Porto in Two Days
Fall in Love with Porto
This guide has everything you need to explore Porto, a city that combines history with modernity in an exceptional way. We will take you through the main tourist attractions such as the majestic Cathedral, the views and charm of the Ribeira district, and a must-try tasting of Port wine. With a cuisine that ranges from cozy local taverns to refined gourmet dining, Porto captivated us from the very first moment. We hope this guide inspires you and helps you fall in love with this spectacular European city as well.
Dom Luis I Bridge
Introduction to Porto
Geography and Context
Porto, located in northern Portugal along the banks of the Douro River, is one of the country's most fascinating cities. It's renowned not only for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage but also for its vibrant culinary scene and famous Port wine.
History
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, has a rich history that has significantly influenced the country. Founded by the Celts and occupied by the Romans in the 1st century BC, it was renamed "Portus Cale." In 868, Alfonso III of Asturias reconquered the city from the Moors, laying the foundations for Portugal's political identity. Alfonso Henriques proclaimed Portugal's independence in 1139 and was recognized as the first king in 1143.
In the centuries that followed, Porto grew in commercial and military importance. In 1387, the alliance between England and Portugal was strengthened by the marriage of John I of Portugal and Philippa of Lancaster, leading to the Treaty of Windsor. Porto became a crucial center during the Age of Discoveries, with its shipyards building the vessels used by Henry the Navigator. The city experienced a Golden Age in the 18th century thanks to the Port wine trade.
Porto is known for its liberal and progressive spirit. In 1820, the Liberal Revolution began in Porto, driving the demand for a constitutional monarchy. The city endured an 18-month siege during the civil war, resulting in the abdication of King Miguel I. The construction of the Leixões port in 1890 catalyzed Porto's economic growth, and the city continued to develop throughout the 20th century, now recognized for its vibrant culture and rich history.
Best Time to Visit
Portugal is a top tourist destination in Europe. The high season in summer brings large crowds and hot weather, so it's advisable to avoid it if possible. April and May offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, while September and October are also excellent choices, with moderate temperatures, more affordable prices, and fewer tourists.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the hills and steps of Porto can be challenging for uncomfortable footwear.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| First Day | |
| São Bento Station | 15 minutes |
| Hotel Check-In | 30 minutes |
| Cachorrinhos at Gazela | 45 minutes |
| Bolhão Market/Manteigaria da Nata | 45 minutes |
| Porto Sign | 15 minutes |
| Walk along Avenida dos Aliados | 30 minutes |
| Clérigos Tower | 30 minutes |
| Igreja do Carmo | 1 hour |
| Livraria Lello | 1 hour |
| Dinner at Mistu | |
| Second Day | |
| Breakfast at Café Lobito | 45 minutes |
| Walk and Esplanade | 30 minutes |
| Porto Cathedral | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Walk through Escadas da Vitória | 1 hour |
| Palácio da Bolsa and São Nicolau Church (exterior) | 30 minutes |
| Ribeira | 30 minutes |
| Lunch at Restaurante do Terreirinho | 1 hour |
| Cross Dom Luís I Bridge | 30 minutes |
| Stroll through Vila Nova de Gaia | 30 minutes |
| Taylor's Port | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Dinner and Drinks at NH Collection Porto Batalha | |
First Day in Porto
Porto First Day Itinerary. Click in the map to open it on Google Maps
São Bento Station
Our first day began with our arrival by train at the impressive station that holds the distinction of being the most beautifully decorated in the world. The São Bento train station is much more than just an arrival point; it is a true architectural gem that captures the essence of Portuguese art. Its walls are adorned with dazzling azulejos (tiles) that tell stories of Portugal's history and culture, making it a tourist attraction in its own right.
Sao Bento Station
NH Collection Porto Batalha
After arriving at São Bento Station, we headed to the comfortable NH Collection Porto Batalha, where we were welcomed with complimentary drinks, pastries, and the traditional hospitality of Porto. The hotel not only offers first-class amenities but is also perfectly located to explore the best of the city.
