3 day itinerary for Porto (portugal)

Itinerary

A three-day adventure in Porto, with a sprinkle of Spain and Morocco, sounds like an exciting road trip! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances the charm of Porto with some nature and a dash of international flair. Buckle up!

## Day 1: Discovering Porto

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Majestic: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this iconic café. The Belle Époque decor is a feast for the eyes!
• Ribeira District: After breakfast, take a stroll along the Douro River in the Ribeira District. The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere are perfect for soaking in the local vibe.

Midday:

• Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão: Head to this traditional market for a taste of local delicacies. Grab some fresh seafood or a Francesinha sandwich, a Porto specialty!
• Visit Livraria Lello: This stunning bookstore is often considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Don’t forget to take a few photos!

Afternoon:

• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: Spend your afternoon wandering through these beautiful gardens. The views of the Douro River and the city are breathtaking, and it’s a lovely spot to relax.

Evening:

• Dinner in Foz do Douro: Head to the coastal area of Foz do Douro for dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Sunset at the Beach: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach and catch the sunset. It’s a perfect way to end your first day!

## Day 2: Road Trip to Spain

Morning:

• Early Breakfast and Departure: Grab a quick breakfast and hit the road early. Your destination is Santiago de Compostela, Spain (about a 2.5-hour drive).
• Explore Santiago de Compostela: Visit the stunning Cathedral of Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The architecture is awe-inspiring!

Midday:

• Lunch in Santiago: Try some local Galician cuisine, like pulpo a la gallega (octopus) or empanada, at a cozy restaurant in the old town.

Afternoon:

• Nature Walk in Parque de la Alameda: After lunch, take a stroll in this beautiful park, which offers fantastic views of the cathedral and the city. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Evening:

• Drive to A Coruña (1 hour): Head to A Coruña for dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
• Explore the Tower of Hercules: If time permits, visit this ancient Roman lighthouse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The views from the top are stunning!

## Day 3: Nature and Morocco

Morning:

• Early Breakfast and Departure: After breakfast, start your journey towards the Douro Valley (about a 2-hour drive from Porto). This region is known for its stunning landscapes and vineyards.
• Douro Valley Wine Tour: Spend the morning exploring the vineyards. Consider a wine tour that includes tastings and a scenic boat ride on the Douro River.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Vineyard: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the vineyards, where you can savor local dishes paired with exquisite wines.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Faro (3 hours): After your wine experience, head south to Faro, the capital of the Algarve region. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and nature reserves.
• Explore Ria Formosa Natural Park: Spend your afternoon exploring this stunning coastal lagoon, home to diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. You can take a boat tour or hike along the trails.

Evening:

• Dinner in Faro: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some fresh fish or traditional Portuguese dishes.
• Optional: Evening Flight to Morocco: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a short flight from Faro to Marrakech for a taste of Moroccan culture. If not, you can spend the night in Faro and enjoy the local nightlife!

Tips for Your Road Trip:

• Car Rental: Make sure to rent a comfortable car for your journey. The roads are generally good, and driving through the scenic landscapes is part of the adventure!
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes in each city. Each region has its specialties!
• Stay Flexible: While it’s great to have a plan, allow for some spontaneity. You might discover hidden gems along the way!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your three days in Porto and beyond! Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✨