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Immerse yourself in Porto in one day with this guide, distilled from my personal experience and extensive research. Unveil Porto’s arresting architecture, pulsating culture, and charming old town with precision timing, ensuring you don’t miss a beat of this captivating Portuguese city.
Perched atop the banks of the Douro River, Porto is a captivating city that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
It is home to blue-tiled churches and gothic cathedrals, as well as winding cobblestone streets that stretch up hillsides studded with vibrant terracotta-tiled rooftops.
The Douro offers spectacular vistas of the city, while modern bridges span its sparkling waters, providing beautiful views of the river and its surrounding landscape.
Porto’s old town is filled with narrow winding alleys, lined with both traditional and contemporary cafes and restaurants where you can sample many a delicious dish. There are also parks and public squares dotted throughout the city, offering visitors a chance to take in the beauty of this ancient destination.
Unlike many other European cities, its old-world charm and well-preserved historical sites are easily accessible on foot or by public transport; which makes Porto ideal for exploring in just one day.
While you won’t get to see everything, you’ll still be able to capture a taste of what this Portuguese city is all about – and here’s how to do it.
Essential links for booking your Porto trip
Transport: book your train tickets here and search for and book car rentals here.
Top rated tours & experiences in Porto:
☆ Porto walking tour (great for a general overview)
☆ Six Bridges Boat Tour (a must do in Porto)
☆ Food and wine tasting tour (perfect for foodies)
☆ Douro Valley Small-Group tour (great for wine lovers)
Cultured Voyages accommodation picks:
Torel Avantgarde (5* hotel with pool & city views // Rio & Sol (incredible riverside apartment where I stayed) // Vincci Ponte de Ferro (stylsh & affordable luxury // Rosário Luxury Suites (affordable boutique guesthouse)
Don’t leave home without!
Compression packing cubes (my #1 packing essential // Pocket Porto Travel Guide // Rick Steves Portugal
What to keep in mind when visiting Porto in one day
Porto, although a comparatively small city, is filled with numerous attractions and activities that can easily fill up much longer than an entire day (editor’s note: if you want to find out how, read our 3-day Porto itinerary here).
What that means, is that you are going to need to cherry-pick a little. This one day in Porto itinerary has been carefully considered to incorporate a range of things that Porto is known for, and runs as follows as the day goes on:
- old-world Porto
- a ticketed historical attraction of your choice
- some jaw-dropping viewpoints
- downtown Porto
- Porto’s food scene
- time to admire the famous Azulejo-tiled churches of Porto
- the Douro river
- Port wine tasting
If one (or more) of the suggested activities in this Porto in one day itinerary do not particularly interest you, then there is plenty more to substitute in instead – use this itinerary as merely a guideline, but it should give you an overview of what’s realistic in one day.
RELATED READING | 23+ Essential Porto Tips & Things to Know
Suggested tours to get to know Porto in 1 day
I always believe that it’s worth doing a guided tour, chosen based on your interests, to experience a city through the lens that interests you most, and Porto is no different.
If you’d prefer to explore fewer aspects of Porto in a deeper, more experiential way, then some top tours to consider during your 24 hours in Porto include the following:
A Classic Walking Tour of Porto – Discover all that makes Porto captivating: its architecture, traditions, and stories – on this 3-hour guided walking tour.
Delve into centuries of history while winding your way down its narrow streets, explore rustic neighbourhoods, and take in breathtaking views of both the cityscape and Douro River.
Walking & Wine Tasting Tour (with snacks) – Indulge in the finest wines that Porto has to offer with this walking tour and wine-tasting experience. Taste exquisite Ports, Douro, and Green wine complemented by a delightful selection of Portuguese cheeses and smoked meats.
Pastel de Nata Cooking Class – Immerse yourself in the traditional taste of Portugal while learning to make pasteis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts) during this delightful cooking class at a local home in Porto. Follow an age-old recipe and savour your delicious masterpieces together around the table.
Porto Street Art Tour – Unravel the complex relationship between City Hall and local street art, while finding the best and new pieces at secret locations. See how far the scene has come since its inception, as you explore a side of Porto that not many typically see.
1 day in Porto itinerary
The below “Porto in a day itinerary” is fairly jam-packed and may look a little overwhelming on paper. The good news, however, is that many of these named locations are situated within a few hundred metres of each other – so you won’t be walking any huge distance between two given attractions.
None, either, require hours of your time so you’ll find that within a few hours, you’ll have seen quite a bit.
