Porto 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Porto

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Centre

  • Morning: Arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) and take a taxi or metro (Line E) to your accommodation in the city centre.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Luis I Bridge (Ponte Luís I), explore the lively Ribeira neighbourhood, and stroll along the picturesque Cais da Estrela waterfront.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine at Casa Guedes, known for its mouth-watering Francesinhas (sandwiches).
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel or hostel in the city centre, such as Hotel Porto Santa Maria or Hostel Porto Wine House.
  • Tips:
    • Buy a Viva Viagem card for discounts on public transportation and attractions.
    • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.

Day 2: Porto’s Rich History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the stunning São Francisco Church (Igreja de São Francisco), a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Porto Wine Cellars (Caves do Porto) along the Douro River, learning about Port wine production and sampling some varieties.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Fado show at Café Luso, accompanied by dinner at Restaurante O Paparico.
  • Things to know:
    • The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Porto is famous for its Port wine, but also try the local Vinho Verde.

Day 3: Modern Porto and Beaches

  • Morning: Visit the trendy Bolhão Market, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Head to Matosinhos Beach (Praia de Matosinhos), a popular spot for sunbathing and surfing.
  • Evening: Dine at Restaurante O Gordo, serving modern Portuguese cuisine with a focus on seafood.
  • Transportation:
    • Take tram 1 or bus 500 to reach the beach.
    • Consider purchasing a ** Porto Card** for unlimited public transportation.

Day 4: Day Trip to Douro Valley

  • Morning: Take a scenic train ride (CP - Comboios de Portugal) to Peso da Régua, in the heart of the Douro Valley.
  • Afternoon: Visit a wine estate, such as Quinta do Noval, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Evening: Return to Porto and enjoy dinner at Cantinho do Avillez, a modern Portuguese restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Tips:
    • Book your train tickets in advance to ensure availability.
    • Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for the day trip.

Day 5: Explore the Riverside and Gaia

  • Morning: Cross the Douro River using the Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte Dom Luís I) and explore the charming town of Vila Nova de Gaia.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Taylor’s Port Wine Cellars, one of the oldest and most renowned wine producers in Porto.
  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at The Yeatman, with breathtaking views of the city.
  • Things to know:
    • The riverside area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
    • Gaia offers stunning views of Porto from its hillside location.

Day 6: Last-Minute Explorations and Departure

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos), designed by Nicolau Nasoni.
  • Afternoon: Explore the lively Bolhão neighborhood, known for its shopping streets, cafes, and pastry shops.
  • Evening: Return to the airport for your departure flight.
  • Tips:
    • Allow ample time for security checks and transportation to the airport.
    • Consider purchasing some Port wine or local products as souvenirs.

Additional Tips and Information

  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Weather: Porto has a mild oceanic climate, with moderate temperatures throughout the year. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.
  • Safety: Porto is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Enjoy your trip to Porto!