Visit Porto in 3 Days: The Must-See Highlights Not to Be Missed

Introduction

In the north of Portugal, the city of Porto is an ideal destination for visitors looking to enjoy a short stay. I loved my visit there! With its tourist attractions, monuments, and warm atmosphere, it has a unique charm. Whether you are a lover of art and history, a food enthusiast, or even an architecture aficionado, visit Porto in 3 days promises you a stopover that you will remember.

Of course, a well-prepared itinerary is an advantage to fully enjoy your walks through its pedestrian streets and numerous tourist squares. In three days, you will have time to discover most of the must-see places in Porto, but it would take much more time to explore all the riches that give the city its unique character. From its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre to the lively banks of the Douro River, every street corner has a story to tell.

Visit Porto in 3 days

Must-see sights to discover in Porto, Portugal:

• Historic districts: the old town is full of treasures. I will take you to the authentic atmosphere of Ribeira and Sé.
• Iconic sites: we will then explore the Palácio da Bolsa and Sé do Porto.
• Local flavors: of course, we won't forget the food lovers among you by trying the regional specialties like francesinha in typical restaurants.

I designed this guide to share with you the pleasure I had during my visit to Porto, while taking care to optimize every moment so that you can make the most of your stay in the Portuguese metropolis. So if you are ready for a new adventure, I invite you to discover together the treasures that Porto has to offer!

Day 1: Dive into the history and culture of Porto

For the first day, I promise you a change of scenery and a total immersion in the local history and culture, and we will discover the city on foot. Between its facades, emblematic remains, and cobbled streets, Porto reveals its architectural treasures and warm atmosphere.

Cathedral of Porto

Palace of the Stock Exchange

I started the visit of the historic centre with one of the must-see places for any curious visitor interested in Porto's rich trading past: the Palace of the Stock Exchange. Built in the 19th century, the building is classified as a UNESCO site like the entire historic city centre, which illustrates the richness of the place. It was established by Porto's commercial association and has played an important role in the city's economy.

• Arab Room: There are plenty of rooms in the Palace, but I was particularly impressed by this room which is undoubtedly one of the most famous. Inspired by Moorish style, with its gilding and intricate patterns reminiscent of the Alhambra in Granada.
• Guided Tours: Like any major tourist attraction, the entrance to the guided tour is paid, but it offers a fascinating insight into the stories behind each room of the palace.

The ticket office is accessible here, and for your information, the tourist office of Porto is located 450m away.

Sé do Porto

The second stop of our walking tour takes us to Sé do Porto, or Porto Cathedral. It is an essential stop to understand the religious and architectural heritage of the city. It resembles an ancient fortress on one of the highest hills; it was built next to the old city walls. This position offers a breathtaking view today.

• Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture: Due to historical events, the cathedral is an architectural patchwork. Originally built in the Romanesque style, the building now has a rather Baroque portal and a Gothic cloister adorned with azulejos (painted tiles). However, this mix does not detract from the architectural and religious beauty of the place.
• Saint Vincent Chapel: Don't forget this chapel that is too often overlooked but deserves a visit to discover the magnificent works of sacred art that can be found there.

Rua das Flores

Our walk continues on Rua das Flores, one of the liveliest streets in the city centre where artisan shops, typical cafés, and colourful buildings blend together. This little getaway will give you a glimpse into the bustling life of the local residents.

Stop for a coffee while enjoying a pastel de nata or explore the small shops selling artisanal products, which are perfect places to bring back an authentic souvenir.

I hope that this first day of sightseeing has allowed you to enjoy the charm of Porto. Between the grand architecture and the vibrant local life, you have caught a glimpse of what makes the Portuguese city so pleasant. This is just a very limited preview of the things to do in Porto, and I invite you to follow me to start our second day of visiting between tradition and modernity.

Day 2: between tradition and modernity

Dom Luís I Bridge: a symbol of Porto

Your exploration of the heritage continues on this second day with a visit to the Dom Luis Bridge. It was designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, and this engineering masterpiece is much more than just a pile of concrete and metal. It connects the historic centre of the city of Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia while offering spectacular views of the Douro River. The upper walkway is reserved for pedestrians and the metro, and I invite those who are not too afraid of heights to take a stroll there. From there, you will have a panoramic view of the colourful rooftops of the city, the banks of the Douro, and the river transport. This sightseeing visit will delight photography enthusiasts as well as those who, like me, simply enjoy getting lost in the beauty of urban landscapes.

