Perfect 2 days in Porto Itinerary (by a frequent visitor, now a local)

Porto, located on the north-west coast of the Iberian peninsula, is the second largest city in Portugal after its capital city Lisbon. Over the centuries, Porto’s economic and cultural contribution towards building Portuguese identity across the globe has unquestionably been remarkable. In fact, Portugal derives its name from this historic city, which was also referred to as Portus Cale during the Roman period. Today, Porto with innumerable cultural sites and heritage attractions along with a thriving food and wine industry, continues to be a top tourist destination in Portugal and Europe. 

Our 2 Day Porto itinerary covers the major attractions not only in Porto but also the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, located across Porto and separated by River Douro. Our recommendations, based on time spent in this beautiful city, will help you seamlessly weave Porto into your Portugal itinerary.

Before we begin planning you a few everlasting experiences, here are some quick facts to get you familiarized with Porto!

Quick facts to help you get acquainted with Porto  

• Best time to visit Porto : March through October

• Currency : Euro

• Visa Requirements : Portugal falls within the Schengen visa region and allows visa-free for US and Canadian passport holders for up to 90 days. Non-exempt countries need to apply for a Schengen Visa prior to arrival. For additional  information visit Applying for a Schengen Visa 

Additionally, we suggest adding travel insurance to your travel itinerary. Travel insurance policies cover a range of unplanned expenses like medical emergencies, cancellation or delaying your travel plans, lost or stolen baggage. For travel insurance quotes visit Travel Insurance Quotes 

Getting to Porto

• By Air 

Porto is well connected to cities across Europe and North America (via connections in Europe) and is served by Francisco Sa Carneiro International Airport.

Francisco Sa Carneiro International Airport is approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Porto City Center and is around a 15 minute drive. The public transportation network efficiently connects the airport and city center. 

• By Train 

If your port of entry to Portugal is Lisbon, Portuguese Railway or Comboios de Portugal provides daily train service between Lisbon and Porto with a frequency of around 15 trains per day. One-way journey time from Lisbon to Porto is approximately 3 to 3.5 hours but there is also an option to book the high-speed Alfa Pendular train that covers the one-way distance between the two cities in 2 hours and 30 minutes. Oriente station and Santa Apolónia station in Lisbon and Campanhã Train Station in Porto service this route between Lisbon and Porto. 

For more information on timetables/schedules, tickets and fares visit Comboios de Portugal – Schedule/Fares 

TravelTip: After your arrival at Campanhã Train Station –  Porto, you might want to take a direct train from Campanhã Train Station to Sao Bento Train Station to start your day in close proximity to some of the popular tourist attractions. The frequency of this direct train between Campanhã Train Station to Sao Bento Train Station is every 15 minutes and journey time is around 5-7 minutes.

• By Bus 

If your port of entry to Portugal is Lisbon, FlixBus provides daily bus service from Lisbon to Porto and the journey takes around 3.15 hours. FlixBus provides all day service between Lisbon and Porto with buses that depart from Oriente Bus Station – Lisbon and arrive at Campanha Bus Station – Porto.

For more information on timetables/schedules, tickets and fares for FlixBus visit FlixBus Lisbon to Porto – Schedule/Fares 

TravelTip: If you wish to travel to Porto directly from Lisbon International Airport, FlixBus provides a direct service between Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport and Porto’s Campanha Bus Station and the journey takes around 3.5 hours. 

For more information on FlixBus timetables/schedules, tickets and fares for service from Lisbon International Airport to Porto visit FlixBus Lisbon Airport to Porto – Schedule/Fares  

Getting to Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia City from Francisco Sa Carneiro International Airport

• Private Transfer 

You have the option to book a private one-way transfer from the airport to your accommodation in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia

Book your private transfer from Francisco Sa Carneiro International Airport here Private Transfer from Airport to Porto/Vila Nova de Gaia City 

• Metro

 The Metro (Line E – Purple Line) connects the airport to Porto city center with trains that depart every 20-30 minutes. The journey time from the airport to Porto city center is approximately 30-35 minutes. 

For more information on the Metro timetables/schedules, tickets and fares visit Porto Metro – Schedule/Fares

• Bus

Porto City Bus (STCP) connects the airport to Porto via 3 routes and depending on your area of stay you can select the best bus route to get to your accommodation in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia.  

