What to do in Porto in 3 days? Best visits and activities

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• 😎 All the activities to do in Porto 

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What to do in Porto in 3 days? 

The second largest city in Portugal, nestled on the banks of the Douro river, Porto is a magnificent city to discover for its historic centre, its wine cellars and its famous azulejos. Here is the perfect programme for 3 days of visiting Porto, bringing together the main iconic sites not to be missed. 

Practical info on the PORTO Card (transport included): 1, 2, 3 or 4 days with more than 150 discounts and benefits, including 7 museums + 50% off a visit to a Porto wine cellar. Book now, pay later. 

Day 1: Discovering Porto's Historic Centre

Morning: the Sé, Palácio da Bolsa and Ribeira district 

Start this first day by going to visit the Sé, Porto's sublime cathedral located in the Batalha district. Built in the 12th century, it hides a cloister with sublime azulejos and a treasury room with an important collection of religious goldsmithing. 

Continue this visit to Porto by going to see the neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa, a magnificent 19th-century building located in the historic heart, famous for its most sumptuous Arab Room. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this palace is the seat of the city's Commercial Association. 

Take the opportunity to stroll around the historic Ribeira district. Also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this district is famous for its narrow cobbled streets lined with charming colourful houses. Tourist sites nearby: 

• The Church of São Lourenço (Saint Lawrence) 
• The Guerra Junqueiro House-Museum
• The Casa do Infante
• Vila Nova de Gaia 

Want to visit Porto with a guide, see the Lello bookshop, take a boat trip and ride the cable car? Learn more by clicking here (tickets with free cancellation) 

Afternoon: crossing the Dom Luís Bridge and visiting the wine cellars

Then cross this iconic bridge linking Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Once on the bridge, stop to capture this spectacular view of both banks of the city.

On the other side of the river, you'll see Porto like a postcard. Take the opportunity to visit the famous wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, the most renowned in the city.  You can do a Port wine tasting and learn a little more about the history and production of this fortified wine.

In the evening, have dinner in one of the many restaurants in the Ribeira district. We especially love its lively waterfront atmosphere. It will be the chance to taste local specialities such as bacalhau (cod) or grilled sardines.

Wandersand tip: take the combined offer to visit Porto in 3 days  Little train in Porto + 1-hour cruise + Old wine cellar  

Day 2: A day of iconic visits

Morning: Livraria Lello & Irmão, Clérigos Tower and Porto-São Bento Station 

For this second day, after a generous breakfast, go and visit one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world. Located in the heart of Porto, you'll appreciate its neo-Gothic architecture and its splendid interior decorated with carved wood. A real work of art not to be missed if you're wondering what to do in Porto in 3 days. But what draws the crowds is that this famous bookshop is the one that inspired J.K. Rowling to write Hogwarts in Harry Potter. 

After this visit, climb the 240 steps of the Torre dos Clérigos. You'll see, it's a pretty Baroque tower, the tallest in Portugal at 76 metres, offering a breathtaking view of Porto. 

Not far away is Rua das Flores. Walking up it, you'll reach Praça da Liberdade (Praça da Liberdade) and the famous Porto-São Bento railway station (Estação Ferroviária de Porto-São Bento) with its sublime azulejos depicting the history of Portugal (20,000 ceramic tiles in all).

You can also see a Fado concert at São Bento Station 

Afternoon: visit to the Serralves Museum or Casa da Música

After lunch, set off to discover the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and its magnificent gardens (Parque de Serralves). Designed by the architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, this museum also includes the Casa de Serralves in Art Deco style. If you're visiting Porto with the family, your children will love walking among the trees on a 260-metre-long walkway.

Another visit option if you prefer: the Casa da Música. A rather iconic modern building designed by the architect Rem Koolhaas. If you plan ahead, you can even attend a concert. An excellent souvenir of these 3 days in Porto. 

In the evening, to close this lovely day, take the opportunity to go on a cruise on the Douro. It will be a chance to admire the lively banks of Porto and its illuminated bridges. 

Day 3: Porto and its iconic places

Morning: visit the Bolhão Market and stop at the Café Majestic

For this last day, set off to walk the aisles of this traditional historic market at Rua Formosa 322 to appreciate the essence of Porto. In the centre of the Baixa Portuense, you'll find many fresh products and handmade souvenirs.