If you choose to undertake a guided tour, then you may need to reshuffle the order of some of the below around, depending on what’s included in your tour.
Where possible, I’ve suggested alternatives and practical advice regarding timings for each attraction – again, feel free to cut something out if it feels like your day would be rushed by including it.
Map of this 1 day in Porto itinerary
How to use the map: Use the toggle on the left on the header bar to open/close map contents. You can also zoom in and out and interact with the saved items on this map. To save the map to your own Google account, click on the star sign beside the map title on the header.
As you can see on the map above, lots of the attractions included on this itinerary are close together.
In terms of the route plotted above (give or take a little more or less distance depending on which Porto wine lodges you choose to visit), the total distance is 6km and 1 hour and 20 minutes of walking. Bear in mind that this is split out across the whole day.
Morning in Porto
1 Spend some time in Ribeira
Time required: 30 minutes
Start off by soaking in the vibes and beautiful buildings of one of Porto’s most famous areas – the Ribeira district. As one of the oldest and most picturesque neighbourhoods in Porto, Ribeira is a charming and historic area.
Nestled on the banks of the Douro River, Ribeira is a hub of activity and the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and rich history of Porto.
Ribeira is known for its iconic casario townhouses. These centuries-old, terraced buildings are seen lining the streets and represent one of the most recognised images of Porto.
The casario townhouses were built in the 16th century as dwellings for fishermen and merchants, and each has its own unique history. Many today are filled with restaurants and bars, offering views of the quay and river from an elevated vantage point.
From here, you’ll also be able to see across to Vila Nova da Gaia, home of the famous Port wine cellars, as well as the iconic, double-decker Dom Luis I bridge, as it spans the waters of the Douro in ginormously impressive fashion.
2 Miradouro da Vitoria
Time required: 20 minutes
When you’ve gotten your bearings in Ribeira, make your way up the hill to the viewpoint of ‘Miradouro da Vitória’.
The Miradouro da Vitória is a breathtaking lookout point that offers panoramic views of the city and its historic landmarks, reached by a rather steep (but short) uphill walk via a staircase that leads to this spectacular viewpoint.
Situated in the core of Porto’s old city, Miradouro da Vitória derives its name from the nearby Our Lady of Victory church.
When visiting this extraordinary viewpoint, you can bask in spectacular sights which include the Ribeira district and Douro River, Sé Cathedral and the phenomenal Dom Luis I Bridge.
If you’re a bit of an explorer, take a few minutes for an inquisitive stroll around the quaint Portuguese houses and meander along winding streets nearby – this area is full of treasures, particularly if you’re a shutterbug.
3 Climb Clérigos Tower
Time required: 1 -1.5 hours
Next, we reach the ‘ticketed attraction’ inclusion for this Porto 1-day itinerary. It’s quite hard to single in on one, but I’ve chosen Clérigos Tower as the frontrunner, as its views will please the majority of visitors (alternatives to Clerigos Tower below, however).
Standing tall at an impressive 76 meters, this Baroque bell tower designed by Italian Nicolau Nasoni in 1763 will grant you a breathtaking panoramic view of Porto from its observation deck. With 240 steps to the top, it is the highest point in the city.
The tower itself carries some intricate details too, including ornate carvings and statues.
A visit to the tower is not all that is included in the entry fee, however, as it also takes you through the adjoining church of the Brotherhood of the Clerics.
The church boasts a collection of cultural assets of considerable artistic value, including sculptures, paintings, furniture, and gold smithery collections dating back to the 13th century.
The church was the first in Portugal to have an ellipse-shaped plan, which can be best appreciated from above when making your way through the museum to climb the tower.
The museum showcases a range of artefacts from different eras, providing a window into the rich history of the region.
Make sure to purchase tickets in advance of visiting, as lines can get very long.
PLAN YOUR VISIT | Open every day from 9:00AM to 7:00PM, except on 24/12, 25/12, 31/12 and 01/01. Purchase skip the line tickets in advance.
Alternatives to climbing Clérigos Tower
If you would prefer to do something else, then the following three attractions I would suggest in place of climbing the tower.
Bolsa Palace
Time required: 1 hour
Bolsa Palace served as Porto’s former Stock Exchange, built in the mid-19th century by the Porto Commercial Association.
Its architecture is heavily influenced by the French and Italian styles of the time, with ornate detailing and opulent finishes. Inside, you’ll find an array of breathtaking rooms, each with its own unique story and character.
