Last Updated on April 10, 2024
Looking to wine, dine and calm down on a weekend in Porto? Here’s an in depth 3-day Porto itinerary that takes you on a deep dive into this Portuguese gem.
Poised alongside the Douro River in northern Portugal, Porto is likely one of the oldest European cities, oozing a powerful sense of old-world attraction. Its historic middle was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, and since then has been restored to its unique glory. Today, the town guarantees breathtaking views, delectable gastronomy, and a wealthy tapestry of tradition woven into its very cloth.
We lately spent three days in Porto and it felt like we’d launched into a whirlwind romance with the town itself. Porto doesn’t merely boast historic landmarks; it’s a respiration monument to centuries of resilience and joie de vivre. The disastrous 1775 earthquake solely added an attract to the eclectic city, making it distinct from different Portuguese cities like Algarve and Lisbon.
Weekend in Porto Itinerary
Porto is a kind of cities that’s good for a weekend getaway with a cherished one. Its proximity to the wineries of the Douro Valley and the seashores alongside the Atlantic Ocean have earned its title because the capital of the North. A weekend in Porto is hardly sufficient to scratch the floor, however you’ll get to discover the historic middle, go on a ship trip, and spend a day within the wineries.
In this submit, I’m sharing our Porto itinerary to assist first-timers take advantage of their weekend in Porto. I’ve included particulars on the most effective issues to do in Porto, finest locations to eat and keep on this historic masterpiece, in addition to day journeys to do from Porto.
If you might be planning to journey round Portugal, please do try my Portugal street journey itinerary.
Porto Itinerary Day 1: Historical Downtown
On the primary day of your 3-day Porto itinerary, put together for an early morning journey as you delve into the colourful coronary heart of the town. We shall begin our day within the historic metropolis middle, the place the heart beat of the city beats the strongest.
Join A Walking Tour
To get your self oriented, I recommend becoming a member of a strolling tour. Getting firsthand details about the town from a neighborhood will make your journey way more fulfilling.
There are a number of free strolling excursions led by educated guides that supply informative perception concerning the metropolis. Porto Walkers and Sandeman’s New Europe Tours lead the pack, taking you on an unforgettable journey by means of the town. The Sandeman’s tour departs close to Clérigos Tower at 11 am day by day. Walking excursions can be found right here.
Climb up Clérigos Tower
Perched proudly amidst Porto’s skyline, the Clérigos Tower is a testomony to the town’s wealthy baroque heritage. A real icon of Porto, this towering construction is not possible to overlook, commanding consideration with its elegant spire reaching in the direction of the heavens. The baroque church is adorned with lavish gold detailing that speaks to the town’s storied previous.
For simply $6.50, you possibly can entry not solely the church and its museum but additionally the breathtaking views that await atop its heights. A climb up the tower was the spotlight of my journey. The tower is Open from 9 am to 7 pm, with the final entry thirty minutes earlier than closing. Get entrance tickets right here.
Admire Igreja do Carmo
Undoubtedly certainly one of Porto’s most well-known architectural wonders, the Igreja do Carmo is a sight to behold. This ‘twin’ church, intricately joined with its counterpart, the Igreja dos Carmelitas, creates a mesmerizing spectacle of Baroque magnificence. Perched between these two imposing constructions is the Casa Escondida (Hidden House), a 1-meter-wide abode that may be a poignant reminder of Porto’s historical past.
The architectural marvel was constructed to fill a peculiar hole and improve the aesthetic enchantment of the close by Jardim de Cordoaria. This diminutive dwelling additionally as soon as performed a big function in clandestine affairs. Inhabited till the Eighties, the Hidden House harbored secret conferences through the tumultuous Siege of Porto (1832-1833).
Duck inside Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is a sight to behold for any guide lover. Its Gothic-style inside, characterised by intricate woodwork and beautiful stained-glass home windows, is a testomony to architectural brilliance. When I first strolled alongside Rua das Carmelitas on my go to, I questioned what everybody was queuing for.
Livraria Lello has constructed a status within the wizarding world as a result of J.Ok. Rowling spent a number of years residing in Porto earlier than penning her novels. You’ll be queuing for ages to go to an attractive however small and crowded library however the wait is value it. I used to be largely captivated by the dramatic purple staircase winding as much as the second ground.
