Planning a trip to Porto and wondering how many days you need? Whether you have 1 or 5 days, this guide covers all your scenarios. Discover the best things to do in Porto, from iconic landmarks like the Dom Luís I Bridge to hidden gems in the Ribeira district.
This post includes detailed itineraries for 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 days. It includes practical tips on where to stay, how to get around, and the best time to visit. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or those looking to explore Porto in depth. This guide ensures you make the most of your time in Porto. We will share the best tours from Porto so you can see up to 4 other amazing Portuguese cities. Let’s dive in!
Porto Itinerary: 1 To 5 Day Itineraries Map
To support this multi-day Porto itinerary, we created a map outlining all attractions, restaurants, food, and things to do. It provides all the address information you will need during your trip. Your itinerary may look different from others depending on how many days you have in Porto and your personal preferences. Therefore, we’ve included different options throughout the itinerary showcasing the best attractions to help you customize your itinerary. For a more high-level trip planning checklist for Porto, read our city guide.
How Many Days Do You Need in Porto?
How many days you need in Porto depends on your travel plans and what you want to see! For example, we suggest that you need at least 2 days to explore the city of Porto, and up to 3 additional days depending on what day trips from Porto you’re interested in! Porto is near many incredible Portuguese cities with UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s within an hour of a city known as the Venice of Portugal and the Douro Valley wine region.
2 Days in Porto: Great for exploring Porto’s main attractions. Visit the Ribeira district, Livraria Lello, Clérigos Tower, and enjoy a Port wine tasting. Perfect for a short trip exclusively exploring the city.
3 to 5 Days In Porto: Spend 2 days in Porto and use the rest for day trips. Visit the Douro Valley for wine tours, Braga and Guimarães for their UNESCO sites, or Aveiro to see the canals and colorful boats.
7 Days or More In Porto: Best for a slower trip while taking your time in Porto. Visit more nearby cities and self-explore additional wineries.
We stayed 7 days in Porto however, for most travelers, we believe a 5-day Porto itinerary is perfect. We found this was enough time to explore the best of Porto and enjoy the most amazing day trips!
We provide a complete budget breakdown for each day of your Porto itinerary! Portugal uses the euro (€) as its main currency, and all prices are listed in euros for accuracy. You can convert euros into your country’s currency using the current exchange rate. For comparison, approximate prices in USD are also included. Keep in mind that USD values may vary depending on the exchange rate at the time of your trip. Use the currency converter below for real-time updates.
1 Day in Porto: The Perfect Itinerary
Welcome to the first day of your 5 day Porto itinerary! You may ask yourself, where should I start? One of the best things you can do when visiting a new city is go on a local food tour. It’s a great way to learn about the history of the city and discover its food culture. Let’s start the first day in Porto on our favorite food tour in the city!
Day 1 - Morning
Porto Food & Vintage Port Wine Tour
Start your day off by joining the most popular and reputable food tour in Porto. The Porto Food & Vintage Port Wine Tour simply can’t be missed on your Porto itinerary. It was one of our highlights when we visited Porto and learned so much about the city & food.
Let’s dive into everything we did on this 3.5-hour food tour. We started the morning meeting our tour group outside of Bolhão Market (Mercado do Bolhão). It includes 13 sweet and savory food tastings & 7 beverage tastings.
Stop 1: A Taste of History at a Local Grocery Store
You will visit one of the city’s oldest grocery stores (mercearias). You’ll enjoy a plate (tábua mista) with delicious local sausages and Portuguese cheese. Can you guess what pairs well with cheese and meats? If you guessed wine, you’re right! The variety of cheese and meats were top quality, and wine was smooth and refreshing.
Stop 2: Historic Market & A Cozy Wine Bar
Next, you will walk to the most historic market in Porto, Mercado do Bolhão. You will learn about its history and then visit a former flower shop. This flower shop has been transformed into a charming wine bar. Try different types of canned sardines, a Portuguese classic, paired with a glass of refreshing Vinho Verde wine. Hugo, the friendly owner, shared some fascinating stories about Portuguese wines and traditional canned fish.
Stop 3: Coffee and Culture in One of Porto’s Oldest Cafes
If you were wondering where to enjoy a cup of quality coffee, it’s here! You will sit in a historical cafe where you’ll sip on a cup of strong, aromatic coffee (often called “black gold”). If you don’t drink coffee, you can have tea as an alternative. The staff will happily customize your order to your preference. If you wanted a cappuccino or latte that’s possible as well!
