An Epic 5-Day Adventure in Porto, Portugal

Explore the hidden gems of Portugal's northern gem, Porto.

03 May 2023

A trip to Porto, Portugal as a tourist is a unique experience that offers a taste of the country's rich history and culture. With its stunning architecture and scenic views of the Douro River, it is a picturesque destination for travelers. The city also offers delicious food and wine, along with a vibrant nightlife and friendly locals.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploring

  • Check into the Pestana Palácio do Freixo Hotel, a former palace turned luxury hotel overlooking the Douro River.
  • Grab some lunch at Casa Guedes, known for their famous pork and cheese sandwiches.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant Ribeira neighborhood and explore the picturesque streets and buildings.
  • Visit the stunning Sé Cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.
  • End the day with dinner at Adega São Nicolau, where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes and great wine.
Day 2

Port Wine Tasting

  • Take a leisurely cruise up the Douro River and admire the breathtaking scenery.
  • Visit the famous port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia and indulge in a tasting at Cálem or Graham’s.
  • Dine at Réstaurante DOP, where Michelin-starred chef Rui Paula serves up innovative Portuguese cuisine.
  • Catch a performance at the beautiful Teatro Nacional São João.
Day 3

Culture and History

  • Explore the historical and lively Bolhão Market, filled with fresh produce, meats, and crafts.
  • Visit the contemporary art museum, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Take in some culture at Casa da Música, a concert hall known for its unique architecture.
  • Have dinner at The Yeatman’s restaurant, a Michelin-starred establishment with a wine list featuring over 1,000 labels.
  • End the night with a seaside stroll along the promenade at Foz.
Day 4

Exploring Beyond the City Limits

  • Day trip to the stunning seaside town of Aveiro and take a picturesque canal boat ride.
  • Explore the baroque-style gardens at the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza in Guimarães.
  • Try the local specialty dish of roast kid meat at the rustic Tasquinha da Linda in Entre-os-Rios.
  • Visit the 18th century Matosinhos Church and enjoy fresh seafood for lunch at nearby O Gaveto restaurant.
  • Return to Porto in time for sunset over the river.
Day 5

Relaxation and Farewell

  • Take a morning stroll through the charming Ribeira Square.
  • Relax at the tranquil Jardines do Palacete de Cristal, scenic gardens with stunning views of the Douro.
  • Return to Casa Guedes for one final pork and cheese sandwich or to sample their famous broa (corn bread).
  • Take a trip to the beautiful Casa de Serralves, a contemporary art museum with stunning gardens.
  • End the day with a farewell dinner at Boeira Garden Hotel’s restaurant, with Mediterranean cuisine and a stunning atmosphere.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Porto on a budget: 3 days of culture and cuisine

A trip to Porto, Portugal on a limited budget is a great way to experience all that this historic city has to offer. With affordable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and free or low-cost attractions, it's easy to make the most of your stay. From exploring the winding streets of the old town to taking a scenic boat ride down the Douro River, there's plenty to see and do without breaking the bank.

Romantic Long Weekend in Porto, Portugal

A trip to Porto, Portugal for a romantic getaway promises a charming blend of history, culture and scenic beauty. From savoring the city's famous port wine to exploring the old town's winding alleys and riverside walks, there's no shortage of romantic things to do. With its stunning sunsets, enchanting architecture, and intimate vibe, Porto is the perfect destination for a lovers' escape.

4-Day Adventure in Porto: Culture, Wine & Nature

Porto, Portugal is a vibrant city with plenty to offer tourists. Get lost in the winding streets of the historic Ribeira district or admire the stunning views from the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Explore the city's famous wine culture by visiting a port cellar or simply indulge in the local cuisine and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.

Porto: A Day of Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

A trip to Porto, Portugal offers an unforgettable experience for any tourist. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Douro River, visit historic landmarks such as the Torre dos Clérigos, and indulge in local cuisine and wine at one of the many charming restaurants and bars scattered throughout the city. Overall, Porto is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of culture, natural beauty, and delectable cuisine.