Day Trips Porto

Day Trips in Porto: Your Ultimate Guide

Welcome to Porto, a vibrant city on Portugal’s northwest coast known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and exquisite food! If you have an extra day or two to spare during your visit, consider these exciting day trips.

  1. Douro Valley Wine Tours 🍷🚤

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 2 hours by car or bus
    • Highlights: Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Douro Valley, visit picturesque villages, and taste some of Portugal’s finest port wines. You can choose between guided tours, self-driving, or even a river cruise!

  2. Guimarães 🏰🌲

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 1 hour by car or train
    • Highlights: Step back in time and explore the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães. Stroll through its medieval streets, visit the magnificent Guimarães Castle, and admire the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Oliveira.

  3. Braga 🏯🕍

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 1 hour by car or train
    • Highlights: Known as the “City of Students,” Braga is home to some of Portugal’s oldest universities. Don’t miss Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a beautiful pilgrimage site with stunning Baroque architecture, and the historic center of Braga, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  4. Penaafirme 🏰🌲

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or bus
    • Highlights: Visit the enchanting Penaafirme village and explore its medieval castle, which dates back to the 12th century. The views over the surrounding mountains and valleys are simply breathtaking!

  5. Aveiro 🛤️🚣

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 1 hour by train
    • Highlights: Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a charming city with colorful art-nouveau houses, canals, and moliceiros (traditional boats). Take a boat ride through the canals, visit the beautiful Salt Road, and enjoy some traditional seafood!

  6. Matosinhos Beach 🏖️🌊

    • Distance from Porto: Approximately 20 minutes by metro or bus
    • Highlights: If you prefer a more relaxed day, head to Matosinhos Beach. Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand, or visit the famous Mercado do Leão (Leão Market) for fresh fish and seafood!