A Romantic 5-Day Getaway to Porto, Portugal

Fall in love all over again in Porto, the city of romance.

22 April 2023

A trip to Porto, Portugal is perfect for a romantic couple's getaway. The city is full of stunning architecture, charming streets, and intimate restaurants perfect for a romantic night out. Sipping port wine together while taking in the picturesque views of the Douro River is a must-do activity while in Porto.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Sunset Views

  • Check-in at The Yeatman Hotel, a luxurious wine-themed hotel with panoramic views of Porto.
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, featuring local Portuguese cuisine.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the historic Ribeira district, admire the colorful buildings and unwind with a drink at one of the many riverside cafes.
  • Catch the sunset at the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, it's a breathtaking sight to see the orange sky reflecting off the Douro River.
  • For dinner, head to the trendy Vogue Café, serving international cuisine and trendy cocktails.
Day 2

Wine Tasting and Garden Strolls

  • Start your day with a scrumptious brunch at the charming Mira Rio restaurant, located in the beautiful Crystal Palace Gardens.
  • Get a deep dive into Portugal's winemaking history with a wine tasting tour at the famous Taylor's Port Cellar.
  • Grab lunch at the cozy Tasca da Foz, serving traditional Portuguese dishes with a modern twist.
  • Take a stroll through the lush greenery at the iconic Serralves Foundation's Park, which includes contemporary art galleries, Art Deco villa and exotic gardens.
  • Enjoy dinner at the romantic Casa de Chá da Boa Nova, located on top of the cliffs and serving seafood specialities.
Day 3

A Day Trip to Guimarães

  • Take a day trip to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Visit the 10th-century Castle of Guimarães, a symbol of Portugal's birth.
  • Explore the charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops and cafes in the quaint town center.
  • Relax with a traditional Portuguese lunch at the picturesque Casa Amarela restaurant.
  • Return to Porto in the evening, head to the trendy rooftop bar at NH Collection to unwind with stunning city views and craft cocktails.
Day 4

Art and Architecture Tour

  • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Clerigos Tower and Church, a baroque masterpiece and the tallest structure in Porto.
  • Visit the world-renowned Museum of Contemporary Art, located in the stunning grounds of the Serralves Foundation.
  • Grab lunch at the cozy Tapabento, serving delicious tapas and a wide selection of wines.
  • Take a stroll through the charming cobbled streets and admire the colorful street art in the artistic Rua Miguel Bombarda district.
  • For dinner, head to the refined Antiqvvm restaurant, located in a romantic 19th-century mansion and known for their inventive cuisine.
Day 5

Beach Day and Sunset Boat Ride

  • Spend your final day relaxing at the idyllic Praia de Matosinhos beach, located just a short ride from Porto.
  • Grab lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants along the beach, try the famous grilled sardines or seafood rice.
  • As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely boat ride along the Douro River, admire the city views and enjoy a glass of champagne.
  • For dinner, indulge in a Michelin-starred dining experience at the breathtakingly beautiful Casa de Chá da Boa Nova, serving modern cuisine in a unique setting.
  • End your trip with a nightcap at the fashionable Gin House bar, featuring an impressive selection of gin cocktails.

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

A Dreamy 3-Day Getaway to Porto, Portugal

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.

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.

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.

A Fun-Filled Family Adventure in Enchanting Porto

Porto, Portugal offers a delightful and enriching family-friendly trip. From its picturesque streets to the iconic Douro River, the city has a myriad of attractions suitable for all ages. Explore historic landmarks like the Porto Cathedral, enjoy a peaceful boat cruise along the river, and indulge in the world-famous local cuisine for a memorable family adventure.