The Ultimate Porto 2 Day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Experience

Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Oliver

Porto was my first solo travel destination back in 2019, and honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better place to start. The locals were so welcoming that I felt like I had built-in tour guides, and the city’s walkability made it easy to explore without overthinking directions (or having to deal with public transport meltdowns—as an American from Texas this was terrifying!!).

I’ve been back a few times since then, and it’s only gotten better—and I feel confident in the public transportation now, ha! Honestly, I might even like it more than Lisbon… but let’s keep that between us.

If you’ve only got two days in Porto, don’t worry—you can still hit all the highlights without feeling rushed. This Porto 2 day itinerary will walk you through the best spots, from riverside strolls to port tastings, with just enough time to sit back and soak it all in.

Why Porto is Worth Visiting

Porto is one of those cities that just sticks with you—in the best way. It’s got that perfect mix of old-world charm and laid-back energy. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses stacked along the river, and the sound of seagulls mixed with clinking glasses of port wine create a vibe that’s hard to beat. Plus, it’s way less chaotic than Lisbon (yeah, I said it).

The city is right along the Douro River in northern Portugal, and it’s one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its history dates back to Roman times, and you can still feel that rich past in the architecture—from the medieval walls to the Baroque churches.

The city is also the birthplace of port wine, which has been produced and exported from the region for centuries. There’s a reason it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site—every corner feels like stepping into a story.

How to Get to Porto

My first trip to Porto was the kickoff to a whirlwind 3-week adventure through Portugal and Spain. I flew into Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) feeling equal parts excited and mildly terrified—it was my first proper solo trip, after all.

But stepping off the plane and into the easy flow of the city, I quickly realized I’d made the right choice putting it first on my Portugal itinerary. Porto felt welcoming from the start, and navigating the city was surprisingly stress-free.

Flying is definitely the easiest way to reach Porto, with direct flights from major European cities and even some long-haul routes. The airport is about 20 minutes from the city center, and the metro will get you there without much hassle. If I could do it then you definitely can!

But if flying’s not your thing, there are other options:

Train – Porto is well-connected to Lisbon and other major cities in Portugal by train. The Alfa Pendular high-speed trains are comfortable and relatively quick (about 3 hours from Lisbon).

Book your tickets here!

Bus – Companies like FlixBus and Rede Expressos offer budget-friendly options from cities in Portugal and Spain.

Car – If you’re road-tripping, driving into Porto is doable, but parking in the historic center can be tricky—better to park on the outskirts and use public transport.

Book your rental car here!

Getting Around on Your Porto 2 Day Itinerary

Alright, before we get into how to spend 2 days in Porto, let’s talk about how to actually get around once you’re there.

The good news? Porto is super walkable. The bad news? Those hills will give your calves a serious workout.

But honestly, one of my favorite parts of Porto’s charm is wandering through its winding streets and stumbling upon hidden cafes, little wine shops, and colorful tiled buildings.

When walking isn’t an option (or your legs tap out), you’ve got a few other options:

Metro – The metro is clean, easy to use, and runs to most major areas, including the airport. Just grab an Andante Card (the rechargeable transit card) and you’re good to go.

Trams – The vintage trams are more about the experience than practicality, but they’re a fun way to see the city (especially the Route 1 ride along the river).

Buses – Porto’s bus network is solid and covers areas the metro doesn’t reach.

Taxis and Ubers – Affordable and reliable if you need to save your legs or get somewhere in a hurry.

For a short stay, walking and the metro will probably cover most of what you need. Just wear comfy shoes—those cobblestones show no mercy.

These reeboks are my GO-TO shoes for Europe. The classic white tennis shoe look goes with everything and they are SO comfortable to walk in. Highly recommend!

If you want a sandal,the Tevas are LIFE CHANGING. I can wear them for hours on cobblestone streets and feel like I’m walking on clouds. I have the tan pair and have worn them every day for a year and they still get the job done!

The Ultimate 2 Day Porto Itinerary

After a few trips to Porto (and plenty of trial and error), I’ve put together the ultimate guide to Porto in 2 days and it hits all the must-see spots without feeling rushed.

Let’s dive in:

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart of Porto

Kick Things Off with a Walking Tour

On my first trip to Porto, I signed up for the SANDEMANs Free Tour, and honestly, it was the perfect introduction to the city. I was a little nervous about navigating Porto solo, but the guide made it so easy. He was funny, knew all the hidden details about the city, and even pointed out the best spots for a post-tour glass of port wine.

