This article contains affiliate links that may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. Read our Disclosure for more. Thanks for your support!
Last updated on June 13th, 2025 at 03:59 pm
If you consider spending 5 days in Porto, you’ve come to the right place. This carefully planned itinerary is your ticket to a memorable trip to the second-largest city in Portugal.
Known for its beautiful historic centre, gorgeous blue and white tiles – or azulejos – and the famous Port wine, Porto is ideal for a city break like no other.
After spending a month and a half in Porto recently, we had a hard time deciding what to include and what to leave out of this 5 days in Porto itinerary as there are so many fantastic things to do in Porto.
Yet, we managed to come up with a comprehensive itinerary that has a little bit of everything: history, art, culture and fun. Here’s what to see and do in Porto in 5 days.
If you’re considering a trip to Portugal soon, we’re here to answer all your questions. Fill in this form to book your one-on-one video call with us or to request the perfect Portugal itinerary, customised to your travel needs and desires. Learn more about our travel planning services.
Where Is Porto?
Located in Northern Portugal, Porto is the second-largest city in the country, after Lisbon. It’s also one of the largest urban centres in the Iberian Peninsula. The city stretches along the northern bank of the Douro River.
How To Get To Porto
By Air
You can get to Porto by plane from most European countries. There are also direct flights to Porto from the US.
Porto International Airport is a 15-minute drive from the city centre. You can reach the city centre from Porto Αirport by metro or bus.
However, in the event of rain and mostly due to the uphill roads, we recommend booking an airport transfer in advance.
By Bus or Train
If you’re already in Lisbon, you can get to Porto by Flixbus or train from Lisbon Oriente Station in just three hours. Porto is also well connected to other nearby cities if you’re planning a longer trip across Portugal.
The main train station in Porto is the magnificent Sao Bento Station in the heart of the city. Trains also stop at the Campanha Train Station. If you plan to get to Porto by bus, buses arrive at the Campanha Bus Station.
Where To Stay in Porto
When deciding where to stay in Porto, take into account the city’s uphill streets as they can be tricky.
Having spent more than a month in Porto, we believe that the best place to stay in Porto is near Avenida dos Aliados in the heart of the city.
Thanks to its convenient location, the 5-star Editory Boulevard Aliados Hotel is a great option if you want to move around the city easily.
On top of that, Porto’s main tourist attractions and plenty of options for great restaurants and bars are within a short walk.
Travel Resources To Help You Plan The Best 5-Day Porto Itinerary
5 Days in Porto: The Best Porto Itinerary Including The Douro Valley
Day 1
Carmo Church
Start your first of 5 days in Porto at the 18th-century Carmo Church with its gorgeous azulejo tiles.
Built in the Rococo style by the Order of Carmo, the church was constructed slightly over one metre away from the existing Carmelitas Church.
Consequently, the so-called Hidden House filled the gap between the two churches, becoming the narrowest building in Porto.
Inside the church, you can visit the Great Hall where the Carmo Order used to hold their meetings, the Order Catacombs and the terrace.
With the same ticket, you have access to the Hidden House, believed to be one of several places in Porto that inspired J.K. Rowling to write Harry Potter.
Livraria Lello
Speaking of Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling, the famous writer lived in Porto during the 1990s. Many places she visited as part of her daily routine fuelled her imagination and led her to create Harry Potter’s magic world.
A few steps from Carmo Church, one of those enchanting spots awaits. Livraria Lello is said to have inspired some famous Hogwarts locations.
However, a few years ago, J.K. Rowling posted on social that she had never visited this place. In any case, Livraria Lello is the most beautiful bookstore in the city.
The moment you step inside Livraria Lello, you can’t help but notice the forked wooden staircase that dominates the space.
The bookshop’s interior is made of plaster to resemble wood. The towering bookshelves carrying Livraria Lello’s special editions reach the stained-glass opening in the ceiling.