It’s only possible to visit the palace by guided tour, which lasts for approximately 30 minutes and which are run in Spanish, English and French.
There is one tour carried out in each language every hour, with a tour departing every 20 minutes – which means you may have to wait up to 40 minutes or so for a tour in your language of choice.
PLAN YOUR VISIT | Open daily from 9:00AM – 18:30PM. Visits are only available via a guided tour, which lasts for approx. 30 minutes. Buy tickets here.
Livrario Lello
Time required: 45 minutes – 1 hour
The Livraria Lello is a neo-Gothic style bookshop that should be on the list for any book lover or architecture enthusiast.
Deemed one of the most beautiful book shops in the world, its reputation and international renown launched into the stratosphere when Harry Potter fans (incorrectly) deemed it an inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
The bookshop is packed with unique architectural details, from elaborately carved arches and imposing ceilings to walls and columns with Art Deco touches.
It can be quite difficult to take it all in, however, due to the hordes of people that visit. Counteract the queues and extensive waiting time outside the shop by buying tickets in advance – but prepare for the crowds within its hallowed walls.
Porto Cathedral
Time required: 45 minutes
Porto Cathedral, also known as Sé Cathedral, is the most important religious building in Porto’s old centre. It has been rebuilt and renovated many times and has a predominantly Baroque style with elements of Romanesque and Gothic roots.
The fourteenth-century cloister features beautiful decorative blue tiles, and the Casa do Cabildo houses the Cathedral Treasure.
The square on which the cathedral sits has some hefty historical significance, including being the site of an agreement between the Normans and the Portuguese Army in 1147. Today, you can enjoy stunning views of Porto and the Douro River from the square. Entry costs €3.
4 Admire the azulejos at Igreja do Carmo
Time required: 20 minutes
The Igreja do Carmo is an iconic Baroque/rococo-style church that’s located near Clérigos Tower, which has become somewhat Insta-famous in recent years.
Built between 1756 and 1768, it boasts a stunning exterior covered in blue and white azulejos. These tiles depict important moments in the founding of the Carmelite Order and Mount Carmel. Inside, seven lavish gilt altars crafted by sculptor Francisco Pereira Campanha and numerous fine oil paintings await visitors.
Next door to the Igreja do Carmo is the Igreja dos Carmelitas, completed in 1628 as part of a now non-existent convent.
While both these churches look like they are one building, this illusion has been achieved through the creation of the “Hidden House,” a narrow (1 metre wide) residence for chaplains, artists, and doctors in the past.
To add even more intrigue, during the French invasion of Portugal by Napoleon and the Siege of Porto in 1832-1833, secret meetings were held here.
Don’t miss the chance to admire the Igreja do Carmo’s beautiful exterior, including the religious sculptures of prophets Elijah and Elisha, carved in Italy, which flank the rectangular portal of the façade.
Even if you don’t quite have time to visit the interior of both these churches, definitely allot some time to linger awhile in front of their impressive exteriors.
PLAN YOUR VISIT | entry is typically free for both churches, however there was an exhibition on at Igreja do Carmo while we were there (which we didn’t have time to visit) that required an entrance fee. We were, however, able to pop into Ingreja dos Carmelitas.
5 Stop by Mercado do Bolhão for lunch
Time required: 45 minutes – 1 hour
If you’re a foodie looking for an authentic taste of Porto, the Mercado do Bolhão is a must-visit destination and serves as a perfect spot to stop off and enjoy some lunch at.
It occupies a whole block in the heart of downtown and is one of my favourite things I experienced in Porto. The market is vibrant and boasts 79 stalls on the ground floor, 10 restaurants on the top floor, and 38 shops facing outside, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences.
The Bolhão Market, which opened in the mid-19th century, was officially established by a municipal decree in 1839 to consolidate all existing markets into a single central location. The iconic building was constructed during WWI and is now a symbol of the city.
Over the years, the market has gone through several changes that include a large-scale renovation that kicked off in 2018. As a result, it now boasts a modern and functional space without compromising its historic charm.
Wrapped up amongst its history and architecture, you can experience a lively atmosphere filled with colours, sounds, and smells at Bolhão Market. The restoration project (which was completed in 2022) has modernized the market without losing its connection to the local sellers that occupy its stalls.
Enjoy a glass of wine from one of the wine sellers and take a seat in the sun on the steps to watch the market’s activity unfold below you – it’s heavenly, trust me.