For more information on the Porto City Bus (STCP)  timetables/schedules, tickets and fares visit Porto City Bus (STCP) – Schedule/Fares 

• Taxi

You can also get a taxi to take you from the Airport to any location in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia and can be conveniently found outside the terminal.

Where to stay in Porto

• IBIS Porto Centro Mercado Bolhao

This IBIS hotel boasts a fantastic location in the historic city center of Porto. Top tourist attractions like the Douro River, Bolhao Market, Ribeira Square, D. Luis I Bridge, Batalha Square, Clerigos Tower are located within 2 km from the hotel. Bohao Metro Station is around 200 meters, Trindade Metro Station is around 500 meters and Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport is around 12 km from the property. The hotel is equipped with a 24 hour front desk, shared lounge and a bar.

Book your stay at IBIS Porto Centro Mercado Bolhao 

• Holiday Inn Express Porto City Centre

This Holiday Inn Express property is conveniently located in the center of Porto City. Major attractions like the Ribeira Square, D. Luis I Bridge, Douro River, Clerigos Tower, Bolhao Market, Batalha Square, Oporto Coliseum are located within 2 km from the hotel. Bohao Metro Station is around 300 meters, Trindade Metro Station is around 500 meters and Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport is around 14 km from the property. The hotel has a 24 hour front desk and a bar.

Book your stay at Holiday Inn Express Porto City Center 

2 Day Porto Itinerary

Porto has a plethora of tourist attractions around the city for an immersive discovery experience. Keeping in mind your timeline of 2 Days in Porto City, we have handpicked the top tourist attractions in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia that will help you cover major sites with ease and comfort.

One of the most efficient  ways of exploring this charming city in a short time, at your own pace and less walking, is aboard an Hop-on Hop-off open top double decker bus.

Highlights of this Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour:

• 2 routes or loops covered by the Red Line and Blue Line. While the Red Line covers prime tourist attractions in Porto City, the Blue Line stops near major sights in Vila Nova de Gaia and between them includes a total of 19 stops 
• Night-time panoramic Bus Tour (Covers entire loop without hop-on hop-off service)
• Audio guides in 9 languages (headphones provided)

With the Hop-on Hop-off Bus, you have the option of purchasing a pass or voucher for 1 or 2 days. If you plan on spending 2 days in Porto city, we highly recommend the 48-hour ticket which gives you the flexibility to explore various attractions around the city at your own pace.  

Additionally, with the 48-hour ticket you can cover most of Porto along with the city of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Reserve your Hop-on Hop-off bus ticket at Hop-on Hop-off Bus – Porto 2 Day Itinerary 

Alright so get aboard this panoramic open top double decker bus and discover this beautiful city together! We will start with the Red Line route for Day 1 and then explore the Blue Line route for Day 2 of this itinerary.

Day 1: Porto Itinerary – Red Line Hop-on Hop-off Route

The duration of the complete loop for the Red Line route is 120 minutes. Each stop on this route is served by the Hop-on Hop-off bus at a frequency of 20 minutes. First and last departure from Batalha Square (Praça da Batalha) is typically at 9:30am and 5:30pm respectively.

• Batalha Square (Praça da Batalha) 

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus typically starts the loop in Batalha Square located in the historic center of Porto. Start your day in this square that is adorned with cafes and restaurants. Around the 10th century, this square was the site of a fierce battle between the residents of Porto and the Arabs of Almancor, which resulted in the destruction of the city.

To the north of the square is the Church of Saint Ildefonso (Igreja de Santo Ildefonso). This church was built in Baroque architecture style and exhibits a facade that is hard to miss! The exterior of this church is decorated with glazed blue and white Azulejo tile panels that give the structure a distinct visual contrast. 

In the centre of Batalha Square is the Statue of D.Pedro V, former King of Portugal and Algraves. 

On the south side of the square is the Sao Joao National Theatre, classified as a national monument and one of Porto’s important structures. Today, the theatre hosts shows and cultural events. 

On the east side of the square is Batalha Cinema, designated as a monument of public interest.  

TravelTip: After an unforgettable day of exploring Porto, if you are looking for some place to unwind – take a stroll or perhaps grab a bite or drink, head to Santa Catarina Street (Rua Santa Catarina) located a short minute walk from Batalha Square. This pedestrian street is a local favourite for shopping and gastronomic delights. The street also has churches with the famous glazed blue and white Azulejo tile panels on the exterior walls of the structure.