Stop 4: A Hidden Gem Loved by Locals
A Portuguese food tour wouldn’t be complete without visiting a tasca. During this stop you will visit a small tasca (tavern) to try arguably Portugal’s most iconic sandwhich. We thoroughly enjoyed a flavorful bifana (pork sandwich) while sipping on a glass of espadal, a refreshing, slightly fizzy wine.
Before we get to the final stop, the tour guide will make a pit stop for a sweet treat. A pastry shop that has been around for over 120 years. These will be brought to enjoy with wine at the next stop.
Stop 5: A Port Wine Masterclass & Sweet Treats
The last stop of the tour ends with a Port wine masterclass in a beautiful wine cellar. You’ll try three different types of Port wine and learn about the rich history and flavors behind this iconic drink. While you enjoy your wine, you will pair the delicious Portuguese treats that the wonderful guide picked up!
Tour Conclusion: What you need to Know
The addition of this food tour to your Porto itinerary is a great way to experience Porto’s cuisine. It’s ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers. Come hungry, there’s enough food for breakfast and lunch. Do you have dietary restrictions? Alternatives are available for vegetarians, nut-free, cilantro-free, alcohol-free, and seafood or shellfish allergies.
Book online in advance and get discounted tickets for kids under 13.
Travel hack: Start your Porto trip with this tour for local recommendations. Your guide will send more tips afterward!
Price: Adults: 85 euros (~$87 USD), Children: 45 euros (~$46 USD)
Tour Meeting Address: outside of Mercado do Bolhão.
The specific meeting point will be communicated before your tour through email.
Day 1 - Afternoon
Igreja do Carmo (Photo Spot)
In the afternoon it’s time for the first photo stop on the Porto Itinerary, Igreja do Carmo. It’s just a 3-minute walk from the wine bar at the end of the food tour. This baroque church is renowned for its blue-and-white azulejo-tiled exterior. Uniquely, it’s separated from the Igreja dos Carmelitas by a narrow house. We didn’t explore the interior, as tickets are required, but the exterior is a must-see! It’s on the direct path to our next stops featuring two iconic viewpoints of Porto!
Price: Outside: Free, Inside 5 euros ($5.27 USD)
Address: R. do Carmo, 4050-164 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
Miradouro da Vitória (Viewpoint)
From Igreja De Carmo, walk 7 minutes (500m) to a panoramic viewpoint in Porto, Miradouro da Vitória. It’s less busy than others on the Porto Itinerary but offers stunning panoramic views. You can see views of the Douro River, Ribeira district, Dom Luís I Bridge, and Vila Nova de Gaia. Porto is known for its miradouros because of its elevation which creates a dramatic, picturesque viewpoint of the city.
Price: Free
Address: R. de São Bento da Vitória 11, 4050-265 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9 AM–9 PM
Rua da Vitória Vista Point (Viewpoint)
From Miradouro da Vitória, walk 3 minutes (210m) to one of our favorite viewpoints in Porto, Rua da Vitória Vista Point. You can capture a picture-perfect photo of this iconic street of Porto with the Porto Cathedral in the distance.
Honestly, we stumbled upon this street and our jaws dropped! A must-visit for a memorable photo to highlight on your Porto itinerary.
Walk down the street until you reach your next stop, Rua Das Flores. From the top, it’s an easy downhill walk that will take about 3 minutes (190m).
Price: Free
Address: R. do Ferraz 38, 4050-141 Porto, Portugal
Rua das Flores (Shopping Street)
Rua das Flores is a lively street in Porto, filled with shops, cafes, and old buildings with lots of character. It’s a great place to walk, relax, and enjoy the mix of history and everyday life in the city. This is only day 1 of the Porto itinerary, and it’s time to stop for one of Portugal’s most iconic pastries.
Price: Free
Address: R. das Flores 4, 4050-416 Porto, Portugal
Castro - Atelier de Pastéis de Nata
From Rua Das Flores, walk 2 minutes (190m) to Castro! Castro makes our top 3 pastel de nata list that we’ve had in Portugal. On day 2 of the Porto Itinerary, you will try the other iconic pastry shop. You can then decide which is your favorite!
So you may be wondering, what is pastel de nata? Pastel de nata is also known as a Portuguese custard tart. It’s a flaky, crispy pastry shell filled with a creamy custard. It is generally served warm, with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top! It’s safe to say, a Porto itinerary isn’t complete without sharing our favorite pastel de nata shops.