If you’re visiting Porto at the weekend, take note that the market is closed on Sundays.
PLAN YOUR VISIT | Open Monday-Friday 08:00AM – 20:00PM. Open Saturday 08:00 – 18:00PM. Closed Sundays.
Afternoon in Porto
6 Sao Bento station
Time required: 20 minutes
Once you’ve adequately refuelled and refreshed yourself at Bolhão Market, wander your way down to Sao Bento Station.
While you’ll be near to Porto’s famous shopping street, Rua de Santa Catarina, as well as some more of its blue-tiled churches – such as the Capela das Almas and Santo Ildefonso – you will likely not have too much time to spend much time at these should you wish to follow the afternoon portion of this one day in Porto itinerary outlined below.
You will have time, however, to pop your head into Porto’s famed train station, famous for – you likely guessed it – its blue and white azulejo tiles.
This impressive station was built on the site of a Benedictine convent and was constructed over a period of several years, beginning in 1904.
The grand entrance hall of the station is decorated with around 20,000 azulejo tiles dating from 1905-1916, which were created by the well-known artist Jorge Colaço.
The murals show different events from Portugal’s history, while the multicoloured panels display rural settings and people from various regions. The azulejo panels are a real work of art, featuring intricate details and vivid colours that are worth admiring.
It’s quite a unique place to house such beautiful artwork and it makes for an interesting few minutes to observe all the hustle and bustle that goes with being in such a busy station against such a splendid canvas.
7 If you have time, take in the views from Porto Cathedral
Time required: 20 – 40 minutes
I’ve already included Porto Cathedral in this itinerary as an alternative attraction to climbing Clérigos Tower earlier in the day. If you opt to visit Porto Cathedral instead, it would make more sense to visit the cathedral now as you’ll pass close by it on your route from the Sao Bento Station towards Vila Nova de Gaia.
Even if you elect not to visit the actual cathedral itself – but if you do feel inclined, entry is cheap at €3 and your visit may only take 30-40 minutes – it’s worth making your way up the hill to the square in front of the cathedral, from which, as one of the most elevated sites in Porto, you will be offered some pretty staggering views of the city and river as they unfold beneath you.
8 Cross Luis I Bridge
Time required: 15 minutes
To continue on with this 1-day Porto itinerary, you’re going to need to make your way to the other side of the river. This you will do by crossing Porto’s most famous bridge.
The Dom Luis I Bridge is a metal arch bridge that has two decks, stretching majestically across the River Douro to connect the city of Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia.
It was built with a 172-meter span, which was the longest of its kind at the time it was constructed. Gustav Eiffel originally designed it as a single-deck bridge, but it was rejected because the population in the surrounding urban areas had grown significantly.
A competition was initiated in 1880, and the Belgian Société de Willebroek was awarded the public work. Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Eiffel, authored the project and administered its construction.
The bridge carried road traffic on both decks for over a century, including electric trams and trolleybuses, until the upper deck was closed to motor traffic in 2003 to adapt the structure for the metro system.
Traversing the Dom Luis I Bridge is an experience in itself that provides amazing views of the River Douro and the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck walkway is especially exciting as it showcases the lively Douro riverfront, the colourful buildings of Ribeira, and the impressive bridge structure itself.
9 Catch a Six Bridges Boat Tour from Vila Nova de Gaia
Time required: 1 hour
The meandering waters of the Douro River, fringed by historic buildings and spanned by great bridges, is a key component to the city of Porto and its charming visual appeal – and what better way to experience this beauty than by taking to the water?
“Six Bridges Boat Tours” depart from either Ribeira or Vila Nova de Gaia (make sure to check details upon booking), taking you on a journey under six iconic bridges, and offering stunning views of the city’s landmarks and architecture.
For ease of continuing this itinerary once you’re done, try to book a tour that departs from Vila Nova de Gaia, although it’s not too big a deal if your boat departs from Ribeira – you’ll just have to cross the Dom Luis I bridge after rather than before your boat tour.
The tours typically last around 50 minutes to an hour, which means that it won’t eat too much into your day.
BOOK | Check availability and book your Six Bridges cruise here.
10 Visit some Port wine cellars
Time required: 1+ hours
Port wine has its origins in the 17th century when British merchants started adding brandy to wine to prevent it from spoiling during transportation. This fortified wine gained popularity over time and became a famous drink in Britain and other European countries by the 18th century.
