Visit Porto in 3 days

Porto is a beautiful city located in northern Portugal. Known for its iconic bridges, cobbled streets and famous wine cellars, Porto is a must-see for any traveller. With its many museums, traditional restaurants, lively bars and activities for all ages, there is something for everyone in Porto.This guide will help you plan your 3-day visit to Porto in this incredible city by giving you ideas of places to visit, restaurants to try and activities to do. You’ll discover the must-sees of Porto, as well as some lesser-known but equally fascinating places. Prepare to fall in love with this charming city and its friendly people.

Day 1: Discover the historical centre of Porto

On the first day of your trip to Porto, take time to explore the historic centre of the city. Start at Liberty Square, where you can admire the elegant architecture of the granite buildings, including the City Hall, which is one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in the city.Next, head to Porto Cathedral, a Romanesque church dating from the 12th century, which is one of the city’s main symbols. Take time to visit the interior to admire the frescoes and mosaics, as well as the beautiful stained glass windows.Afterwards, stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, where you can discover many traditional shops, such as wine boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Stop by one of Porto’s famous cafés, such as the Café Majestic, which has been open since 1921 and has hosted many famous artists and writers.Finally, end your day with a breathtaking view of the city from the Clerks’ Tower, a baroque tower that stands 75 metres high and offers a panoramic view of the whole city.

Day 2: Explore the districts of Ribeira and Foz

On the second day of your trip to Porto, I recommend exploring the Ribeira and Foz districts. Both of these areas are located on the banks of the Douro River and offer stunning views of the city’s red roofs. Start your day by walking along the Ribeira promenade, where you can admire the colourful fishing boats and traditional houses. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee or local breakfast in one of the many riverside cafes.Next, head to the Foz district, which is famous for its sandy beaches and parks. Take a walk along the beach of Foz do Douro and sunbathe on one of the sun loungers available. If you are in the mood for something more physical, rent a bike and take a ride along the promenade of Foz.At the end of the day, I recommend you go to Serralves Park, which is considered one of the most beautiful parks in the city. It has an art deco garden, a collection of contemporary art, and modern architecture. You can also visit the Serralves Museum, which is a must-see for art lovers.Finally, to finish the day, why not book a table at one of the fish restaurants in Foz, where you can enjoy the best seafood specialities in Porto.

Day 3: Taste the wines of Porto and visit the cellars

Day 3 of your visit to Porto will be dedicated to discovering the local wine culture. The Porto region is famous for its sweet wines, called “Port”, which have been produced here since the Middle Ages. Start your day by visiting one of the city’s many wineries to learn about the production method of these unique wines. You can taste different types of Port and learn more about their history and production.After this tasting, continue your day by visiting some of the most famous wineries in the region, such as the Sandeman winery or the Ferreira winery. You can also opt for a cruise on the Douro River to admire the terraced vineyards that stretch over the surrounding hills. This is a must-do experience for all wine lovers.At the end of the day, why not attend a fado concert, a traditional Portuguese music linked to feelings of love and saudade (nostalgia)? Bars and restaurants in the old town regularly offer live Fado evenings. This is a unique opportunity to discover this emblematic music while enjoying a glass of port.

Other ideas for your 3 days in Porto

Visiting a city is also about letting yourself be guided by your desires. So if you don’t want to follow a guidebook that tells you where to go, here are some ideas of the city’s must-sees. Don’t forget to ask about the Proto card which will give you discounts on activities and transport in the city of Porto.

Click on the Porto Card to order it online

• First of all, the Torre dos Clérigos, an 18th century baroque tower, offers a breathtaking view of the city. It is one of Porto’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city. It is also possible to climb to the top of the tower to enjoy the panoramic view.
• Afterwards, stop at the Lello Bookshop, a bookshop famous for its Art Nouveau architecture and its beautiful collection of books. This bookshop was used as the inspiration for the Hogwarts classrooms in the Harry Potter series.
• For art lovers, a visit to the Porto Museum of Fine Arts is a must. It houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and art objects, including works by some of Portugal’s greatest artists such as Soares dos Reis and Silva Porto.
• Finally, a stroll along Rua Santa Catarina, one of the busiest shopping streets in Porto.