Then, take a break at the Café Majestic for a drink in this historic place located on the famous Rua Santa Catarina. A true gem of 1920s Art Nouveau that was for a long time a meeting point for Porto's intellectuals and artists. Nearby is the church of Santo António dos Congregados.

Afternoon: shopping and Parque da Cidade / Crystal Palace Gardens

After a shopping session and tasting the famous pastéis de nata, relax in this large urban park, perfect for a walk or a picnic at the end of the day. Otherwise, you can take a stroll in the Crystal Palace gardens to see a vast collection of aromatic and medicinal plants. A magnificent place to sit and see peacocks and roosters roaming free. 

Then, end this third and final day, if time allows, by attending a Fado show in a traditional tavern.

What to do in Porto with children? Our 7 favourites

Wondering what to do in Porto in 3 days with children? Find 7 ideas for outings to have fun and create great family memories. 

1. Visit the World of Discoveries in Porto 

It's an interactive museum that teaches the youngest about the different regions of the world, especially those reached by Portuguese-born explorers. The visit also takes place by boat through tropical forests, landscapes of China and other countries of the world. 

2. Go on the Douro on a pirate boat

For a family adventure, board a pirate boat in Porto and sail on the Douro river. You'll have a memorable experience while admiring the picturesque landscapes of Porto.

3. Explore the Museu do Carro Eléctrico

Dive into the past by exploring this museum dedicated to the history and evolution of electric vehicles. Your children can see restored tram machines, as well as many photos. 

4. Ride the Gaia cable car

Your children don't feel like climbing up to the Miradouro da Serra do Pilar? No problem, just take the Gaia cable car. From the cabin (the bubble), you can admire a breathtaking view of the Douro river and the city of Porto. To come down, you'll have the choice of going back by cable car or on foot to return to Porto. 

5. See the Estádio do Dragão in Porto where FC Porto play

Visit the stadium where FC Porto play, Estádio do Dragão. Football fans can discover the history of the club and feel the atmosphere of this iconic place.

6. Cool off at the Amarante Water Park

Want to have fun as a family? Spend a day at the Amarante water park, ranked Travellers' Choice on Tripadvisor. On the programme: slides, pools, tube rides and many water attractions for young and old.

7. Visit the Magikland amusement park

Spend an exciting day at the Magikland amusement park. Perfect for thrill-seekers. The park is full of rides, shows and activities whatever your age and desires. The perfect family destination during your stay in Porto

What to do in Porto when it rains?  Other family outing ideas

• Admission ticket to the 3D Fun Art Museum in Porto
• Admission ticket to the Pink Palace and tasting at WOW
• The Legends of Porto: the underground experience
• Intimate Fado concert in a traditional tavern
• Admission ticket to the Spiritus multimedia show

Where are the most beautiful azulejos in Porto? 

Wondering what to do in Porto in 3 days? Don't miss admiring these sublime ceramic tiles decorated with artistic motifs, often blue and white. Here is a list of the best places to go and admire them:

‍1. São Bento Station

‍It is one of the most iconic sites in the city. Perfect for admiring the 20,000 azulejos with their scenes of battles throughout Portuguese history and local life. 

‍2. The Church of Santo Ildefonso and its two towers

‍Located near Praça da Batalha, the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso is famous for its façade covered in blue and white azulejos depicting several religious figures.

‍3. The Chapel of Souls 

‍Called Capela das Almas or Capela de Santa Catarina in Portuguese, this chapel is also entirely covered in azulejos celebrating Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Catherine. Some say there are nearly 15,000 azulejos! You'll find it on the shopping street of Santa Catarina, near the Bolhão Market

4. The Church of Carmo Igreja do Carmo

It is probably one of the most beautiful churches in Porto. As you walk through the Vitória district, near the University of Porto, you'll come across this sublime façade decorated with an azulejo fresco.Not far away is the Carmelites' church with magnificent interior and exterior walls decorated with azulejos. 

5. The Monastery of São Bento da Vitória

‍Located in the Miragaia district, this monastery is also one of our favourites. A haven of serenity for azulejo lovers.

