3 day itinerary for Northern Portugal

Itinerary

Here's a delightful itinerary for 3 days in Northern Portugal that perfectly balances family-friendly activities, delicious food and wine experiences, and stunning sights to see:

Day 1: Porto

Start your adventure in Porto, a vibrant city known for its charming streets and delicious cuisine. Begin your day with a visit to Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Then, head to the Ribeira district to stroll along the Douro River and admire the colorful buildings. For lunch, indulge in a traditional Francesinha sandwich, a local favorite.

In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat cruise along the Douro River to see the city from a different perspective. End your day with a visit to a local winery in Vila Nova de Gaia for a wine tasting experience, where you can sample the famous Port wine.

Day 2: Douro Valley

On your second day, venture into the stunning Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its terraced vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. Start your day with a scenic drive through the valley, stopping at viewpoints along the way to take in the beauty of the region.

Visit a traditional quinta (winery) for a tour and wine tasting session, where both adults and kids can learn about the winemaking process and sample some delicious wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the vineyards.

In the afternoon, take a relaxing cruise along the Douro River to admire the valley from the water. Wrap up your day with a visit to one of the charming villages in the valley, such as Pinhão, where you can explore the narrow streets and enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner.

Day 3: Guimarães and Braga

On your final day, explore the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, both known for their rich history and beautiful architecture. Start your day in Guimarães, often referred to as the "birthplace of Portugal," where you can visit the medieval Guimarães Castle and the charming historic center.

For lunch, try some local specialties at a traditional restaurant in Guimarães. In the afternoon, head to Braga, a city known for its stunning churches and gardens. Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, a beautiful hilltop sanctuary with impressive Baroque architecture.

End your day with a visit to a local restaurant in Braga to savor some delicious Portuguese dishes before heading back to Porto.

This itinerary offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, delicious food and wine experiences, and stunning sights to see in Northern Portugal. Enjoy your trip!