For culture lovers, Porto is full of museums and art galleries. The Serralves Museum is a must, offering a view of contemporary and modern art. The Museum of Photography is also an interesting place to discover the history of photography through the centuries.Finally, for nature lovers, Porto offers many parks and gardens, such as the Eduardo VII Park of Experiments or the Botanical Garden. Strolling through these green spaces will allow you to escape the city and recharge your batteries. There are activities for everyone, and you will not lack options to have a good time in Porto!

Activities for all: from cruises on the Douro to bike rides

For the more adventurous, cycling is a great way to explore the city in an active way. There are many routes on offer, ranging from sightseeing tours to more challenging rides. It is also an environmentally friendly and economical way to get around the city. There are bike rental options throughout the city.Cruising on the Douro River is one of the most amazing activities to do when visiting Porto. There are several options available, ranging from luxury steamboat cruises to traditional wooden boat trips. It is highly recommended to book in advance to avoid disappointment.Sailing along the Douro River, you will have the opportunity to discover the beautiful landscapes of the region, with terraced vineyards and picturesque villages. You can also stop to visit the Port wine cellars, where you can taste the famous local wines.It is also possible to hire a private boat for a tailor-made cruise, where you can plan your itinerary according to your interests. This is a great option for groups of friends or families.Finally, for nature lovers, there are cruises combined with a hike through the vineyards or a kayak trip down the river. There really is something for every taste and level of activity. Book your Douro River Cruise for an unforgettable experience during your stay in Porto.

Where to eat and sleep in Porto: the best options for your stay

When it comes to eating and sleeping in Porto, there are many options available to you.If you want to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, I recommend staying in the Ribeira district. This historic district is full of small traditional restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes such as the famous “francesinha” or grilled sardines. There are also many charming hotels, often in renovated historic buildings.If you prefer a more modern setting, I suggest you go to the Foz district. This new district is located by the sea and offers many trendy restaurants and design hotels. Here you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood dishes while taking in the view of the ocean.Below is a list of 10 restaurants in these areas, reservations are of course recommended:

• “Restaurante Tripeiro”: Rua de São João Batista, 88
• “Taberna do Largo”: Largo de São Domingos, 10
• “Adega Santiago”: Rua Santiago, 19
• “A Cozinha”: Rua do Almada, 169
• “Casa Guedes”: Rua de São Nicolau, 165
• “O Fiel amigo”: Rua do Passeio Alegre, 612
• “Casa de Pasto do Zé”: Rua de Serralves, 818
• “O Marisqueiro” : Rua de Entrepinos, 16
• “Marisqueira Atlântico” : Avenida de Brasília, 865
• “O Pescador”: Rua do Padrão, 7

There are also many options for those on a budget, such as youth hostels or rented flats.Finally, for the more discerning, there are high-end options such as 5-star hotels located in the city centre or boutique hotels in the historic districts that offer personalised service and luxurious rooms.Whatever your preference, you will certainly find the option that best suits your needs for a pleasant stay in Porto.

How to get around Porto: public transport, taxis and bike hire

To get around Porto, you have several options at your disposal:

• Public transport is a good alternative to explore the city in an economical way.
• The bus and metro network is efficient and serves the city’s main tourist attractions. It is possible to buy single tickets or day tickets for more flexibility. Fares vary depending on the area you are in and it is also possible to buy tickets for return trips to neighbouring cities.
• Taxis are also available throughout the city, and are a convenient choice for quick travel. They can be hailed on the street, but can also be booked by phone or mobile app. It is important to note that taxi fares in Porto are generally a little higher than in other European cities.

