Porto Itinerary: 2 Days or 3 – You’ll Love both

We have already detailed in one of our articles the optimum number of days for exploring Porto. Spoiler alert: it is 2 to 3 days. How long you need depends on your travel style and how you prefer to explore new places. There are so many things to do and see in Porto that it can be confusing to choose what to do. So, if you’re looking for a perfect Porto itinerary, look no further – we’ve got you covered.

Instead of giving you just one, we decided to capture both 2 and 3-day itineraries. We want to make your life easier and save you time by not having to analyze what to cut out and what to leave in, from 3 to 2 days. We’ve done hard work for you!

We will start with a quick quiz to help you decide whether 2 or 3 days are more suitable for you. To make your life even easier, we also provide a Porto Itinerary overview of both (available for download) and a detailed breakdown with all the tips and tricks to help you make the most of your stay.

Porto Itinerary – how many days quiz

Should I stay 2 or 3 days in Porto? Answer these quick questions to find your perfect itinerary match:

1. What’s your travel style?
A. Efficient and fast-paced
B.  Laid back and flexible with your itinerary

2. How does Porto fit into your overall trip?
A. It’s just one stop on a multi-city Portugal tour
B. I want to dive deeper into Porto and its surroundings

3. What are your must-do activities?
A. Hit the highlights and try some port wine
B. Explore local neighborhoods and maybe visit the Douro Valley

4. Do you enjoy taking photos and capturing those perfect shots?
A. A few iconic shots are all I want
B. Yes, I love taking pictures and take my time to find interesting angles

5. Are you traveling during peak season?
A. No, I’m visiting during quieter times
B. Yes, and I expect longer lines and crowds

Your Results:

• Mostly A’s, then go for 2 Days in Porto.

This itinerary is ideal for exploring Porto if you’re on a tight schedule, visiting multiple cities, or focused on iconic sights and wine tastings.

• Mostly B’s, then go for 3 Days in Porto.

Three days are ideal for you if you love slow travel and exploring without time pressure. It allows you to see the main attractions and also have a pleasant and relaxing time.

Porto 2-day itinerary overview

Here’s how to maximize 48 hours in Porto without exhausting yourself or missing the experiences that make this city special:

Day 0: Arrival in the evening (Friday)

Evening:

• Check in
• Have a leisurely walk along the Douro River
• Enjoy dinner in the local neighborhood

Day 1: Main sites and port tasting (Saturday)

Morning

• Visit São Bento Station early in the morning
• Grab breakfast at Mercador Café
• Explore Porto Cathedral and the adjacent area
• Stop in Astro Atelier for the best Pasteis de Nata

Afternoon:

• Visit Palacio da Bolsa (30min tour)
• Grab lunch at one of the authentic tascas (A Grande)
• Walk towards the Ribeira waterfront and make your way across the bridge
• Combine a port tasting and Fado show at Calem cave cellar

Evening: 

• Dinner on the Vila Nova de Gaia side or in your local neighbourhood

Day 2: Further exploring (Sunday)

Morning

• Grab breakfast at Esquires Coffee Porto
• Visit Church of Saint Ildefonso
• Walk to the unique McDonald’s (just for the decor)
• Enjoy the local market at Mercado do Bolhao
• Visit Chapel of Souls (if you want to snap more blue and while tiles)

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at local restaurant (Cana Verde)
• Visit and climb the tower of Clérigos Church for amazing views
• Relax and have a drink on the Ribeira waterfront

Evening: 

• Take your flight back home (or travel to your next destination)

Porto 2-day detailed itinerary

This detailed 2-day Porto itinerary provides everything you need to truly experience and appreciate the city’s magical atmosphere.

Porto Itinerary – Day 0: Evening arrival (Friday)

Evening Arrival (6:00-7:00 PM): Check in and drop off your bags. Grab essentials – camera, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for the riverside breeze.

Douro River Stroll (7:00-8:30 PM) Head to Cais da Ribeira for your first magical Porto moment. Walk eastward along the cobblestone riverfront, admiring rabelo boats, layered architecture, and the golden hour light reflecting off the water. The Dom Luís I Bridge towering above creates perfect photo opportunities.

