How to Enjoy the Perfect Weekend Break in Porto
Looking to spend a weekend in Porto? Great decision! Our 2-day Porto itinerary gives you the lowdown on where to eat, where to stay, and all the things you absolutely cannot miss seeing in this charming Portuguese city
We’d been in London for exactly two months before the dullness of winter set in.
We'd been warned it would be unpleasant, but for two Aussies who had spent the year chasing summer around the world, unpleasant was an understatement.
As wet gloom and grey began to rule the skies, we found ourselves yearning for some winter sun. After a quick Skyscanner search, we settled upon the cheapest warm European winter destination we could find: Porto, Portugal.
It turns out, Porto was the remedy we so desperately needed. It satisfied our Vitamin D cravings and bathed us in glorious sunshine for the entire duration of our stay. But it wasn't just the winter sun that made our time in the little town along the River Douro so wonderful.
Nope, it was the food, the Port, the architecture, the history, and the most brilliant sunsets (check out our what to do in Porto guide!).
Porto is a wonderful little city, made for the curious traveller seeking a new European destination that isn't overrun with tourists.
If you’re after a European winter getaway with a healthy dose of vitamin D, look no further than a weekend in Porto. Here’s our Porto itinerary, filled with all you need to enjoy the perfect Porto city break.
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PORTO ITINERARY: A PERFECT WEEKEND IN PORTO
THE PORTO CARD | A PORTO CITY BREAK ESSENTIAL
Before we get into all the nitty gritty of our weekend in Porto guide, here’s one of our top tips: if you plan to cover most of the key Porto highlights during your visit to the city, we absolutely recommend you purchase a Porto Card.
Choose between 1,2,3, or 4 day cards, which get you free public transport and access to 6 museums, plus up to 50% discount (and some skip-the-line priority) at the majority of Porto’s major attractions, including the Igreja E Torre Dos Clérigos (Clérigos Tower) and Palácio Da Bolsa, and some restaurants.
It’s entirely worth it for those keen to see as much of the city as possible!
BUY | Purchase your Porto Card here
THE ULTIMATE PORTO CITY BREAK
FRIDAY | EXPLORE PORTO’S FAMOUS RIBEIRA
5PM - GET YOUR BEARINGS
After settling at your accommodation, make your way up to the Miradouro da Vitória, a scenic lookout with postcard-perfect views of the river Douro and the jumble of terracotta rooftops that spill down to it.
Surrounded by abandoned buildings, it can look a little sketchy at first glance but don't let the broken window panes of the building next door fool you, this is arguably one of the best spots to take in the sunset in Porto.
After you've watched the fading sun light up the city, wander down into the famous Praça da Ribeira neighbourhood on the shores of the river Douro.
This is one of the oldest parts of town, with beautiful medieval buildings, twisting cobblestone laneways, and riverfront views.
Stroll through the dimly lit backstreets and get your bearings in the city, before settling into a bar for a quick Port or two.
THE DETAILS
Location | Miradouro da Vitória, R. de São Bento da Vitória 11, 4050-018 Porto
9PM - DINNER AT ADEGA SAO NICOLAU
Ribeira is home to a vast selection of restaurants which, admittedly are very touristy. There are however, a few gems, including Adega São Nicolau, tucked down a charming little alleyway away from the masses.
Whilst we might have had the good fortune of simply stumbling upon this homely, traditional restaurant ourselves, we were promptly informed that this is an eating house where the top Porto chefs go when they want good, honest Portuguese food.
We can see why.
Adega São Nicolau is undoubtedly one of the best places to eat in Porto.
Eating here has the feel of relaxing in the house of a Portuguese family, with hearty good food and good natured service. and Try the Salted Cod or the octopus fillets with rice, both Portuguese specialties, and wash them down with a local white wine.
Then, slowly make your way through the picturesque streets back to your accommodation.
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 12pm-11pm Monday - Saturday (closed Sundays)
SATURDAY | PORTO CITY BREAK
9AM - BREAKFAST AT CONFEITARIA DO BOLHÃO
One of the greatest things about being in the home of the deliciously sweet and flaky Pasteis de Nata (portuguese tart) is that it's not just socially acceptable to devour sugary pastries for breakfast, it's actually expected.
