Unwind in 48 hours: Porto Fun Guide

Discover Porto's stunning sights, savor its delicious wine, and get lost in its charming streets.

03 May 2023

A trip to Porto promises an unforgettable experience with its historic charm, bustling atmosphere, and scenic beauty. As a tourist, you can explore the dazzling architecture, sample delicious wine & food, and take a leisurely cruise along the Douro River. Whether you're looking for cultural enrichment or simply a relaxing getaway, Porto caters to all tastes and preferences.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Porto's Charm

  • Where to Stay: The Yeatman
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast overlooking the Douro River at The Yeatman hotel
  • Wander the colorful streets of Ribeira and take in the views of the river and its many boats
  • Explore the iconic Sao Bento train station and admire its intricate tile work
  • Visit the Porto Cathedral and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city
  • Indulge in some Port wine tasting at one of the many cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
  • End the day with dinner at the trendy Tapabento, known for its inventive gastronomy and beautiful presentation
Day 2

Beach & Seafood Fun

  • Where to Stay: Hotel Teatro
  • Spend the morning at the picturesque Foz do Douro beach, less than 30 minutes away by tram
  • Enjoy a seafood lunch at the historic O Gaveto, where the fish is always fresh and the views of the Atlantic Ocean are unbeatable
  • Take a walk along the scenic Matosinhos beach promenade and admire the colorful fishing boats and their humble fisherman
  • Visit the contemporary art museum Serralves and stroll through its beautiful gardens
  • Cap off your trip with some traditional Francesinha at Cafe Santiago, a messy but delicious sandwich filled with ham, sausage, and steak, and topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce. Don't forget a Super Bock beer to wash it down.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Porto, Portugal by plane is to fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) which is located about 11 kilometers northwest of the city center. Major airlines like TAP Portugal, Ryanair, and EasyJet operate direct flights to Porto from major cities in Europe and beyond.

Car

Driving is also a popular way to get to Porto with the A1 highway connecting Lisbon and Porto. The road trip takes about 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Portuguese countryside.

Train

Travelers can also reach Porto by train with its main train station being Campanhã Station, which is located about 5 kilometers east of the city. Trains from Lisbon to Porto are convenient and provide scenic views, but travel time can be up to 3 hours depending on the train you take.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Porto, travelers can arrive at nearby towns such as Vila Nova de Gaia and Matosinhos by boat. These towns have marinas and are just a short distance from Porto via public transport. The closest international cruise port is in Lisbon and travelers can take a train, bus or car to Porto from there.

Bus

Travelers who want to reach Porto by bus can take the Rede Expressos bus service which operates throughout Portugal. The trip from Lisbon to Porto takes about 3.5 hours and buses from other major cities in Portugal also operate regular routes to Porto.

More travel plans

Porto: A 4-Day Family Adventure of Charm and Seafood

Porto, Portugal is a perfect destination for a family friendly trip with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant city charm. Families can explore the narrow cobbled streets of the historic Ribeira district, visit the iconic Livraria Lello bookstore, and enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Douro River. With delicious food options and numerous parks and gardens, Porto offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Porto in 3 Days: Explore, Taste, Relax!

Porto, Portugal is a vibrant city boasting stunning sights of medieval architecture, picturesque streets and crowded riverside cafes with delicious Portuguese cuisine. As a tourist, you can explore the historic center of Porto by walking, hop on a cruise to take a scenic view of the Douro Valley or indulge in wine tasting and tour of the Port wine cellars. There are also various sandy beaches along the coast that are perfect for relaxing.

A Whirlwind Weekend in Porto: Family Fun and Food

Porto, Portugal offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a mix of culture, stunning architecture, and delightful outdoor activities. Families can explore the historic district of Ribeira, visit iconic landmarks like the Livraria Lello bookstore, and enjoy a river cruise on the scenic Douro River. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and nearby beautiful beaches, Porto is a perfect destination for an unforgettable family adventure.

Porto, Portugal: The Ultimate 3-Day Family Adventure

Experience the charm and history of Porto, Portugal on a family friendly trip. Take a leisurely stroll along the colorful Ribeira district, indulge in delicious pastéis de nata, and embark on a boat tour along the Douro River for breathtaking views of the city's iconic bridges. Make lasting memories as you explore the Livraria Lello bookstore, a source of inspiration for J.K. Rowling, and visit the futuristic World of Discoveries museum for an interactive and educational journey through Portugal's maritime history.