The tour started at Liberdade Square and took us through some of Porto’s most iconic spots like São Bento Train Station with its mind-blowing tile murals, the Porto Cathedral, and the narrow, colorful streets of Ribeira. It was such a good mix of history and local stories without feeling like a boring history lesson.

It’s also a great way to get your bearings in Porto. The city’s layout can be a little confusing at first (all those hills and winding streets!), but after the tour, I had a much better sense of direction. Plus, you’ll probably spot a few places you’ll want to circle back to for a proper look—like grabbing a coffee at a cute riverside café or climbing the Clérigos Tower for the view.

The best part about the walking tour is it’s technically free—you just tip your guide at the end (and trust me, it’s worth it).

São Bento Railway Station

I know you already saw this on the walking tour, but São Bento Station deserves a dedicated stop. Trust me, it’s worth going back for a proper look.

The walls are covered with over 20,000 azulejos (those classic blue and white tiles) that tell the story of Portugal’s history—battles, royal weddings, and random everyday scenes.

I remember walking in and just thinking, How did they even manage this level of detail? It’s one of those places where you’ll keep noticing new things the longer you stare at it.

And the natural light hitting the tiles makes for some pretty solid photo ops. It’s a quick stop, but don’t rush it—you’ll want to take your time here.

Lunch at Casa Guedes

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite (those hills are no joke). Head to Casa Guedesfor one of Porto’s most iconic sandwiches—the sandes de pernil (roast pork sandwich).

The pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and they serve it with a thick slice of gooey Serra da Estrela cheese. It was honestly one of my favorite meals in Porto. It’s heavy, but after a morning of walking around, it hit just the right spot.

It’s a no-frills local joint where you order at the counter and grab a table. If you’re feeling extra hungry, get a side of fries and wash it down with a cold Super Bock (Portugal’s go-to beer).

Livraria Lello Bookstore

After lunch, head to Livraria Lello, one of the most famous bookstores in the world—and honestly, one of the most beautiful. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, this spot is a must. JK Rowling used to live in Porto and is said to have drawn inspiration from this place for Hogwarts.

Now, don’t expect a cozy book-browsing experience—it’s packed with tourists, and there’s a €5 entry fee (which you can put toward a book if you buy one). But the stunning red staircase and gothic details make it worth the visit. I remember squeezing through the crowd, trying to snap a photo without a million heads in the frame—obviously, that didn’t happen!

Bonus: there’s a killer gelato shop right next door, which honestly might be the highlight after fighting through the crowd.

Torre dos Clérigos Church Tower – The Best View Point of Porto

Just down the street from Livraria Lello is Clérigos Toweror —you can’t miss it. It’s one of those landmarks that seems to peek out no matter where you are in the city. It’s also one of the must-visit attractions in Porto, so expect a line to climb up the tower.

If you’re down to climb 225 steps, the view at the top is insane—full cityscape, the river, and even the ocean if it’s clear.

The staircase is tight and winding, but the view is totally worth it. If stairs aren’t your thing, no worries—you’ll get plenty of great views from the Luis I Bridge later.

Get your entrance ticket here!

Igreja do Carmo – The Famous Blue Tile Church

A quick walk from Clérigos Tower brings you to Igreja do Carmo—one of Porto’s most Instagrammed spots. And for good reason. The side of the church is covered in those iconic blue and white azulejo tiles, and yes, it’s even prettier in person.

I remember standing there trying to get the perfect photo without a bunch of tourists in the frame (impossible), but it’s still worth the stop.

There’s also a cute fountain right outside and one of those big “PORTO” signs nearby if you’re in the mood for a classic tourist photo.

Douro River Cruise

By now, you’ve done a lot of walking—so it’s the perfect time to give your legs a break with a boat tour of the Douro River.

There are tons of options along the river, but the classic 6 Bridges Cruise is a solid choice. It takes about an hour and gives you some of the best views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia from the water.

I remember sitting back, letting the breeze hit my face, and just soaking in the views of the colorful buildings stacked along the river. Plus, it’s a nice way to see the city without having to walk any more (huge win).

Book your sunset sailboat tour with wine on the Douro river!

Sunset on the Luis I Bridge

After the cruise, make your way to the Luis I Bridge just in time for sunset. There’s really nothing like watching the sun dip below the Douro River while the city lights start to flicker on.

I’ve done this every time I’ve been to Porto, and it never gets old. The top level of the bridge is for pedestrians (and the metro), so you can stroll across and take in the views from both sides. I remember finding a quiet spot, sitting on the edge, and just watching the city glow—it’s one of those simple but perfect travel moments.

If you’ve got some time, cross over to the Gaia side afterward—it’s quieter, and you can usually find a cheap glass of wine to keep the sunset vibes going.

Cocktails at The Orangerie

This is one of my favorite places in all of Porto for a drink. Whether it’s afternoon, night, or a sunny morning, The Orangerie at The Yeatman Hotel never disappoints. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the panoramic view of Porto makes it 100% worth it.

Sitting there with a fancy cocktail in hand, watching the city lights shimmer across the river—it’s the kind of spot where you feel a little bougie, but in the best way. If you’re not into cocktails, you can grab a glass of port instead (you’re in Porto, after all).

It’s the perfect way to close out your first day in Porto. Fancy drinks, killer views, and that post-sunset glow—chef’s kiss.

Make your reservation here!

Best Hotels in Vila Nova De Gaia

Personally, I always stay on the Gaia side of Porto. It’s a bit quieter, and the views are unbeatable. Here are a few of my favorite hotels in Vila Nova de Gaia

$ The House of Sandeman– Stay in a stylish wine-themed hostel right on the river with cozy dorms and private rooms, with a great view of Porto.

$$ Fervença Suites – A charming local flat with modern touches and a central location—perfect for a more authentic Porto experience.

$$$ The Rebello Hotel & Spa – Treat yourself to luxury at this sleek riverside hotel, complete with a spa, rooftop views, and top-notch service.

Day 2 – Wine and Culture (AKA the Perfect Combo)

Before my first trip to Porto, everyone told me I only needed half a day to see the city. Yeah… no. Between the food, drinks, wine tastings, and all the beautiful spots to explore, I don’t know how anyone manages to squeeze Porto into just a few hours. Day 1 barely scratched the surface—so let’s keep going.

Breakfast at Majestic Café – A Fancy Start to the Day

Kick off Day 2 with breakfast at Majestic Café. Yes, it’s a bit touristy and definitely not the cheapest spot in town, but the Art Nouveau decor and old-school charm make it worth the splurge. I ordered a coffee and a pastry and felt like I was in a different era.

Personally, I found it to be the perfect spot to sit with a book and ease into the day. Just don’t be shocked if you have to wait a bit for a table—this place is popular.

Wander Through Ribeira

After a coffee and breakfast go for a relaxed walk along Ribeira. This is the postcard-perfect part of the city, with colorful buildings stacked along the Douro River and laundry hanging from balconies in that effortlessly cool way only European cities can pull off.

I remember grabbing a coffee at a tiny café and just sitting by the water, watching the traditional rabelo boats float by. The vibe here is relaxed but busy—street performers, locals chatting over glasses of wine, and tourists snapping a million photos of the river views.

Take your time, explore the narrow streets, and maybe stop for a pastel de nata or two (no judgment).

If you want to try one of the best in the city, head to Fábrica da Nata. It’s located just right around the corner from Sao Bento Train Station and woof it is out of this world. The flaky crust and creamy custard combo is unreal!!

Luís I Bridge + Gaia Cable Car

Alright, time to cross the Luis I Bridge—again. But trust me, seeing it during the day hits differently. The views of the Douro River and the colorful buildings lining the hills are seriously next level.

Once you’re across, hop on the Gaia Cable Car. It’s a quick ride, but the views are pretty sick. You’ll get the whole city laid out in front of you, and it drops you off conveniently close to the port wine lodges. Which is absolutely perfect for our next few stops!

Port Wine Tasting at Taylors Port

Since you’re already in Gaia, you might as well stop at Taylor’s Port for a tasting. This spot has been around since 1692 (so yeah, they know what they’re doing).

This is honestly one of my favorite things to do in Porto. Sipping a glass of Tawny in their gorgeous tasting room while overlooking the city is an experience.

A Port Wine Cellar tasting includes a few different varieties, and the staff explains the whole process—from the grapes to the barrel to your glass. You can even wander around their small museum afterward if you’re curious about the history.

I know port isn’t everyone’s thing—I mean, the sweetness can be a lot—but trying it in Porto is an absolute must. If you’re only going to do one tasting, I highly recommend this port wine cellar tour, it’s the perfect introduction.

