2 Day Itinerary in Porto, Portugal
Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city that’s known for its gorgeous architecture, delicious food, and famous port wine. In fact, it’s one of our favorite vacation spots because it’s great for a quick getaway! If you’re planning a quick visit, this 2-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time. Here’s how to experience the best of Porto in just two days.
Where to Stay in Porto
When we’re planning a trip to Porto, picking the right place to stay can make a huge difference. We want a spot that gives us easy access to Porto’s charms, suits our style, and feels like a home away from home, right?
Choosing Your Base
Choosing where to stay in Porto means considering what we want to be closest to. Do we want to wake up near the bustling markets and lively streets in the heart of the city centre, or do we prefer a quaint spot where the architecture tells stories of the past? It’s a tough choice, but here’s a tip: the closer we are to the city centre, the more we’ll get to feel Porto’s pulse under our feet.
Hotel and Accommodation Options
When it comes to hotels and accommodation, Porto’s got us covered with options that range from luxurious to budget-friendly:
- Luxury: For those of us wanting a touch of opulence, we can find several high-end hotels boasting panoramic views and top-notch amenities.
- Mid-range: Charming boutique hotels are scattered about, many with unique designs that reflect Porto’s rich architectural heritage.
- Budget: If we’re saving our euros, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses that offer comfort without the high price tag.
We can head over to Booking.com to see what fits our needs and book our stay. Porto’s hospitality is known for being as warm as its wine, so we’re sure to find a place that feels just right.
Day 1: Exploring Porto’s Iconic Attractions
Morning
Ribeira District
- Start your day in the heart of Porto, the vibrant Ribeira District. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the colorful buildings and charming atmosphere.
- Grab a coffee and pastry at a local café while soaking in the view of the Douro River.
- Don’t forget to swing by the Porto Cathedral if you have time!
Midday
Livraria Lello
- Get lost in the magical Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its stunning architecture feels like it came out straight out of the Harry Potter movies – it’s a treat for book and architecture lovers!
- Make sure to reserve your slot ahead of time as it fills up quickly!
Clérigos Tower
- Visit the Clérigos Tower and climb to the top for panoramic views of Porto. The 225-step climb is worth it!!
Afternoon
Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Mercado do Bolhão, a busy market where you can sample fresh local produce, seafood, and traditional Portuguese dishes.
São Bento Railway Station
- Check out the azulejo (tile) panels that decorate the São Bento Railway Station. These blue and white tiles depict important historical scenes and are absolutely stunning!
Evening
Dom Luís I Bridge
- Walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. The bridge offers stunning views of Porto and the Douro River. Don’t forget your camera!
Port Wine Tasting
- Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the many wine cellars for a port wine tasting.
- Learn about the history of port wine and enjoy some tastings.
Dinner in Gaia
- Stay in Gaia for dinner and enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant. The view of Porto’s skyline at night is stunning!
Day 2: Exploring Porto Culture & Nature
Morning
- Palácio da Bolsa
- Start your second day with a visit to the Palácio da Bolsa. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire the stunning architecture, especially the Arab Room.
- Church of São Francisco
- Visit the nearby Church of São Francisco. Its Gothic exterior contrasts with the lavish Baroque interior, making it one of Porto’s most interesting sites.
Midday
Crystal Palace Gardens
- Head to the Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardins do Palácio de Cristal) for a relaxing walk. The gardens offer beautiful views over the Douro River and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Lunch at Rua das Flores
- Have lunch at one of the many restaurants along Rua das Flores. This lively street has plenty of options to choose from.
Afternoon
Serralves Museum and Park
- Spend your afternoon at the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and its surrounding park.
- The museum showcases modern art, and the park is a lovely place to explore with its landscaped gardens and outdoor sculptures.
Evening
Sunset at Foz do Douro
- Head to Foz do Douro to watch the sunset (it’s incredible!)
Dinner in Foz
- Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the restaurants in Foz do Douro.
- The fresh seafood and ocean views are the perfect way to end your 2-day itinerary in Porto, Portugal!
Extra Tips for Your Trip
- Comfortable Shoes:
- Porto’s hilly terrain and cobblestone streets make comfortable shoes a must. Be prepared for a bit of a workout as you explore the city.
- Try Local Dishes:
- Don’t miss out on traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (codfish) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). They’re a true taste of Porto.
- Porto Card:
- Consider getting a Porto Card for discounts on attractions and public transport. It’s a great way to save money and make your visit more convenient.
- Stay Hydrated:
- Walking around all day can be tiring, especially in the warmer months. Carry a water bottle and stay hydrated.
- Local Etiquette:
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. Locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language.
- Public Transport:
- Porto’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use. Consider taking trams or buses to explore areas further from the city center.
Enjoy your two days in Porto!
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