Porto, Portugal-day-trips

Best Day Trips from Porto, Portugal

Porto is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding regions of Northern Portugal. From stunning coastal towns to picturesque countryside villages, there are plenty of amazing day trip options within easy reach. Here are some of the best day trips from Porto:

1. Aveiro and Costa Nova ( approx. 1 hour by car or train)

  • Explore Aveiro’s charming canals, colorful houses, and vibrant fish market
  • Visit the stunning beach town of Costa Nova, known for its striped houses and delicious seafood

2. Guimarães (approx. 30 minutes by car or train)

  • Discover Portugal’s birthplace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval castle and historic center
  • Wander through the picturesque streets, visit the Ducal Palace, and try some local pastry specialties

3. Douro Valley Wine Region (approx. 1-2 hours by car or train)

  • Visit wine estates and vineyards in the scenic Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Take a boat tour along the Douro River, enjoying stunning views and learning about port wine production

4. Matosinhos and Senhora da Hora (approx. 30 minutes by car or metro)

  • Visit Matosinhos, known for its beautiful beaches, seafood restaurants, and lively atmosphere
  • Explore the charming village of Senhora da Hora, with its historic center and picturesque river

5. Ponte de Lima (approx. 1 hour by car)

  • Discover this ancient Roman settlement, with its well-preserved bridge and historic center
  • Visit the stunning Ponte de Lima Thermal Springs, a natural oasis surrounded by lush greenery

6. Espinho and Miramar (approx. 30 minutes by car or train)

  • Explore Espinho’s beautiful beaches, casino, and lively promenade
  • Visit the charming village of Miramar, with its stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean

7. Santiago de Compostela, Spain (approx. 2-3 hours by car or train)

  • Visit this iconic pilgrimage site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in neighboring Spain
  • Marvel at the stunning cathedral and historic center, steeped in history and culture

Getting There:

Porto has excellent transportation links to these destinations:

  • Train: Frequent services from Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã stations to Aveiro, Guimarães, Douro Valley, Matosinhos, Ponte de Lima, and Espinho.
  • Bus: Regular buses from Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto bus station to these destinations.
  • Car: Rent a car in Porto and drive to your chosen destination (approximately 30 minutes to 2-3 hours).
  • Tour operators: Join guided day trips from Porto to explore these destinations with ease.

Accommodation:

If you prefer to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options available in each of these destinations. Book ahead to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Insider Tip: Consider purchasing a Viva Viagem card, which offers discounts and free admission to various attractions across Northern Portugal.

With so many amazing day trip options from Porto, you’re sure to find the perfect excursion to suit your interests!