What to do in Porto? Magical Three-Day Itineraries: Culture, History and Festivities
Exploring Porto is like opening a storybook full of exciting chapters. If you only have three days to get to know this enchanting city, here’s an itinerary that will take you from historical landmarks to vibrant festivities, without forgetting the delicious local gastronomy.
Day 1: A Journey through Porto’s History and Culture
Morning
Start the day at the charming Confeitaria do Bolhão, where a pastel de nata and coffee will welcome you to Porto. Then stroll through the Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional market where the vibrancy of the city is evident in the fresh produce and the friendliness of the vendors. After exploring the market, head to the majestic Avenida dos Aliados and São Bento Station, famous for its tiles depicting Portugal’s rich history.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to the Time Out Market, where a variety of Portuguese cuisine awaits you. Then immerse yourself in the adventures of the World of Discoveries, an interactive museum that takes you back to the times of the great Portuguese navigations. End the afternoon with a climb up the Clérigos Tower for an unforgettable panoramic view of the city.
Evening
The evening calls for dinner in Ribeira, where cozy restaurants serve traditional dishes on the banks of the River Douro. The night-time view of the illuminated river completes the perfect setting to round off the first day.
Day 2: Navigating the Douro and Authentic Flavours
Morning
Enjoy a peaceful breakfast in Ribeira before embarking on a Rabelo boat trip along the Douro River. This tour offers a unique perspective of the six bridges that connect Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, as well as beautiful riverside scenery.
Afternoon
Cross the iconic Luís I bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and have lunch in a restaurant with a panoramic view of Porto. After lunch, it’s time to explore the famous Port wine cellars. Choose between Burmester, Sandeman, Graham’s or Taylor’s cellars for a guided tour and wine tasting.
Evening
Return to Porto and dine in the picturesque Rua das Flores. This charming nook is perfect for a relaxing meal, surrounded by colorful façades and a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 3: Modernity and Tradition in Porto
Morning
Take a bus to Foz do Douro and start the day with breakfast by the sea. The tranquillity of Foz’s beaches is a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city center. Then board a Porto SightSeeing tour bus to explore Porto’s many attractions at your own pace. An unmissable stop is the Casa da Música, an icon of modern architecture.
