Porto Portugal 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Porto

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Majestic, a beautiful Belle Époque café located in the historic center.
  • Visit the Church of São Francisco (Igreja de São Francisco) to marvel at its opulent baroque interior.
  • Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Ribeira District, admiring the colorful houses and the Douro River.

Afternoon:

  • Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte Luís I) to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can visit several port wine cellars like Taylor’s Port, Sandeman, or Graham’s. Don’t forget to taste a few samples!
  • Head back to Ribeira District and explore the Clérigos Church (Igreja dos Clérigos) and its iconic tower, offering panoramic views of Porto.

Evening:

  • Enjoy dinner at Adega Ideal, a popular spot for traditional Portuguese cuisine.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset over the Douro River, or join a Porto River Cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

Day 2: Discovering Modern Porto

Morning:

  • Begin your day at Bica Coffee Roasters for an excellent cup of coffee in a trendy, industrial setting.
  • Visit the Casa da Música, a contemporary concert hall designed by Rem Koolhaas. Check its schedule for any performances during your visit.
  • Explore the Serralves Museum (Museu Serralves), an art museum set in a beautiful park, showcasing both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Foz do Douro, a coastal neighborhood known for its wide sandy beaches and the Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas).
  • Grab lunch at Café Cubano, which offers delicious seafood dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Visit the Porto Soap Opera Museum (Museu da Sapataria), a unique museum dedicated to traditional Portuguese footwear.

Evening:

  • For dinner, try DOP Burger for some of the best burgers in town.
  • End your day with a walk along Cais da Ribeira, where you can find street performers, artists, and a vibrant nightlife.

Things to Know:

  • Porto’s old town is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot. However, consider getting a River Taxi or the Metro do Porto for quicker transportation.
  • Most shops and restaurants close earlier in the evening compared to other European cities, so plan your day accordingly.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases.
  • Always carry cash, as some smaller stores and vendors may not accept credit cards.

Where to Stay:

  • Pestana Palácio do Freixo: A luxurious 5-star hotel located in a historic palace overlooking the Douro River.
  • Hotel Infante Sagres: A modern 4-star hotel centrally located in the heart of Porto’s historic center.
  • Yes! Hostels Porto Centric: A popular budget option with comfortable dorms and private rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace with views of the city.