Plan 2–3 days for Porto, plus a day for the Douro Valley wine region. Lisbon is about 3 hours away by train.
Top things to do in Porto
- Ribeira: colourful riverfront houses, cafés and boats.
- Dom Luís I Bridge: walk the upper deck for the classic view.
- Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia: tours and tastings.
- Livraria Lello: the ornate bookshop with its red staircase (€8 ticket, deductible from a book). See Livraria Lello tickets.
- São Bento station: halls covered in blue-and-white azulejo tiles.
- Clérigos Tower: climb for views over the rooftops.
- Douro Valley: terraced vineyards and river cruises. See our Douro Valley day trip guide.
See all 20 best things to do in Porto, or Find tours & tickets in Porto
Where to stay in Porto
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Ribeira | River views, atmosphere |
| Baixa / Aliados | First visit, central, transport |
| Cedofeita / Miguel Bombarda | Galleries, cafés, local feel |
| Vila Nova de Gaia | Port cellars, views of Porto |
| Foz do Douro | Beaches, ocean, quieter |
More in where to stay in Porto. Compare hotel prices in Porto
Getting around
The centre is walkable but very steep. The metro, buses and historic trams cover the city; use a rechargeable Andante card (contactless payment is being rolled out). The Funicular dos Guindais links Ribeira and Batalha, and Uber and Bolt are cheap.
Airport to the city
Metro line E runs from Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) to Trindade in about 30 minutes for about €2.90 including the Andante card. Taxis cost roughly €25–35 and Uber or Bolt €15–25. See Porto airport to the city.
Best time to visit
May, June and September are warm and sunny without the August crowds. The São João festival on the night of 23 June is Porto’s biggest party. Winters are mild but rainy. Details: best time to visit Porto.
Before you go
Portugal is in the Schengen Area; non-EU visitors register in the EU Entry/Exit System on arrival. See our ETIAS and EES guide. Comfortable shoes are essential: the streets are steep and cobbled. Get a travel eSIM for Porto
Porto guides
- 20 best things to do in Porto
- Porto itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Porto
- Best time to visit Porto
- Porto airport to the city
- Douro Valley day trip from Porto
- Livraria Lello tickets
- Port wine cellars in Gaia
Also in Portugal: our Lisbon travel guide.
FAQ: Porto travel
How many days do you need in Porto?
Two to three days, plus one for the Douro Valley.
Porto or Lisbon?
Lisbon is bigger, sunnier and has beaches nearby; Porto is smaller, more compact and famous for port wine. Both are easy to combine by train.
Is Porto expensive?
It’s one of Western Europe’s better-value cities, especially for food and wine.
Is Porto walkable?
Yes, but it’s very hilly. Use the funicular, metro or a cheap Uber to save your legs.
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