Neighborhood Dinner (8:30-10:00 PM) Skip touristy riverfront restaurants for authentic local spots. Try Bacalhau in Ribeira (book in advance), or Taberna do Largo in Baixa. 

Porto Itinerary – Day 1 (Saturday)

Morning

São Bento Station (8:00-8:30 AM) Start early at one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. Over 20,000 hand-painted azulejo tiles by Jorge Colaço tell the story of Portuguese history through stunning blue and white panels. Morning light through large windows creates perfect photography conditions.

Breakfast Break (8:30-9:15 AM) Grab coffee and pastries at nearby Mercador Café on your way to Porto Cathedral. They serve excellent coffees to wake you up and delicious food to keep you exploring.

Porto Cathedral (9:15-10:30 AM) Walk along the beautiful streets to Sé do Porto. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century. Don’t miss the azulejo cloister and panoramic city views from the terrace. Explore the narrow streets and hidden squares of the adjacent Batalha neighborhood.

Castro Atelier – Best Pastéis de Nata (10:30-11:00 AM) Located at R. de Mouzinho da Silveira 61, this bakery creates pastéis de nata that rival Lisbon’s finest. Order them fresh from the oven with a galão (Portuguese latte) for the full experience.

Palácio da Bolsa Tour (11:30 AM-12:30 PM) Take the mandatory 30-minute guided tour of this 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace. The highlight is the breathtaking Arabian Room, a stunning Islamic-inspired ballroom that took 18 years to complete. Book online in advance for weekend visits.

Afternoon

Authentic Lunch at A Grande (12:30-1:30 PM) Experience this traditional tasca at R. de São Nicolau 9, where locals go. Try their fried sardines and grilled octopus.

Ribeira walk and Bridge Crossing (1:30-3:00 PM) Explore Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage heart – get lost in narrow streets behind the waterfront. Walk across Dom Luís I Bridge’s upper pedestrian level for spectacular views over the city.

Calem Port Tasting and Fado (3:00-6:00 PM) End your afternoon with Porto’s famous exports – port wine and fado music. The cave cellar experience includes learning about port production, tasting different styles (Ruby, Tawny, Vintage, White), and an intimate live fado performance expressing Portugal’s unique saudade feeling. Please book this in advance. 

Evening

Evening Dinner (7:00-9:00 PM) Choose Vila Nova de Gaia riverside dining at Bacalhoeiro or stop at Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau to try the traditional Pastel de Bacalhau. Alternatively, walk (or take a tram) across to your neighborhood.

Porto Itinerary – Day 2 (Sunday)

Morning

Breakfast at Esquires Coffee Porto (9:00-9:30 AM) Start with excellent coffee on Rua de Cedofeita, representing Porto’s evolving café culture. Try specialty coffee with tosta mista or a fresh pastry.

Church of Saint Ildefonso (9:30-10:15 AM) Admire stunning baroque architecture with exterior azulejo work by Jorge Colaço. The entire facade depicts scenes from Saint Ildefonso’s life in luminescent blue and white tiles – perfect photography around 10 AM.

World’s Most Beautiful McDonald’s (10:15-10:45 AM) Visit the former Café Imperial on Rua de Santa Catarina – an Art Deco masterpiece housing McDonald’s. The preserved stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers, and ornate ceiling create surreal but memorable photos.

Mercado do Bolhão (10:45-11:45 AM) If you enjoy local markets, be sure to visit this traditional market. Browse or shop from family-run vendors, try some seasonal produce, and pick up quality Portuguese products (olive oil, wine, specialties) at better prices than tourist shops.

Chapel of Souls (11:45 AM-12:15 PM) As you’re in the area, visit Chapel of Souls for more of those iconic azulejo tiles. The exterior is adorned with scenes from saints’ lives, creating a perfect blue and white backdrop for those fabulous photos.

Afternoon

Lunch at Cana Verde (12:15-1:15 PM). Enjoy your lunch at this lovely spot. Try polvo à lagareiro (octopus with olive oil), bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod), or arroz de marisco (seafood rice) with house wine. Embrace the Portuguese tradition of a slow and relaxed Sunday lunch.