Learn more about Castro’s pastel de nata on its official website.
Price: 1.50 euros ($1.55 USD)
Address: R. de Mouzinho da Silveira 61, 4050-420 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9 AM–9 PM
Bolsa Palace
From Castro, walk 3 minutes (200m) and spot Bolsa Palace behind Infante Dom Henrique Park! Bolsa Palace is a 19th-century building with grand, decorative rooms. We decided not to visit inside the palace on this Porto Itinerary. However, you take a quick picture out front on your way to your next stop, Cais De Riberia.
If you’re interested, you check the ticket prices and operating hours on the Bolsa Palace website.
Price: Outside: Free. Inside Adults: 14 euros ($14.45 USD). Inside Student: 9.50 euros ($9.80 USD). Less than 12 years old is free with an accompanying adult.
Address: R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9 AM–6:30 PM
Cais De Riberia
From Bolsa Palace, you will walk 7 minutes (500m) to an iconic boardwalk, Cais de Riberia. As you may have noticed, Day 1 of the Porto itinerary is mainly on the Porto side. On day 2 of the Porto itinerary, you will explore sights on the other side of the Duoro River. This area is known as Vila Nova De Gaia.
Cais da Ribeira is one of the most vibrant and lively streets to explore in this Porto itinerary. As you walk along the boardwalk beside the Douro River, observe the maze of colorful buildings.
While the area is filled with numerous cafés and restaurants, be cautious as many are tourist traps with premium prices. Don’t worry, we’ve got an amazing dinner recommendation coming up!
As you wander through Cais da Ribeira, you’ll also come across various Douro River boat cruises. On day 2 we will explain the benefit of taking it on the Vila Nova De Gaia side.
Price: Free
Address: Cais da Ribeira, 4000 Porto, Portugal
Dom Luís I Bridge
As your day in Porto winds down, take some time to enjoy the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. This stunning landmark is one of Porto’s most photographed spots on the Porto itinerary. From Cais De Riberia there are many great photo spots. The double-deck iron bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia.
If the design feels familiar, it’s because the bridge was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower. You will get to see this bridge again on day 2 when you cross the bridge to the Vila Nova De Gaia side. As you are close to the riverside, you will need to either take the stairs up or the funicular which we will discuss next!
Price: Free
Address: Ponte Luís I, 4000 Porto, Portugal
Funicular dos Guindais
Our dinner recommendations for day 1 of this Porto itinerary are located in the upper part of Porto. As a result, you’ll need to ascend from Ribeira’s riverside. Fortunately, you have two options! A quick and scenic ride on the Funicular dos Guindais or a climb up hundreds of steps.
Option 1: Funicular dos Guindais
It provides a fast, scenic, and stress-free way to get from the Ribeira to Batalha. The funicular connects the lower riverside with the upper city in under 3 minutes. You can enjoy views of Dom Luís I Bridge, and the Douro River on the way up.
Price: Adult: 4 euros ($4.15 USD), Child: 3 euros
Address: R. da Ribeira Negra 314, 4000-509 Porto, Portugal
Hours Of Operation: 8 AM–10 PM
Option 2: Walking Via Escada dos Guindais
If you prefer to save money and don’t mind a bit of exercise, you can tackle the climb on foot. The path involves over 200 steps. The effort level is medium to high, as the steps are steep and uneven in places. It takes 10-15 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace.
Walking also gives you the chance to take in the architecture, narrow streets, and hidden corners that make Porto so special. Overall, we recommend walking if you don’t have any physical limitations. For such a short funicular ride we couldn’t justify spending 4 euros per person during this Porto itinerary.
Price: Free
Address: Escada dos Guindais 32
Day 1 - Evening
Porto Restaurant Option #1 - Brasão Coliseu
Brasão Coliseu is a great restaurant to enjoy traditional Portuguese food during the first day of the Porto itinerary. It’s best known for its francesinha, Porto’s famous sandwich packed with steak, ham, and melted cheese. It’s then covered in a rich, slightly spicy tomato-based sauce.
Make sure to try the truffle and meat rissoles and their massive fried onion—they’re delicious! For drinks, go for the white sangria or a craft beer to round out your meal.
If you’re only in Porto for a day, it’s a good idea to book a table ahead of time. This place gets busy, even on weekdays.
