Sightseeing Secrets: Your Essential Porto Itinerary for 2 Days
Discover Porto: The Ideal 2-Day Itinerary for First-Timers
Nestled on the coast in Northern Portugal, Porto offers a thrilling escape for a weekend adventure. The city's key sights and attractions are conveniently clustered near the city centre, making a 2-day stay in Porto just right. See for yourself why Porto Portugal, is all the buzz! Here’s your go-to guide for a perfect two-day visit to Porto!
How many days do you need in Porto?
Two days in Porto, gives you the perfect balance between leisurely exploration and capturing the essence of this vibrant city. It's enough time to meander through its historic streets, savour its culinary delights, and soak in its rich culture without feeling rushed. Plus, Porto's compact size allows you to cover the main highlights while still leaving room for unexpected discoveries and strolls along the scenic waterfront. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a charming getaway, two days in Porto promises an unforgettable experience that's perfect for a European city break. Though if you are planning on heading to Douro Valley, I'd opt for 3 days in Porto to allow yourself a full day trip to Douro.
Embark on a day of exploration through the historic streets of Porto, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. Be prepared to climb a hill... or two, as you traverse the cityscape. Delve into the rich heritage of Porto, the birthplace of port wine and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here's all you need to plan the perfect trip to Porto, Portugal:
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Historical Walking Tour, Tour the Stock Exchange, Visit Beautiful Churches, and take a River Cruise
Day 2: Explore the Porto Cathedral, See the São Bento Railway Station and Visit Livraria Lello.
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Porto Itinerary Day 1
START WITH A HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR!
After you've fuelled up with a hearty breakfast, it's time to dive into the heart of Porto! Trust me, with just two days in this vibrant city, you'll want to make the most of every moment. And what better way to soak up the history and charm of Porto than on a walking tour?
We stumbled upon the absolute best historical walking tour of Porto so I've linked it here for you. Our guide was a treasure trove of knowledge about the city's rich history. From tales dating back over 900 years to the stories behind Porto's iconic landmarks, we were captivated every step of the way. Honestly, without our guide, we would've missed out on so much!
About halfway through the tour, we took a little breather and indulged in some treats from a local bakery. Ah, Adoramus Porto – a true gem nestled near the Dom Luís I Bridge! They offer a delightful array of goodies, from cookies to liquors, all crafted by Portuguese monasteries and convents. It's a unique experience you won't find anywhere else in Porto!
Now, Porto is pretty walkable, but fair warning – those hills can be a bit of a workout! Be sure to lace up your comfiest walking shoes for the adventure ahead.
LUNCH IN A TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE TAVERN
Taberna Santo Antonio is a cozy, family-owned eatery beloved by locals for its authentic Northern Portuguese cuisine. THIS is the place you go to to find traditional Northern Portuguese cooking.
Prices are very reasonable and the portions are generous, making it a perfect restaurant to try traditional dishes! I recommend ordering the cod fritters with a cold (alcohol free for me) beer to start. Cod fritters are a staple in Portugal for a snack, but the cod fritters we tried at Taberna Santo Antonio were our favourite!
Also available at Taberna Santo Antonio is a delicious rendition of the famous francesinha, a must-try while in Porto. Try to make reservations ahead of time to avoid queueing, or bag a table at their bar.
VISIT THE BEAUTIFUL CAPELA DAS ALMAS
The Capela das Almas, meaning Souls’ Chapel, is Porto's most beautiful church. It stands as one of Porto's most exquisite architectural treasures. Dating back to the 18th century, its true beauty emerged when its face was adorned with stunning azulejos (Portuguese tiles) in 1929.
If you've been asking yourself 'what is Porto very famous for?' or 'what is so special about Porto?'', your answer embellishes the walls of Capela das Almas. Porto is most famous for its azulejos (and port wine!). These Portuguese tiles, numbering over 15,000, transform the chapel into a breathtaking canvas, both inside and out. Each tile is a testament to the craftsmanship of its creators, making every inch of the chapel a remarkable work of art. As you admire the intricate designs covering the exterior, you'll be immersed in the beauty and history of this iconic Porto landmark.
SEE THE IGREJA DE SANTO ILDEFONSO
The Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, also known as the Church of Saint Ildefonso, captivates everybody who lay their eyes upon it. This magnificent granite church, constructed in Baroque style, is adorned with over 11,000 classic blue and white azulejos. Each tile intricately depicts scenes from the life of Saint Ildefonso and stories from the Gospels, adding to the church's allure and historical significance.
After marvelling at the church's beauty, take a moment to indulge in a quintessential Porto experience at Café Majestic. This iconic café was once a gathering place for Porto's elite, including writers, politicians, and artists, who convened to exchange ideas in its exquisite ambiance. Fun fact: even J.K. Rowling frequented Café Majestic while living in Porto and writing the first Harry Potter book!