Livraria Lello is certainly one of the main sights in Porto. But we have bad news. Plagued by overtourism, Lello Bookshop is always packed with people jostling for that perfect Instagram shot.
The owners claim to have regulated the crowds with online tickets and specific timeslot allocations, but the chaos persists.
Even if you hold an online ticket voucher, expect long lines. The bright side is that you’ll have plenty of time to marvel at the building’s Art Nouveau facade while waiting in the queue.
Moreover, don’t forget that your ticket works as a voucher for a discount if you buy a book.
Sadly, the magic of visiting this undoubtedly gorgeous place is long lost. As our experience was genuinely disappointing, we would advise you to skip Livraria Lello.
If you insist on visiting, though, we recommend doing so as part of a guided tour like this one.
Clérigos Tower
A few steps from Livraria Lello, Clerigos Tower dominates Porto’s skyline. Alongside the adjoining Clerigos Church, Torre dos Clerigos is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto.
Built in the Baroque style for the Brotherhood of Clerigos, both the church and the tower date back to the 18th century.
You need to climb 240 steps to get to the top of the bell tower for breathtaking views. Keep in mind that there’s no lift. Similar to Livraria Lello, expect queues even if you buy an online ticket.
Miradouro da Vitória
A 5-minute walk from Clerigos Tower, Miradouro da Vitoria is one of the best places in Porto to bask in the warm sunshine.
While there, enjoy splendid views of the historic centre and the Douro River by the sound of street artists performing live music.
Six Bridges Douro River Cruise
From Miradouro da Vitoria, walk downhill to Cais da Ribeira for the most relaxing activity of the day.
Jump on board a traditional river boat – called a rabelo in Portuguese – for a laid-back Six Bridges Cruise along the Douro River.
Rabelo boats were used in the past to transport Port wine barrels from the Douro Valley to Porto. Now, they’re taking enchanted travellers on scenic cruises along the tranquil waters of the Douro River.
The boat tour lasts about 45 minutes. It takes you on a historic journey of the Six Bridges that connect Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia, the area across the river from Porto Old Town.
Keep in mind that even if you book your tickets online, you still have to get physical tickets from the dock. Therefore, make sure to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
Cais da Ribeira
There’s no better way to end your first day in Porto than relishing a bottle of Portuguese wine at the very place that will make you fall in love with Porto.
The riverside neighbourhood of Ribeira is, in essence, the historic centre of Porto.
Lined with beautiful buildings with characteristic facades, Ribeira is a true symbol of Porto and a great place to see and be seen, especially in the evening or late afternoon.
The Ribeira district might feel a bit touristy at times. However, in Ribeira, you’ll find some of the best wine bars in Porto, with splendid views of the Douro River and the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
Some of our favourite wine bars in Cais da Ribeira are Wine Quay Bar and Bacchus Vini. Both are perfect for a bottle of vinho verde and delicious petiscos, the Portuguese take on tapas.
Day 2
Avenida dos Aliados & Liberdade Square
Start your second of 5 days in Porto at Avenida dos Aliados and Liberdade Square in the heart of the city. At its northern end, Avenida dos Aliados is dominated by the impressive City Hall.
In the southern part, the city’s central square, Praça da Liberdade, awaits. There, you can step inside what must be the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world.
Pastelaria Tupi
On your way from Aliados to Mercado do Bolhao, make a quick stop at Pastelaria Tupi for a sweet bite. Pastel de nata is a traditional Portuguese pastry tart with egg custard, ideal for those with a sweet tooth.
Pastelaria Tupi features a whole vegan section that includes delicious – and eggless – pasteis de nata.
Mercado do Bolhao
Completely renovated in 2022, the stunning Mercado do Bolhao is Porto’s central market. The two-storey market occupies a whole block in the city centre, featuring four entrances located at the surrounding streets.
On the ground floor, you will mostly find stalls selling fresh produce, from fresh fruit to vegetables.
There are also stalls selling cheese and other local products such as olives, olive oil and chocolates, all ideal delicacies to take back home.
