Possible locations (Porto)

Hi,
I am considering a second home in the Northern part of Portugal incl. Porto. I am an active Rotarian and also working with entrepreneurs. I am retired agewise but have an active life incl. cycling, kayaking, dogs, classical music. Please, give me some hints where to look. I am looking for a smaller apartment -- but where? I intend to spend 2 weeks in the beginning of August.
To get to Porto from Sweden by air, is Lisbon the best alternative?
Regards Nicke