If you’re looking for the perfect 3 day Porto itinerary, then you’re in the right place!
We recently visited Portugal and fell in love with this charming coastal town.
Whether you’re here for the port wine, the iconic blue-tiled churches, or just to eat your body weight in pastel de nata — this guide has you covered. From must-see spots to hidden gems, we’ll walk (and taste) our way through one of Europe’s most charming cities.
*This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through these links, we get a small commission at no additional cost. That Texas Couple also participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Let’s Connect on Social Media!
Quick Overview of Your 3 Day Porto Itinerary
Day 1: Ribeira, Port Wine Cellars, Dom Luís I Bridge
Day 2: Livraria Lello, Clérigos Tower, Bolhão Market
Day 3: Foz do Douro, Serralves Museum, Sunset Cruise
Day 1: Porto’s Historic Heart & Riverside Charm
Morning: Ribeira District
Porto’s Ribeira District is as postcard-perfect of a town as they come, and is the perfect way to start your Porto adventure.
This historic neighborhood along the Duoro River truly stole our heart, and is where we chose to stay during our time in the city.
The colorful building stacked on narrow hills and the little cafes that spill out onto the cobblestone street just ooze European charm.
Take time to explore the area, and don’t miss these sights while you’re wandering:
- Praça da Ribeira: A lively square with river views and street performers. Great for people-watching and soaking in Porto’s atmosphere.
- São Francisco Church: Looks modest on the outside, but step in and you’ll find one of Portugal’s most ornate Baroque interiors — covered in gold leaf. Yes, actual gold.
- Palácio da Bolsa: Once a stock exchange, now a jaw-dropping palace. Don’t miss the Arab Room, it’s like stepping into the Alhambra.
Of course, this is the perfect area to grab a morning coffee. We suggest Café do Cais right by the river — it’s a local favorite with views for days.
Consider taking one of these fun Porto tours to get better associated with the city.
Afternoon: Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
One of the highlights of our time in Porto was visiting the port wine cellars! Learning about the wine-making process and sampling this delectable wines should be on everyone’s list of things to do in Porto!
Walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and voilà — you’re in Gaia, home to the world’s best port wine.
Interesting fact, the Dom Luis I Bridge was designed by a student of Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel), it connects Porto and Gaia with two levels of traffic, trams, and footpaths.
Pro tip: Walk the top level for epic views.
Choose a port wine cellar to visit, and be sure to do a combination ticket that includes a tour and tasting. Some popular ones include:
After your port wine tasting, check out the WOW Cultural District, a newer space with museums, wine bars, and Insta-worthy views. It’s like an adult playground with delicious drinks!
Pro Tip: Be sure to book your wine tour online ahead of time, especially during high season.
Evening: Jardim do Morro Sunset
Tonight, we are going to watch an epic sunset in Porto.
Climb up (or take the funicular) to Jardim do Morro, a hilltop park with arguably the best sunset in Porto.
This place is amazing in the evening. Local bring wine, musicians are abound, and everyone watches the sun dip behind the red rooftops. It’s a vibe all its own, and the perfect ending to your first day in Porto.
After the sunset, Head back across the bridge to Rua das Flores, lined with cozy taverns and candlelit bistros, or explore Rua Galeria de Paris for late-night eats and drinks.
Day 2: Culture, Views, and Local Flavors
Morning: Livraria Lello & Clérigos Tower
Now, it’s not often that I recommend visiting a bookstore, but I must admin that Livraria Lello is an exception to that rule.
Frequently called one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, with neo-Gothic arches, a floating staircase, and stained glass ceilings. Harry Potter fans, this is your pilgrimage spot — J.K. Rowling was a regular here when she lived in Porto.
Pro-Tip: Book Livraria Lello tickets online. The line gets long even before it opens!
After you have stocked up on books, let’s get our leg workout on and head up to Clérigos Tower.
I realize that climbing the 225 steps to get to the tower is no easy feat, but once you arrive at the top, you are greeted with awesome 360° views over the city.
This is the perfect place to snap some iconic photos (after you catch your breath, of course)!
Another choice is to book a walking tour that includes the bookstore!
Afternoon: Mercado do Bolhão & Santa Catarina
If you’re like us, exploring the food scene of a city is high on our itinerary. So, let’s jump into the sights, sounds, and smells of Porto’s food scene.