Make sure to try the truffle and meat rissoles and their massive fried onion—they’re delicious! For drinks, go for the white sangria or a craft beer to round out your meal. If you’re only in Porto for a day, it’s a good idea to book a table ahead of time. This place gets busy, even on weekdays.
Visit the Brasao website to make reservations and check the menu.
Price:15-25 euros per person ($15- $26 USD)
Address: R. de Passos Manuel 205, 4000-385 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours:
Daytime Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Friday–Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Evening Hours:
Sunday–Thursday: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Friday–Saturday: 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Porto Restaurant Option #2 - Venn Canteen
Some people may be looking for a vegan restaurant in this Porto Itinerary. It can be challenging to find a top-quality vegan restaurant in Porto. However, albeit a more pricey option, every dish at Venn Canteen was prepared with a lovely fusion of flavors. The restaurant serves small plates which typically are about 9 euros per plate. You can think of it as similar to the tapas style. Therefore, it’s normally recommended to order 3 to 4 dishes per person for a full meal. Our favorite dishes were the compressed watermelon salad and oyster mushrooms!
You can view the complete menu on the Venn Canteen website.
Price: 30-40 euros per person ($31.50 – $41.50 USD)
Address: Rua de Fernandes Tomás 345, 4000-216 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 7–11 PM (Closed Sundays)
2 Day Porto Itinerary - The Best Of Porto
In this 2-day Porto itinerary, consider the previous Day 1 itinerary plan as your starting point. This itinerary is great if you only have a weekend in Porto. Now, let’s dive into Day 2, beginning with our favorite pastry shop in Porto!
Day 2 - Morning
Manteigaria - Breakfast
Day 2 of your Porto itinerary begins bright and early at 8 AM. You don’t want to be late for the first attraction! It’s one of the city’s most popular things to do. However, before diving into today’s adventures, indulge in a light breakfast at Manteigaria. It’s our top pick for not only the best pastel de nata in Porto but in all of Portugal.
The golden, flaky crust perfectly complements the creamy, vanilla custard. A visit to Porto wouldn’t be complete without trying this iconic treat. If you can only add one pastel de nata bakery to your Porto itinerary, make it this one! What better way to kick off Day 2 in Porto than with a sweet, buttery start?
Price: 1.30 euros each ($1.37 USD)
Address: Rua dos Clérigos nº37, 4050-205 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 8 AM–12 AM
Livraria Lello
The first attraction of the day is just a short 3-minute walk from Manteigaria. Livraria Lello is often regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. A must-see on any 2-day Porto itinerary. This attraction experiences up to 5,000 visitors daily.
If you’re wondering how to experience this beautiful bookstore without enduring long lines, we’ve got a travel tip for you. After all, no one wants to spend hours waiting, whether you have 1 day or 2 days in Porto.
The gold ticket gave us priority access. As a result, we were two of the first five people to enter. This early entry allowed us to capture clear photos of the stunning staircase and upstairs area without any crowds. Just five minutes after opening, the staff began admitting people more quickly, and the bookstore started filling up fast. Therefore, if you want a chance to get an unobstructed photo of the bookstore, the gold ticket is recommended.
The gold ticket also includes a voucher worth the same as the ticket price. We were interested in purchasing a book for a souvenir so this worked out very nicely! It’s a win-win—you skip the long line and leave with a unique book from the store.
Price:
General Line: Free
Gold Ticket: 15.95 euros ($16.80 USD) & you receive 15.95 euros store voucher.
Address: R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9 AM–7 PM
Clerigos Tower (Church & Observatory)
Just a 2-minute walk from Livraria Lello is one of the best viewpoints in Porto, Torre dos Clérigos. You need to add this iconic bell tower to your Porto itinerary. It’s a part of the Clérigos Church and stands 249 feet tall. Unlike churches like Igreja de Carmo, you can visit this church for free. Although many come here for the amazing panoramic views.
To reach the top, you’ll need to climb 225 steps, but the view of Porto’s red rooftops is worth it. Keep in mind, that this attraction may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. The stairs are moderately steep and winding.
Torre dos Clérigos was our third stop of the day. Now, it’s time to explore a new area of Porto! You can pre-book tickets below.
