A great classic hotel helps to define a destination with an authentic "sense of place."  That said, if you really want to feel like you're in Northern Portugal, I suggest a stay at The Yeatman, a luxury retreat nestled on Porto's hillside along the Douro River estuary.  Start each day by enjoying gourmet breakfast (my compliments) with views of one of Europe's oldest city centres from your private terrace.  Head to the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district to traverse the narrowed cobbled streets as they wind past cafes and merchants' houses.  Travel tip: be sure to refer to this city as Porto (over Oporto) to fit in with the Portuguese locals.
 
Private Perks: £72 spa credit, Tour and Port wine tasting, complimentary daily breakfast, early check-in/late check-out, complimentary upgrade, and more