A Dreamy 3-Day Getaway to Porto, Portugal

Discover romance in the picturesque city of Porto, Portugal.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Porto, Portugal offers a perfect blend of cultural, artistic and romantic experience. The city is full of historic buildings, meandering cobblestone streets, and charming old-world cafes where couples can enjoy candlelight dinners. The scenic Douro river, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and world-renowned Port wine wineries add to the allure of a romantic getaway to Porto.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the City

  • Check into the Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel, a charming hotel on the banks of the Douro River with stunning views of the historic Ribeira district
  • Embark on a walking tour of the city, taking in the colorful buildings, lively street performers, and iconic landmarks like the Torre dos Clérigos
  • Visit the São Bento Train Station to admire its ornate tilework, which depicts scenes from Portuguese history
  • Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at Restaurante A Grade, which serves up hearty dishes like codfish fritters and grilled octopus
  • Take a leisurely stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the Douro River and the city skyline
  • End the day at the Majestic Café, a historic Art Nouveau café that has been a cultural landmark in Porto since 1921
Day 2

Wine Tasting in the Douro Valley

  • Rise early and head out to the Douro Valley for a full day of wine tasting and sightseeing
  • Visit the Quinta do Seixo winery for a tour of their vineyards and a tasting of their renowned port wines
  • Savor a traditional lunch at DOC, a Michelin-starred restaurant that overlooks the river and serves up delicious seafood dishes
  • Continue on to the Quinta do Portal winery for another tasting, and take in the stunning views of the valley from their panoramic terrace
  • Stop by the picturesque village of Pinhão, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the river and visit the historic train station
  • Return to Porto in the evening and enjoy a romantic dinner at Fish Fixe, a cozy seafood restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere
Day 3

Sightseeing and Relaxation

  • Start the day off with a delicious breakfast at Café Progresso, a traditional Portuguese café that serves up classic pastries and coffee
  • Visit the Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore that is rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series
  • Take a scenic boat tour of the Douro River, which offers a unique perspective on the city's iconic bridges and colorful buildings
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel's rooftop pool and terrace, taking in the stunning views of the Ribeira district and the river
  • For dinner, head to O Paparico, a cozy restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional Portuguese cuisine
  • End the night with a romantic stroll along the Ribeira district, soaking in the lively atmosphere and stunning views of the city at night.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Porto

Welcome to the city that's famous for its wine, its bridges, and its ability to give you a wicked hangover after a night out in the charming Ribeira district. Don't worry, though -- the stunning views of the Douro River will make you forget all about those headaches.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Budget-Friendly Fun: Exploring Porto in a Day

Travelers can explore the charming city of Porto, Portugal on a limited budget by staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or guesthouses. The city offers a plethora of free or low-cost activities, including visiting the historic Ribeira district or wandering through the stunning gardens at Serralves Museum. Food and drink can also be enjoyed for a reasonable price at local markets or cafes, where traditional Portuguese cuisine is always on the menu.

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.

Porto's Playgrounds: A 5-Day Family Adventure Guide

Porto, Portugal offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich culture and stunning landscapes. Explore the historic city center and its beautiful landmarks such as the Clerigos Tower and Ribeira district, while taking leisurely walks along the Douro River. Delight in the authentic Portuguese cuisine and indulge in the famed Port wine tastings, ensuring a memorable and fun experience for the whole family.

Porto, Portugal: Budget-Friendly Fun in Two Days

Porto, Portugal is a beautiful destination to visit on a limited budget. The city offers affordable accommodation options and plenty of free or low-cost attractions to explore. Take a stroll along the Douro River, visit the famous Livraria Lello bookstore, and indulge in the local cuisine and wine without breaking the bank.