• Crystal Palace (Palácio de Cristal)

The Crystal Palace, located in the center of Porto, was originally constructed using glass, granite and iron. Over the years, the Crystal Palace has hosted numerous exhibitions but today the Palace has been converted to an arena that hosts various sporting, business and cultural events. 

The Crystal Palace Gardens are definitely worth a visit. The garden is graced with a central fountain, splendid assemblage of flora, avenue of trees, a library and a cafe. As you stroll through the Palace Gardens, admire the viewpoints that render panoramic vista of River Douro and don’t be surprised to see a few peacocks saunter through the garden!  

• Queijo Castle also referred as Cheese Castle (Castelo do Queijo)

Queijo Castle also known as Forte de São Francisco Xavier do Queijo (Fort of Sao Francisco Xavier) was built on a granite rock that resembled a cheese boulder. The fort was built around the 17th century as a fortification against invasions from the Atlantic coast. The Castle has a colossal arched entrance with the Portuguese coat of arms, stone walls on the exterior and encompasses cannon platforms and a drawbridge. The site also has a museum dedicated to Portugal’s conflicts in its former African colonies.

Queijo Castle offers stunning sunset views of the Atlantic coast and River Douro estuary. 

Admission to Queijo Castle

Visiting Hours

• Daily : 10am to 6pm (Closed on National Holidays)

Cost of Tickets

• Adults – €3
• Children (Under 12) – Entry is free

• Ribeira Square (Praça da Ribeira)

One of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Europe, Ribeira is located in the historic city center of Porto – a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated along the banks of River Douro, Ribeira neighborhood is famous for its colourful buildings and hosts a number of souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. Wander through Ribeira’s charming quarter where the medieval alleys and sidewalks will lead you to the Douro river bank.

The promenade along the river bank after sunset with the view of the iconic Luis I Bridge is surely worth a million bucks! 

• Church of Saint Francis (Igreja de São Francisco)

The Church of Saint Francis, constructed around the 14th century, is an important religious monument in Porto. The Church, built on the site of a 13th century temple, has a gothic style exterior complete with a circular rose window in the main facade. The interior of this national monument has few elements like columns, roof and walls covered in Baroque gilded wood carving.

Admission to Church of Saint Francis

Visiting Hours

• March to June and October : 9am to 7pm 
• July to September : 9am to 8pm
• November to February : 9am to 5:30pm

Cost of Tickets: €7.50

• Clerigos Church and Tower (Igreja e Torre dos Clérigos)

Clerigos Tower, one of Porto’s most emblematic monuments, stands tall at an impressive 75 meters high and till date is the tallest structure in Porto. The Church Tower is located behind the Clerigos Church and construction of the entire Baroque style complex, including the divided stairway in front of the church, was completed in the 18th century. 

Clerigos Tower has a total of 6 floors and 240 steps to reach the top of the tower. From the top of the Tower you can enjoy uninterrupted breathtaking 360° views of Porto city. You can also find a number of cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops around the complex.

Admission to Clerigos Church and Tower

Opening Hours

• Every Day – 9am to 7pm 

Cost of Tickets

• Entry to Church – Free
• Entry to Tower and Museum – € 10 (Free entry for children up to 10 years old) 
• Night Ticket – € 5 (Available only on specific dates during Easter, summer and Christmas season)

Lello Bookstore (Livraria Lello) –  Optional activity

Livraria Lello, often dubbed as “The most beautiful bookstore in the world” is a bookstore located a short 3 minute walk from Clerigos Church and Tower. This bookstore, classified as Monument of Public Interest, opened its doors in 1906 and today boasts an impressive million plus visitors every year.  As you step inside this library, you will be truly amazed with the decor – from the beautiful wooden stairway and the walls to the stained glass ceiling. 

This bookstore does have its share of controversy! It is alleged that the renowned British author J.K Rowling, found her inspiration to write the famous fantasy novel series Harry Potter in this historic library. Although the famed author never admitted this rumor, she did acknowledge drawing inspiration from her surroundings in Porto. 

Admission to Lello Bookstore

Visiting Hours

• Every Day – 9am to 7pm 
• Closed on 25 December, 01 January, Easter Sunday, 01 May, 24 June                                                                                                  

Cost of Tickets

• Silver Ticket – € 10 (Regular line to Livraria Lello) 
• Gold Ticket – € 15.95 (Entrance ticket to Livraria Lello via Gold waiting line)
• Platinum Ticket – € 50 (Priority entry Livraria Lello)

Day 2 : Porto Itinerary – Blue Line Hop-on Hop-off Route

The duration of the complete loop for the Blue Line route is 60 minutes. Each stop on this route is served by the Hop-on Hop-off bus at a frequency of 20 minutes. First and last departure from Batalha Square (Praça da Batalha) is typically at 9:30am and 5:30pm respectively.

