How to Spend 2 Days in Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal's second-largest city, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-famous port wine. With two days to explore, you can immerse yourself in the city's unique charm and vibrant culture. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Porto.
Day 1: Discovering Porto's Historic and Cultural Heart
Morning
9:00 AM - Breakfast at a Local Café
Start your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast at a local café. Try a "torrada" (toasted bread) with butter and a strong "café com leite" (coffee with milk).
10:00 AM - Livraria Lello
Visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its stunning interior, with a grand staircase and stained glass ceiling, is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling when she wrote the Harry Potter series.
11:00 AM - Clerigos Tower and Church
Climb the Clerigos Tower for a panoramic view of Porto. The climb is a bit steep, but the views from the top are worth it. After descending, take a moment to explore the adjacent Clerigos Church.
Mid-Morning
12:00 PM - São Bento Railway Station
Head to São Bento Railway Station to admire its stunning azulejos (hand-painted tiles) that depict scenes from Portuguese history. The station is not only functional but also a beautiful piece of art.
Lunch
1:00 PM - Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. Try a "Francesinha," a hearty sandwich filled with various meats, covered with melted cheese and a rich tomato-beer sauce, typically served with fries.
Afternoon
2:30 PM - Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
Visit the Porto Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque building with stunning views over the city from its terrace. Explore the cloisters and admire the beautiful tile work.
4:00 PM - Ribeira District
Stroll down to the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. Wander along the Douro River and take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant area.
5:00 PM - River Cruise
Take a short river cruise on a traditional Rabelo boat to see Porto from a different perspective. This cruise typically lasts around 50 minutes and offers fantastic views of the city's six bridges.
Evening
7:00 PM - Dinner in Ribeira
Enjoy dinner at one of the many riverside restaurants in Ribeira. Opt for traditional Portuguese cuisine, such as grilled sardines or Bacalhau à Brás (codfish with potatoes and eggs).
9:00 PM - Fado Show
Experience the soulful music of Fado at one of the local venues. The melancholy melodies and heartfelt lyrics will give you a deeper understanding of Portuguese culture.
Day 2: Exploring Wine Cellars and Modern Porto
Morning
9:00 AM - Breakfast at Mercado do Bolhão
Start your day with breakfast at Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional market where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee while mingling with locals.
10:00 AM - Palácio da Bolsa
Visit the Palácio da Bolsa, the former stock exchange palace. The highlight is the Arab Room, with its stunning Moorish Revival architecture. Guided tours are available and provide insightful information about the building’s history.
Mid-Morning
11:30 AM - Church of São Francisco
Explore the Church of São Francisco, known for its lavish Baroque interior, gilded with gold leaf. The crypt and museum are also worth visiting.
Lunch
1:00 PM - Lunch at a Café in Gaia
Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and have lunch at a riverside café. Enjoy views of Porto across the river as you dine.
Afternoon
2:30 PM - Port Wine Cellar Tour
No visit to Porto is complete without a tour of a port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Visit one of the famous cellars, such as Sandeman, Taylor's, or Graham's, to learn about the history of port wine and enjoy a tasting session.
4:30 PM - Jardim do Morro
After the tour, head to Jardim do Morro for a relaxing afternoon. This park offers great views of Porto and the Douro River. It's a perfect spot to unwind and take some photos.
Evening
6:00 PM - Sunset at Miradouro da Serra do Pilar
Head to Miradouro da Serra do Pilar for an unforgettable sunset. The panoramic view of Porto and the Douro River is simply breathtaking.
7:30 PM - Dinner in Gaia
Enjoy your final dinner in Gaia. Choose a restaurant with a terrace overlooking Porto to soak in the beautiful night views of the city.
9:00 PM - Night Stroll Along the River
End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Douro River, taking in the night lights and the serene atmosphere of this beautiful city.