Cachorrinhos at Gazela
Picture with the famous Gazela’s staff
After settling in, we decided to enjoy an early lunch at Gazela, a local restaurant made famous by Anthony Bourdain in "Parts Unknown". Food blog enthusiasts like us will instantly recognize the waiters and cooks. Gazela is known for its cachorrinhos, a type of Portuguese hot dog served in a thin, crispy bread, filled with fresh sausage, melted cheese, and an optional spicy sauce (if you like spicy food as much as I do, it's indispensable). The vibrant atmosphere, the friendliness of the waiters, and the jovial ambiance, combined with the delicious cachorrinhos, make Gazela a must-visit culinary stop.
Manteigaria Pastéis de Nata and Bolhão Market
Pasteis de Nata at Manteigaria
After Gazela, we passed by the beautiful Church of Saint Ildefonso with its stunning azulejos. Following our lunch, we needed a coffee break with the typical pastéis de nata. We stopped at Manteigaria – Fábrica de Pastéis de Nata. There are several places to enjoy these custard tarts in Porto, but this Manteigaria location is a bit further from the heavily trafficked tourist spots, allowing you to enjoy them more peacefully alongside a delicious espresso.
Next, we headed to the Bolhão Market, an iconic market that has been the culinary heart of Porto since 1837. This market, recently renovated, retains its Beaux-Arts architecture and vibrant atmosphere. During the renovation, completed in 2022, historical elements were preserved while modernizing the facilities to meet current standards.
As fans of local markets, we love the mix of colors and aromas, the people shopping and chatting with vendors. Bolhão was no exception. We enjoyed seeing traditional vendors, many of whom have been there for generations, offering fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and flowers, along with new establishments like coffee shops and cheese stores. This market is an authentic experience that captures the essence of daily life in Porto.
Exploring the Bolhão Neighborhood
We walked through the streets of the Bolhão neighborhood, a charming place not overrun by tourists, allowing us to get closer to the essence of the city. Look at this building with its perfect shape for the corner but appearing unfinished, with its balconies and stately appearance. Did they run out of money? Bolhão is full of architectural curiosities like this one.
We ended our walk through Bolhão at the Porto City Hall, located in front of the famous spot with the city's letters, perfect for your Instagram moment.
Avenida dos Aliados
We walked down Avenida dos Aliados heading south. During our stay, they were constructing a new metro station, so we couldn't fully enjoy Liberty Square. Beyond that, it's a good sign that Porto continues to improve its public transportation.
Praça de Lisboa
From Aliados, we headed to the Praça de Lisboa area, where three iconic attractions of Porto are located: Torre dos Clérigos, Igreja do Carmo, and Livraria Lello.
Torre dos Clérigos
The Torre dos Clérigos, built between 1754 and 1763, is a Baroque masterpiece designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. Standing at 75 meters tall, it is visible from almost any point in central Porto, serving as an architectural beacon. Although we would have liked to climb the tower, time and energy didn't allow us to do so on such a long day.
Igreja do Carmo
Igreja do Carmo is famous for its impressive azulejos (tiles) adorning its facade, depicting scenes from Mount Carmel. Inside, the church features Baroque and Rococo details, offering a visually stunning experience. Interestingly, this church is separated from Igreja dos Carmelitas by the narrowest house in Porto, built to comply with the laws of the time that prohibited two churches from sharing a wall. Entry to Igreja do Carmo costs €5, which includes access to the church, the crypt, and the narrow house between the churches. In my opinion, it is worth it. The entry to Igreja das Carmelitas is free.
Igreja do Carmo
Livraria Lello
You can deduct the entrance fee and buy a book. They have several small editions that say "produzido por a livraria mais bonita do mundo" for €16 (€8 with the discount). They make a great souvenir or gift.
Livraria Lello has become one of the must-visit spots for tourists in Porto. Unlike the cathedral, the bookstore is a relatively small space. This beautiful bookstore gained even more fame when a rumor spread that it was the inspiration for the library in Harry Potter, which has been explicitly denied by the author, J.K. Rowling. An entry ticket (8€) is required, which can be deducted from the purchase of a book. We acquired it on the spot with a QR code on our phone, but we understand that during peak season it is necessary to book in advance.
