How to spend a perfect weekend in Porto | Plan your next Porto City Break

If you wish to enjoy a mixture of rich history and a modernised city, a weekend in Porto is perfect for you! It is geographically located at the mouth of the Douro River in Northern Portugal. The city’s rich cultural history is evident in its architecture and culture. Meanwhile, Porto is also a modern city with plenty of nightlife and restaurants to enjoy. So if you’re looking for a Porto City break, there are plenty of things to see and do. So we decided to take a weekend break in Porto, explore the city, and check out some sights and sounds.

The city is home to many well-known historical sites, such as the Palacio da Bolsa and the Catedral de Porto. In addition, the Serralves Foundation and the Museu de Arte Contemporanea are a must-see for those interested in art and culture. And, of course, no trip to Porto would be complete without trying the city’s signature dish, Francesinha.

The climate in Porto is generally mild throughout the year. However, if you visit between May and September, the weather is usually pleasant and warm, with plenty of sunshine, and the city’s most popular events are held during this time.

However, this also implies that a large number of crowds are swarming the city’s streets. If you don’t mind a few showers and somewhat milder temps, the shoulder season is a good time to visit Porto. If you intend to spend just a weekend in Porto, consider May and June for pleasant weather, or September and October for lower prices. If you are not convinced yet, check our guide about Porto in winter.

A whole two days in Porto is plenty enough time to see the sights without feeling rushed. Adding a few more days will enrich your visit, and you can find time to explore the surrounding area and less known neighbourhoods. A long weekend in Porto, arriving on the evening of Friday and leaving on Sunday, or better on Monday, will allow for a more leisurely visit.

Free Tours of Porto

There are ways to explore new cities on a budget, and this paragraph is to help you to do so. You have the chance to go on a fantastic walking tour for FREE. Explore the charming streets of Porto, and the magnificent colourful buildings, adorned with unique azulejos.

Book your slot on a free walking tour of Porto, and enjoy the city with a local guide. (Book here)

If you want to discover more about Porto, enjoy a walking tour for free of the Porto walls. The local guide will take you to the main section of the old castle walls, showing you the neighbourhoods through intriguing stories that made this city a life-lasting legacy in Portugal. Book your Porto Walls Free Walking Tour and save your spot.

Visit Porto Cathedral (Catedral del Se)

The Porto Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century, and it has since been renovated several times. The cathedral’s interior is quite simple, but there are some beautiful stained-glass windows and a baroque altarpiece. Many people believed that the cathedral was built on the site of an ancient temple to the Roman god Jupiter.
Buy your ticket

Enjoy a glass of Porto wine in Ribeira and Gaia

Ribeira and Gaia are two neighbourhoods located on either side of the Douro River. Both offer stunning views of the river and Porto’s skyline. In Ribeira, you’ll find a lively atmosphere with restaurants and bars lining the riverfront. And in Gaia, you can visit several wineries and taste some of the world-famous Porto wine.

Delve into local food – try Francesinha!

Francesinha is a dish typical of Porto, and it is a must-try when visiting the city. It is a sandwich filled with meat, cheese, and eggs, covered in a thick tomato and beer sauce. Francesinha is usually served with french fries, which can be found at many restaurants in the city.

Walk in Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is one of Porto’s most beautiful churches. It is a baroque church built in the 18th century, and it is known for its rich and ornate interior. This church is popular with locals and tourists alike, so it should be on your list of things to see in Porto if you fancy a historical spot for sightseeing.

Enjoy the landscape view from Clerigos Tower

Clerigos Tower is a tower located in the heart of Porto. It was built in the 18th century, and it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Clérigos Church and its tower offer stunning views of the cityscape and the Douro River. It will take you about 200 steps to reach the top of the tower, but it is worth it for the views.

Explore the Baroque Church of Sao Francisco

The Baroque Church of Sao Francisco is one of the most ornate churches in Porto. It was built in the 18th century, and it is known for its beautiful ceiling paintings, marble altars, and stained-glass windows. The church is also home to the tomb of Henry the Navigator, a Portuguese prince who was an important figure in the Age of Exploration.

Ride on a typical Tram | Porto weekend break

The trams in Porto are a great way to get around the city, and they offer some of the best views of the cityscape during the trip. The trams date back to the early 20th century, and they are now a popular tourist attraction.

There is no better way to experience Porto than hopping on a tram and riding through the city.

Capture the stunning Bolsa Palace

Bolsa Palace is a palace located in the heart of Porto. It was built in the 19th century, and it is now used as the Stock Exchange of Porto. The landmark is popular with tourists due to its baroque architecture and beautiful interior. It is also possible to visit the rooftop of Bolsa Palace for some stunning views of the city.

Wander around Mercado do Bolhão

Mercado do Bolhão is Porto’s most well-known market. It was built in the 19th century, and it is still in use today. The market sells a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and loaves of bread. It is also a great place to try some traditional Portuguese dishes. Many traders at the market also offer souvenirs, so this is the perfect place to buy a memento of your time in Porto.

Go on a cruise on the Douro River

The Douro River is a river that runs through the north of Portugal. It is a popular tourist destination, and it offers some stunning views of the countryside and the cityscape. Several companies offer cruises on the Douro River, such as Porto Cruises and Douro Azul. A cruise on the Douro River is a great way to experience the beauty of northern Portugal.

