7 day itinerary for Porto

Itinerary

Porto is such a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food. Let’s dive into a delightful 7-day itinerary that incorporates public transport, a boat trip on the Douro River, and plenty of museums and walks. Get ready for an adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

• Morning: Arrive in Porto and check into your accommodation. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore!
• Afternoon: Start your adventure at São Bento Railway Station. The stunning azulejos (ceramic tiles) depicting historical scenes are a must-see.
• Lunch: Grab a Francesinha (a local sandwich) at Café Santiago. It’s a hearty meal that will fuel your explorations!
• Evening: Stroll through the Ribeira District along the Douro River. The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere are enchanting.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, perhaps Taberna da Ribeira, where you can savor some local seafood.

## Day 2: Cultural Immersion

• Morning: Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Make sure to buy a ticket in advance to avoid long lines!
• Afternoon: Head to the Palácio da Bolsa for a guided tour. The Arabian Room is particularly stunning.
• Lunch: Try a local café for a light meal, like Café Majestic—a beautiful Belle Époque café.
• Evening: Explore the Clérigos Tower and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
• Dinner: Dine at Casa da Mariquinhas for traditional Portuguese cuisine.

## Day 3: Day Trip to the Douro Valley

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Douro Valley. Book a boat tour that includes wine tasting at a vineyard. You’ll get to enjoy the stunning landscapes and learn about the wine-making process.
• Lunch: Most tours include lunch, but if not, pack a picnic to enjoy on the boat!
• Evening: Return to Porto and relax after a day of exploration.
• Dinner: Grab a light dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro, known for its seafood.

## Day 4: Museums and Gardens

• Morning: Visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and stroll through the beautiful gardens. It’s a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the museum café, which has a lovely outdoor seating area.
• Afternoon: Head to the Fundação de Serralves and explore the art and nature exhibits.
• Evening: Take a tram ride on the historic Tram 1 along the river to Foz do Douro.
• Dinner: Dine at O Pescador in Foz, where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes.

## Day 5: Historical Sites

• Morning: Visit the Cathedral of Porto (Sé do Porto) and take in the views from the terrace.
• Afternoon: Explore the Church of São Francisco, known for its stunning baroque interior.
• Lunch: Try a local eatery nearby for a quick bite.
• Evening: Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset for breathtaking views.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Vinologia, where you can sample local wines and tapas.

## Day 6: Markets and Local Life

• Morning: Visit the Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs.
• Lunch: Grab a bite at one of the market stalls or nearby cafés.
• Afternoon: Explore the Museu do Porto to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
• Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for beautiful views of the Douro River.
• Dinner: Head to Restaurante ODE for a fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.

## Day 7: Relax and Reflect

• Morning: Spend your last morning at the Casa da Música, an architectural marvel. If you can, catch a guided tour or a morning concert.
• Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the café inside Casa da Música.
• Afternoon: Take a final stroll through the Avenida dos Aliados and do some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting.
• Evening: For your last dinner, treat yourself at DOP, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a modern twist on Portuguese cuisine.
• Night: If you have time, enjoy a nightcap at a rooftop bar like Sky Bar for a stunning view of the city lights.

Tips for Getting Around:

• Public Transport: Porto has a great public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro. Get a Andante card for easy travel.
• Walking: The city is very walkable, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the beautiful streets!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your week in Porto! Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