Clérigos Tower Climb (1:15-2:30 PM) Save the best views for last. Climb 240 steps up this 18th-century baroque tower for spectacular 360-degree panoramas of historic Porto, the Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia. It was once Portugal’s tallest structure and served as a navigation aid for ships.

Final Ribeira Relaxation (2:30-4:00 PM) Return to the waterfront for final drinks and to soak up more of this city’s relaxed atmosphere.

Departure (4:00-6:00 PM) Time to head back to the airport. You can take a taxi (€20) around or use public transport for €2-€3.

Porto 3-day itinerary overview

Day 0: Arrival in the evening (Thursday)

Evening:

• Check in
• Have a leisurely walk along the Douro River
• Enjoy dinner in the local neighborhood

Day 1: Main sites and port tasting (Friday)

Morning:

• Watch sunrise at Pedra dos Gatinhos
• Grab breakfast at Mercador Café
• Visit Palacio da Bolsa (30min tour)
• Stop in Castro Atelier for the best Pasteis de Nata
• Explore Porto Cathedral and the adjacent area

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at one of the authentic tascas (A Grande)
• Walk towards the Ribeira waterfront and make your way across the bridge
• Take the Cable Car – Jardim do Morro station and admire the views over Gaia 
• Walk back and explore the Gaia district
• Stop at the famous Half Rabbit by Bordalo II
• Combine a port tasting and Fado show at Calem cave cellar

Evening: 

• Enjoy the sunset from Dom Luis I bridge, or grab a wine and go to Jardim do Morro to watch the sunset and join locals in the fantastic atmosphere
• Dinner on the Vila Nova de Gaia side or in your local neighbourhood

Day 2: Exploring Douro Valley or the coast (Saturday)

Option 1 

Go on a day trip to Douro Valley.

Option 2 

Stay in Porto and have a pleasant and relaxing day

Morning:

• Grab breakfast at Cielo Brunch Garden
• Take the iconic tram and scenic route to Foz do Douro 
• Go for a walk on the beach to Pérgola da Foz

Afternoon:

• Go to the Mercado da Foz do Douro or grab lunch nearby
• Visit the Felgueiras lighthouse

Evening: 

• Stay for sunset ot head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for the most unique sunset spot in Porto.

Day 3: Further exploring (Sunday)

Morning:

• Visit São Bento Station early in the morning
• Grab breakfast at Floresta cafe by Hungry Biker
• Visit Church of Saint Ildefonso
• Walk to the unique McDonald’s (just for the decor)
• Visit Chapel of Souls (if you want to snap more blue and while tiles)

Afternoon:

• Grab lunch at local restaurant (Cana Verde)
• Visit and climb the tower of Clérigos Church for amazing views
• Relax and have a drink on the Ribeira waterfront

Evening: 

• Take your flight back home (or travel to your next destination)

Porto 3-day detailed itinerary

Porto Itinerary – Day 0: Arrival Evening (Thursday)

Evening Arrival (6:00-7:00 PM): Check in and drop off your bags. Grab essentials – camera, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for the riverside breeze.

Douro River Stroll (7:00-8:30 PM) Head to Cais da Ribeira for your first magical Porto moment. Walk eastward along the cobblestone riverfront, admiring rabelo boats, layered architecture, and the golden hour light reflecting off the water. The Dom Luís I Bridge towering above creates perfect photo opportunities.

Neighborhood Dinner (8:30-10:00 PM) Skip touristy riverfront restaurants for authentic local spots. Try Bacalhau in Ribeira (book in advance), or Taberna do Largo in Baixa.

Porto Itinerary – Day 1: (Friday)

Morning

Sunrise at Pedra dos Gatinhos (6:30-7:30 AM) Start with Porto’s most stunning sunrise viewpoint. This hidden gem on the Vila Nova de Gaia side offers unobstructed views of the city awakening. The morning light hitting the colorful Ribeira buildings is magical – worth the early wake-up call.

Breakfast at Mercador Café (7:45-8:30 AM). After sunrise, grab excellent coffee and fresh pastries at this local favorite. Their specialty coffee and homemade bread provide the perfect fuel for your day of exploration.

