7 days in Porto, Portugal: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Picture yourself strolling along the Douro River, sipping a glass of world-renowned port wine, and gazing at the stunning landscape of historical buildings and colorful facades. This is the essence of Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, and a gem that blends tradition, fun, and innovation. From the famous Lello Bookstore, which inspired J.K. Rowling during her time in Porto, to the vibrant Ribeira neighborhood bustling with life, this city is the ideal destination for culture enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.
Things to consider before arriving in Porto
Affordable cost of living: One of the best things about Porto is its wallet-friendly atmosphere. Eating out or exploring local attractions won’t break your budget, a pleasant change from many European cities.
Rich history and culture: Porto has plenty to offer when it comes to architecture, art, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Steep hills: Be prepared for some leg exercise as the city has numerous steep inclines to navigate.
✅ Who will love Porto? History buffs, foodies, wine enthusiasts, and those who enjoy picturesque views will find Porto a perfect destination.
What to bring with you
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera to capture the beautiful sights, a light jacket for cool evenings or occasional rain, and an adapter for European plugs.
Best time of the year to visit
The ideal time to visit Porto is during spring or fall (April-June or September-November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Fly into Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), Porto’s main airport. From there, you can take the metro or a taxi to the city center.
2. By train: Porto has two main train stations, Campanhã and São Bento. If arriving from Lisbon or other cities, you’ll likely arrive at Campanhã, with São Bento being a hub for regional trains.
3. By car: Renting a car and driving to Porto is another option, especially if you plan on exploring the surrounding regions. Make sure to familiarize yourself with local driving rules and parking options.
7 day city guide trip to Porto, Portugal
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Majestic Café, a stunning historic café with Art Nouveau interiors. Afterward, stroll through the charming Ribeira district, along the Douro River, and enjoy the views of the colorful houses and the Dom Luis I Bridge. Visit the stunning São Bento train station, adorned with beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles), and continue to the iconic Lello Bookstore. End the day with a visit to the Cathedral and the Tower of Clerigos, with panoramic views of the city.
For dinner, head to Abadia do Porto, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Day 2: Port Wine Cellars
Take a tour of the famous port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, located just across the river. Learn about the production process and history of the port wine, and enjoy some tasting at the end. Have lunch at Terra Nova, a modern restaurant with a stunning river view.
In the afternoon, visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and its beautiful gardens. In the evening, try some delicious tapas and wine at Taberna dos Mercadores.
Day 3: Day trip to Braga and Guimarães
Take a day trip to the nearby cities of Braga and Guimarães. Braga is known for its baroque architecture, rich religious history, and the stunning Bom Jesus Sanctuary. Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal, has a charming medieval center and a beautiful castle. Enjoy lunch at Nata Lisboa, a bakery serving delicious pastries and sandwiches.
Day 4: Beach day at Matosinhos
Take the metro to Matosinhos and enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and fresh seafood. Try some grilled fish at one of the local restaurants, such as O Valentim. In the afternoon, visit the Contemporary Art Museum of Siza Vieira, located on the seafront.
Day 5: Day trip to Douro Valley
Take a scenic train ride from São Bento station to Peso da Régua, in the heart of the Douro Valley. There, take a cruise along the Douro River and enjoy the stunning landscapes of vineyards and hills. Have lunch at a local restaurant, such as Douro in, and return to Porto in the evening.
Day 6: Foz and Casa da Música
Take a walk along the Foz district, at the mouth of the Douro River, and enjoy the beautiful promenade and beaches. Have lunch at Portarossa, a restaurant serving Italian cuisine with a Portuguese twist. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Casa da Música, a contemporary concert hall with beautiful architecture and great acoustics.
For dinner, head to Cantinho do Avillez, a restaurant serving innovative Portuguese cuisine.
Day 7: Street art and Gardens
Explore the vibrant street art of Porto, particularly in the Miguel Bombarda neighborhood. Visit the Crystal Palace Gardens, with stunning views of the city and beautiful landscapes. Have lunch at Mercearia das Flores, a cozy café serving delicious sandwiches and salads. End the day with a sunset boat tour along the Douro River.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Porto
If you have a few more days, take a day trip to Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal”, and enjoy a boat tour along its canals. Alternatively, visit Coimbra, a charming city with a beautiful medieval university and stunning libraries.
If you have more time, head to Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, and enjoy its vibrant culture, amazing food, and stunning architecture. Or, take a trip to the stunning Azores islands, with beautiful scenery and great opportunities for outdoor activities.