Bridge in Porto

Cais da Ribeira: vibrant heart of the city

After this little picturesque walk, I will guide you to another must-see heritage site, the lively district of Cais da Ribeira. This district often appears in guided tours of the city, and for good reason, it is often described as the soul of Porto with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and warm atmosphere. It is also the perfect place to take a little break by sitting on the terrace of one of the many cafés and bars and enjoying a local specialty: the francesinha. It is undoubtedly the most caloric sandwich I have ever eaten (but also one of the best). It consists of a meat filling, a spicy sauce made with beer and tomato, all covered with a thick layer of melted cheese. A real treat for all food lovers!

"The francesinha is to Porto what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris: a must!"

This stop in this district will allow you to immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals with boats slowly passing by on the Douro River (the mouth of the river and the marina are not far away), while admiring street artists who bring this lively space to life.

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello: a dive into the magical world of books

When you have finished your tasting, we will head about twenty minutes in the direction of Livraria Lello. This bookstore, also classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. When you see it, you will understand why: with its neo-Gothic architecture and striking artistic details, it is a true place of wonder. Whether you are an avid reader or not, no one can remain insensitive to its charm. I was captivated by its sumptuous interior, iconic red spiral staircases, and windows adorned with colorful stained glass.

As a little anecdote, it was Livraria Lello that inspired a certain J.K. Rowling when she created a famous wizarding universe. Fans of Harry Potter must not miss out on this.

I hope this two-day visit to Porto has delighted maritime history enthusiasts, contemporary art lovers, and the most food-loving among you.

Day 3: Contemporary Art and Relaxation by the Douro

Visit Porto in 3 days would not be complete without taking some time to explore contemporary art and enjoy the Douro River. I suggest starting the day with a self-guided visit to the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum is unique in that it is located in a large green natural park and is a true haven for art enthusiasts. It is also the second most visited museum in Portugal. Whether it's a temporary exhibition or the permanent collections, if you are an art lover like me, you will be charmed by the richness of the works and collections. You can find the visitation schedule on the museum's website.

Why visit the Serralves Museum?

• Remarkable collection: it is a modern and dynamic museum, the collections are regularly updated with temporary and permanent exhibitions.
• Impressive architecture: in addition to the museum, you can also visit the Villa Serralves, both of which are works of art in their own right. The building that serves as the museum is a work of art in itself, designed by architect Álvaro Siza Vieira, with its sleek design it perfectly complements the collections it houses.
• Surrounding park: the park can also be visited (there is actually a reduced-price ticket that only gives access to the park). It is the ideal place to stroll in a remarkable setting.

The city tour continues towards the Gardens of the Palácio de Cristal, still under the sign of relaxation. These gardens are beautiful, offering a peaceful setting to recharge while enjoying panoramic views of the lovely city of Porto and the Douro River.

The Charms of the Gardens of the Palácio de Cristal:

• Spectacular Views: I invite you to take advantage of the different observation points in the gardens to admire the city from different angles.
• Flora and Fauna: a true mini-nature reserve, the gardens are home to majestic peacocks and of course an impressive collection of plant species.
• Thematic Areas: the garden is divided into zones, each with its own character, whether it be fountains, rose gardens...

As the quays are not far away, to end this day beautifully, I opted for a peaceful cruise on the Douro. It's a great way to enjoy the riverside location of the city while admiring a sunset along the urban and wine-growing landscapes that are classified as World Heritage.

Gardens of the Crystal Palace in Portugal

Why take a cruise on the Douro?

• Picturesque Landscapes: Douro River cruises allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of the city and discover terraced vineyards and charming villages along its banks.
• World Heritage: The advantage of sailing is that it is like a small train on water, and you can cover a great distance while taking the time to appreciate why this region is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Moment of Relaxation: It is also an ideal time to relax after three days of visiting Porto by enjoying a glass of local wine on board.

I hope this three-day itinerary will be useful to you. It offers a mix of art, history, nature, and will provide you with an unforgettable experience in Porto before returning to everyday life.

Bonus: The Wine Cellars of Porto and the Douro Valley

In addition to visits and walks in the city, for enthusiasts, I also recommend visiting at least one of the wine cellars in Porto, because yes, port is a wine. It would be a shame to visit the city without learning more about the history of this iconic drink, which is typical of the region. Not to mention that you can also enjoy some tastings (in moderation, of course!). Let yourself be guided by the winemaking expertise of the region through its cellars, which are often located in the Vila Nova de Gaia area, on the other side of the Douro River.

The Most Famous Cellars:

The Calèm Cellar

Visit the website of the Calèm cellar, which is one of the oldest and most renowned; it was founded in 1859. Today, it offers on-site visits where you can learn more about their production secrets.

Ramos Pinto Cellar

The cellar, the museum, and the architecture of the place itself are worth a visit; the Ramos Pinto cellar is another must-see. It is a bit more recent but still historic, dating back to 1880.

Sandeman Cellar

Another institution, founded in 1790, is the Sandeman cellar. It is especially known for its iconic logo "Don", a character dressed in a black cape and wearing a Spanish hat. Like the other cellars, the guided tour includes a tasting of their award-winning wines.