No place will help you get your pastry on better than the Confeitaria do Bolhão, a beautiful 120-year-old patisserie serving up Porto's best Portuguese tarts, arrufadas (sweetbread), croissants, and other tempting flakey sweet treats.
Do as the locals do and grab a coffee, pick your pastry, and settle into the seating area up the back to enjoy.
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 6am - 8pm Monday to Friday, 7am - 7pm Saturdays, closed Sundays
Location | R. Formosa 339, 4000-049 Porto, Portugal
house goals | 10 amazing porto airbnbs for under £100
10.30AM - EXPLORE THE MERCADO DO BOLHÃO
Immediately across the road lies Mercado de Bolhao, the former city market which still retains a thoroughly authentic feel.
Still marked by the original 19th century wrought iron gates, this historic marketplace where farmers used to come and spruik their fresh produce is still bustling and lively on weekends.
Stalls sell fresh fruit and vegetables, smoked meats and fresh fish, and delicious breads, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's the perfect place to explore and get a feel for the city and its people.
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 7am - 5pm Monday to Friday, 7am - 1pm Saturday, closed Sundays
Location | R. Formosa 214, 4000 Porto, Portugal
11:30AM - VISIT THE BOLSA PALACE AND MARVEL AT THE INTERIORS
The Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) was built between 1842 to 1910, and pays homage to the city's rich merchants of yesterday and today.
Built on the ruins of the cloisters of the St Francis Church of Porto next door, the neoclassical building is where the Portuguese stock exchange once operated. Already beautiful from the outside, the building is absolutely stunning inside; the intricately designed glass-domed Pátio das Nações (Hall of Nations), the grand Escadaria Nobre (noble staircase), and the Salão Árabe (Arab room) to name a few.
If you're keen to explore all of the intricately designed rooms of the Palace, you’ll need to jump on a half-hour guided tour. Pre-book yours here, or they also depart from the main entrance every 30 minutes.
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 9am - 630pm every day
Location | R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal
BOOK | Bolsa Palace guided tour
1:30PM - GRAB LUNCH AT RIBEIRA SQUARE
Grab yourself lunch (and some sneaky white Sangria) at one of the many cafes lining Praça Ribeira (Ribeira Square).
This is probably one of the only times we'll ever recommend an overly tourist area to you, but the general vibe around this square are too good to pass up in this case!
Meat eaters, try a Francesinha, a weird cross between a toasted sandwich and a gluttonous meat hamburger, doused in a hot tomato based sauce and cheese, and wash it all down with white wine sangria.
And actually, while you're at it - why stop at one sangria? Grab another and enjoy the midday sun.
THE DETAILS
Location | Praça de Ribeira Porto
3PM - TAKE A SIGHTSEEING CRUISE DOWN THE DOURO RIVER
A trip to Porto just wouldn’t be complete without viewing the city from River-height (plus you'll need some time to sit down and digest your massive lunch anyway!).
Jump aboard this six-bridge Porto city sightseeing boat tour, and learn about the importance of the river to the city while passing many of its famous bridges and landmarks.
On this traditional rabelo boat, you'll pass under the famous Gustav Eiffel-designed Dom Luis I Bridge, admire the beautiful homes of the riviera from the water, and (hopefully!) soak up some sun.
The Ribeira district also looks wonderful from the water, so be sure to snap up a seat on the edge of the boat.
THE DETAILS
Hours | April - October: Every 30 minutes, 10:30 am - 18:30pm. November - March: Every 60 minutes, 10:30 am - 16:30 pm
Location | Cruises depart from Ribeira Quay
Cost | £13 per adult passenger
BOOK | Book your six-bridge Porto City Sightseeing boat cruise here
5PM - WATCH THE SUNSET FROM THE DOM LUIS I BRIDGE
Sunsets in Porto are absolutely magical, so make your way up to the famous Dom Luis I Bridge, designed by Gustav Eiffel, and watch the magnificent spectacle over the Ribeira District.
