3 day itinerary for Nord Portugal

Itinerary

A three-day adventure in Northern Portugal with friends sounds like a blast! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances culture, nature, and, of course, delicious food and wine.

## Day 1: Porto – The Heart of Northern Portugal

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Majestic: Start your day at this iconic café. The Belle Époque decor is stunning, and their pastries are to die for! Try the “Pastel de Nata” with a coffee.
• Explore Ribeira District: After breakfast, take a stroll along the Douro River. The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere are perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão: Head to this traditional market for a casual lunch. Grab some local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread. It’s a great way to sample local flavors!
• Visit Livraria Lello: This stunning bookstore is a must-see. The intricate staircase and beautiful architecture are said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while writing Harry Potter.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Try “Taberna da Ribeira” for some authentic Portuguese dishes. Don’t forget to order some “Francesinha,” a local sandwich that’s a real treat!
• Port Wine Tasting: End your day with a visit to one of the many wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. A guided tasting will give you a great introduction to this famous fortified wine.

## Day 2: Douro Valley – Nature and Wine

Morning:

• Drive to Douro Valley: Rent a car and take a scenic drive to the Douro Valley (about 1.5 hours from Porto). The views are breathtaking!
• Breakfast at a Local Café: Stop in a small town like Peso da Régua for breakfast. Enjoy some local pastries and coffee.

Afternoon:

• Wine Tour: Book a wine tour at one of the many quintas (wine estates) in the valley. Many offer tastings and tours of the vineyards. Quinta do Crasto is a popular choice!
• Lunch with a View: Enjoy lunch at the estate or a nearby restaurant with a view of the terraced vineyards. The local cuisine paired with wine is a must!

Evening:

• Sunset Boat Cruise: Take a relaxing boat cruise on the Douro River. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the stunning landscape as the sun sets.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Try “Restaurante DOC” for a fine dining experience with a view. The chef’s tasting menu is a great way to experience local flavors.

## Day 3: Guimarães and Braga – History and Culture

Morning:

• Drive to Guimarães: Head to Guimarães (about 1 hour from Porto). This city is known as the birthplace of Portugal!
• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Grab some fresh pastries and coffee at a local bakery before exploring.

Afternoon:

• Explore Guimarães Castle and Palace of the Dukes: Visit these historical sites and take a stroll through the charming old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Lunch in Guimarães: Try “Restaurante A Cozinha” for some traditional dishes.

Evening:

• Head to Braga: Just a short drive from Guimarães, Braga is known for its beautiful churches. Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary and take the funicular for stunning views.
• Dinner in Braga: Enjoy dinner at “Tasca da Esquina,” where you can savor local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Night Out: If you’re up for it, check out the local nightlife in Braga. There are plenty of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a fun night with your friends!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore Northern Portugal at your own pace.
• Local Delicacies: Don’t miss trying local specialties like “Bacalhau à Brás” (codfish) and “Francesinha” (a hearty sandwich).
• Stay Connected: Download a translation app to help with any language barriers, though many locals speak English.

I hope this itinerary helps you and your friends have an unforgettable time in Northern Portugal! Enjoy every moment! 🌍🍷✨