Porto 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Porto

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Porto

• Accommodation: Consider staying at the stylish Hotel Boutique Casa do Passadouro or the historic Pestana Palácio do Freixo.
• Transportation: Porto’s public transport system is efficient and affordable. You can use the metro, buses or trams. Consider getting a Andante card for unlimited travel.

Activities:

1. Visit the Ribeira District: Explore the charming narrow streets, colorful houses, and historic churches. Don’t miss the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
2. Check out the Clérigos Tower and Church of São Francisco: These two landmarks showcase Porto’s Baroque architectural style. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
3. Stroll along the Douro Riverfront: Enjoy the scenic views, stop by some street artists, or take a boat tour.

Lunch & Dinner Recommendations:

• For traditional Porto cuisine, visit Café Santiago in Ribeira District.
• Try the seafood at Adega de São João, also in the Ribeira District.

Day 2: Porto’s Historic Cafés & Livraria Lello

Activities:

1. Start your day with breakfast at Café Majestic or Café Guarany. Both are historic cafés with beautiful interiors.
2. Visit the famous Livraria Lello: This beautiful bookstore inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. A small entrance fee is required, but it’s worth it for the unique experience.
3. Explore the Sé Cathedral and the nearby Church of Saint Francis.
4. Take a short trip to Foz do Douro: Enjoy the Atlantic Ocean views, visit the Casa da Índia, or just relax on the beach.

Lunch & Dinner Recommendations:

• For seafood, visit Café Mós.
• If you prefer a cozier atmosphere, try Adega de Castelões in the Miragaia District.

Day 3: Wine Tasting & Bolhão Market

Activities:

1. Visit the Porto Wine Cellars: Options include Taylor’s, Graham’s, or Sandeman. Book a tour to learn about the Port wine production process and enjoy a tasting.
2. Explore the vibrant Bolhão Market: This historic market offers fresh produce, local goods, and a variety of food stands.
3. Visit the nearby Church of Santa Catarina for its unique blue-and-white azulejo tiles.

Lunch & Dinner Recommendations:

• For a casual lunch, visit Café Mura near Bolhão Market.
• For dinner, try the contemporary cuisine at The Wine House.

Day 4: Day Trip to Guimarães & Braga

Activities:

1. Take a day trip to Guimarães, Portugal’s first capital city. Visit the Castle of Guimarães, the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church.
2. Head to Braga, the oldest city in Portugal, and visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and the Braga Cathedral.

Lunch & Dinner Recommendations:

• In Guimarães, try Restaurante A Casa da Caldeira.
• For dinner in Braga, visit the contemporary Santos Restaurant.

Day 5: Departure

• If time allows, revisit your favorite spots, or explore new areas like the Boavista District or the Serralves Museum and Park.
• Head to the airport for your departure. Safe travels!