Porto, Portugal Day Trips

Best Day Trips from Porto

Porto is a fantastic base for exploring the beautiful and diverse landscapes of northern Portugal. Beyond the charming streets of the city, there’s a world of stunning experiences waiting to be discovered on a day trip. Here are some of the best:

1. Douro Valley Wine Tours:

  • Experience: Immerse yourself in the heart of the Port wine industry.
  • Highlights: Visit picturesque vineyards along the Douro River, learn about the traditional port wine production process, enjoy breathtaking views and indulge in a delicious wine tasting experience.

Here are some specific destinations within a day trip distance from Porto:

  • Pinhao: This charming town offers beautiful scenery, historical wineries with tours and tastings, and the opportunity to explore the Douro River by boat or on foot.
  • Guimarães: Discover the birthplace of Portugal in this historic city, home to the impressive Guimarães Castle and the charming medieval center.

2. Coastal Escapes:

  • Explore: Head to the beautiful beaches of the Portuguese coast.

  • Destinations:

    • Aveiro: This “Venice of Portugal” has canals and gondolas (called “moliceiros” here) but also boasts a vibrant fishing port and access to stunning beaches like Praia da Barra and Praia do Forte de São João.
    • Porto: While known for the Port wine, it’s worth exploring the city itself!

3. Porto’s Coastline:

  • Enjoy: Scenic views of the Douro River on a boat trip from Porto.
  • Highlights: Explore the beaches along the coast, like the popular Praia do Forte da Foz or the scenic beaches near the town of Vila Nova de Gaia.

4. Coastal Towns and Villages:

  • Relax: Enjoy the charming atmosphere of coastal towns like Vila do Conde, Matosinhos, or Espinho.

5. Douro Valley Boat Tours:

  • Discover: The beauty of the Douro River by boat.
  • Highlights: Sample local wines, explore vineyards and cellars, and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river with breathtaking views.

5. Coastal Towns & Villages:

  • Explore: The beaches and coastal scenery around Porto.
  • Taste: Local seafood in charming harbor towns.

Remember:

  • Book in advance: Especially during peak season, it’s a good idea to book your tours and wine tastings ahead of time.

  • Consider a tour: This will handle transportation and logistics, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the experience.

  • Transportation: There are various ways to reach the coast from Porto, including:

    • Train: Take a scenic train ride along the Douro River.
    • Boat: Enjoy a relaxing cruise with breathtaking views of the Douro Valley vineyards.
    • Car: This allows for flexibility and exploration beyond wineries.

5. Other Activities:

  • Hiking: The Douro Valley is known for its stunning hiking trails.
  • Cycling: Explore the scenic roads and trails on two wheels.
  • Historical Sites: Immerse yourself in history at historic sites like the Castle of Guimarães, the Monastery of São João da Pesqueira, or the Casa da Música concert hall.

Things to consider when choosing a tour:

  • Time of year: Wine production is seasonal, so check which tours are available during your visit.
  • Type of wine: Some tours specialize in specific types of wine.
  • Transportation included: This can save you time and stress if you don’t have a car.

No matter how you choose to explore the region, you’re sure to be blown away by the beauty of the vineyards, the charm of the towns, and the deliciousness of the wine.

Enjoy your journey!