Four-Day Itinerary for Exploring Porto, Portugal

Porto has been a captivating destination for centuries. Nestled between the Douro River and the coast, this ancient city in northern Portugal is known for its stunning miradouros (viewpoints), medieval architecture, and Unesco-listed historic center. Moreover, it offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and nightlife experiences waiting to be explored.

This four-day itinerary invites you to immerse yourself in Porto’s iconic experiences—from strolling across Eiffel-inspired bridges to sipping port wine above centuries-old cellars. You will also uncover hidden gems, enjoying quintessential Porto moments such as savoring a francesinha or wandering beneath the majestic cedars of Serralves.

Day 1

Start the Day with Coffee and Views

Embrace local tradition with a quick breakfast of cimbalino (espresso) and a pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart). A local favorite is Confeitaria do Bolhão, a charming patisserie since 1896.

After breakfast, take a 12-minute stroll to the iconic Torre dos Clérigos. This remarkable 76m (249ft) tower, designed by Nicolau Nasoni, offers breathtaking views of Porto. Be prepared for narrow spiral staircases if you choose to climb the 200-plus steps; otherwise, enjoy a leisurely walk along the architecturally stunning Avenida dos Aliados.

Spend the Afternoon Exploring Ribeira

For lunch, indulge in a classic Porto dish: the francesinha, a delicious sandwich smothered in cheese, tomato sauce, and topped with a fried egg. One of the best places to try it is at Café Santiago. For a plant-based option, visit Vegana By Tentúgal.

Burn off your meal with a walk through Porto’s major landmarks. Among them, the baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and the majestic Sé, a cathedral encapsulating centuries of architectural history. Then, journey down to the vibrant Ribeira district, with its lively atmosphere and stunning riverside views.

Ribeira is packed with historical sites. Step back in time at the medieval Casa do Infante and admire the striking interior of the Igreja de São Francisco. To relax, find a quaint café on the Praça da Ribeira, where you can enjoy the magnificent views across the Douro. For some added excitement, consider riding the vintage Number 1 tram along the riverside, where you can experience the local charm.

Enjoy a Fabulous Meal and Join the Nightlife in Baixa

In the evening, head to O Paparico, a romantic restaurant renowned for its culinary masterpieces using local ingredients such as Açores king crab and Bísaro pork.

As the nightlife begins around midnight, savor the evening air at Base, a trendy open-air bar beneath the olive trees of Passeio dos Clérigos. When the clock strikes midnight, join the bustling crowd on Rua da Galeria de Paris and Rua de Cândido dos Reis, areas brimming with nightclubs and bars.

Day 2

Start the Morning Amid Gardens and Panoramic Views

Begin your day with breakfast and a specialty brew at Noshi Coffee, catering to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free preferences. Following your meal, meander over to the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. Observe the peacocks while exploring the park’s beautiful gardens covering eight hectares (20 acres), where the southern area provides excellent views of the city.

Enjoy a Leisurely Afternoon Along the Coast

Rent a bike from Biclas & Triclas and ride west along the Douro River. Cycle approximately 20 minutes to Foz do Douro, Porto’s coastal neighborhood, where you can relax on Praia dos Ingleses. Continue along the seaside promenade northward to Matosinhos.

This coastal area is ideal for a fresh lunch with seafood options aplenty on Rua Heróis de França; Restaurante Lage Senhor do Padrão is particularly recommended. Afterward, unwind on Praia de Matosinhos, taking in the expansive sandy beach and surf, then pedal back along the river to return your bike.

Cap the Evening in Miragaia

After returning your bike, spend your evening exploring Miragaia, located just west of Ribeira. This atmospheric district, previously the Jewish quarter, is known for its captivating street art. Have drinks during sunset at Mirajazz, a hidden terrace rewarding your search with stunning views. At street level, make your way to Bota & Birra, an intimate dinner spot offering a variety of tapas, steaks, and seafood.

Day 3

Enter the World of Port

Start your morning with a scenic stroll across the iconic Ponte de Dom Luís I, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. Crossing the Douro River leads you to Vila Nova de Gaia, the port wine capital. Begin your exploration at the World of Wine (WOW), a vibrant cultural district located in former port wine cellars. The district features several museums, a variety of restaurants, and engaging exhibits. Highlights include the Wine Experience and the immersive Pink Palace, showcasing the rosé industry.

Have Lunch on the Terrace

For lunch, enjoy the sweeping views of Porto from one of the outstanding restaurants in WOW. Options include fish and chips at Golden Catch, all-day brunch at VP, or vegetarian offerings at Root & Vine. After lunch, visit the legendary Taylor’s for a self-guided audio tour of its sprawling property, which features 300-year-old cellars, all while taking in exceptional views from the terrace before tasting two different ports.

See a Gaia Sunset, Then Taste Creative Petiscos

Before sunset, take the Teleférico de Gaia for breathtaking views of Porto and its bridges. Once at the top, find a grassy spot in the Jardim do Morro where you can watch the sunset.

Afterward, return across the Douro (on foot or via the D metro line) and dine at Tapabento. Enjoy modern petiscos (Portuguese small plates), including foie gras toast and garlic-infused clams. Conclude your night with cocktails and stunning views at LIFT Rooftop Via Catarina, located on the 14th floor of the ViaCatarina Shopping car park.

Day 4

Immerse Yourself in Art Nouveau and Azulejos

Start your day at the elegant Café Majestic, admired for its stunning Art Nouveau decor. After enjoying your coffee and French toast, embark on a self-guided walking tour to discover Porto’s beautiful azulejos—the blue-and-white tiles that adorn many buildings.

Your journey begins at Capela das Almas, an 18th-century church featuring scenes from the lives of St. Francis and St. Catherine. Continue to the baroque Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, and don’t miss the beautiful tiled walls at São Bento train station. Conclude with a visit to Igreja do Carmo, famous for its eye-catching azulejo-covered façade.

Visit Porto’s Art and Garden Mecca

For lunch, stop by A Tasquinha for classic Portuguese dishes, then hop on bus number 201 or 207 to reach Serralves. This location boasts one of Portugal’s premier contemporary art museums surrounded by 18 hectares of lush park. Explore the latest exhibitions, and then wander the expansive gardens, which feature fountains, ponds, rose gardens, and even areas for the park’s barnyard animals. Don’t forget the Treetop Walk that provides unique views of the park from above.

Catch a Concert at the Casa da Música

Take bus 201 back towards the city center and get off at Largo de Ferreira Lapa, where you can find Casa Agrícola, a refined Portuguese restaurant nestled in an 18th-century building. It’s just a short walk to the Casa da Música, an architectural gem designed by Rem Koolhaas. Explore the building and attend a performance to experience its acoustic brilliance. Afterwards, relax and unwind at Capela Incomum, a 19th-century chapel reborn as a cozy wine bar.

This article was first published Aug 22, 2019 and updated Jun 25, 2022.