Is it a worthwhile experience or a tourist trap? In my opinion, a tourist trap needs to meet two conditions: 1) An experience aimed solely at tourists, and 2) Of little value. The bookstore meets the first condition but not the second. The place is undoubtedly of architectural value, and the staircase is extremely interesting. However, it is not the typical bookstore visit where you browse books alongside locals. Despite requiring an entry fee, the place is crowded with tourists vying for their Instagram moment. My verdict is that it is worth the cost if you can enter while passing by, but I wouldn't schedule my itinerary around visiting the bookstore at a specific time.
Dinner at Mistu
In the evening, we dined at the modern Mistu. The sophisticated trendy ambiance and exquisite dishes made this an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The cuisine is a fusion of Asian and South American flavors with a Portuguese twist. We knew immediately that we had made a great choice when our Uber driver recognized the restaurant and told us it was one of his favorites in the city. The experience was exceptional and definitely deserves its own blog post here.
We embarked on the walk back to our hotel, taking the opportunity to see Porto Cathedral illuminated. We arrived at the NH Collection Porto Batalha, where a comfortable room awaited us for a well-deserved rest.
Second Day: Cathedral, Escadinhas da Vitória, Ribeira, and Vila Nova de Gaia
After a breakfast at a typical café, "Café Lobito", just half a block from our hotel (highly recommended), we embarked on the start of a long but rewarding day. Our first stop: Porto Cathedral.
Second Day Itinerary. Click on the image to get it on Google Maps
Views from the Esplanade
Before reaching Porto Cathedral, we stopped at the esplanade to enjoy the stunning views of the city. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the majesty of the Clérigos Tower rising above Porto's skyline. The panorama stretches across the red-tiled rooftops of the houses with the Clérigos Tower as the backdrop, creating an image that encapsulates the historical and architectural essence of the city.
View of Porto from the terrace prior to the Cathedral.
Porto Cathedral
The Porto Cathedral, also known as the Sé do Porto, is an architectural gem that blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Founded in the 12th century, its imposing facade and the square where the Pelourinho do Porto, a medieval symbol of justice, stands are notable highlights. The interior of the cathedral is austere, emphasizing the Baroque additions such as Nasoni's lateral loggia. Don't miss the main chapel with its golden altarpiece and the image of Nossa Senhora da Vandoma, the patron saint of Porto, located in the transept.
Entry to the cloister, museum, and terrace requires a €3 ticket, which is well worth it. The Gothic cloister, built in the 14th century, is a marvel decorated with 18th-century Baroque azulejos depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Ovid's "Metamorphoses". From the first-floor terrace, a staircase leads to one of the towers, offering a spectacular view of Porto's historic center, the Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia. The rooms adjacent to the cloister house artistic pieces and decorations of interest from various historical periods. For a complete exploration of this magnificent monument, check our detailed blog here.
Porto Cathedral
Escadas da Vitória
Escadas da Vitoria
Leaving the cathedral, we headed towards the Escadas da Vitória. We walked through the narrow, typical streets of Porto, enjoying their charm and the feeling of being in a place steeped in history. We climbed the stairs with the cathedral in the background, an excellent spot for taking great photos.
The Escadas da Vitória, also known as Antiga Escadas da Esnoga (synagogue), are located in what was the Jewish quarter before the expulsion of the Jews by the Inquisition in 1496. The stairs provided direct access to the synagogue of the Olival Jewish quarter, established in the 14th century during the reign of King John I. For more information about the Jewish tradition in Porto, visit the New York Jewish Travel Guide.
At the end of the stairs, we reached the Miradouro da Vitória, which offers a fabulous panoramic view of the city. From this point, you can see the Douro River, the red rooftops of Porto, and the surrounding hills. It's a perfect spot to pause and appreciate the beauty of Porto.
Exiting the esplanade onto R. de São Bento da Vitória, walk a few meters (to 45 R. de São Bento da Vitória) and you will find the commemorative plaque of the expulsion of the Jews in 1496, a testament to Porto's rich and complex history.
Dom Luis I Bridge
Palácio da Bolsa and Infante Dom Henrique Square
We headed to the Palácio da Bolsa and the beautiful Infante Dom Henrique Square. Families sat on the grass, enjoying the spring weather. Located in the heart of Porto’s historic center, the square is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
The Palácio da Bolsa, built in the 19th century by the Porto Commercial Association, is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture. While it is classified as a National Monument, it is also part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Porto. According to UNESCO, Porto's historic center reflects 2,000 years of continuous urban development.