‍6. The Church of São Francisco and its hall 

Although the Igreja de São Francisco is best known for its gold decoration, be aware that its entrance hall is covered in azulejos over an area of more than 500 m2 that are worth the trip if you come to visit Porto.

7. The Café Majestic

If you follow our itinerary What to do in Porto in 3 days, you can admire the sumptuous azulejos while taking a break at the Café Majestic, on Rua Santa Catarina.

8. The Guerra Junqueiro House-Museum

Located near Porto Cathedral, this timeless place is decorated with azulejos in several of its rooms. It will also be a chance to learn more about the life of the writer and poet Guerra Junqueiro.

Where to stay in Porto during these 3 days? The best neighbourhoods

For a three-day tourist stay in Porto, here are three recommended neighbourhoods, each offering a unique setting and many attractions nearby.

The Ribeira district

We love it for: 

• Its ideal location in the heart of Porto with its colourful houses
• Its nightlife if you want to have dinner at a restaurant or a drink in the evening

Best hotels in Ribeira: 

• Ribeira Douro Hotel, rated 9.7 Exceptional on Booking.com and 9.9 for its location 
• Oca Ribeira do Porto Hotel, rated 8.8 Superb on Booking.com and 9.8 for its location 
• Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site, rated 8.7 Superb on Booking.com and 9.7 for its location 

The Cedofeita district

We love it for: 

• Its bohemian and artistic atmosphere with its art galleries
• Its location a few minutes' walk from the main tourist sites

Best hotels in this district: 

• One Shot Palácio Cedofeita with its sublime pool, rated 9.1 Fabulous on Booking.com 
• Blau 191, rated 9.6 Exceptional on Booking.com and 9.9 for its staff
• bnapartments Cedofeita, rated 9.1 Fabulous on Booking.com and 9.7 for its location

The Vila Nova de Gaia district

We love it for: 

• Its breathtaking view of Porto thanks to its location on the other side of the Douro river
• Its proximity for visiting the famous wine cellars.
• Its easy access to take the cable car linking Gaia to the centre of Porto

Best hotels in this district: 

• The Yeatman Hotel with spa, its Michelin-starred restaurant and a panoramic view of Porto

See all available hotels in Vila Nova de Gaia 

FAQ: visiting Porto in 3 days

Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions:

How to get to Porto?

If you're coming by plane, note that Francisco Sá Carneiro airport (OPO) is about 15 km from the city centre. If, on the other hand, you're planning a road trip in Portugal, Porto is accessible via the A1 motorway from Lisbon or other Portuguese cities. In addition, São Bento station and Campanhã station serve Porto if you prefer train journeys. 

What is the best time to go to Porto?

Porto is a destination that can be visited all year round. Our favourite time is probably spring and autumn. In summer, it's hotter like most destinations in Europe and you'll see more tourists. It's the ideal time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor events.

Are 3 days in Porto enough?

Whether for a city break or a road trip, 3 days in Porto is ideal for visiting the historic centre, its wine cellars and its iconic places. 

How to get around Porto without a car?

Porto can easily be visited on foot. You can also take the metro and easily reach several tourist sites in the city. For longer distances, don't hesitate to take a taxi/Uber.  

How to get from the airport to the centre of Porto?

Once you arrive at the airport, you can take line E (purple) of the metro to the city centre (Trindade) in about 30 minutes. Shuttle services are also available. If you're carrying a lot, opt for a taxi (journey of about 20 minutes). 

How to get to the beach from the centre of Porto?

The best option is probably to hire a car to be more flexible during your visits. The nearest beaches are only 15 minutes by car. 

Nevertheless, if you wish, you can also take the bus or historic tram no. 1 (which leaves from Ribeira) to the beaches of Foz do Douro and Matosinhos.

What to visit around Porto? 

If you have more time, don't hesitate to visit the surroundings of Porto. Go and explore Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal, Braga and the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. Another idea, set off to discover the Douro Valley and its vineyards. Don't miss Aveiro, also nicknamed the "Venice of Portugal" for its picturesque canals and colourful moliceiro boats.

Our article on What to do in Porto in 3 days ends here. We hope all these addresses and activities will help you plan your stay in Portugal. All that's left is to wish you a great trip and plenty of good vibes 😎