Treat yourself to Café Majestic's signature dessert, Rabanadas, a delightful Portuguese twist on French Toast, paired with a fragrant cup of coffee. While Café Majestic's offerings may be on the pricier side (around 5€ for a cup of coffee), the experience is well worth it. So, consider stopping by for a drink and indulging in a shared plate of Rabanadas to complete your Porto adventure.
DOURO RIVER
While it might seem like a typical tourist activity, I can't stress enough how essential it is to experience the Douro River while you're in Porto. Trust me, skipping out on a river excursion would mean missing out on one of the most mesmerising aspects of this beautiful city. So, grab the opportunity to soak up the sights and sounds from the water – it's an experience you won't regret! Here are the best two options:
Start the day by taking a stroll across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for some panoramic views. Completed in 1886, this impressive double-deck iron arch bridge connects Porto with, the city located on the south bank of the Douro River.
As touristy as it might feel, visiting Porto and not spending any time on River Douro is waste of your visit.
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Douro River followed by an afternoon of touring the wine lodges while sampling some of the world class wines and Ports. Get a unique perspective of the city while cruising along the same route the traditional Rabelo wine boats once took. The Rabelo boats were used to transport wine from the Douro Valley to the wine cellars of Porto.
The 6 bridges boat cruise is by far the most popular option, but for good reason. This 50 minute boat cruise will take you along the Douro River, passing underneath all 6 of Porto’s bridges while learning the history behind each of them. Take in views of beautiful landscapes and the colourful Ribeira buildings from the water.
SUNSET CRUISE ON THE DOURO RIVER
The best way to savour the beauty of a Porto sunset is sailing on a yacht along the Douro River. The skyline of Porto becomes even more magical when you’re viewing it from the river.
I recommend booking a private, or small group boat trip for the best experience. I love this small group sailboat tour here. Tours include local wine and snacks to savour while you watch the sunset.
DINNER AT BACALHAU
When it comes to indulging in the finest cod delicacies in Porto, Bacalhau is the go-to spot! The name itself translates to cod in Portuguese, so you know you're in for an authentic treat. Perched by the edge of the water, overlooking the majestic Duoro River, Bacalhau offers a picturesque dining experience.
SUNSET AT JARDIM DO MORRO
One of Porto's top spots to catch the sunset is undoubtedly Jardim do Morro, nestled atop Vila Nova de Gaia. As the sun dips below the horizon, it bathes the city in a mesmerising golden glow.
You can hop on the cable car from Gaia Lower Station up to Jardim do Morro for the spectacular view. Tickets are priced at €6 for a one-way trip or €9 for a return journey, offering an affordable way to witness this stunning sight.
Porto Itinerary Day 2
PORTO CATHEDRAL / SE DO PORTO
One of my biggest regrets was not making time to visit Porto Cathedral; the line was long and it was the heat of summer so I gave it a miss in favour of saving time. I can say for sure that Sé do Porto is top of my list the next time I'm in Porto!
Amidst the enchanting streets of Porto stands the magnificent Porto Cathedral, a must-visit gem for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. Dating back to the 12th century, this iconic landmark showcases stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture, decorated with intricate carvings and breathtaking stained glass windows. Step inside to marvel at its grandeur and immerse yourself in centuries of history and spirituality.
Don't miss the opportunity to climb the tower for panoramic views of Porto's picturesque skyline and the meandering Douro River below. Whether seeking solace in its sacred halls or capturing Instagram-worthy vistas, exploring Porto Cathedral guarantees an unforgettable journey, offering a deep dive into the rich heritage of this historic city.
VISIT THE SÃO BENTO RAILWAY STATION
When I researched 'things to do in Porto' and saw a train station in the top 10 activities, I was confused to say the least and almost skipped it. But BOY, I am so glad I trusted those who know best!
The São Bento Railway Station stands as a contender for one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe - if not one of the world's. Stepping into the station is like stepping into a living history book!
Renowned Portuguese painter Jorge Colaço drew upon the rich tapestry of Portuguese history for inspiration when he painted the iconic blue and white tiled murals of the station.
Featuring over 20,000 meticulously hand-painted tiles, the murals depict scenes from Portuguese history. It was a labor of love that spanned over a decade, from 1905 to 1916, for Colaço to complete this masterpiece.
TASTE PORTO’S BEST ICE CREAM
Our Taste Porto food tour guide couldn't stop talking about the ice cream from Gelataria Portuense, so naturally, we had to see what the fuss was about. Trust me when I say, it didn't disappoint! With homemade flavours inspired from around the world, there's something for everyone. My personal favourites? The stracciatella with orange zest was THE absolute winner. Plus, they're super generous with samples, so you can try a few before committing to your scoop!