Today, Port wine stands as a true symbol of Porto.
The wine itself is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley region of Portugal, which is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, having been established in 1756.
Wine would traditionally have been transported down the Douro River by rabelo boat – which was quite a risky journey – in order to be placed into great wooden barrels to age in the port wine cellars, or lodges, at Vila Nova de Gaia.
Visiting the port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia is a relatively short and inexpensive experience, with many offering basic tasting packages that allow you to sample a variety of ports at an affordable price.
However, if you want to upgrade your experience, there are various flights of Port available, ranging up to the premium and more expensive older vintages.
If you’re visiting at a quiet time of the year, then you should be able to wander up without a booking, as we did (but note that some cellars may be closed – we had wanted to visit Graham’s but they were closed in January when we visited).
Otherwise, I’d advise doing a little research in advance and booking your port cellar experience in advance.
Some popular cellars to consider include:
- Graham’s: Offers guided tours of the ageing cellars and tastings with panoramic views of the city and the Douro River. Take the Giaia Cable Car from the bridge for unique city views.
- Burmester: Founded in 1730, Burmester offers guided tours of the historic cellars and tastings of their Port wines in a convenient location next to Dom Luiz I Bridge.
- Cockburn’s: The largest of the Port wine lodges, Cockburn’s offers guided tours of the cellars and tastings of their wines, as well as the unique experience of being able to watch coopers work on barrels – which you won’t see anywhere else.
- Poças: Poças is a family-owned Port wine producer, offering guided tours of the cellars and tastings of their wines, including their Vintage Port.
- Calem: Calem offers guided tours of the cellars and tastings of their Port wines, as well as an interactive museum showcasing the history and culture of Port wine.
BOOK A COMPREHENSIVE PORT EXPERIENCE | If you’ve decided that you want to deep-dive into the port production and tasting aspect of Porto while visiting the city, then you may be better off taking a longer tour with a local expert.
This half-day tour has 700+ 5 star reviews, is well priced and provides 7 tastings during a multi-cellar experience during a 4-hour tour.
11 Watch the sun go down at Jardim do Murro
Time required: 30+ minutes
For me, the city of Porto is all about its terracotta rooftops, forming an immediately identifiable cityscape when set against the glorious Douro River.
The colour palette of Porto lends itself particularly well to sunset, when the city is illuminated by a warm glow that stretches hazily across the city, turning everything to gold.
Jardim do Murro is an idyllic public space from which to enjoy the beauty of the sunset in Porto.
From here, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city while admiring the grandeur of Dom Luis I Bridge, which stands majestically against an orange-tinted sky as dusk approaches.
As the day draws to a close, the park becomes a hub of chilled-out activity, with people flocking to this hilly outlook for its lively atmosphere and captivating views.
Along the front wall of the park is a bar with a terrace that offers breathtaking views of the city, should you wish to set up camp here, but equally, you can grab a drink from a small vendor, find a perch on the grassy hill and enjoy the live music performers who set up for the sunset.
More things you could add to this 1 day Porto itinerary
With enough things to see to keep you occupied for several days, you’re not going to get to see all of Porto in one day, and the itinerary listed above doesn’t include all the things you could do either (as that wouldn’t be realistic).
Below, are some more things to see and do in Porto to tempt you with – feel free to substitute these into the itinerary if they sound more interesting to you – just make sure to remove some of the other listed activities and attractions, as the day outlined above is a fairly stacked one.
Add more popular attractions | Included as alternatives to climbing Clérigos Tower in the itinerary above are Livrario Lello, Porto Cathedral and Bolsa Palace. Each of these could also be visited in addition to climbing the tower.
Discover more azulejos | you may wish to go on the hunt for more of Porto’s blue tiled buildings. Some of the best spots to go looking for them include São Bento Station, Capela das Almas, Igreja do Carmo, Igreja de Santo Ildefonso and the cloisters at Sé Cathedral.
Explore more of downtown Porto | Discover Café Majestic on Rua de Santa Catarina and soak up some of Porto’s lively atmosphere by strolling along Rua das Flores, a picturesque street lined with beautiful buildings and trendy cafes.
The area closeby is also home to some of the city’s most iconic squares, such as Praça da Liberdade, a grand plaza that boasts a stunning statue of King Peter IV atop a towering column.
Other notable streets and squares to visit in Porto’s downtown include Avenida dos Aliados, a bustling boulevard that leads to City Hall, and Praça do Infante Dom Henrique, a lively square filled with outdoor cafes and street performers.