On the upper floor, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the market’s restaurants.
Chapel of Souls
Exit Mercado do Bolhao via Rua de Fernandes Tomas to visit an impressive church.
As you walk towards Capela das Almas, the azulejo-covered walls of the 18th-century church suddenly emerge amidst the sweet-smelling cloud coming from the carts baking chestnuts at the corner.
The incredible blue-and-white tiled facade of the Chapel of Souls dates back to 1929.
Rua de Santa Catarina
From the Chapel of Souls, walk along Rua de Santa Catarina, the 5th Avenue of Porto. Athletic stores, shoe and clothes shops and the Via Catarina Shopping Mall are some of the stores you can visit along Santa Catarina Street.
Don’t leave without paying a visit to the Arcadia chocolate shop for a delicate box of chocolate sardines or – our favourite – chocolates filled with Port wine.
Café Majestic
As you walk along Rua Santa Catarina, you’ll stumble upon a long line. This time, people are jostling for a table at one of the most historic cafés in Porto.
If it’s a weekday, you’ll likely get a table sooner than visiting the café on a Saturday morning.
With its Parisian style, the Art Nouveau Café Majestic was one of the places J.K. Rowling frequented when she lived in Porto.
It was within the walls of this café rather than Livraria Lello that J.K. Rowling was actually inspired to give life to one of the most emblematic young wizards, Harry Potter.
By the way, if you’re into the Harry Potter craze, join this Harry Potter-themed walking tour.
Galerias Palladium Clock
As you step out of the café, look to your left. The Galerias Palladium building stands at the corner of Rua de Santa Catarina and Rua de Passos Manuel.
Every hour, passersby stop in front of the building’s clock to listen to its unmissable cheerful melody. Featuring four significant figures that marked the city’s rich history, the clock narrates Porto’s past.
Sao Joao, Porto’s patron saint, Infante D. Henrique, an important figure of the Age of the Discoveries, Almeida Garrett and Camilo Castello Branco, both notable literary personalities, are rooted in the city’s history.
Batalha Square
A short walking distance from the Galerias Palladium Clock, you’ll reach Batalha Square.
Named after a big bloody battle that took place between the Moors and the locals in the 10th century, Batalha Square is a significant cultural hub in the city.
The first notable building you’ll see is the stunning blue-tiled Santo Ildefonso Church that dominates Praça da Batalha.
Other remarkable buildings in the square are the Art-Deco Cinema Batalha, the former Batalha Palace, which is now home to the Post Office, and the Baroque-Neoclassical Royal Theatre of Sao Joao.
São Bento Train Station
From Batalha Square, walk down Rua Madeira, taking in panoramic views of the magnificent Sao Bento Railway Station as you go.
Step inside Sao Bento Train Station to marvel at the azulejo-covered interior of its entrance hall.
With 22,000 ceramic tiles adorning its walls and ceilings, it’s no wonder Sao Bento is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
Rua das Flores
From Sao Bento Station, walk along the emblematic Rua das Flores. Opened in the 14th century, the pedestrianised Rua das Flores was once the vegetable gardens of Pedro Alvares da Costa, Porto’s bishop of the time.
Along Rua das Flores, you can see a huge Cat mural or step inside Claus Porto, a historic soap store ideal for buying fragrant gifts for your loved ones back home.
At the end of the street, you’ll find several cosy wine bars and restaurants to end your second day in Porto in the best possible way.
Day 3
Porto Cathedral
Start your third day in Porto at the grandiose Sé do Porto. But before you step inside the imposing Cathedral, take a few moments to enjoy splendid views from its terrace.
Built in diverse styles over six centuries, the initially Romanesque Cathedral was completed in the 18th century with Baroque and Gothic influences.
Undeniably, the Cathedral’s highlight is the adjoining cloister adorned with blue-tiled panels. Take a stroll around the cloister to explore the several entrances that lead to elegant chapels, the Cathedral and the upper floor.
On the upper floor, you can visit the Chapter Room and the Cathedral’s Treasury.
