Porto, Portugal-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Porto

  • Morning: Arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) or take a train from Lisbon
  • 9:00 AM: Check-in at your hotel:
    • Hotel Infante Sagres (4-star) - €80/night
    • Casa da Calçada Boutique House (3-star) - €60/night
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the São Francisco Church (Igreja de São Francisco), a stunning Gothic church with intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations
  • 11:30 AM: Walk to the nearby Lello Bookshop, one of the most beautiful bookstores in Europe, famous for its stunning architecture and literary significance
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Café Santiago, a cozy spot serving traditional Portuguese cuisine (€10-15/person)
    • Try their famous Francesinhas sandwich (€5) or a simple but delicious Bifana sausage roll (€3)
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Ribeira neighborhood, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Fado music at Casa da Música, a unique concert hall that hosts live performances throughout the day

Day 2: Porto’s Iconic Landmarks

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the iconic Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), one of the most impressive Gothic churches in Portugal
  • 10:30 AM: Take a stroll along the Praça da República, a grand square surrounded by historic buildings and monuments, including the famous Carolina Michaelis Monument
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Restaurante O Paparico, a cozy spot serving traditional Portuguese cuisine (€15-20/person)
    • Try their famous Bacalhau à Brás (cod with potatoes and onions) or a delicious Frango Grelhado (grilled chicken)
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Luis I Bridge (Ponte Luís I), one of the six bridges that cross the Douro River
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the nearby Vila Nova de Gaia, a charming town with beautiful beaches and scenic views
  • Evening: Enjoy a drink at The Yeatman, a luxurious hotel with a stunning rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of Porto

Day 3: Wine and History

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Taylor’s Port Wine Lodge, one of the oldest wine cellars in Portugal, for a guided tour and tasting (€15/person)
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby Santo António Church (Igreja de Santo António), a beautiful 17th-century church with stunning architecture
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at A Tasca, a cozy spot serving traditional Portuguese cuisine (€10-15/person)
    • Try their famous Caldo Verde (green broth) or a delicious Bitoque sandwich (€5)
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Museu da Cidade (City Museum), which offers a fascinating look at Porto’s history and cultural heritage
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Douro River, enjoying the scenic views and picturesque surroundings

Day 4: Beach Day

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the beautiful Matosinhos Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Portugal, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters
  • 11:30 AM: Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant, such as Restaurante O Farol, serving traditional Portuguese cuisine (€15-20/person)
    • Try their famous Arroz de Pescado (fish rice) or a delicious Tuna Tartare
  • 1:30 PM: Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or take a leisurely walk along the promenade
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the nearby Santo António Market, a bustling marketplace offering fresh produce and local handicrafts

Day 5: Explore More of Porto

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Clérigos Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto, offering breathtaking views of the city
  • 11:30 AM: Take a stroll through the nearby Jardim Botânico da Universidade do Porto (University of Porto Botanical Garden), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Casa Guedes, a cozy spot serving traditional Portuguese cuisine (€10-15/person)
    • Try their famous Feijoada à Tricana (bean stew) or a delicious Bifana sausage sandwich
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the nearby Museu dos Transportes e Comunicações (Transport and Communications Museum), which offers an interesting look at Porto’s transportation history

Transportation:

  • Porto has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can buy a rechargeable Porto Card, which allows you to travel on all forms of public transportation.
  • If you prefer to drive, be aware that parking in Porto can be challenging, especially in the city center.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions during peak season (June-August).
  • Try traditional Fado music and Portuguese cuisine at local restaurants and bars.
  • Don’t forget to try a glass of Port wine at one of the many wine cellars and lodges throughout Porto.

Other things to know:

  • Porto has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Be prepared for occasional rain showers during the spring months (March-May).
  • The city is relatively flat, making it easy to explore on foot.
  • Don’t miss the beautiful Porto River views from various points throughout the city.

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Porto!