The bridge, ranked #1 for things to do in Porto on Tripadvisor, becomes the heart and soul of the city in the late afternoon, as locals and tourists alike come out to walk and cycle along the bridge, or simply take in the views.
THE DETAILS
Location | Dom Luis I Bridge
7PM - DINNER AT BACALHAU
What's a weekend away without splurging on another food coma?!
Head back over to the Ribeira side of the river to Bacalhau, a small restaurant nestled in a quiet walkway on the river, and enjoy some deliciously simple traditional Portuguese tapas.
Be sure to book ahead though - Bacalhau can be a very popular choice for a good feed in Porto!
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 11:00am - 23:00pm Sunday to Thursday, 11:00am - midnight Friday and Saturday.
Location | Muro dos Bacalhoeiros, 153 - 155 4050-080 Porto
Cost | ££ - £££
9PM - ENJOY A POST-DINNER PORT
After yet another delicious meal, it's time to enjoy some of the city's best, and more popular, export: Port wine.
The Douro Valley has a long history of Port production dating back to the 17th century, and gave the city of Porto its name. Today, the region is protected as the only true Port wine-producer in the world.
Unsurprisingly, that means that the sweet red fortified wine you might have previously associated with the after-dinner tipple of your grandparents is a very proud favourite on everyone's wine lists here.
Settle in by the fire at one of the many cosy wine bars around the city and discover this delicious wine a little better.
A SLOW SUNDAY IN PORTO | PORTO ITINERARY
9:00AM - TREATS AT CONFEITARIA DO BOLHÃO
Normally we're all about variety being the spice of life and all that, but in this case the breakfast treats at Confeitaria Do Bolhão are just too good to pass up.
Plus, holidays are all about indulging yourself, right?
Go forth and pasteis de nata again, friends.
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10:30AM - VISIT LIVRARIA LELLO, PORTO'S MOST BEAUTIFUL LIBRARY
It's said to be the most beautiful bookstore in the world and having wandered through it ourselves, we can tell you that Livraria Lello definitely lives up to its reputation.
Designed by Francisco Xavier Esteves in a Neo-Gothic style, the bookstore was officially inaugurated by the Lello brothers in 1906. With its intricately carved gothic wood-panelling, grand curving staircase, floor to ceiling bookshelves, and stained glass skylight, it's definitely been wowing visitors ever since.
The splendour of Livraria Lello (read our guide here!) also has another (massive) claim to fame too - rumour has it that the bookstore (along with some key spots in Scotland) inspired the magic of JK Rowling's Hogwarts, after the author spent 2 years living in Porto teaching English.
It definitely feels as though you might bump into Harry or Ron amongst these shelves!
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 10:00am - 19:30 Monday to Friday, 10:00am - 19:00pm Saturday and Sunday
Location | R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto
Cost | Due to Livraria Lello's popularity, there's now a €5 entry voucher (which goes towards any book purchase).
It does get busy so book in advance to avoid waiting in a mammoth queue!
Read | Our guide to Livraria Lello Bookstore
12:00PM - EXPLORE PORTO BY TRAM
While many people associate trams with Lisbon, it's actually in Porto that the first Portuguese tram network was built in 1895. The trams here are amongst the oldest electric transport systems in Europe, and you can still spot the quaint little yellow tram cars trundling along the 3 remaining routes today.
Sadly, while they were a popular method of transport for locals for a long time, in the 1960s their popularity dropped away as cars and buses became a faster and more convenient way to navigate the city.
For travellers however, the trams remain a scenic and easy way to explore the city.
The #1 tram is probably the most popular tourist route, travelling from the famous, and stunning, Igreja de São Francisco (Church of St Francis) about 20 minutes along the Ribeira to the garden of Passeio Alegre at the mouth of the Douro river in Foz.
We opted for a lesser-known route, and jumped on board the circular #22 tram that takes in the Clérigos area (and the iconic Clérigos tower - buy your tickets for the bell tower here), the bustling Avenida dos Aliados (the Avenue of the Allies), past the beautiful São Bento train station and the vibrant Batalha area with it's cafes, museums, shops, and houses.