Price: Church: Free, Observatory: 8 euros ($8.43 USD)
Address: R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 9 AM–7 PM
Sao Bento Train Station
The next stop on this ultimate Porto itinerary is São Bento Train Station. You might be wondering, why visit a train station? São Bento isn’t just any train station, it’s a masterpiece and one of the most stunning we’ve ever seen. Inside, you’ll find over 20,000 blue and white azulejo tiles. These tiles form murals that showcase everyday life in Portugal; the history of transportation, and significant historical events.
Walking into São Bento felt like stepping into an open-air museum. Even if you’re not catching a train, this is a must-see attraction in Porto. We spent about 5–10 minutes here taking a few photos for the memories.
Feeling hungry for a local Porto restaurant to taste authentic Portuguese food? Let’s head to our next stop!
Price: Free
Address: Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal
Gazela (Portuguese Hot Dog)
Trying traditional Portuguese comfort food on day 2 of your Porto itinerary is a must! About a 10-minute walk from São Bento Train Station is Gazela, famous for its cachorrinho, the Portuguese hot dog. It’s a crispy baguette stuffed with juicy, flavorful Portuguese sausage, a touch of spice, cheese, and a crisp texture. Pair it with a refreshing Super Bock beer, and you’ve got a winning combo!
Gazela is a great stop thanks to its fast service. No reservation is needed, and it accepts international credit cards. Plan to spend about 30–40 minutes to fuel up for the next sights.
Price: Cachorrinho: 4.50 Euros ($4.70 USD), Beer 2.30 Euros ($2.45 USD)
Address: Tv. do Cimo de Vila 4, 4000-434 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 12:00PM – 10:30PM
Day 2 - Afternoon
Largo da Pena Ventosa
From Gazela, you can take a Bolt taxi or walk 10 minutes (750m) to Largo da Pena Ventosa. It’s a quaint, iconic square tucked away in the Ribeira district. This stop allows you to explore the beautiful colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect for a quick stop on your Porto itinerary. You won’t need very long and it’s near one of our favorite viewpoints in Porto!
Price: Free
Address: Largo da Pena Ventosa 22, 4000 Porto, Portugal
Miradouro da Rua das Aldas
Just a 2-minute walk from Largo da Pena Ventosa is a picturesque viewpoint, Miradouro da Rua das Aldas. Porto is famous for its stunning miradouros (viewpoints), and this one offers a beautiful view of the city. It offers a great photo opportunity without taking up too much time on day 2 of your Porto itinerary. Additionally, it’s right beside our next stop, Porto Cathedral.
Price: Free
Address: R. das Aldas 1, 4050-026 Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral
Just a 3-minute walk from Miradouro da Rua das Aldasis Porto Cathedral. Perched atop a hill, this historic landmark offers stunning views over the city. It’s one of Porto’s oldest and most iconic buildings, featuring a blend of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture inside. We purchased tickets for this attraction.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful arches and more blue and white azulejo tile artwork. We bought tickets at the door and spent about 30 minutes exploring.
If you’re planning to do a Port Wine Tasting, a Douro River Cruise, or both, monitor the time. Both these activities need to be done by 6 pm.
Price: 3 Euros ($3.15 USD)
Address: Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours:
Summer: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Winter: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Gaia Cable Car - Jardim Do Morro Station
From Porto Cathedral, walk 9 minutes (700m) to Jardim Do Morro Station. On your way, you will walk across the upper deck of the Dom Luís I Bridge. This is another great opportunity to take your camera out for a few pictures. Although there is one better place on this Porto itinerary to watch the sunset which we’ll share shortly!
We recommend pre-purchasing a round-trip ticket as you will need this ticket to get back up later.
Near the entrance of the Gaia Cable Carat Jardim Do Morro Station, you will find another great viewpoint! Take in the beauty of the Riberia riverside from the Gaia side.This is known as Miradouro do teleférico.
To check daily updates for Gaia Cable Car and operations you can refer to its official website.
Price:
Adult:
1 Way Adult: 7 euros ($7.25 USD)
Round-Trip: 10 Euros ($10.35 USD)
Child:
1 Way: 3.50 euros ($3.60 USD)
Round Trip: 5 euros ($5.20 USD)
Address: R. Rocha Leão 236, 4430-210 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Operating Hours: 10 am – 6pm
Porto 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise
Most of the first 2 days in the Porto itinerary were mainly on the Porto side. Now, it’s time to spend some time across the river in Vila Nova De Gaia. This area offers three popular attractions.