Saturday in Porto  | 2-day Porto itinerary

To maximise your weekend in Porto, I’ve summarised a list of itineraries that would best cover the city’s highlights on a Saturday. Doing that will prevent you from spending hours planning and researching what to do and instead let you enjoy your trip. Here’s what you can do:

MORNING | Sao Bento Train Station and Porto Cathedral

Start your day by admiring the beautiful tile work at Sao Bento Train Station. It is a 20th-century art installation that covers the walls and ceilings of the station. You may do so as early as 7 AM when it opens or later when it’s less crowded. Then, make your way to Porto Cathedral, around 10 minutes away from the train station.

It is best to visit the Romanesque-style Cathedral in the morning, as it tends to get crowded later in the day. With few people in the crowd, you’ll be able to get a clear shot of the beautiful interior.

AFTERNOON | Dom Luís Bridge and Ribeira de Gaia

After lunch, take a walk across Luis I Bridge for some stunning views of Porto. You will see the colourful houses that line the hillsides and the riverfront. Make sure to go to the bridge’s upper level, which is pedestrian-only.

Then, take a cable car down to Ribeira de Gaia, where you can enjoy the rest of your afternoon. The riverfront is also a great place to try some of Porto’s famous wines, as many wine cellars are located in this area.

The most renowned wine cellars, such as Graham’s and Taylor’s, have tasting rooms that offer wine tastings for a small fee.

EVENING | Sunset at Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar and Dinner at Cais de Ribeira

As the sun sets, make your way up to Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar for some stunning and breath-taking views of Porto. The monastery is located on a hilltop, so you need to take a bus or a taxi to get there. Once you’re at the top, enjoy the panoramic views of the city before heading back down for dinner.

I would suggest dining at Cais de Ribeira, as it offers some of the best views of the river. The restaurant is located in a converted warehouse, and it has a cosy atmosphere with an open-air terrace. You can choose from a variety of Portuguese dishes, such as Bacalhau à Brás (a dish made with salt cod) or Arroz de Marisco (a seafood rice dish).

Sunday in Porto | Porto 2-day itinerary

Sunday may be the busiest tour day of the week since many Porto attractions are only open until 2 PM. So if you want to avoid the crowds, we would suggest getting an early start. Here’s a suggested itinerary for Sunday:

MORNING | Igreja dos Clérigos, Livraria Lello and Igreja do Carmo

Start your day by visiting Igreja dos Clérigos, a Baroque-styled church famous for its bell tower. The church is located in the city centre, and it’s a great place to take some photos. It is free to visit but be prepared for the crowds.

If you’re not a fan of large groups of people, I would suggest heading to Livraria Lello, which is around 10 minutes away from Igreja dos Clérigos.

It is said that J.K. Rowling drew inspiration for Hogwarts from this bookstore, so you Harry Potter fans must make sure to visit. The bookstore is also free to enter, but there is always a high chance of long line-ups. If you still have time in the morning, take Igreja do Carmo for your next destination.

The church is located in the Ribeira district, and it’s a beautiful example of Manueline architecture.

AFTERNOON | Palacio da Bolsa and Douro River Cruise

In the afternoon, visit Palacio da Bolsa which is located at Praça da Ribeira. It is a 19th-century building that was once a stock exchange, but it is now open to the public as a museum. You can take a guided tour to learn more about its history.

The entrance fee is around 10 euros, but it is free for students and seniors. After your visit to Palacio da Bolsa, take a Douro River cruise for more exciting views of the city. The cruises leave from Cais de Ribeira, typically lasting around 1.5 hours. You can choose from various companies, but I would suggest taking the Porto City Tour as it is one of the most popular and affordable options.

EVENING | Leave Porto with a walk through the picture-perfect Ribeira District

End your weekend in Porto with a stroll through the Ribeira district. The picturesque area is one of Porto’s most beautiful and photogenic locations, so take your camera or charge up your phone to 100%.

You can also stop by one of the many restaurants or cafes for a bite to eat before heading back to your hotel. Well-known snack spots include Café Majestic and Pastelaria Franciscana.

Porto is a beautiful city with so much to offer. We would highly recommend coming here for your next getaway if you have the chance. Whether it’s an extended weekend or just a one-day trip, many Porto attractions will make sure this experience is unforgettable! 

Have you ever been to Porto? What are some of your favourite things to do in the city? Let us know in the comments below!

Vila Nova de Gaia | Located on the banks of the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia, often referred to as just Gaia, is one of the liveliest areas in Porto, unmissable visiting Porto. Staying longer in Porto, you should dedicate half-day alone to this district. Check out the Food workshop in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Douro Valley | While talking about the best things to do in Porto, and the best day trips from Porto, the Douro Valleys are always the centrepiece of discussion. Away just about an hour from the old town, the Douro Valley can offer you the best hikes in Portugal, some old wine cellars tours, Port tasting and groves to walk through. There are many tours we suggest, check out some here.

Fado Show | There is a long tradition behind the Fado; staying longer, you might enjoy the Porto nightlife, which is one of the best things to do during your city break. Enjoy a typical show by passionate artists, with authentic local music, food and good wine. Book your night in Porto, which is likely to sell out.

Book your tour:

VIATOR

Burmester Wine Cellars | Explore the caverns and take yourself back to 1750, following Henry Burmester and John Nash’s first steps into the world of wine. The tour will let you taste three high-quality wines (LBV, Vintage, and Colheita), accompanied by chocolates and cheese (if the gourmet visit is selected).

Book your wine cellar tour

Places to stay in Porto for a weekend

Where to stay in Porto for a weekend

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