Welcome to Porto, the charming and historic city on Portugal’s northwest coast. With its stunning architecture, winding streets, and delicious cuisine, Porto is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
This Porto in 3 days itinerary will take you on a journey through the heart of Porto and beyond, from the bustling city center to the peaceful Douro Valley and the beautiful Atlantic coast.
Get ready to explore Porto’s rich history, indulge in local delicacies, and take in breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Let’s begin our adventure in Porto!
Day 1 Porto
9:00 am: SĂŁo Bento Station
São Bento Station is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, and it’s a must-visit spot in Porto. The station is known for its stunning tile work, with over 20,000 tiles that depict scenes from Portugal’s history.
As you explore the station, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the tiles, including the blue and white patterns and the scenes of daily life in Portugal.
10:00 am: Clérigos Tower
Clérigos Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto and offers stunning views of the city from the top. The tower stands 75 meters tall and has 240 steps to climb to reach the top, but the views are definitely worth the effort.
As you climb the tower, you’ll pass by several levels that offer glimpses of the city below, including the beautiful tile roofs and the winding streets of Porto. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city and the Douro River.
12:00 pm: Ribeira District
Ribeira District is a picturesque area located along the Douro River, and it’s a great spot to explore on foot. The district is known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and charming cafes and restaurants.
As you wander through the district, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful architecture and the lively atmosphere. You can also stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants that line the riverfront.
2:00 pm: Port Wine Cellars
No visit to Porto would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous port wine. You can visit one of the many port wine cellars located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting and tour.
As you explore the cellars, you’ll learn about the history and production of port wine and get to sample some of the different varieties. It’s a great way to experience one of Porto’s most famous traditions.
4:00 pm: BolhĂŁo Market
Bolhão Market is a bustling market located in the heart of Porto, and it’s a great spot to experience the city’s vibrant culture. The market is known for its fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as its colorful displays and lively atmosphere.
As you explore the market, you can try some of the local specialties, such as salt cod or Portuguese pastries, and shop for souvenirs to take home. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the sights and sounds of Porto.
Day 2 in Porto
9:00 am: Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is a famous bookstore in Porto and is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The bookstore has a rich history, having been founded in 1906, and is known for its stunning architecture, stained-glass skylight, and intricate wooden staircase.
The store was even said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s descriptions of Hogwarts in her Harry Potter books.If you plan to visit Livraria Lello, it’s recommended that you arrive early to avoid the long queues that can sometimes stretch around the block.
12:00 pm: Lunch at A Sandeira
A Sandeira is a small family-run restaurant that serves some of the best sandwiches in Porto. The restaurant is located just a few steps away from Clerigos Tower and is a great place to stop for lunch. They have a wide variety of sandwiches made with fresh bread and high-quality ingredients, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
2:00 pm: Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé Cathedral, is a magnificent Romanesque-style church that dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can admire the intricate stonework and beautiful stained-glass windows while taking in the history and grandeur of the cathedral.
4:00 pm: Palacio da Bolsa
Palacio da Bolsa is a historic building in Porto that was once the headquarters of the city’s stock exchange. The building is known for its impressive neoclassical architecture and stunning interiors, which include a grand staircase, ornate chandeliers, and beautiful frescoes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history and significance.
6:00 pm: Sunset at Miradouro da Vitoria
Miradouro da Vitoria is a lookout point in Porto that offers stunning views of the city and the Douro River. The viewpoint is located in the Ribeira neighborhood and is a great place to watch the sunset. You can sit on one of the benches, relax, and take in the breathtaking views of Porto at dusk.
After a day filled with sightseeing and culinary delights, you can end your day by exploring Porto’s vibrant nightlife. The city is known for its lively bars and clubs, where you can enjoy some of the best cocktails and music in Portugal.
Day 3 in Porto
9:00 am: Casa da MĂşsica
Casa da MĂşsica is a striking modern concert hall located in the Boavista neighborhood of Porto. The building was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and is known for its unique design, excellent acoustics and for being one of the strangest buildings in the world.
Take a guided tour of the concert hall to learn about its history and architecture, or check the schedule and attend a live performance if there’s one happening during your visit.
10:30 am: Serralves Museum
Serralves Museum is a contemporary art museum located in the beautiful Serralves Park. The museum features rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, as well as a permanent collection of works by Portuguese and international artists.
Take a leisurely stroll through the park and explore the stunning gardens and outdoor sculptures before or after visiting the museum.
12:30 pm: Lunch at Restaurante Cana Verde
By this time you’re probably hungry so you should definitely hit up the famous Cana Verde. They offers delectable Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine, including tasty sardines, tender soup, and unique salads. Don’t miss their perfectly crafted parfait and delicate fruit cake.
Pair your meal with their irresistible Port wine, excellent house wine, or superb dessert wine. Relax in the homely atmosphere after a hard day’s work and enjoy efficient service from the dedicated staff.
2:30 pm: Porto City Park
Porto City Park, also known as Parque da Cidade, is the largest park in Porto and is located near the ocean. The park features beautiful gardens, walking and cycling paths, and even a small lake.
Take a relaxing stroll through the park and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. You can also rent a bicycle or visit the nearby beach if the weather is nice.
5:00 pm: Foz do Douro
Foz do Douro is a coastal neighborhood located at the mouth of the Douro River. The area features beautiful beaches, charming cafes, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the sea breeze, or stop at one of the cafes for a coffee or a glass of wine. The area is also known for its seafood restaurants, so make sure to try some fresh fish or shellfish for dinner.
7:00 pm: Explore the Craft Beer Scene
Porto has become a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts in recent years, thanks to the booming craft beer scene that has taken over the city. With a variety of breweries, taprooms, and pubs, Porto offers a unique and exciting experience for those looking to explore the world of craft beer.
One of the best spots to check out in Porto is Catraio Craft Beer Shop, which not only sells an extensive range of craft beers, but also offers tasting sessions and workshops for those who want to learn more about the brewing process.
For a more immersive experience, head to Fábrica da Picaria, a local brewery that has a taproom where visitors can try their freshly brewed beers while watching the brewing process in action. If you’re looking for something more laid-back, visit Armazém da Cerveja, a beer bar that offers a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of local and international beers.
That concludes our Porto in 3 days itinerary. You can spend the rest of the evening relaxing at your accommodation or exploring some of the city’s lively bars and nightlife.
Conclusion
As your Porto in 3 days excursion comes to a close, you’ll likely be feeling the same sense of wonder and admiration for this beautiful city as so many before you have. From the historic landmarks to the bustling markets and charming streets, Porto offers an unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a new adventure, Porto has something to offer everyone. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can easily discover the best that this city has to offer in just three days.
So why wait? Start planning your trip to Porto today and discover all that this incredible destination has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!
**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.