We definitely recommend this route if you're keen to see a lot of 'true' Porto on a tight schedule!
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | Line 1: every 20 minutes between 9:00am - 19:30pm each day.
Line 18: every 30 minutes between 8:00am - 8:00pm each day.
Line 22: every 30 minutes between 9:00am - 8:00pm each day.
Location | Check the full route details for the Porto trams here
Cost | You can purchase a single ticket for any tram route for €3. Alternatively, it's €10 for a 2-day tram pass
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13:30PM - VISIT THE SAO BENTO RAILWAY STATION
Jump off your #22 tram right outside the Sao Bento railway station, and make your way inside to the most beautiful station you'll probably ever lay eyes on.
The Sao Bento station is far more than merely a transport hub for Porto's residents; on the walls of the grand entrance, 20,000 azulejo (traditional painted tiles) depict Porto's history.
The story of its royalty, various battles, and transportation play out across the beautifully painted blue and white tiles, and when the afternoon sun hits in just the right place, soft golden light bathes the room in sheer magic.
Basically, if you go to Porto and you miss Sao Bento, you've done it all wrong.
THE DETAILS
Location | Praça Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto
Cost | Free to access the station entrance.
14:30PM LUNCH IN THE SUN ON THE DOURO RIVER
All this exploring is sure to have worked up an appetite by now, so grab a quick bite and a drink at one of the cafes and restaurants along the Douro - all while soaking up that glorious midday sun on your skin.
15:30PM - PORT WINE TASTING OR PORTO CRUZ SPACE VISIT
After sampling some of Porto's finest wine last night, it's time to cross the Dom Luis I Bridge to the other side of the city for a proper wine tasting at one of the many prestigious cellars along the river.
If you can't decide which to visit, book this 3-hour Porto wine tour where you'll learn the history of some of the oldest Port Houses in the country, and enjoy tastings at three renowned port houses. What more could you want on a Sunday?!
THE DETAILS
Cost | £45 per person
BOOK| Book your 3-hour port wine cellar tour here
The innovative Porto Cruz Space is also on this side of the river, a 5-story building celebrating Porto's unique wine culture and history. It's a must-do for anyone with an interest in Port wine, or learning more about Porto's traditional culture too.
Moving through the different floors, there are 3D wine-making games, interactive exhibits on the Douro Valley, wine tastings with a Sommelier, and even a Terrace bar with stellar 360* views of the city on the top floor!
THE DETAILS
Opening hours | 10:00am - 11:30pm Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00am - 7:00pm Sunday, CLOSED Monday.
The Terrace Lounge is open until 1:30am on Friday and Saturday nights.
Location | Largo Miguel Bombarda 23, 4400-222 Vila Nova de Gaia
Cost | Tasting of 3 wines - €7.50
17:30PM - WATCH ONE LAST SUNSET FROM ESPLANADA DO TELEFÉRICO
Just a short walk (or stumble, depending on how you're feeling after your wine tasting!) from the Porto Cruz Space is the Esplanada do Teleférico - a terrace bar above the Porto cable car with epic views over the city.
To the right of the all-glass bar is a concrete lookout that's perfect for watching the sunset bathe the Ribeira district, Dom Luis I bridge, and Douro in beautiful golden tones.
Sit back and watch as Porto begins to light up!
20:00PM - TIME TO LEAVE BEAUTIFUL PORTO
All good things must come to an end, and sadly its time to head to wave goodbye to the deliciousness of Porto and head for the airport.
But hopefully with many plans to return to this northern Portuguese delight!
PORTO TOURS AND DAY TRIPS
Here’s our selection of the best day tours in, and from Porto, to make the most of your time in the city.
READ | The best day trips from Porto
PORTO TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
OUR PORTO POCKET GUIDE
Our Porto City Guide is a curated travel guide, designed to be downloaded to your phone and used as your trusty companion when exploring the city.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find our personal recommendations on the best things to see, eat and drink, places to stay,and things to know, gathered over many trips to the city.
BUY NOW | Porto City Guide
HOW TO GET TO PORTO
If you're coming from Europe, getting to Porto easily (and on a budget!) is a dream.