The first thing you can do is take a traditional 6 Bridges Cruise along the Douro River. You’ll enjoy stunning views of Ribeira’s charming streets and Vila Nova de Gaia’s iconic red-roofed buildings from the boat. The tour takes you beneath several bridges while sharing fascinating stories about Porto’s history, and its architecture.
After walking extensively in Porto, we found this relaxing cruise to be a refreshing break. Taking the cruise from the Gaia side you will save 8 euros versus on the Porto side (Cais De Riberia).
Price: 15 euros ($15.89 USD)
Address: Av. de Diogo Leite 135, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Operating Hours:
July to September: 11:00 AM to 6 PM
October to June: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Port Wine Tasting - Taylors Port Wine
Once the river cruise has concluded, it’s time to visit a wine cellar! A Porto itinerary can’t be complete without visiting a port wine cellar. From the Gaia riverside, it’s about a 9-minute walk uphill (~500m) to our favorite port wine cellar! We purchased a Taylor’s Port Wine ticket to visit the largest producer of port wine and one of the first founding houses.
It has a self-guided tour allowing you to walk through at your own pace. Taylor’s produces over 4 million liters of Port wine annually. The tour includes numerous stops where you can learn all about Port wine, its vintages, and its history. The tour will end where you will get to taste two glasses of Port. Additionally, we received a port tonic beverage to take home with us!
Price: 20 euros ($21 USD).
Address: Rua do Choupelo 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Operating Hours: 10 AM–6:15 PM
Cais De Gaia Station - Cable Car
After the port wine tasting, you will be near the Gaia riverside. The walk will be about 10 minutes downhill to the Cais de Gaia Station to board the cable car.
Now it’s time to reveal the best sunset on the Porto itinerary. That is, of course, Jardim do Morro. Use the round-trip tickets you purchased initially to now ascend back to the top, Jardim do Morro Station.
The short 5-minute ride offers another unique aerial view of Porto’s Ribeira district. We initially thought 10 euros was pricey however, we enjoyed it a lot more than we thought! It also gave our legs a nice break from walking up steep terrain.
Price:
Adult:
1 Way Adult: 7 euros ($7.25 USD)
Round-Trip: 10 Euros ($10.35 USD)
Child:
1 Way: 3.50 euros ($3.60 USD)
Round Trip: 5 euros ($5.20 USD)
Address: Av. de Ramos Pinto 331, 4430-233 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Operating Hours: 10 AM – 6PM
Day 2 - Evening
Jardim Do Morro - The Best Sunset In Porto
Your 2 days in Porto itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Jardim do Morro. While Porto isn’t always sunny, if you’re fortunate, you could witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Portugal. It was mainly cloudy when we visited this day however, we still enjoyed the ambience! Locals and tourists gather here to secure a spot on the hill before the show begins. You can purchase beer, water, or other drinks while enjoying live music as the sun sets.
Once the sun sets, it’s dinner time! You can walk across the bridge or call a Bolt if you’re feeling too tired. The walk from Jardim do Morro to dinner is about 20 minutes (1.3km). We recommend taking a Bolt taxi as it will be dark and longer walking distance. It’s time to visit one of Porto’s most unique restaurants located in Mercado do Bolhão.
On your Porto itinerary you need to consider the season of the travel. Depending on the month, the sunset time will vary. You can check the Porto sunrise and sunset times in advance.
Price: Free
Address: Jardim do Morro, 4430-210 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Dinner - Culto ao Bacalhau
Dining at Culto ao Bacalhau is one of the highlights on day 2 of this Porto itinerary. This restaurant specializes in one of Portugal’s most coveted ingredients, cod! From the moment you walk in, the cozy ambiance and friendly staff set the tone for an unforgettable meal. The chef of this restaurant was a finalist in Top Chef Portugal.
Its menu is a creative tribute to cod, blending traditional favorites like bacalhau à Brás with innovative twists. The codfish croquettes with black-eyed peas are a must-try; crispy outside, rich, and flavorful inside. For the main course, the oven-baked cod with caramelized onions and potatoes is a standout. This is best paired with either a Vinho Verde or encruzado, a smooth, oaky white wine. Before leaving, don’t miss the 20-year-old Port Tawny.
For dessert, you have to try the cod mille-feuille. It looks and tastes absolutely amazing, light and so rich with the egg custard sauce. We were blown away by the presentation of the dish. Yes, every dish you will eat including the dessert has a cod component in it. Don’t be afraid, it’s one of the tastiest things we ate on our vacation! We haven’t come across a restaurant this innovative for modern Portuguese cuisine in Porto until now.