See more of contemporary Porto | Pay a visit to the Serralves Museum and Gardens, a cultural complex with a contemporary art museum, beautiful gardens, and a modernist villa designed by architect Álvaro Siza Vieira.
Modern architecture enthusiasts could also visit Casa da Música,Porto’s modern concert hall, designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas.
Getting around during your one day Porto trip
Porto’s compact size make it perfect to explore in one day, and the best way to get around the city is on foot. Porto is an extrermely walkable city with plenty of pedestrian-friendly streets, squares and pathways that make it easy to explore its many attractions. Do expect some hills, however!
You can also hop on public transportation such as buses or trams if you want to cover more ground quickly, or if walking poses an issue for you. Taxis are an option too and you’ll be able to pick these up easily via rideshare apps like Bolt and Uber.
Where to eat during your day in Porto
Should you wish to indulge in the culinary delights of Porto, the below eateries I have tried, tested and can recommend.
Zenith – Brunch & Cocktail Bar – a trendy spot housed in a cool, industrial-style space that offers an all-day brunch menu, along with cocktails, coffee, and juices.
Nicolau Porto – a good spot for all-day dining, offering brunch, breakfast, lunch, and early dinner. With an outdoor space as well as a spacious indoor one, Nicolau has a nice mix of those meeting socially, along with a smaller cohort of those working on their laptops.
7g Roasters – a hidden gem tucked away in the charming neighbourhood of Vila Nova da Gaia, offering specialty coffee and a broad menu catering towards brunch and more substantial meal options.
Restaurante Casario – a refined restuaraunt affiliated with the illustrious Quinta de Ventozelo in the Douro Valley. The food is a joy and contrasts starkly with the neighbourhood’s many tourist traps.
Cantina 32 – a modern, popular and aesthetically pleasing spot that serves an array of Portuguese dishes, including the iconic Bacalhau à Bráz (salted cod with fried potatoes and egg), as well as imaginative creations.
Muro do Bacalhau – a cosy but modern Portuguese restaurant. It has a succinct but delicious sharing menu which is perfect for those with a mix of appetites, or for a smaller bite if you’ve already eaten lots during the day.
One day in Porto – FAQS
Is one day in Porto enough?
One day in Porto can be enough to explore the main attractions and experience the city, but I would recommend that you give Porto some more time if you want to truly appreciate its charm and beauty.
While you will be able to get an overview of what Porto has to offer in one day, having two days or more will give you a greater opportunity to delve deeper, offering you the chance to explore its hidden gems like cafes, restaurants and lesser known sights that make any trip unique.
Is the Porto Card worth It for one day?
The Porto Card is a great way to save money and make the most of your time if you’re planning on staying in the city for more than one day. However, it may not be worth purchasing if you are only spending one day in Porto.
With so much to see and do within walking distance from each other, you can easily explore all of the main attractions without needing additional transportation options or discounts on entry fees that come with the card.
Have more than one day in Porto?
If you have more than one day in Porto, you’ll be able to slow down to appreciate the city a little bit more, as well as fit in some other things to see. For more ideas, read our related post on how to spend 3 days in Porto. You could even consider a day trip to the nearby Douro Valley if you’re a fan of wine, scenery – or both!
READ NEXT | Visiting the Douro Valley for the First Time
When is the best time to visit Porto?
Porto is a picturesque city that can be enjoyed all year round, however the best time to visit Porto would be during the shoulder months of spring and autumn. This way you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures and less crowds than in summer when it gets very hot.
In winter there may still be some nice days, but due to the higher precipitation levels you should come prepared with a raincoat!
We visited in early January and were lucky to experience four glorious days of sunshine, however this sunny patch was followed by torrential rain for a few days – so it really is just pot luck with that time of year.
Where to stay in Porto
If you decide to extend your time in Porto, or can stretch to staying a night, we’ve compiled a detailed post about the best areas and places to stay in Porto.
RELATED READING | WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO
Related reading for Porto and the Douro Valley
Porto
- 3 days in Porto | How to spend 3 days in Porto
- Where to stay in Porto | Where to stay in Porto – best neighbourhood & accommodation
- Porto city guide | Porto tips: all you need to know before visiting
Douro Valley
- Douro Valley | First-timers guide to visiting the Douro Valley
- Douro Valley Quintas | 23 Fabulous Douro Valley Winery Hotels & Quintas to Stay at