From there, climb to the top of one of the Cathedral’s towers to take in outstanding views of the Douro River, the historic city centre and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Palácio da Bolsa
Walk through the narrow cobblestone streets near the Cathedral and head to Bolsa Palace, one of the most impressive places to visit in Porto.
Constructed on the ruins of St Francis Convent, the 19th-century historic building used to be the Stock Exchange Palace.
Queen Mary II gave the ruined land to the businessmen of the time to house their Commercial Association.
The palace boasts a magnificent courtyard with a glass roof and a monumental forked staircase. The staircase leads to the upper floor and the palace’s historic rooms.
However, the indisputable highlight of the palace is the incredibly lavish Arab Room.
As Palacio da Bolsa is still home to the Commercial Association, you can visit it only on a guided tour, which is available in various languages. The tour takes about 30 minutes, but expect to spend more time queueing for the tickets.
Check out the opening hours and entrance fees.
Ponte Dom Luís I (Lower Deck)
It’s time to see one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto. Ponte Dom Luis I must be one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.
Packed with people during the peak season, the bridge has an upper and a lower deck, which render walking around this built-on-many-levels city a lot easier.
Completed in 1886, the double-decked bridge replaced a suspension bridge, which was in use for only a few decades at the very same spot. You can see the old bridge’s pillars next to Ponte Dom Luis I at the lower level.
The bridge is often confused with the nearby Maria Pia Railway Bridge, which was constructed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel – yes, the civil engineer who built the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
However, Dom Luis I Bridge was constructed by Eiffel’s student Theophile Seyrig instead.
As the bridge’s upper deck is perfect at sunset, it should be left for later. Now, walk along the lower deck to reach Vila Nova de Gaia.
Vila Nova de Gaia Promenade
Vila Nova de Gaia (or just Gaia) is the part of Porto that lies on the other bank of the Douro River, across from Ribeira.
Once there, walk along the riverside promenade and enjoy superb views of Cais da Ribeira and the bridge.
Historically, Gaia has been home to most of the wine cellars where Port wine coming from the Douro Valley was stored and aged.
All those big signs bearing names like Calem, Sandeman, Graham, and Ferreira you’ve seen from the Porto side, are deeply connected to the Port wine production dating back to the 17th century.
Calem Port Wine Cellar
It’s time for a journey into Port wine’s history accompanied by a unique Port tasting. So, your next stop is one of the many Port wine cellars you can find in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Our recommendation is the Calem Port Wine Cellar for a visit to the interactive museum, a thorough cellar tour led by a passionate local guide and a tasting of three premium Port wines.
At the exit, don’t miss the chance to buy two or three fine bottles from the on-site store, like we did. Secure your place on this high-in-demand Calem Cellar tour by buying your tickets in advance.
Bordalo II Street Art
While in Gaia, discover a massive rabbit decorating a corner on a back street near the Cable Car Lower Station.
The striking street art sculpture is made of recycled and waste material by the eco-conscious street artist Bordalo II. If you’re visiting Lisbon, you’ll come across a lot of his works there, as well.
Gaia Cable Car & Jardim do Morro
A ride on the Gaia Cable Car is one of the best things to do in Porto in its own right. Pop in a cabin for a 5-minute swing over the Port cellars in Gaia to enjoy stunning views of the entire city.
Once at Gaia Cable Car Upper Station, catch your breath at Jardim do Morro, a sloping garden ideal for enjoying some relaxing moments.
Sit under the palm trees, listen to the street performers and grab a refreshment or beer from the roaming vendors. Needless to say, the setting is complemented by the best views of Porto.
Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar
From Jardim do Morro, take the short uphill path towards the Monastery of Serra do Pilar and its terrace for a memorable sunset.
Overlooking the beautiful Ponte Dom Luis I Bridge and the historic city centre, the terrace offers spectacular views. Once there, find a great spot and take in all the beauty of Porto.