Church of São Francisco
After enjoying the square, we walked toward the Church of São Francisco, built in the 14th century. The church features a beautiful façade. Though we didn’t enter either the Palácio da Bolsa or the church due to our tight itinerary, we admired their exteriors.
Ribeira and Lunch
The Church of São Nicolau marks the ideal crossing point to the pedestrian walkway along the Douro River and the Ribeira district, which is part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Porto. We enjoyed the river breezealongside crowds of tourists, taking in the stunning views of Vila Nova de Gaia and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
For lunch, we decided to avoid tourist-oriented restaurants and instead explored a side street. We opted for the highly recommended Restaurante do Terreirinho, where we indulged in a selection of delicious tapas: sautéed shrimp, Padrón peppers, and stuffed mushrooms. Everything was exquisite, but the dessert stole the show—"Pão de Ló húmido com Gelado de Queijo de Oveja" (a moist egg sponge cake with sheep cheese ice cream). Highly recommended.
Dom Luís I Bridge and Vila Nova de Gaia
In the afternoon, we crossed the Dom Luís I Bridge via its upper deck. While the lower deck is more accessible from Ribeira, the upper level—where the metro runs—offers spectacular views, making the climb worthwhile. The bridge, built between 1881 and 1886 and designed by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, is a remarkable iron architectural masterpiece that connects Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
From the top of the bridge, we soaked in breathtaking views of Porto’s historic center, the Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia. Once across, the views of Ribeira from the Vila Nova de Gaia side were just as spectacular. It was the perfect place to sit, relax, and take in the scenery while watching the movement of people and boats along the river.
Half Rabbit
Half Rabbit
As always, Trailblazing Adventures brings you the best Instagram moments. During our exploration of Vila Nova de Gaia, we encountered "Half Rabbit," an impressive piece of street art created by the Portuguese artist Bordalo II. This three-dimensional sculpture of a rabbit, made from recycled materials and trash, is located at the corner of Rua Guilherme Gomes Fernandes and Rua Dom Afonso III. Half of the sculpture is painted, while the other half exposes the original materials, raising awareness about ecological issues and critiquing consumerism and waste. It’s a fascinating and photogenic stop that you can't miss.
Taylor’s Port
Porto, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning views, is synonymous with Port wine. As wine lovers, we couldn't leave Porto without literally tasting the city and learning more about the rich history of its namesake wine. Among the countless options in Vila Nova de Gaia, we chose Taylor's. Although both Taylor's Port and Sandeman are legendary names, Taylor's won us over with its commanding view of the Douro River and the Ribeira district.
From the Douro promenade, it’s an uphill walk of about 10 minutes. At Taylor's, we enjoyed a tasting experience in an elegant garden with unparalleled views, and we learned about the production process and history of Port wine. The standard visit includes a tasting of two Ports: Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), and a complimentary can of Chip Dry & Tonic.
For more details about our experience at Taylor's, including what to order if you want to enhance your tasting, visit our detailed blog here.
Our intention was to watch the sunset from Vila Nova de Gaia at Jardim do Morro. Unfortunately, a formidable downpour at the end of the day prevented us from doing so. We hope you have better luck and can include it in your itinerary.
Dinner at the NH Collection Porto Batalha Restaurant
We ended our day dining at the restaurant of NH Collection Porto Batalha and enjoyed the mixology at its bar. While we generally prefer to dine out, the excellent reviews convinced us, and it did not disappoint. The food was superb, complemented by creative cocktails and an elegant atmosphere. For more details about the hotel and its restaurant, check out our dedicated blog here.
Conclusion
Porto captivated us instantly. It was like love at first sight, which grew as our visit progressed. Since our visit was part of a 14-day itinerary through Portugal and Galicia, we didn't have time for more. But we left with a desire to return and spend more time, perhaps for a month of slow travel visiting some of its suburbs away from the historic center. It definitely made it to my list of favorite cities in Europe.
Join the Conversation
Feel free to contact us in the comments with any questions or suggestions on what we should include in a longer stay in Porto. We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences
