3 day itinerary for Porto

Itinerary

Porto is such a charming city, and I’m excited to help you plan a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances romance, stunning views, and, of course, some delicious wine—all while keeping it budget-friendly. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Porto

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Majestic: Start your day with a lovely breakfast at this iconic café. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the ambiance is worth it. Try their famous pastries and a coffee.
• Stroll through Rua de Santa Catarina: After breakfast, wander down this bustling street filled with shops and local vendors. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful Mercado do Bolhão for some local produce and snacks.

Afternoon:

• Visit Livraria Lello: This stunning bookstore is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the world. Entry is around €5, but you can use that towards a book purchase if you decide to buy one!
• Lunch at Mercado Bom Sucesso: Head to this market for a variety of affordable food stalls. You can sample local dishes without breaking the bank.

Evening:

• Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge: As the sun sets, take a romantic walk across this iconic bridge. The views of the Douro River and the city are breathtaking, especially at golden hour.
• Dinner in Ribeira: Head down to the riverside area of Ribeira for dinner. There are plenty of affordable restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes. Try some grilled sardines or bacalhau (cod).

## Day 2: Wine and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Grab a quick breakfast at a local pastelaria. Try a “pastel de nata” (custard tart) and a coffee.
• Visit the Serralves Museum and Gardens: Spend your morning exploring contemporary art and beautiful gardens. The entrance fee is reasonable, and the gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Afternoon:

• Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross back over the Dom Luís I Bridge to Gaia, where you’ll find many wine cellars. Look for free or low-cost tastings at places like Sandeman or Graham’s. You can often find deals for tastings that include a tour.
• Lunch at a Local Taverna: Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the taverna-style restaurants in Gaia. Look for “prato do dia” (dish of the day) for an affordable option.

Evening:

• Sunset at Jardim do Morro: After your wine tasting, head to this park for stunning views of Porto as the sun sets. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic moment.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For dinner, find a cozy spot in Gaia or back in Porto. Look for places that offer “menu do dia” for budget-friendly options.

## Day 3: Discovering Porto’s Charm

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café near your accommodation. Try some local bread with cheese or ham.
• Explore the Historic Center: Spend your morning wandering through the historic streets of Porto. Don’t miss the São Bento Railway Station with its beautiful azulejos (blue tiles) and the stunning Porto Cathedral.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Grab a quick and affordable lunch at a local eatery. Try a “francesinha,” a local sandwich that’s hearty and delicious.
• Visit Palácio da Bolsa: Take a guided tour of this historic building. The entrance fee is reasonable, and the architecture is stunning.

Evening:

• Fado Night: For your last evening, consider experiencing Fado music. Look for a restaurant that offers live Fado performances. You can enjoy dinner while soaking in the soulful sounds of this traditional Portuguese music. Many places have affordable options for dinner and a show.

Tips for Saving Money:

• Public Transport: Use the metro or buses to get around. They’re affordable and efficient.
• Walk: Porto is a walkable city, and you’ll discover hidden gems along the way.
• Local Markets: Buy snacks and drinks from local markets to save on meals.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful time in Porto! Enjoy the beautiful sights, the delicious wine, and the romantic atmosphere. Safe travels! 🍷❤️