Palácio da Bolsa Tour (9:00-10:00 AM) Take the mandatory 30-minute guided tour of this 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace. The highlight is the breathtaking Arabian Room, a stunning Islamic-inspired ballroom that took 18 years to complete. Book online in advance for weekend visits.

Castro Atelier – Best Pastéis de Nata (10:15-10:45 AM) Stop for the city’s finest pastéis de nata at this renowned bakery. Order them fresh from the oven with a galão (Portuguese latte) for the authentic experience that rivals Lisbon’s famous versions.

Porto Cathedral Exploration (10:45 AM-12:00 PM)- Walk next to Sé do Porto, dating back to the 12th century. Don’t miss the azulejo cloister and panoramic city views from the terrace. Explore the narrow streets and hidden squares of the adjacent Batalha neighborhood.

Afternoon

Authentic Lunch at A Grande (12:00-1:00 PM). We truly enjoyed this family-run gem. Their food was authentic and delicious.

Ribeira and Bridge Crossing (1:00-2:30 PM) Explore Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage heart – get deliberately lost in narrow streets behind the waterfront. Walk across Dom Luís I Bridge’s upper pedestrian level for spectacular views of both sides of the river.

Cable Car to Jardim do Morro (2:30-3:30 PM) Take the Teleférico de Gaia from the riverside up to Jardim do Morro station. The brief ride offers spectacular aerial views of Porto’s layered cityscape, the Douro River, and the port wine lodges below.

Gaia District Exploration (3:30-4:30 PM) Walk back down through Vila Nova de Gaia, exploring the port wine lodge district. The cobblestone streets and traditional warehouses tell the story of centuries of the wine trade. Stop at the WOW district if you’re interested in port history.

Half Rabbit by Bordalo II (4:30-5:00 PM) Stop at this famous street art installation by Portuguese artist Bordalo II, who creates sculptures from urban waste. The giant rabbit made from discarded materials perfectly represents Porto’s blend of tradition and contemporary creativity.

Calem Port Tasting and Fado (5:00-7:00 PM) Experience Porto’s famous exports – port wine and fado music. This cave cellar offers an opportunity to learn about port production, sample different styles (Ruby, Tawny, Vintage, White), and experience an intimate live fado performance that expresses Portugal’s unique sense of saudade.

Evening

Sunset at Dom Luís I Bridge or Jardim do Morro (7:00-8:30 PM). Choose your sunset spot: the bridge offers dramatic framing, whilst Jardim do Morro provides panoramic views and a chance to join locals with their evening wine and conversations – a beloved Porto tradition.

Evening Dinner (8:30-10:00 PM) If you decide to stay in Vila Nova de Gaia’s riverside area for dinner, try Bacalhoeiro or stop by Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau for the traditional Pastel de Bacalhau. Alternatively, walk (ot take a tram) across to your neighborhood for dinner.

Porto Itinerary – Day 2: (Saturday)

Option 1: Douro Valley Day Trip

Early Departure (8:00 AM) Take the scenic train from São Bento Station to Peso da Régua or Pinhão. The journey along the Douro River offers spectacular vineyard-covered hillsides and traditional quintas (wine estates).

Valley Exploration (9:30 AM-6:00 PM) Spend the day wine tasting at traditional quintas, taking river cruises, or simply enjoying the UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Many estates offer tours explaining port and table wine production.

Return to Porto (7:00-8:00 PM) Evening trains provide beautiful sunset views over the valley as you return to the city.

Option 2: Relaxed Porto Coastal Day

Morning

Breakfast at Cielo Brunch Garden (9:00-10:00 AM) Start with this cute brunch spot known for excellent coffee, fresh juices, and healthy options.

Iconic Tram to Foz do Douro (10:00-10:30 AM) Take historic Tram 1 along the scenic coastal route. This heritage tram offers charming views along the way, all the way to the Atlantic coast.

Beach Walk to Pérgola da Foz (10:30 AM-12:00 PM) Stroll along the sandy beach toward the iconic Pérgola da Foz. It is a distinctive pergola structure offering shade and stunning ocean views. 