Entrance is $5.45 on-line or $6.5 on the door however should you purchase a guide, the value is deducted out of your buy. It’s open from 9.30 am-7 pm so, if the road is lengthy, come early on day 2 or 3. If time’s tight, take into account paying $17.32 for a skip-the-line ticket.
Here’s one thing you would possibly need to take into account: a 3-hour metropolis strolling tour with a go to to Lello.
Visit the São Bento Station
São Bento Station is a testomony to the architectural brilliance and historic intrigue in Porto. Designed by Portuguese architect, José Marques da Silva, this station is hailed as one of many world’s most beautiful railway hubs.
As you step onto its platforms, you might be enveloped by the grandeur of its façade, adorned with over 20,000 blue and white azulejo tiles. Beneath its magnificence lies a story shrouded in mystique and legend. The architectural marvel is on the traditional Benedictine monastery grounds and had been within the pipeline for many years.
The station was solely constructed after the passing of the final nun in 1892. Legend has it that her spirit lingers, a silent guardian overseeing the comings and goings of vacationers as they traverse by means of time and area.
Eat Lunch at Jeronymo S. Bento
After the immersive expertise at São Bento Station, deal with your self to a pleasant lunch at Jeronymo S. Bento Station. The little café sells mouthwatering sandwiches, succulent monkfish, and delectable pies that can tantalize your style buds. Their heavenly brownies and chocolate fudge are an excellent dessert choice.
After lunch, deal with your self to the quintessential Portuguese deal with, pastel de nata (egg tart). Head to Fábrica da Nata on Rua Santa Catarina, a fixture in Porto’s baking scene. Step inside to witness the magic unfold earlier than your eyes as expert pastry cooks deftly craft every golden-brown custard-filled delight.
Wander down Rua de Santa Catarina
In the afternoon, stroll down Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s bustling predominant procuring artery. Here, a vibrant tapestry of native boutiques and worldwide manufacturers awaits consumers. Amidst the thrill of commerce, the mystique Chapel of Souls provides a contact of historic attraction to the fashionable environment.
Rua de Santa Catarina exudes an air of romance and class, with one thing thrilling occurring round each nook. Its attract is simple; no marvel I discovered myself returning to this vigorous avenue time and time once more.
See the Capela Das Almas (Chapel of Souls)
Tucked away within the bustling Rua de Santa Catarina lies a real hidden gem – the Capela Das Almas, also called the Chapel of Souls. The stunning exterior makes an exquisite backdrop in your Instagram images. Adorned with 16,000 blue and white tiles, this chapel is each photographer’s dream come true.
There is just a little historical past to it too! Depicting scenes of the demise of St Francis of Assisi and the martyrdom of Santa Catarina, these tiles inform tales of religion and sacrifice. Access to the chapel is free to all.
Get Lost in Mercado do Bolhão
Located only a stone’s throw away from the Chapel of Souls, the Mercado do Bolhão is a vibrant testomony to Porto’s wealthy cultural tapestry. Since its inception in 1839, this bustling market has been a beacon of native commerce. From the freshest catches of the ocean to succulent cuts of meat, and a medley of seasonal produce, the market has a lot to supply.
While right here, you possibly can bask in home made meals providing a style of genuine Portuguese delicacies. The market lately underwent renovation and now additionally has memento outlets. But what really units Bolhão Market aside is the spirited “pregão,” the place distributors vie in your consideration with their melodious outcries.
Have Dinner at Restos du Marche Bolhao
For the quintessential Porto culinary expertise, make your technique to Cafe Santiago for among the finest francesinha. The dish includes tender steak, sausage, and ham sandwiched between slices of sentimental white bread. The sandwich is then drenched in a luscious, beer-infused sauce that’s as tacky as it’s decadent.
And the crowning glory – a wonderfully fried egg perched on high. However, this culinary hotspot tends to get overwhelmingly busy at peak hours. But belief me, the wait is nicely value it for a style of Porto’s gastronomic delight at its most interesting.
Porto Itinerary Day 2: Ribeira
Breakfast at My Coffee Porto
Start Day 2 with breakfast at My Coffee Porto, a boutique café perched midway down the steps between the town and Ribeira. The spot provides not solely wonderful espresso but additionally beautiful views to kickstart your day.
