Porto, the hub of northern Portugal, is a prime example of a national “second city.” Over several generations, many of Europe’s Industrial Age powerhouses fell into decline — not unlike America’s Rust ...

When planning a trip to Portugal, timing can make all the difference between a good vacation and a truly unforgettable one. Travel expert Rick Steves, known for his trusted guides to Europe, has ...

I’m really into “second cities” these days. For generations, Industrial Age powerhouses in Europe turned into what we would call “the rust belt,” while their elegant “first city” counterparts enjoyed ...

Europe is a continent of long-lived cultures, with countless treasured traditions that have survived into modern times. While some of Europe’s customs live on only as clichés or tacky stage shows for ...