• Batalha Square (Praça da Batalha) 

The starting point for this Blue Line route is the same as the Red Line route –  The Batalha Square. Since we have already covered Batalha Square on Day 1 of this itinerary, let us start Day 2 with some magnificent views of Porto and Douro River at Hill Garden (Jardim Do Morro) which will be your first stop for the day.

• Hill Garden (Jardim Do Morro)

Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, next to the upper level of Luis I Bridge, this garden offers magnificent views of the Porto city and River Douro. Additionally, the garden is right next to Avenida da Republica (Republic Avenue), one of Vila Nova de Gaia’s main road arteries. From this garden you can stroll on to the upper level of Luis I Bridge, shared by pedestrians and Porto Metro, to enjoy uninterrupted stunning views of River Douro flanked on either side by the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.

• Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)

Located a short 9 minute walk from Hill Garden via the upper level of Luis I Bridge, Porto Cathedral is one of the city’s premier monuments and an important religious site. The entire complex is perched on Penaventosa Hill and presents great views of Porto city along with Douro River. The construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century and various renovations and additions continued for several centuries as a result the complex exhibits a mix of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic architectural styles. The complex has a cathedral neighboured by 2 large square bell towers crowned by cupolas complete with a cloister that is elegantly decorated with unique blue and white azulejo tiles. There is also the Casa do Cabido right next to the cloister that houses the cathedral’s prized treasures. 

Admission to Porto Cathedral 

Opening Hours for Church, Museum and Cloister

• April to October – 9am to 6:30pm
• November to March – 9am to 5:30pm 
• Closed on Christmas and Easter                                                                                             

Cost of Tickets

• Entry to Cathedral – Free
• Entry to Cloister, Museum and Tower – € 3 (Free entry for children up to 10 years old) 

• El Corte Ingles – Optional Activity

El Corte Ingles is one of  Porto’s premier department stores for luxury shopping. Located on Avenida da Republica (Republic Avenue) in Vila Nova de Gaia, this departmental store offers an extensive selection of international brands – from fashion, shoes, cosmetics, accessories, jewelry to home decor, culinary and various value added services. El Corte Ingles also has a restaurant and coffee shop on the top level and a supermarket and food court at one of the lower levels of the store.

• Monastery of Serra do Pilar (Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar)

Serra do Pilar is a monastery situated on the hill overlooking the Hill Garden, River Douro and Porto. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses a circular shaped church and cloister. During an attack on Porto in 1832, the monastery was converted into a military stronghold to secure an advantage of its strategic location and the site till date hosts a regiment of the Portuguese army. From the viewpoints around the church, enjoy stunning vistas of Douro River and the imposing Luis I bridge with the city of Porto in the background. 

This will also be the end of our hop-on hop-off experience but certainly not the end of our 2 day itinerary because a visit to Porto is never complete without indulging in some port wine and the traditional Portuguese Fado!

From the Monastery of Serra do Pilar head down to Gaia Riverside Promenade. Gaia Riverside Promenade is located along the bank of River Douro and there are 2 options to get there. You can either take the stairs/path located next to Hill Garden and follow the narrow street that will leads you down to the promenade or you can take the Gaia Cable Car (Teleférico de Gaia) that runs along River Douro and connects Hill Garden and Monastery of Serra do Pilar to Gaia Pier (Cais de Gaia). The ride covers a distance of 562 meters and a one-way ride costs around € 7 for adults and € 3.50 for children (between 5-12 years). 

• Wine Cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia (Caves de Vila Nova de Gaia)

The Wine Cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia, for centuries, have played an important role in the success of Portugal’s port wine industry. Uncover the secrets behind the makings of port wine, the ‘sweet nectar,’ from its origins in the Douro Valley to its perfect pour in Porto!

After 2 days of exploring Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, a visit to a port wine cellar or cave located on Gaia Riverside Promenade to indulge in some of the finest port wine tastings while enjoying a live Portuguese Fado performance would be an apt way to end this memorable trip! 

Book your Wine Tasting and Portuguese Fado Calem Wine Cellar – Wine Tasting and Fado 

experience in Vila Nova de Gaia.