Vila Nova de Gaia

After the tasting, take a stroll through Vila Nova de Gaia. Again, it’s way more relaxed and less touristy than Ribeira. There are tons of cute little streets to wander down and local shops to pop into.

Sometimes there are local markets set up along the river, with stalls selling handmade crafts, snacks, and random but charming souvenirs.

It’s also easier to grab a seat at a riverside café during the day—order a coffee or a glass of vino and just soak up the view.

Lunch at Ode Porto Wine House

For lunch, head to Ode Porto Wine House. It’s a local favorite, and you can tell the moment you sit down.

The owner takes a lot of pride in the menu, basing it on his mom’s and grandma’s traditional recipes. It’s all about simple, high-quality ingredients done right.

I had the octopus here, and wow—it was fresh, tender, and everything you want when you order seafood. The staff knows their wines too, so don’t be afraid to ask for a pairing recommendation.

It’s a bit more of a splurge, but the cozy atmosphere and the view of the Douro River make it totally worth it.

Jardim Botânico do Porto

After lunch, head to the Jardim Botânico do Portofor a little nature break. Honestly, this wasn’t even on my things to do in Porto for a day but I happened to meet another solo traveler at a wine tasting and decided to tag along. Best decision ever.

The gardens are peaceful and beautifully laid out, with winding paths that are perfect for a slow stroll. It’s perched up on a hill, so the view over the river is pretty great.

We grabbed a bottle of Vinho Verde (green wine) for less than two euros—yes, two euros—and sat down to take it all in. It was the perfect way to relax for a couple of hours after all the sight seeing!

Prova Wine Bar

As you can see, today is all about wine—but that’s no surprise, it is Porto, Portugal, after all! The next stop is Prova Wine Bar. This spot feels more like you’re hanging out at a friend’s house than a bar—if your friend had an amazing wine selection and knew exactly what to pour you.

The staff here is super knowledgeable, so tell them what you like, and they’ll steer you toward something local and delicious. I tried a crisp white that paired perfectly with the relaxed vibe of the place. It’s low-key, unpretentious, and exactly the kind of place you’ll wish you had back home.

Order a glass (or two), snack on some cheese or charcuterie, and just enjoy the slower pace

Dinner at Gazela

After all that wine and a proper sit-down lunch, Gazela is exactly what you need. This spot is famous for its cachorrinhos—essentially a Portuguese hot dog, but way better than it sounds.

Thin, crispy bread stuffed with sausage, melted cheese, and spicy sauce… yeah, it’s as good as it sounds. Mine disappeared in about 2 minutes flat!

It’s a small, busy spot, but that’s part of the charm. Grab a beer, dive into some cachorrinhos, and embrace the fact that sometimes the best meals are the simplest ones.

Drinks at BASE

Finish your Porto adventure at BASE, an open-air bar right in downtown Porto. It’s the kind of spot that feels effortlessly cool. At night, the vibe is chill but lively, with people sprawled out on the grass or perched on benches, drinks in hand.

I grabbed a glass of wine and just soaked it all in—the sound of the DJ spinning in the background, groups of friends laughing, and that perfect nighttime breeze.

If you’re visiting during the day and the weather’s nice, it’s just as good. They’ve got bean bags, shade from the trees, and sometimes a DJ keeping things relaxed. It’s the perfect mix of laid-back and social.

Day Trips in Porto: Douro Valley

If you’ve got an extra day (or you’re feeling ambitious on Day 2), a day trip to the Douro Valley is 100% worth it.

Why It’s Worth Visiting the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is honestly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Rolling hills covered in vineyards, the Douro River winding through the valley—it’s like stepping into a postcard.

It’s the birthplace of port wine, so you know you’re in for some seriously good tastings. Spending a day sipping wine with those views? Yeah, it’s an easy yes.

How to Get to the Douro Valley

Train: Take the train from São Bento Station to Pinhão—it’s about a 2-hour ride, but the views along the way are already part of the experience.

Tour: If you don’t feel like figuring out the logistics, booking a guided tour is the way to go. Most tours include transport, wine tastings, and sometimes lunch. Personally, I think this is the best option!

Book this top-rated Douro Valley Day Trip with a Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch tour (4.7/5 from 13,000+ reviews) and see why everyone’s raving about it!

Drive: If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car gives you more flexibility to stop at smaller wineries and lookout points along the way. Just make sure you have a designated driver if you’re planning on fully indulging in the tastings!