I used to be blown away by the refreshing acai bowl and the divine pastel de nata. With every chew, it was evident that each dish was crafted with care and a spotlight to element. The espresso, too, lived as much as its status, complementing the meal completely.
Explore the District of Ribeira
Head to the Old Town to indulge the charms of Ribeira. The picturesque haven was acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage website in 1996 and boasts a kaleidoscope of colourful 18th-century townhouses.
Ribeira pulsates with vitality, providing a pleasant array of waterfront eating places the place the scent of grilled sardines fills the air.
Stroll alongside Rua das Flores
Rua das Flores is a captivating avenue in Porto that traces its origins again to the early sixteenth century. It as soon as housed the town’s most luxurious outlets and was significantly famend for its opulent goldsmiths through the nineteenth century.
Today, this 500-year-old avenue is a bustling hub of exercise, adorned with stylish cafes, eclectic boutiques, memento outlets, and attractive eating places.
Drink within the Views at Miradouro da Vitória
For sweeping views of the town head to Miradouro da Vitória. From this vantage level, you might be handled to a mesmerizing vista that unfolds like a masterpiece portray. You will see the sprawling wine lodges of Gaia, the Dom Luis I bridge, and each iconic landmark of Porto converges in a wide ranging tableau.
The historical convent, the glass dome of Palacio da Bolsa, and the Sé Cathedral are additionally seen from right here. However, the journey to Miradouro da Vitória is a treasure hunt by itself. You will wander by means of the winding streets of the Old Town to get to this viewpoint.
Have Lunch at Taberna dos Mercadores
After a morning of strolling and sightseeing, there’s no higher technique to refuel than by indulging in a pleasant lunch at Taberna dos Mercadores. This quaint restaurant could also be small in measurement, however it packs a punch in taste. With only a handful of tables each indoors and outdoor, securing a spot requires a little bit of effort, however the reward is nicely value it.
Enjoy conventional Portuguese delicacies with starters like their delicious fish soup, adopted by mains like salted sea bass, freshly grilled and bursting with taste. For these searching for a style of the ocean, the octopus is a wonderful choice whereas the stuffed partridge guarantees a culinary expertise value savoring.
For a lightweight lunch, head to Wine Quay, a boutique bar tucked alongside the scenic waterfront. They promote among the most scrumptious Portuguese tapas I’ve ever tasted. These are meticulously curated to tantalize your style buds and have an beautiful collection of cheeses, sausages, and preserved delicacies.
Cross the Luís I Bridge
After your lunch in Ribeira, you’ll go to the Luís I Bridge to admire the view on this a part of Porto. Straddling the Douro River with elegant arches and complex ironwork, the bridge is an important hyperlink between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Whether you go for the decrease or higher stage, you may be handled to unparalleled views of the river beneath and the cityscape past.
Take the Six Bridges Cruise
Next up, you’ll head to Vila Nova De Gaia, a suburb famend for its illustrious wineries. The finest technique to get to Gaia is by becoming a member of the Six Bridges Cruise. You’ll be handled to scenic views of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia, significantly the red-roofed buildings that gleam underneath the solar’s mild caress.
As the boat gracefully glides beneath these architectural marvels, you’ll end up immersed in a realm the place previous and current converge. You can board the boat from Cais da Ribeira or Cais de Estiva in Ribeira. Alternatively, you possibly can be a part of the cruise after crossing the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia. Book a tour right here.
Taste some Port
Gaia is the birthplace of port wine and a must-see in your 3 days in Porto. Port wine’s intriguing historical past stems from a intelligent response to French taxation woes. In an try and beat the hefty taxes levied on Bordeaux wine, the British turned to the wines of Portugal’s Douro Valley.
However, the Portuguese wine obtained spoilt on their manner house. On their subsequent journey, the Brits added a slug of brandy to assist protect the wine. Their ingenuity is what created what the world at this time is aware of as port wine.
You will discover a number of historic port homes providing excursions and wine tastings on this space. On my journey to Gaia, I joined the Cálem Cellars tour which turned out to be an exquisite resolution. The tour provides museum entry, wine tasting, cheese, and chocolate tasting.