BY AIR
Porto is a major hub for northern Portugal, which means it's really well serviced by various international airlines. If you're coming from Europe, the easiest, and cheapest option is to book a budget flight on Transavia, Air Berlin, EasyJet (we flew EasyJet from London), Ryanair, or TAP (Portugal's low-cost airline) into Porto's main airport.
If you're coming from outside Europe, you'll likely need to connect in another major hub, but the transit time is worth it, we promise.
There are regular metro and bus services connecting Porto airport to the city, and we found it to be a totally seamless, and efficient system!
BY LAND
TRAIN
If you're already in Portugal - in Lisbon, Faro, Coimbra or Braga to be exact - you can take a high-speed train to Porto called the Alfa Pendular. These services run every day and take about 2:45-3 hours normally. There's also free wifi on board.
You'll need to reserve your seat ahead of time, which you can do on the Comboios de Portugal page.
There are also slower intercity trains between Lisbon and Porto, which run about once every hour. Trains will arrive at Campanhã Train Station, and from there it's a short metro ride to São Bento (or any other local metro station you want).
BUS
It is possible to travel to Porto from other city hubs in Portugal and surrounding countries; however as there's no one main bus line servicing all areas, it can be a little confusing to work out the routes. We'd recommend checking in with a local tourist office for the best way to navigate.
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO
Wondering where to stay in Porto? We’ve written a complete guide on where to stay, including the best hotels, hostels and boutique rooms - read here.
Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options in Porto to suit all budgets and needs.
HOSTELS + HOTELS IN PORTO
GALLERY HOSTEL
So much more than just a bunk bed for the night, the Gallery Hostel is flash-packing at its finest. Set in a traditional former Oporto house in the trendy Miguel Bombarda area, this family-run hostel has been renovated with modern decor and earthy tones, and is ideal for the design and culture-loving traveller on a budget.
Rooms range from doubles through to 6-bed dorms, there are plenty of cool common areas, and regular art exhibitions and concerts too. They also support two local organisations, one that cares for the environment and another that empowers local homeless people in Porto. We love a hostel that cares about the community in which it exists!
BOOK | Gallery Hostel
TOREL 1884 PORTO
Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century palace, the boutique Torel 1884 is all about sophisticated old-world charm with an uber-contemporary feel. Inspired by the spirit of adventure of historic Portuguese navigators, the hotel is full of unique touches from foreign lands all over the world; silks and spices, porcelain and tapestry mingle with an indoor jungle vibe and luxurious furnishings. The service is incredible, and the price is extremely reasonable for such a beautiful hotel!
BOOK | Torel 1884 Porto
Alternatively, search Booking.com for your perfect stay here.
AIRBNBS IN PORTO
We stayed in this delightful apartment in the Bolhão area, and highly recommend it to anyone looking for some beautiful, central Porto accommodation.
READ MORE | Where to stay in Porto, 10+ amazing Airbnbs to stay in Porto
HOW TO GET AROUND PORTO
Porto is an extremely easy city to navigate on foot, and a lot of its magic is found in exploring the quiet corners and local neighbourhoods.
That said, the distances between tourist spots can be large, so it's worth checking out the 'Porto Card' which gives you access to the public transport system, over 170 discounts and benefits and free access to 11 museums (and a free visit to a port wine cellar!) for between 1-4 days.
BOOK | Book your Porto card on GetYourGuide from £11 now
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR PORTO
We firmly believe that if you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current pandemic has taught many; things can go wrong anywhere in the world and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
*In normal times, we recommend using World Nomads travel insurance, but unfortunately they're not currently covering COVID-19 related claims.
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
READ THESE POSTS BEFORE VISITING PORTO
PORTO GUIDES | Our ultimate guide to the best of Porto, A 48 hour guide to Porto, A guide to Livraria Lello Bookstore, The best day trips from Porto
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO | Hotels, Hostels & more: Where to Stay in Porto, 10 amazing Airbnbs to stay in Porto
PORTO PHOTOS | A photo diary of our visit to Porto
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world?
Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT.
Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR PORTO TRIP WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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