To do this, spend the afternoon exploring some of the culinary spots around Porto. A few to put on your list include:
- Mercado do Bolhão: A traditional market where locals buy fresh fish, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and more. It recently reopened after a massive renovation, but it’s still full of old-school charm.
- Majestic Café: Step into the Belle Époque at this historic café. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s pricey. But sitting here feels like being in a movie.
- Rua de Santa Catarina: Porto’s main shopping street. Great for picking up gifts, ceramics, cork products, and more.
Pro Tip: Grab a francesinha (Porto’s signature sandwich) at Café Santiago or Bufete Fase. It’s messy, meaty, cheesy, and delicious.
Evening: Dinner and Fado
Tonight we will immerse ourselves in the culture of Portugal by enjoying a delicious dinner and watching a traditional Fado show.
For dinner, try Cantinho do Avillez for elevated Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist, or Taberna dos Mercadores for rustic, authentic dishes in a tiny space with tons of charm.
When your belly is full, head to Casa da Mariquinhas to catch a traditional Fado performance — Portugal’s hauntingly beautiful traditional music.
If you would rather do dinner and the Fado show at the same time, check out this all-inclusive show.
Day 3: Coastal Relaxation & Artistic Exploration
Morning: Foz do Douro & Lighthouse Walk
Hop on tram #1 or take an Uber to Foz do Douro, Porto’s beachy side where the river meets the Atlantic.
Grab a morning pastry and coffee from Tavi – Confeitaria da Foz, a seaside café with a view and buttery croissants to fuel up for your final day of exploring.
Walk along the Passeio Alegre Garden and admire the palm trees, peacocks, and stunning water views before Praia do Carneiro, a quiet beach perfect for a morning walk or quick sunbathe.
If the weather permits, don’t miss Farolim de Felgueiras, the dramatic lighthouse at the edge of a long pier. When the waves crash around it feels like pure cinematic magic.
Afternoon: Serralves Museum & Gardens
This afternoon, hop back toward the city center and head to Serralves, one of the most unique cultural spaces in Portugal.
Spend the day exploring one (or more of the following:
- Serralves Museum: A contemporary art museum set in a minimalist space with rotating exhibitions. Even if you’re not an “art person,” the building and layout are impressive.
- Casa de Serralves: A pink Art Deco villa straight out of a Wes Anderson film.
- Serralves Park: 18 hectares of manicured gardens, forest trails, and sculptures. Don’t miss the treetop walk!
Evening: Duoro River Cruise & Farewell Dinner
Close out an amazing 3 days in Porto with a Duoro River Cruise.
The 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise is a peaceful, 50-minute cruise that gives you a new perspective on Porto from the water. See all six bridges, learn a little history, and take those final snapshots.
Of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without a farewell dinner.
Book a table at Casa de Pasto da Palmeira for tapas by the water or enjoy seafood at Marisqueira Antiga. Both offer a delicious end to your Porto adventure.
Travel Tips for Visiting Porto
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Torel Avantgarde – artistic boutique vibes
- Mid-Range: PortoBay Flores – in the heart of the action
- Budget: Gallery Hostel – artsy, social, and comfy
Getting Around
Porto is easy to get around. We found the city to be very walkable and easy to navigate.
If you are traveling further out of the historic district, there are trams, Uber, and the metro system, all of which are convenient and affordable options.
Best Time to Visit Porto
April-June and September-October are great times to visit as there are fewer crowds and great weather.
Is 3 Days in Porto Enough?
Absolutely! A 3 day Porto itinerary gives you time to dive into the city’s rich culture, eat incredible food, enjoy the riverside and the coast, and fall completely in love with Portugal’s northern gem.
Spread the Love! Please Share This Post on Social Media!
Explore More With These Posts:
18 Fun Things to Do in Porto, Portugal
20 Awesome Things to Do in Split, Croatia
15 Amazing Places to Visit in Scotland
The Perfect 10 Day Italy Itinerary
20 Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Michelle Snell– Founder/Writer
Born and raised in Texas, Michelle Snell graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and her Master’s Degree from Texas Wesleyan University. Her passion for travel has taken her all over the world. She has received multiple awards for her writing. She has been featured in numerous publications, including Travel Awaits, Fort Worth Magazine, Fort Worth Weekly, NewsBreak, Voyage Dallas, Ella Inspires Magazine, and more. You can view her complete profile on MuckRacks.