For a more local experience, you can also rent a bike to explore the streets of Porto. There are many bike rental companies in the city, with reasonable rates and options for rental periods ranging from one day to several weeks. This is a great way to explore the Douro coastline and visit the less touristy parts of the city. It is also possible to hire electric bikes for longer journeys or steep slopes. There are dedicated cycle paths throughout the city for cyclists.

Porto by night: Bars and clubs not to be missed

For a memorable night out in Porto, don’t miss the city’s must-visit bars and clubs:

• Start with the “Abadia” bar located in the Ribeira district, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning view of the Douro.
• If you’re looking for live music, head to the “Hard Club” where you can listen to indie and electronic music.
• For a trendier night out, head to the Tetris Club in the Foz district, where you can dance to house and techno music.
• If you prefer a cocktail bar, the “Cinco Lounge” is a must, located in the historic centre of Porto.
• Finally, for a more traditional evening, visit the “Fado” a Portuguese folk music bar, located in the Ribeira district.

There are so many ways to spend an evening in Porto, you’ll have no trouble finding a place you like!

Porto for families: activities and attractions for children

Porto is an ideal destination for families with many child-friendly activities and attractions.The Porto Aquarium is a must-see for families. This aquarium features a wide variety of marine species, including fish, turtles, rays and sharks. Children can also participate in interactive activities such as discovery workshops and feeding sessions. The Porto Aquarium is open every day of the week from 10am to 7pm, prices range from €12 to €15, the aquarium is located at Rua de Passos Manuel 178, 4050-366 Porto.Another great place for kids is the Porto Attractions Park. This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides and rides for the younger ones. Porto Amusement Park is open every day of the week from 10am to 7pm, prices range from €20 to €25, the park is located at Rua de Miragaia 539, 4000-295 Porto.For children who love animals, the Porto Zoo is a must. This zoo offers a wide variety of animal species, including lions, giraffes, elephants and monkeys. Children can also participate in interactive activities such as guided tours and feeding sessions. Porto Zoo is open every day of the week from 10am to 7pm, prices vary between €10 and €15, the zoo is located at Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa 91, 4200-450 Porto.The Porto Science Museum is a must for families. This museum offers a wide variety of interactive exhibits on science, including physics, chemistry, biology and technology. Children can also participate in interactive activities such as discovery workshops and science experiments. The museum is open every day of the week from 10am to 7pm, prices vary between €8 and €12, the museum is located at Rua da Boavista 604, 4149-071 Porto.Porto’s Nature Park is another great place for families. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing and canoeing. Children can also discover the local flora and fauna, and take part in educational activities organised by the park. The park is open every day of the week from 9:00 to 18:00, admission is free, the park is located at Rua do Parque, 4485-191 Vila Nova de Gaia.

Porto in winter: what to do when the temperatures drop

Porto in winter can be an incredible experience, with pleasantly cool temperatures, vibrant autumn colours and fun indoor activities. For culture lovers, there are many museums to explore, such as the Soares dos Reis National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Portuguese and foreign art. The Music Museum of Porto is also a must visit for music lovers, with exhibitions on the history of Portuguese music and regular concerts. Shopping enthusiasts can also take advantage of the city’s many shops and shopping centres, such as the El Corte Inglés shopping centre or the Via Catarina shopping centre.For food lovers, Porto is a paradise, with many restaurants offering traditional comfort food such as fish caldeirada, cozido à portuguesa and bacalhau à brás. The city’s wine bars are also a must, where you can try the famous Port wines and regional wines.For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are walks in the city’s parks, such as the Porto Nature Park or Serralves Park, or activities such as hiking in the region’s mountains.Cooler temperatures can also be an opportunity to relax in one of the city’s many thermal baths, such as the São Vicente Thermal Baths or the Galo Thermal Baths, where you can unwind in the hot pools and saunas. For winter sports enthusiasts, it is also possible to go to the nearest ski resorts in Porto, such as the Vodafone Ski Resort, which offers slopes for all levels and activities for the whole family. Finally, for those looking for a quieter time, Porto’s libraries and cinemas are also good options for a pleasant evening.