Dine in Vila Nova de Gaia
After an eventful afternoon in Gaia, head to Badio Gold to refuel with some scorching grilled meats. The particular meat menus have tantalizing choices like T-Bone, Tomahawk, Empty Naco, and Costeleton.
For vegans searching for a culinary oasis, a visit to Padoca Vegan Restaurant in Vila Nova de Gaia is an absolute should. Here, you may be handled to a pleasant array of vegetarian delicacies. Renowned for its tantalizing burgers and soul-warming soups, Padoca guarantees gastronomic bliss.
Get Lost in Jardim do Moro
To finish day 2 on a excessive, head to Jardim do Moro to observe the sundown over the Douro River. It was the spotlight of my day on my journey. Perched majestically above the Douro River and Ribeira district, Jardim do Moro casts a spell.
You can entry Jardim do Moro by strolling up the hill or catching the cable automobile from Cais de Gaia station. I can’t consider a greater technique to cap off your day in Gaia. I cherished each second right here.
Port Itinerary Day 3: Day Trip
Conclude your weekend in Porto with a day journey. Spend the day within the beautiful Douro Valley, one of many oldest wine areas for a day of wine tasting, or get some solar on the Senhor da Pedra Beach, Aveiro, and Costa Nova.
Explore the Douro Valley
Revered as one of the picturesque landscapes, Douro Valley embodies a mix of pure magnificence and historic significance. As the birthplace of port wine, its undulating vineyards and terraced slopes inform the story of centuries-old winemaking traditions.
But the journey provides way more than simply superb wine. On your technique to Douro, you can see meandering roads clinging to rugged cliffs, and quaint family-run vineyards. The expertise alone makes this journey worthwhile. Douro Valley Wine Tour.
See the Senhor da Pedra Chapel
It could be a disgrace in case your journey ended with out you experiencing some seaside time. A visit to Senhor da Pedra is precisely what you want in your final day. Senhor da Pedra chapel is perched atop rugged rocks with its hexagonal silhouette a placing characteristic in opposition to the huge expanse of sand.
With this journey, you possibly can see the chapel and in addition benefit from the serene seaside. Senhor da Pedra is simply 10km from Porto and this sand pan is a peaceable retreat away from the vacationer crowds. Take a taxi from Porto or an adventurous bike trip alongside the flat coastal path. You can hire out a motorcycle for less than $13 a day.
Wander in Parque de Serralves
Between Porto and Foz, you can see an attractive nature oasis spanning 18 hectares. The park has a wealthy range of timber and shrub species.
At the center of the property, there’s a placing pink Art Deco villa, with a museum and cinema, providing a glimpse into the area’s creative heritage. To entry Serralves, you’ll pay about $21. Also, an entry ticket is on the market from Get Your Guide proper right here.
Soak up the Sunshine at Aveiro and Costa Nova
A day journey to Aveiro and Costa Nova is a superb technique to finish your Porto 3-day itinerary. Perched between the ocean and a serene lagoon, Aveiro is traversed by canals as soon as navigated by vibrant moliceiros (conventional boats).
The colourful vessels are actually iconic symbols of the town. But Aveiro’s attract extends past its scenic waterways and the Portuguese “Venice” can also be identified for its elegant artwork nouveau structure throughout its streets. While right here, you may as well study concerning the historical past of salt on the open-air salt pan museum.
Just a brief drive away, Costa Nova is simply as endearing as Aveiro because of its picturesque seaside homes and delightful white sands. You can entry Aveiro from Porto by taking a practice or bus. To get to Costa Nova from Aveiro, you possibly can take a taxi or Uber. Or take into account taking this guided tour.
Porto Travel Guide
How To Get To Porto
Porto Airport (OPO) is the second largest airport in Portugal. There are low cost and direct flights right here from many components of Europe, together with Madrid, Paris and Amsterdam. You can discover flights from London to Porto for as low cost as $50 return.
From New York to Porto, a return flight will value about $500 relying on which month you resolve to journey. July and March are peak seasons for this journey. Search for flights right here.