VISIT BOOKSTORE LIVRARIA LELLO
Livraria Lello stands proudly as one of the oldest and most enchanting bookstores worldwide, tracing its origins back to 1906 when two brothers opened its doors. Its Gothic architecture and art deco staircase evoke a sense of awe from all who enter. The striking red staircase immediately captures your attention, leading your gaze to the vibrant stained glass ceiling inscribed with the words "Decus in Labore," meaning "Dignity in Work."
However, if you've imagined a leisurely day exploring Livraria Lello's aisles, think again. With over 4,000 visitors daily, the store can get quite crowded. I'm talking a spiralling queue 4 lines deep outside the door - crowded!
Some of Livraria Lello's fame stems from rumours linking it to J.K. Rowling's inspiration for Harry Potter, when she was living in Porto. J. K. Rowling has denied the connection, but a glimpse inside might make you question her denial — the grand staircase bears an uncanny resemblance to Hogwarts, and the overall ambiance echoes that of Flourish and Blotts.
Best time of day to visit Livraria Lello?
The best time to visit Livraria Lello may not be what you think! Most sources will tell you to buy the first ticket right when they open at 9:30 a.m. – but they’re wrong! Even at 9:30 a.m., Livraria Lello will have a mad rush of visitors as soon as doors open.
Believe it or not, the best time to reserve your entrance ticket is right before the store closes at 6:30 p.m. Purchasing the latest ticket will allow you to “browse” until the store closes at 7:00 p.m.
How to skip the lines at Livraria Lello?
In order to enter Livraria Lello, all visitors must purchase a ticket online in advance. The tickets range from €5 to €15.90, but the cost of the ticket goes towards the purchase of a book! Call me crazy, but if you're going to buy a ticket, the only one you should buy is the "Romeo and Juliet" ticket. Granted, this ticket will rush you €15.90, but it will allow you priority access to skip the line. Walk right up to the front of the store and show the guard (yup - a guarded book store!) your ticket/voucher to be let inside. And, let's be honest, you're going to be spending at LEAST €15 in the store anyway, so you may as well skip the line!
Contrary to popular belief, the ideal time to visit Livraria Lello might surprise you! While many suggest grabbing the earliest ticket when they open at 9:30 a.m., this strategy often leads to facing a bustling crowd even at that early hour. Instead, consider securing your entrance ticket right before the store closes at 6:30 p.m. Opting for the last entry allows you to leisurely browse the bookstore until closing time at 7:00 p.m., minus the rush of the morning crowd.
Can I change my Livraria Lello Tickets?
Yes! I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward it was to adjust tickets for a different entry date and time on Livraria Lello's website.
Is Livraria Lello worth visiting?
Again, yes! Without a doubt! It's an experience not to be missed. The key is to plan ahead and strategise your visit. However, if crowds aren't your thing, it might be worth considering other options.
Optional Extras for your 2 Day in Porto Itinerary – Day 2
PORT WINE TASTING
Portugal holds the prestigious title of being the birthplace of port wine. If you're unable to venture to the Douro Valley during your visit, fear not! There are plenty of port wine tasting rooms waiting to be explored.
One common misconception is that these tasting rooms are located in Porto itself. However, they're actually situated across the Douro River in a charming city called Vila Nova de Gaia, often referred to simply as "Gaia."
The tradition of aging port wines in Gaia dates back to a fascinating blend of religion and politics. Back in the 13th century, Porto's church reaped the benefits of trade taxes. To avoid these taxes, the king granted permission for port wine makers to relocate across the river to Gaia. So, if you hear that the port wine aging in Gaia is due to its climate, remember there's more to the story!
For the best port wine tasting tour, I recommend booking this one with an interactive museum!
Book a Douro Valley Day Tour
If you’re fortunate enough to be spending more than a few days in Porto, the best way to see the Douro Valley is by booking a guided tour. Visiting this spectacular wine region is something you can’t miss - if you can't fit it into this trip, you'll just have to plan a return trip!
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley as you embark on a day filled with wine tasting and exploration. Delve into the rich history of one of Europe's oldest wine regions while indulging in exquisite wines and soaking up the majestic views.
Full Day Douro Valley Wine Tour From Porto – Opt for the Full Day Douro Valley Wine Tour From Porto for an unforgettable experience. Let a seasoned guide lead the way as you depart from your Porto accommodation bright and early, ready to delve into the wonders of the Douro Valley.
This top-rated excursion includes visits to two distinct wine estates, where you'll gain insights into the winemaking process while savoring its fruits. Enjoy a delightful lunch and a scenic boat cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, all included in the tour package.
Before bidding farewell to the Douro Valley, your guide will treat you to a visit to one of the region's finest viewpoints, offering unparalleled photo opportunities. Check out the link below for more detailed information on this extraordinary day trip!
