Porto, Portugal 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Downtown

  • 🏨 Accommodation: Consider staying in the historic center for easy access to main attractions. Recommendations include Hotel Infante Sagres, Casa do Passadouro, or Pestana Porto.

  • 🗺 Explore Ribeira: Start with a stroll along the beautiful Douro Riverfront (Ribeira). Visit Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city.

  • 🍴 Lunch: Try Francesinha (a hearty Porto sandwich) at Café Lázaro or Marés Vivas.

  • 🛤 Church Hopping: Visit Church of São Francisco and Church of St. Catherine for their stunning baroque architecture.

  • 🚧 Transportation: Walking is the best way to explore Porto’s compact downtown. For longer distances, use public transport (metro or bus) or book a taxi/Uber.

Day 2: Ribeira to Foz

  • 🏛 Palácio da Bolsa: Discover this neoclassical palace with guided tours that include the Arab Room and the Stock Exchange Room.

  • 🚤 Cable Car (Teleférico do Gaia): Ride the cable car from Cais de Ribeira to Miradouro da Vitória for stunning views of the Douro River.

  • 🍴 Lunch: Enjoy seafood at O Galo Cantor or Restaurant Kais, both in Foz do Douro.

  • 🏝 Matosinhos Beach: Relax and soak up the sun at this city beach.

Day 3: Wine Tasting & Livramento

  • 🍷 Wine Tours: Visit vineyards in Gaia or take a Douro River cruise to explore the wine region. Recommended tour providers include The Cellar Tours, Wine & Porto Tours, and Porto Walkers.

  • 🍴 Dinner: Have dinner at Livramento, a charming neighborhood with a variety of restaurants like Casa de Chá da Boa Nova (reservations required) or Adega S. João.

Day 4: Arts & Crafts

  • 🎨 Soares dos Reis National Museum: Explore Portuguese art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century.

  • 🛍 Boavista: Visit this trendy neighborhood for shopping at Bolhão Market, Rua de Santa Catarina, or Mercado Bom Sucesso.

  • 🍴 Lunch: Try traditional Portuguese cuisine at Adega São João or O Afonso.

  • 🎭 Teatro Sa da Bandeira: Check for performances of opera, ballet, or concerts during your visit.

Day 5: Day Trip to Guimarães & Braga

  • 🚌 Guided Tour: Book a day trip to Guimarães and Braga with a local tour operator like Porto Walkers or GetYourGuide. Explore the medieval architecture of Guimarães, known as the “cradle of Portugal.” Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary in Braga for breathtaking views and a funicular ride.

  • 🍴 Farewell Dinner: Return to Porto for your final dinner. Consider dining at Cafe Cubano or Casa Conceição.

Tips & Things to Know:

  • Language: English is widely spoken, but Portuguese is the official language. Basic phrases are always appreciated!

  • Currency: Euros (EUR) are used in Portugal.

  • Weather: Porto can be rainy, so pack layers and an umbrella. The best time to visit is from June to September for milder weather.

  • Public Transport: Porto has a reliable public transportation system, with metro, buses, trams, and the funicular. Tickets can be purchased at stations or using the Andante card (reusable ticket).

  • Safety: Like any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas and at night.

Enjoy your trip to Porto! Embrace the local culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes Portugal has to offer. 🇵🇹 #PortoTravelItinerary