How To Get Around Porto
By Metro
If you hate the thought of strolling all through your journey then taking the metro is a handy and inexpensive choice. Porto’s metro seamlessly blends underground routes inside the metropolis middle with above-ground tracks extending into the suburbs. A single journey is sort of inexpensive ($1.31)
To decrease the value additional, purchase an Andante Card. The card will permit you hassle-free top-ups at station machines. A 24-hour go is priced at $7.63 and a 3-day card for $16.34 which is great worth for cash.
By Bus
Getting round Porto by bus may be an environment friendly and inexpensive technique to navigate the town. With an Andante Card, you’ll hop from one level to a different at simply $1.31 per journey and $2 with money.
You can depend on Google Maps to plan your journey throughout the town. However, take into account that buses could not all the time adhere strictly to the schedule. So put together for potential delays every now and then.
By Tram
Trams in Porto are extra of a touristy exercise than a transport choice. Trams within the metropolis result in the charming Foz district. So, if you wish to see this a part of city then taking the tram is probably the most superb and adventurous manner.
They depart each 20 minutes for $3.27 for every leg of the journey. It’s value noting that through the peak months, trams get very crowded which can bitter your expertise. It is way more environment friendly and cheaper to take the bus when vacationers roll into city.
Cable Car
To traverse between the elevated and decrease areas of Vila Nova de Gaia, go for a cable automobile trip. Offering a pleasant journey throughout the Douro River, the cable automobile is each sensible and an exhilarating vacationer expertise. For simply €6 for a one-way journey or $9.81 for a spherical journey, you possibly can hop aboard and effortlessly glide between ranges.
By Car
If you’re doing a Portugal street journey, I extremely advocate choosing a automobile rental. Navigating Porto by automobile provides flexibility and comfort, permitting you to discover the town at your individual tempo. You can simply hire a automobile on the airport with only a legitimate ID, driver’s license, and a bank card for deposit.
For dependable service and aggressive charges, I all the time select UncoverCars.com for my leases. We rented a Tesla for our latest Portugal street journey and cherished having the comfort of an electrical automobile. Search for automobile leases right here.
Best Time To Visit Porto
The finest time to go to Porto is in spring from April by means of October. During this era, the town enjoys a light local weather. Thanks to the Atlantic winds and the Douro River, Porto maintains nice temperatures, making summer season warmth extra bearable than in Lisbon.
Porto has the best common sunshine hours per 12 months in Europe, and even through the peak summer season months of June, July, and August. During the summer season, temperatures don’t exceed 86 levels Fahrenheit.
Travel Insurance for Porto
Whether you’re spending a month or a weekend in Porto or a month, having journey insurance coverage is a should. It provides safety in opposition to unexpected incidents and emergencies. Read my journey insurance coverage information for detailed insights.
Among journey insurance coverage suppliers, Safety Wing shines as my most popular selection. I personally use their Nomad Insurance plan. With cheap charges and excellent customer support, they excel in guaranteeing peace of thoughts all through your travels.
Where To Stay In Porto
Budget: Selina Porto
Staying in Selina Porto provides digital nomads the possibility to cowork, meet folks and be a part of a communit whereas in Porto. The resort is positioned inside strolling distance of main sightseeing spots, together with the long-lasting azulejos-adorned facades. Selina Porto provides yoga classes, workshops, and day by day strolling excursions to its friends. Book Here.
Mid-range: Catalonia Porto
Immerse your self within the wealthy historical past and vibrant environment of Porto by staying at Catalonia Porto. Adjacent to Praça da Batalha and the San Ildefonso church, this resort provides an unparalleled location in certainly one of Porto’s bustling business hubs. Book Here.
Luxury: The Editory House Ribeira
Located in Ribeira, a quintessential district steeped in historical past and attraction, The Editory House is a beacon of hospitality. Each room on this boutique resort is a sanctuary of consolation and magnificence, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploration. Book Here.
Have A Great Weekend In Porto!
I hope this itinerary has helped you propose an epic weekend in Porto. Until subsequent time, Porto – could your streets proceed to whisper tales of the previous and guarantees of the longer term, echoing the resilient spirit of this charming metropolis!
Be positive to go away a remark beneath if in case you have any questions. Read extra of my articles to get concepts in your subsequent weekend journey:
Disclaimer: This submit accommodates affiliate hyperlinks i.e. should you guide a keep by means of certainly one of my hyperlinks, I get a small fee at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you in your help!
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