Price:€30–40 per person ($31-41 USD)
Address: Piso Galeria, R. Formosa 322 Loja R8, 4000-248 Porto, Portugal (3rd floor of Mercado do Bolhão).
Operating Hours: 12–11 PM (Monday – Saturday)
3 Day Porto Itinerary - The Best Of Porto & The Douro Valley Wine Tour
In this 3-day Porto itinerary, consider the previous Day 1 & 2 itinerary plans as your starting point. We will now share day 3 of the Porto itinerary. Day 3 focuses on exploring the Douro Valley wine region and we provide the highlights of the tour. We share how you can pre-book tickets and experience a Douro Valley Wine tour with lunch. This day tour includes a stop at the charming, picturesque town of Amarante. We have a very detailed blog post documenting every detail you need to know for this day trip below.
Day 3 - Morning
The Charming City Of Amarante
Day 3 of the Porto itinerary starts by boarding a bus from Porto en route to Douro Valley. In the morning you will stop at the charming town of Amarante. You will have an hour to explore its historic streets. Stroll along the scenic Tâmega River, admire the Church of São Gonçalo, and wander past traditional houses and cobblestone alleys. You will have the opportunity to Amarante’s famously cheeky pastry before continuing your journey!
Wine Tasting At The Oldest Port Wine House
You will visit the vineyards and winery of a historic place in the Douro Valley. You will see stunning views and a deep dive into traditional Port winemaking. The tour takes you through the vineyards and cellars before a tasting of three port wines. Afterward, head to the next stop—the Douro Valley Wine Tasting River Cruise
Day 3 - Afternoon
Douro Valley River Cruise
A stop at Douro Valley in your Porto itinerary must include a scenic river cruise. This tour does exactly that. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute Douro River cruise, passing terraced vineyards and winery signs.
Douro Valley Viewpoints & Lunch
Before a multi-course meal, you will see stunning views from Miradouro Escritor Miguel Torga. Afterward, you will head to a family-run winery for a delicious Portuguese feast with unlimited wine. The experience ends with a port tasting, perfectly paired with chocolate cake
Day 3 - Evening
On Day 3, the evening portion of this Porto itinerary is laid back as we’re very tired and full! We arrived back in Porto around 5-5:30 pm and went straight back to the hotel. We were still very full from the late lunch on the tour so we decided not to go out for dinner. However, if you’re looking for another good dinner recommendation, check out Casa Guedes.
4 Day Porto Itinerary - The Best Of Porto & 2 Best Day Tours From Porto
In this 4-day Porto itinerary, consider the previous day 1,2, and 3 itineraries as your starting point. We will now outline day 4 of the Porto itinerary. Day 4 focuses on exploring two nearby new cities on a beautiful day trip from Porto. These two cities are historic and feature Unesco World Heritage sights. Get ready to explore, Braga & Guimarães. We explain how you can pre-book tickets and experience this exact tour. This itinerary will share the tour highlights, we advise you to read our detailed blog post on this day tour.
Day 4 - Morning
Bom Jesus Do Monte - Unesco World Heritage Site
Bom Jesus do Monte is a highlight on day 4 of the Porto itinerary. It’s known for its baroque architecture, panoramic views, and a 573-step staircase. On the day tour, you will have under an hour to explore the grounds.
Explore The City Of Braga
You will then visit the city of Braga. It’s home to Portugal’s oldest cathedral, Sé de Braga. This stunning cathedral blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles and houses the tombs of Portugal’s first king’s parents.
The other notable sites to visit include Arco da Porta Nova, marking the entrance to its historic center. In addition, the picturesque Santa Barbara Garden is beside the 14th-century Archbishop’s Palace. Food lovers can’t miss Frigideiras do Cantinho, famous for its ancient Roman-inspired Bolo Romano cake.
Day 4 - Afternoon
Guimarães City Tour
In the afternoon of this Porto itinerary, you will visit Guimarães. It’s often considered the birthplace of Portugal. Highlights include the 10th-century Guimarães Castle, where Portugal’s first king was born. The UNESCO-listed historic center with its charming squares and cobblestone streets.
After exploring, enjoy a bowl of traditional caldo verde at a cozy tasquinha. Before you board the bus back to Porto, observe the picturesque Garden of Largo República do Brasil.