Things to Do in the Douro Valley

Wine Tasting at a Vineyard

This is what the Douro Valley is all about. Most vineyards are family-run, and the winemakers are incredibly passionate about their craft. You’ll learn about the winemaking process and taste everything from white and red table wines to sweet port.

Some of my favorites are Quinta do Bomfim and Quinta das Carvalhas—both have stunning views and even better wine.

River Cruise Along the Douro River

Hop on a traditional rabelo boatfor a cruise along the river. It’s the perfect way to see the valley from a different angle, and it’s just incredibly relaxing.

Most cruises last around an hour, which is the sweet spot for soaking up the views without getting restless.

Stop at Pinhão for Lunch

Pinhão is a charming little town right on the river, and it’s a great spot to refuel. Check out Rabelo Restaurant for some traditional Portuguese dishes with a riverside view.

Visit a Small Local Village

If you have time, swing by one of the smaller villages like Provesende or Favaios. It’s a totally different vibe—quiet streets, stone houses, and friendly locals who will probably insist you try their homemade port. It’s a great way to slow down after a busy day of wine and sightseeing.

Book your Duoro Valley Day Tour here

Tips for a Smooth 2 Days in Porto Portugal

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Porto is ALL hills and cobblestone streets. Cute shoes are great for pictures, but trust me—your feet will hate you by the end of the day. Sneakers or comfy sandals are the way to go.

Walk As Much As Possible

Porto is super walkable, and honestly, half the fun is just wandering around and getting lost in the narrow streets. Plus, it’s the best way to stumble upon hidden cafés, street art, and unexpected river views.

Bring Cash

Most places take cards, but smaller local spots (like some cafés and bakeries) are still cash-only. ATMs are easy to find, but it’s good to have a bit of cash on hand just in case.

Make Reservations

Popular spots like Ode Porto Wine House and The Yeatman’s Orangerie book up quickly, especially on weekends. If there’s somewhere you’re dying to eat or drink, make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Book Hotels in Advance During Summer

Porto has gotten a lot more popular in recent years, and hotels fill up fast in the summer months. If you have your eye on a particular spot, lock it in early to avoid the stress of last-minute booking. Two days may sound short, but even a 2-day Porto itinerary can fill up fast if you don’t plan ahead.

Pack Light

Dragging a 50-pound suitcase up Porto’s cobblestone hills and narrow streets is a nightmare. A smaller bag or backpack will make your life so much easier—your arms (and back) will thank you. If you’re tackling Porto in two days, packing light will make hopping around the city way easier.

Be Aware of Dinner Time

Dinner in Porto tends to start around 8 PM, so don’t expect to sit down for a meal at 6 PM unless you want confused stares. That said, spots like Casa Guedes and Gazela are more casual and usually open earlier if you’re starving.

Pace Yourself on the Wine

Port is stronger than regular wine, and it sneaks up on you fast. Take it slow unless you want to be napping instead of sightseeing.

FAQ 2 Days in Porto Itinerary

Is 2 Days in Porto Enough?

Two days in Porto is enough to get a solid feel for the city and hit the main highlights. Between the food, wine, and exploring, it’s easy to fill a couple of days—but if you have extra time, slowing down and soaking it all in is definitely worth it.

Is Porto better than Lisbon?

That’s the million-euro question! Honestly, they’re very different vibes. Porto feels more laid-back and intimate, while Lisbon is bigger and busier. I personally lean toward Porto—it’s got a charm that’s hard to beat—but you really can’t go wrong with either.

Is Porto a walkable city?

Yes, but prepare for hills! Porto is super compact, and most of the main sights are within walking distance. Just wear comfy shoes and be ready for some steep streets—it’s all part of the charm.

How many days do you need in Porto?

Technically, you could see all the main sights in one day—but it’d be rushed, and you’d miss out on the charm of just wandering, sipping wine, and soaking it all in. Two to three days lets you see the highlights without feeling like you’re speed-running the city.

Final Thoughts on 2 Day Itinerary Porto Portugal

After a handful of visits to Porto, checking out the best Port wine cellars, cafés, and restaurants, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorite cities in Europe.

It’s the kind of place that feels familiar even if it’s your first time—laid-back, welcoming, and just the right amount of things going on. Two days is enough to fall in love with Porto, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning your next trip before you even leave.

I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Portugal Porto, whether you’re sipping port in Gaia, wandering the colorful streets of Ribeira, or lingering over a coffee at Majestic Café.

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