Graham's Cellar

And we end with one of the most prestigious cellars in this city of Portugal, founded in 1890, Graham's cellar. It is renowned for producing exceptional quality wines, especially its famous Graham's Vintage Port. A visit to their cellars will allow you to learn more about their unique production process and appreciate the richness of their wines. Visits to this cellar are only available by reservation.

Visiting the Douro Valley

Tightly linked to the cellars of the city, the Douro Valley can also be on your list. This wine region (also UNESCO-listed) is beautiful. It offers breathtaking landscapes, with its terraced vineyards that descend to the banks of the river. There are several possible routes and visits to the famous quintas (wine estates) are often included in the cruises I mentioned earlier.

The vineyard and Port wine tasting tours are excursions not to be missed during your Portuguese getaway.

Where to stay in Porto?

The choice of your accommodation in Porto can be a determining factor between a simple visit to the city and an unforgettable experience. I have gathered some recommendations to help you find the ideal place according to your desires and your budget.

• Cocorico Luxury Guest House: more in the spirit of guest houses, this guest house located in the historic district combines traditional charm and modern comfort. Aimed at high budgets, it is the perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in the history of Porto while enjoying a refined setting.
• The Yeatman: in an even more luxurious range and offering a spectacular view of the Douro River, this hotel is synonymous with luxury and relaxation. The panoramic view of Porto from the hotel is breathtaking; it also offers spa services and Michelin-starred cuisine.
• Bella Gaia - Alojamento Local: in a more moderate price range, located in Vila Nova de Gaia, this family-run establishment offers comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. You will be close to the main sightseeing attractions of the city (20 minutes by transport from Ribeira, for example).

How to get to the centre of Porto from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport?

As with many modern large cities, the transport options between the city centre and Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport are very convenient. Here are some of the possible options for the connection:

• Metro (line E): the best option from an economic point of view is the metro. The E line, or purple line, takes you directly to the heart of Porto in about 40 minutes. The trains are quite frequent.
• Bus (line 601): a bit slower but ideal if you prefer to admire the urban landscape while travelling. Line 601 is your alternative to the metro, serving several key stops in the city.
• Taxi: and like everywhere else, there is also the option of taxis. More comfortable and faster (but necessarily more expensive), it will take you about 20 to 30 minutes to reach your final destination.

What budget to allocate for visit Porto in 3 days?

For those wondering about the necessary budget to visit Porto in 3 days, I have done some calculations. The city is not one of the most expensive destinations, but it is still an important tourist destination and prices are therefore accordingly. Here is an estimate of the average daily costs to help you plan your getaway.

Accommodation

There are many accommodation options in Porto that vary greatly depending on your preferences. Hostels are one of the cheapest options and luxury hotels are among the most expensive. Airbnb accommodations are generally in between, ranging from around €80 to €150. On average, you can expect to pay between €50 and €150 per night.

• Hostels: the most economical option, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Mid-range hotels: offer good value for money.
• High-end accommodations: for those who want to treat themselves.

Meals

The Portuguese bargains can certainly be found in its gastronomy. You can count on spending between €20 and €30 per day to indulge yourself.

• Local small restaurants: enjoy a francesinha or seafood dishes.
• Cafés and bakeries: perfect for a light lunch.

Activities

The budget for the tourist discovery of the city can also vary depending on your choice of visits: a self-guided tour or a guided tour do not cost the same. In general, you can expect to pay between €10 and €20 for an entrance ticket depending on the chosen site.

• Cultural visits: such as the Palácio da Bolsa or the Sé do Porto.
• Free activities: stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods or admire the views from the Dom Luís I bridge.

Porto or Lisbon?

Porto or Lisbon? It's a question I have asked myself and one that often comes up for travellers who want to discover Portugal. If you would like to know more about Lisbon, I invite you to read this article dedicated to the visit of Lisbon. In summary, Porto is more about historical architecture, narrow streets, wine and culture, while Lisbon offers a more cosmopolitan atmosphere with its lively neighbourhoods, iconic yellow trams and proximity to the beaches of the Atlantic coast. Overall, it depends on what you are looking for; personally, I preferred Porto, but it all comes down to personal taste.

The final word

Visit Porto in 3 days requires a bit of preparation but also promises you an experience that will leave a lasting impression. I was amazed by many aspects of the city: its cobbled streets, the views over the Douro, its rich cultural and historical heritage... not to mention the incredible local gastronomy. Discover the cultural and historical richness of this fascinating city. Whether it's by admiring the majestic architecture or enjoying a peaceful cruise, Porto captivates with its timeless charm. Don't wait any longer to explore this unique destination that is sure to capture your heart.