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Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, famous for its bridges, historic architecture, and, of course, port wine. The city offers history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit tourist destination in Portugal. With this 3-day itinerary in Porto, you will explore the city without missing a thing.
So let’s get started! On the first day of the 3-day itinerary in Porto, we will explore the historic center of the city.
Start your day by visiting Clérigos Tower, one of the main tourist attractions in Porto. The tower is 76 meters high and offers an incredible panoramic view of the city. Next to the tower is Lello Bookstore, where it is recommended to book your ticket in advance as there are usually long lines to enter. As you walk down the street, you will find on your left-hand side on Avenida dos Aliados the “Most Beautiful McDonald’s in the World.” This space was previously occupied by the famous Café Imperial, opened in the city in the 1930s. It is an example of Art Deco architecture with chandeliers and stained glass windows. (Free). Continue walking towards Ribeira and you will find São Bento Station, an ample atrium of the station is lined with twenty thousand pictorial tiles by Jorge Colaço “[…] magnificent, with a truly luminous and deep Delft blue.” (Free)
Before heading down to the river, walk around São Bento Station and go up to Porto Cathedral, which offers a privileged view of the city. Don’t forget to take some photos on the upper deck of the Luís I Bridge. Walk to Ribeira or take the funicular down to this historic riverside neighborhood. Explore its narrow streets, admire the colorful houses, and take photos at Cais da Ribeira. Relax on a wonderful panoramic cruise through the 6 bridges (18€) with a duration of 50 minutes. Pass the Luís I Bridge and reach Cais de Gaia, take the cable car up to Jardim do Morro and enjoy the best sunset in the Invicta. (Spread out a blanket and open a bottle of Douro wine).
To end your first day in style, have dinner at one of the many local restaurants in Ribeira or Cais Gaia. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes, such as the famous Bacalhau à Gomes Sá or typical Francesinha.
On the second day of the 3-day Porto itinerary, we will explore the Porto wine scene and the city’s gastronomy.
Start your day by visiting one of the famous Porto wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a guided tour and taste some of the world’s best Port wines. Have lunch at WOW with a view of the Douro River and explore its museums. Try traditional Portuguese food.
After the Porto wine cellars and WOW, a must-visit is the Palácio da Bolsa, a Neoclassical building classified as a National Monument. In the late afternoon, return to the historic center of Porto and experience a live fado concert.
At night, stroll through the streets of Galerias, full of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, and feel the unique atmosphere of Porto’s nightlife. Get lost in the narrow and lively streets.
Start your day at Matosinhos Beach, one of Porto’s most popular beaches. Have breakfast at the Transparent Building facing the Atlantic. The beach is known for its perfect waves for surfing and excellent seafood restaurants. Next, enter City Park, the largest urban park in the country, known as the “Lungs of the City of Porto.” The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and many other outdoor activities. If you have time, visit SEA LIFE Porto right next to the park in the morning.
After spending the morning at the beach and visiting City Park, head up Avenida da Boavista and find the Serralves Foundation, a true authority in the modern art scene and a must-visit in the city. An idyllic setting with Tree Walk – Museum and a fabulous garden. If you have time, watch the sunset at Foz do Douro, sit on a terrace, and enjoy the view. A good option would be Praia da Luz or Tavi.
To end your 3-day itinerary in Porto in style, continue up Avenida da Boavista and see a concert at Casa da Música, an iconic building in the city, a reference in modern architecture, and a meeting point for music lovers from all over the world.
Porto is known for its excellent cuisine, with many traditional Portuguese dishes to try. Here are some restaurant suggestions to try during your 3-day itinerary in Porto:
There are many accommodation options in Porto, from luxurious hotels to budget hostels. Here are some hotel suggestions to stay during your 3-day itinerary in Porto.
Here’s a summary of the 3-day itinerary in Porto:
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
What is the best time to visit Porto? Spring and fall are the best times to visit Porto, when temperatures are mild and there are fewer tourists.
What should I bring to Porto? Bring comfortable walking clothes, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Where can I try Port wine? You can try Port wine at many Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
What should I try in Porto’s cuisine? Try the famous cod dishes, Francesinha, and local wines.
How can I get around the city? Porto has an efficient public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams. An important tip is to get the Porto Card (valid for 1, 2, 3, or 4 days), which gives you free access to all metro and bus lines and discounts on major museums, monuments, and tourist visits. It is also possible to walk around the city since many tourist attractions are close to each other.
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Porto? Ribeira and Foz do Douro are popular neighborhoods to stay in Porto. Both offer a charming atmosphere and plenty of restaurant and shopping options.
Porto is a charming and vibrant city with many tourist attractions, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. This 3-day itinerary in Porto will allow you to explore the best the city has to offer in a short amount of time. Happy travels!
Autor: Miguel Aguiar