Afternoon

Mercado da Foz do Douro or Nearby Lunch (12:00-1:30 PM) Explore this local market for fresh seafood and produce, or grab lunch at nearby restaurants specializing in fresh fish and traditional Portuguese coastal cuisine.

Felgueiras Lighthouse Visit (1:30-3:00 PM) Walk to this charming lighthouse at the mouth of the Douro River. The red-roofed lighthouse and surrounding coastal scenery provide excellent photography opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.

Evening

Sunset Choice (6:00-8:00 PM) Stay at Foz for an Atlantic sunset, or head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for Porto’s most unique sunset spot – elevated gardens offering panoramic city and river views with peacocks roaming freely.

Porto Itinerary – Day 3: (Sunday)

Morning

São Bento Station (8:00-8:30 AM) Start early at one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. Over 20,000 hand-painted azulejo tiles by Jorge Colaço tell the story of Portuguese history through stunning blue and white panels. Morning light creates perfect photography conditions.

Breakfast at Floresta Café by Hungry Biker (8:30-9:15 AM): Enjoy excellent coffee and hearty breakfast options at this local favorite, known for its quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere.

Church of Saint Ildefonso (9:15-10:00 AM) Admire stunning baroque architecture with exterior azulejo work by Jorge Colaço. The entire facade depicts scenes from Saint Ildefonso’s life in luminescent blue and white tiles – perfect photography around 10 AM.

World’s Most Beautiful McDonald’s (10:00-10:30 AM)- Visit the former Café Imperial on Rua de Santa Catarina, an Art Deco masterpiece that now houses McDonald’s. The preserved stained glass windows, crystal chandeliers, and ornate ceiling create surreal but memorable photos.

Chapel of Souls (10:30-11:00 AM)– A quick visit to see more azulejo artistry, featuring Eduardo Leite’s detailed 20th-century tiles that cover the exterior with scenes from saints’ lives, perfectly positioned on a main shopping street.

Lunch at Cana Verde (11:30 AM-12:30 PM). Enjoy another meal at this neighborhood restaurant. Try polvo à lagareiro (octopus with olive oil), bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod), or arroz de marisco (seafood rice) with house wine.

Afternoon

Clérigos Tower Climb (12:30-1:30 PM) Save the best views for last. Climb 240 steps up this 18th-century baroque tower for spectacular 360-degree panoramas of historic Porto, the Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia. Once Portugal’s tallest structure, it served as a navigation aid for ships.

Final Ribeira Relaxation (1:30-3:30 PM) Return to the waterfront for final drinks and reflection. Choose Wine Quay Bar for Portuguese wines or Café au Lait for coffee with river views.

Departure (4:00-6:00 PM) Metro to the airport takes 30 minutes on Line E (Violet). For trains, use São Bento (regional) or Campanhã (long-distance).

Porto Itinerary – Where to Stay

Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly impact your Porto experience. We wrote a full article about ‘Where to stay in Porto’. However, here’s a summary based on different travel priorities:

Ribeira 

This is the best district for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of historic Porto. It is most atmospheric and within walking distance of major attractions.

However, it can be busy, more expensive, and noisy. Perfect for a 2-day itinerary when you want to maximise sightseeing time in Porto. 

Cedofeita 

Cedofeita is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic local experience with contemporary Portuguese culture. It is a trendy neighborhood with excellent restaurants, great art galleries, and a more local atmosphere.

On the downside, this area doesn’t have that ‘historic Porto’ feel and requires a bit of travel to the major attractions. This area is best for 3-day visits and for those interested in contemporary Portuguese culture.

Vila Nova de Gaia

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, and travelers seeking scenic views and a laid-back atmosphere. Located just across the river from Porto’s historic center, it offers stunning Douro River views and easy access to famous port wine cellars.

Gaia is quieter and often more affordable than central Porto, making it ideal for a slower-paced 3-day stay. However, it requires a short walk or metro ride to reach most major attractions.

Porto Itinerary Summary

Porto is an amazing city to explore, and both a 2-day and 3-day itinerary covers the main attractions. The 3-day itinerary allows for more relaxing time in Porto or a day trip to Douro Valley.