Porto Portugal 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Porto Itinerary: Exploring the City of Bridges & Wine

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: The Passenger Hostel, Gallery Hostel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Infante Sagres, Pestana Vintage Porto
  • Luxury: Yeatman Hotel, Hotel Teatro

Transportation:

  • Porto is easily walkable.
  • Use the metro (Metro do Porto) for longer distances.
  • Consider a Andante card for cost-effective travel on public transport.
  • Uber and taxis are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Portuguese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted most places.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Day 1: Arrival & Ribeira Charm

  • Arrive at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO). Take the metro or a taxi to your accommodation.
  • Lunch: Try Francesinha, a Porto specialty sandwich, at Café Santiago.
  • Explore Ribeira, the historic waterfront district with colorful buildings and narrow alleys.
  • Dinner: Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine with river views at Restaurante Casa Guedes.

Day 2: Bridges & Port Wine

  • Walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning city panoramas.
  • Visit Vila Nova de Gaia, the heart of Port wine production. Take a tour and tasting at one of the many wineries like Taylor’s or Sandeman.
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at Restaurante Adega São Nicolau in Vila Nova de Gaia.
  • Evening: Relax with live Fado music (traditional Portuguese folk music) at Casa da Mariquinhas.

Day 3: History & Art

  • Visit the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking views of Porto. Climb the 240 steps!
  • Explore São Francisco Church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with ornate gilded carvings.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick and tasty bite at Bolhão Market, a bustling marketplace with local produce and delicacies.
  • Afternoon: Discover contemporary art at Serralves Museum and its beautiful gardens.

Day 4: Douro Valley Excursion

  • Take a day trip to the Douro Valley, renowned for its vineyards and breathtaking scenery.
  • Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Douro River.
  • Lunch: Savor a delicious wine-paired meal at one of the Douro Valley wineries like Quinta do Crasto or Quinta Nova de Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Day 5: Books & Beaches

  • Visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores with its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and ornate staircase.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal with ocean views at Praia da Matosinhos, a popular beach just north of Porto.

Day 6: Culture & Shopping

  • Explore the Serralves Foundation, a cultural complex featuring contemporary art exhibitions, a museum, and beautiful gardens.
  • Wander through Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s main shopping street, for souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Dinner: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Casa Nanda, known for its creative Portuguese cuisine.

Day 7: Farewell & Departure

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
  • Do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Depart from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO).

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases. Locals appreciate the effort!
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Embrace the slow pace of life and enjoy the city’s charm.