Ponte Dom Luís I (Upper Deck)
The magic moments never end in Porto. After sunset, catch the blue hour from the bridge’s upper deck and stop for a moment.
As you’re standing at the top of the bridge, enjoy the greatest views of the Douro River. Just be aware of where you’re standing as you don’t want to get in the way of the metro while it’s crossing the bridge.
Day 4: Foz do Douro & Matosinhos
Besides the beautiful historic centre of Porto, the city’s greater area boasts a spectacular coastline with unhindered views of the Atlantic Ocean.
A great way to enjoy the Atlantic district of Porto is to spend a day at Foz do Douro and Matosinhos.
The historic tram 1 will take you from Praça do Infante to Foz do Douro on a scenic ride along the Douro River. You can only buy tickets on the tram as the ride isn’t included in your Porto Card or any other public transport pass.
In case of queues at the tram stop, you can also take the double-decker 500 bus that follows pretty much the same route.
You can use your Porto Card or your public transport Andante Card on the bus. Alternatively, you can buy public transport tickets either on board the bus or at a metro station.
Foz do Douro
Once in Foz do Douro, walk through the Jardim do Passeio Alegre and stroll along the promenade to reach the pier with the white and red lighthouse.
Keep in mind that, when the weather is windy, access to the lighthouse isn’t permitted to prevent accidents caused by the huge waves.
Foz do Douro, which means Mouth of The Douro in English, is dominated by the Sao Joao da Foz Fortress at the very beginning of the oceanside promenade that leads to Matosinhos.
To get to Matosinhos, we recommend walking along the Avenida do Brasil for about an hour. If you’re tired, take the 500 bus instead. Yet, we insist. The walk is undoubtedly worth it.
Opened in the 19th century, Avenida do Brasil is lined with plenty of sandy beaches and lush gardens and the century-old Pergola do Foz.
There are also several mansions that narrate the area’s elegant past, now suffocating next to soulless tall buildings.
Matosinhos
Before arriving to Matosinhos Beach, visit Castelo do Queijo or Cheese Castle for great views from its terrace.
A short walk from Cheese Castle, Parque da Cidade is one of the largest urban parks in Portugal. Wander around the park and its lakes before heading back to Matosinhos Beach.
Dominated by She Changes, a modern sculpture consisting of a gigantic fishing net that constantly changes its shape, Matosinhos Beach is the ideal place to put your feet in the sand and relax.
End your day at one of the area’s restaurants, all frequented mostly by locals. Hop on the 500 bus to get back to Porto or take the metro for a less interesting inland ride.
Day 5: Douro Valley Day Trip
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Douro Valley region is famous for its high-quality wines, a perfect place to visit if you’re spending 5 days in Porto.
Wine production is part of the country’s culture. Porto has been exporting wine for centuries due to its privileged location at the mouth of the Douro River.
In the past, the only way to transport barrels of wine from the remote region of the Douro Valley was through the River Douro.
The trip would take two months by a traditional rabelo boat, like the one used for the Six Bridges Cruise you enjoyed on your first day.
Nowadays, there are three ways to visit the Douro Valley on a day trip. By car, by train and on a guided tour, like we did.
How to Get To The Douro Valley on a Day Trip From Porto
On a Guided Tour
Considering the long distance that separates Porto from the Douro Valley, the best way to enjoy a day trip to the Douro Valley is on a guided tour.
For our full-day trip to the Douro Valley, we joined this small-group guided tour and we can’t recommend it enough.
After a seamless hotel pick-up, from the comfort of a modern van, you’ll enjoy the drive through vineyards perched on the mountains overlooking the Douro Valley.
The first stop on this wine tour is a glorious estate, or quinta in Portuguese. A guided tour of the winery and the vineyards, followed by wine and olive oil tastings, is the best introduction to the region’s wine culture.
Then, the winding road with its spectacular vistas takes you to Pinhao Village, the starting point of one of the most scenic cruises.
