that has competed for centuries with a rich Renaissance past.
The city chosen by Lucrezia Borgia to spend the last years of her life, has the adventurous soul of its most illustrious parishioner and distributes its spectacular urban planning between narrow medieval brick alleys, such as Via delle Volte, and sumptuous Renaissance palazzos such as the Palazzo Diamanti . Soon you will discover the imposing Estense Castle, the monument that articulates an orderly city that is best explored by bike , letting the fresh air of the Po stimulate your senses. If you have time, don't miss out on a boat trip along the Commaccio Canals, a little Venice dotted with restaurants where you can try the region's specialty: eel with tomato and onion.
The lovers of Teruel
6. TERUEL: A ROMANTIC GETAWAY
Since we already know that it exists, we have no choice but to check it. Especially if you are looking for a romantic and affordable getaway where everything is close at hand. To illustrate the first part you must visit the mausoleum of the famous lovers, whose ill-fated love story dates back to the 13th century . You will find it in one of the chapels of the Church of San Pedro. A good excuse to start exploring its Mudejar art, declared a World Heritage Site in 1986.
It is a delight to walk through its streets letting yourself be assaulted by its stylized towers. The Cathedral and the Churches of San Martín and San Salvador are essential. Once steeped in art, you will have no choice but to enjoy its excellent cuisine where ham, Calanda peaches and, of course, lamb and sweets shine. Do not go home without a few liters of oil from Bajo Aragón, you will be surprised.
the london eye
7. LONDON: YES, DESPITE THE POUND'S ARROGANCE...
... of how expensive its public transport is, and that it is very possible that it rains, the January sales in London are still a must see for bargain hunters . And not only because of Harrods, but because of the gigantic On Sale sign that seems to hang from every establishment in the city. Don't miss out on deals from Primark, basics from New Look, 50% off trends from Topshop and ultra-affordable chic from Forever 21, fresh from the US.
A great advantage is that there are many companies that offer low-cost flights and another is that there are more and more affordable hotels and respectable delighted to see you arrive loaded with bags. We suggest you investigate Housetrip. You can rent your own house at a very good price to complete the experience.