Porto in 3 days
Porto means steep lanes tumbling down to the Douro, tiled façades, and a port tasting in a Gaia cellar at sunset. It is rougher round the edges than Lisbon, and warmer for it.
The plan, day by day
Day 1
- Morning
The Ribeirafree · about 1 h 30The UNESCO-listed riverside quarter of narrow lanes and tall, colourful houses, with cafés along the quay facing Gaia.
- Afternoon
Dom Luís I Bridgefree · about 30 minA two-level iron arch bridge opened in 1886; walk the upper deck, shared with the metro, for the best view over the river.
- Late afternoon
The port lodges of Gaiaabout 1 h 30Across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, the port houses age their wine in cellars and run tours ending with a tasting.
Day 2
- Morning
Livraria Lelloabout 30 minA bookshop opened in 1906 with a carved wooden interior and a red double staircase; entry requires a ticket, so book ahead.
Day 3
- All day
The Douro Valleyfree · a full dayThe upriver wine region of steep terraced vineyards, UNESCO-listed, reached by train, boat or road for a day of quintas and tastings.
Where to sleep in Porto
- Gallery Hostel · €30 a night
- The Passenger Hostel · €32 a night
- Rivoli Cinema Hostel · €55 a night
- Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira · €130 a night
- Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel · €140 a night
- Grande Hotel do Porto · €120 a night
- The Yeatman · €400 a night
- InterContinental Porto - Palácio das Cardosas · €320 a night
- PortoBay Flores · €280 a night
Plan this trip
Hotel prices per room per night, checked when written. Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.