With your eyes still filled with the beauty of extraordinary landscapes, enjoy a traditional lunch at the riverside town of Peso da Regua before ending your tour at a family-run wine estate and a memorable Port wine tasting.
By Car
If you decide to rent a car, bear in mind the long way to the Douro Valley has a lot of turns with narrow roads, as the route involves several mountain passes.
It will take you between one hour and a half to two hours to drive from Porto to Pinhao, the village at the heart of the Douro Valley.
Undoubtedly, driving gives you the flexibility to roam the valley and the wine estates at your own pace. On the other hand, you won’t be able to enjoy the wine tastings if you have to drive back to Porto.
Therefore, we would only recommend the car option if you plan to overnight at one of the fantastic wine estate hotels the region has to offer like this one.
Our first visit to the Douro Valley convinced us to revisit and discover this unique wine region by car at a slower pace in the future.
By Train
Another way to get to the Douro Valley is to take the train from Sao Bento or Campanha train station in Porto to either Pinhao or Pocinho. This is one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
However, the reason why we wouldn’t recommend the train on a day trip is that the train ride can take anywhere between two and a half to three and a half hours one way, including a possible train change.
Therefore, similar to the car option, we would recommend the train only if you plan to spend a few nights in the Douro Valley. Check out the Douro Line train timetable and plan your trip with the help of the official website.
FAQs About Visiting Porto
Are 5 days in Porto too much?
Absolutely not. We stayed in Porto for a month and a half and we believe that spending 5 days in Porto is the bare minimum to see Porto’s main attractions, experience the wine culture, explore the city’s oceanside and see more of Portugal on day trips.
Is Porto a walkable city?
Porto is a compact city and its historic centre can be easily explored on foot. However, Porto is also an uphill city. But fear not. This 5-day Porto itinerary is carefully planned to help you avoid unnecessary uphill walking.
Is Porto rainy?
The short answer is yes, Porto is a rainy city. This is why the summer months – June, July and August – and September might be the best time to visit Porto to experience less rain.
What day trips can I do from Porto?
Hands down the best day trip from Porto is a guided tour of the Douro Valley. Apart from that, within one hour from Porto, you can also visit Aveiro, plan a day trip to Braga or spend a day in Guimaraes, the so-called birthplace of Portugal.
Is the Porto Card worth it?
With unlimited access to public transportation, including to and from the airport, the official Porto Card is ideal if you’re spending 5 days in Porto. Please note that tram rides aren’t included, though.
With the Porto Card, you also get discounts for some of the best Porto attractions and experiences we’ve included in this Porto 5-day itinerary.
The Porto Card is available in one, two or four-day versions. You can collect your Porto Card at Porto Airport or Porto’s Tourism Office next to the Sé Cathedral.
Where can I listen to fado in Porto?
Alhtough fado music was born in Lisbon, there are several places to listen to fado in Porto, too. Our favourite is Capela Incomum.
This wine bar and restaurant is housed in an old chapel and a fado live takes place in this beautiful setting twice a month. Text them on WhatsApp to check out dates and book a table.
Which is the best place to try Francesinha in Porto?
The quirky Portuguese sandwich, Francesinha, is probably the best traditional Portuguese food to try in Porto.
Thankfully, several restaurants in Porto offer veggie alternatives to this meat-heavy delicacy. Our top pick is Lado B Café in Coliseu, where we tried one of the best vegetarian Francesinhas in Porto.
Where can I learn more about FC Porto?
Locals in Porto are very proud of their historic football club, FC Porto. One of the best ways to delve into local culture and learn more about FC Porto is to join an insightful tour of the FC Porto Museum and Stadium.
For an even more unforgettable experience and if you have enough time, you can also watch a game among locals, like we did.
It may be because Porto was our first stop on the semi-nomadic life we chose for ourselves, but Porto will always hold a special place in our hearts.
This is why we hope this 5 days in Porto itinerary inspires you to travel to Porto and create your own fond memories there, too.
WORDS & IMAGES: Katerina
EDITING: Maria