Day 4 - Evening
As day 4 of the Porto itinerary comes to an end you have a couple of choices. We’re so zonked and for dinner, we did something non-traditional but super unique! Mcdonald’s inside the city center has decor like we’ve never seen before. You’re eating fast food but in a dining room with fine dining-like chandeliers. Alternatively, we mentioned two restaurants on day 2 of the Porto itinerary. Whichever you didn’t visit, you could eat there! Brasao Bistro or Venn Canteen.
5 Day Porto Itinerary - The Best Of Porto & 3 Best Day Tours From Porto
In this 5-day Porto itinerary, consider the previous day’s itineraries 1 to 4 as your starting point. We will now outline day 5 of the Porto itinerary. Day 5 focuses on exploring a beautiful cafe and nearby garden in the morning. In the afternoon, you will take a half-day tour to the nearby city known as the “Venice Of Portugal”, Aveiro. We explain how you can pre-book tickets for the Aveiro tour. This itinerary will share the tour highlights. However, we advise you to read our detailed blog post on the Aveiro day trip.
Day 5 - Morning
Breakfast at Rosi Cafe
It’s day 5 of the ultimate Porto itinerary, and time to start the morning off right! That is visiting one of our favorite specialty coffee and cafes for breakfast or brunch. We love this cafe because not only does it have fantastic coffee, but pastries, and sweet, and savory food options. We loved the berry pancakes and the shrimp toast. The almond croissant was also very tasty. Tip, ask to sit in the beautiful courtyard patio for a nice serene green space.
Price: €10–15 euros ($10.30 -$15.45 USD)
Address: Rua do Rosário, 4050-370 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Panormaic Views At Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is a hidden gem on this Porto itinerary. It offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River. You can walk through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring winding paths, vibrant flower beds, and roaming peacocks.
The park is a peaceful escape from the busy Porto streets, with hidden viewpoints, and shaded benches.
Price: Free
Address: R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-346 Porto, Portugal
Day 5 - Afternoon
Half-Day Tour To Aveiro
In the afternoon of day 5 Porto itinerary, it’s time for a day trip to Aveiro. On this trip you will take a moliceiro boat tour through its canals, passing Art Nouveau buildings and salt flats. Snap photos at Costa Nova’s colorful striped houses, and walk the beautiful boardwalk.
You will have the opportunity to try the famous ovos moles, a 500-year-old egg-yolk treat. Then walk along Canal Central to admire Art Nouveau gems like Major Pessoa Residence, or visit the Aveiro Museum. We recommend not taking the return bus back to Porto to stay in Aveiro for a memorable dining experience.
Day 5 - Evening
Michelin Guide Restaurant In Aveiro
One of the most memorable dining experiences we had during this Porto itinerary. Dinner at Salpoente, set in historic salt warehouses, was unforgettable. Chef Duarte Eira’s Michelin Guide tasting menu showcased the best of Ria de Aveiro.
This restaurant we recommend treating yourself on the last day of the Porto itinerary. The surprise element in the Chef’s Tasting Menu was quite nice. The seafood was top-tier, and the Ovos moles-inspired dessert was next-level. It was worth visiting Aveiro for this meal alone!You can find the menus and prices directly on the SalPoente Restaurant website.
Price: €65–80 euros ($67 -$82 USD) for pre-set tasting menus.
Address: Rua do Rosário, 4050-370 Porto, Portugal
Operating Hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Conclusion
We’ve provided five variations of a Porto itinerary to cater to the number of days you have in the city. Whether it’s a short stay or planning an extended trip, this guide ensures you make the most of your time.
Porto is an incredible city, rich in history, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
Day 1 covers the city’s highlights, from an incredible food tour to exploring Ribeira, and Luis Bridge. A 2-day Porto itinerary allows you to dive deeper, Port wine tasting, a Douro River cruise, and more hidden gems.
By Day 3, you’ll go on the most iconic day trip from Porto, a Douro Valley wine tour. Where rolling vineyards and tastings make for an incredible day of fun. A 4-day Porto itinerary expands your journey with visits to Braga and Guimarães. Two historic cities filled with stunning Unesco World Heritage sites, and culture.
Finally, Day 5 blends more time in Porto with a half-day trip to Aveiro, Portugal’s “Venice,”. Explore the colorful canals and striped houses.
Whether you have just a day or a full five, this Porto itinerary balances history, food, wine, and scenic escapes.
