How To Spend 3 Days In Porto

Spending 3 days in Porto? You’re in luck! This magical city in Portugal has plenty of activities to occupy your time with. Porto, also known as Oporto, is a city filled with charm, culture, and a rich history that dates back centuries. From its famous port wine to its stunning architecture, Porto is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

In this itinerary, we’ll take you on a three-day journey through the heart of Porto. We’ll explore the winding streets of the historic Ribeira district, climb the iconic Porto Bridge, and visit some of the city’s most famous landmarks. We’ll also indulge in the local cuisine, sip on delicious port wine, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere that makes Porto such a unique and special destination.

So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Porto. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a new and exciting travel experience, Porto is sure to exceed your expectations. So join us as we discover all that this incredible city has to offer. Are you ready? Let’s go!

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. This is no way impacts you as a buyer, but rewards us for sharing our favorite recommendations. Thank you!

Best Time To Visit Porto

If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Porto, Portugal, you might be wondering when the best time to visit is. As a seasoned traveler, I can confidently tell you that my favorite time to visit Porto is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and fall (September-November).

During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. This means that you can explore the city’s attractions and landmarks without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds of tourists.

Another benefit of visiting Porto during the shoulder seasons is that you’ll be able to take advantage of lower prices on flights, accommodations, and other travel expenses.

That being said, Porto is a great destination year-round, and each season offers its own unique charms. Summer (June-August) is the busiest and most popular time to visit, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities and events. Winter (December-February) is the least crowded time to visit, with cooler temperatures and festive holiday markets.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Porto depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a travel experience. But if you’re looking for mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, then spring and fall are the best seasons to plan your visit.

3 Days In Porto: Day 1

10:00 Am

Start your day with a bang and head to the Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore that inspired the Harry Potter series. The bookstore is a feast for the eyes with its ornate wooden shelves, winding staircases, and stained-glass windows.

11:30 AM

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Ribeira, the oldest district in Porto. Stop by the Praça da Ribeira and enjoy the stunning view of the Douro River.

1:00 PM

It’s time for lunch, and nothing screams Porto more than a Francesinha. This traditional dish consists of layers of bread, ham, sausage, and steak, all smothered in a rich tomato and beer sauce. Head to Cafe Santiago, and let your taste buds experience pure ecstasy.

3:00 PM

After lunch, make your way to the famous Porto Cathedral, a magnificent Romanesque building with breathtaking views of the city.

5:00 PM

No trip to Porto is complete without tasting the city’s famous Port wine. Head to Vila Nova de Gaia, and visit one of the many Port wine cellars. Take a tour and taste some of the best wines Portugal has to offer.

8:00 PM

End your day with a delightful dinner at Adega Sao Nicolau, a charming restaurant that serves up delicious traditional Portuguese dishes.

3 Days In Porto: Day 2

10:00 Am

Start your day by visiting the stunning Palácio da Bolsa. This neoclassical building is home to the Porto Chamber of Commerce and boasts impressive halls decorated with intricate details.

12:00 PM

Next, head to the iconic Clérigos Tower, a Baroque masterpiece that offers panoramic views of the city.

1:30 PM

Time for lunch! Head to Casa Guedes and indulge in their famous pork sandwich with Serra da Estrela cheese. It’s a must-try.

3:00 PM

Take a walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and soak in the breathtaking views of Porto from above.

4:00 PM

Visit the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, a stunning garden with panoramic views of the Douro River.

7:00 PM

Enjoy a dinner at DOP, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves up delicious contemporary Portuguese cuisine.

3 Days In Porto: Day 3

10:00 Am

Start your day by visiting the beautiful São Bento Train Station, known for its stunning azulejo tiles that depict scenes from Portugal’s history.

11:00 AM

Head to the Casa da Música, a striking modern concert hall that hosts some of the best performances in the city.

1:00 PM

Time for lunch! Head to the Mercado do Bolhão, a bustling market that sells fresh produce and traditional Portuguese products. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls.

3:00 PM

Take a stroll through the beautiful Foz do Douro, a picturesque neighborhood with stunning beaches and seaside views.

5:00 PM

End your trip on a high note by visiting the iconic Livraria Lello once again, this time at sunset. The bookstore takes on a magical glow during this time, and it’s the perfect way to end your trip.

7:00 PM

Enjoy a farewell dinner at ODE Porto Wine House, a charming restaurant that serves up delicious food and wine from the Douro region.

As our three-day journey in Porto comes to an end, we hope that you’ve fallen in love with this beautiful city just as we have. From its stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine, and everything in between, Porto is a destination that truly has something for everyone.

We hope that our itinerary has inspired you to plan your own adventure in Porto and that you’ll get to experience all of the magic that this city has to offer. Whether you choose to wander the winding streets of the Ribeira district or soak up the sun at one of the nearby beaches, we’re confident that Porto will capture your heart and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Where To Stay In Porto: Best Hotels

Luxury Hotels In Porto:

1. The Yeatman: This five-star hotel is a wine lover’s paradise, with a stunning location overlooking the Douro River and an extensive wine cellar with over 25,000 bottles. The hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and beautifully appointed rooms with private terraces.
2. InterContinental Porto – Palacio das Cardosas: Located in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace in the heart of Porto, this hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with high ceilings, large windows, and luxurious amenities. The hotel also features a fitness center, spa, and restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
3. Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site: Situated in the historic Ribeira district of Porto, this hotel occupies a group of historic buildings that date back to the 16th century. The rooms are beautifully decorated with antique furnishings and feature stunning views of the river or city. The hotel also offers a rooftop bar, spa, and restaurant serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine.
4. Infante Sagres Luxury Historic Hotel: This beautifully restored hotel is located in the heart of Porto’s historic center and features stylish rooms and suites decorated with classic Portuguese style. The hotel also features a fitness center, spa, and restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
5. Torel Avantgarde: This design-forward hotel offers stunning views of the Douro River and the city of Porto. The rooms and suites are decorated with bold colors and modern furnishings, and the hotel features a rooftop pool and terrace, fitness center, and restaurant serving contemporary cuisine.

Mid-Range Hotels In Porto:

1. Porto A.S. 1829 Hotel: This hotel is located in the historic Ribeira district of Porto and features stylish rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Douro River, a bar, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
2. Moov Hotel Porto Centro: Located in the heart of Porto, this hotel offers modern and minimalist rooms with all the essential amenities you need for a comfortable stay. The hotel also features a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, and a breakfast buffet.
3. Hotel da Bolsa: This hotel is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in the center of Porto, just steps away from the famous Stock Exchange Palace. The rooms are stylishly decorated and feature modern amenities, and the hotel also offers a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine.
4. Hotel Teatro Porto: This boutique hotel is located in the historic center of Porto and is inspired by the world of theater, with stylish and theatrical decor throughout. The hotel features comfortable and spacious rooms, a restaurant serving contemporary cuisine, and a fitness center.
5. Hotel Mercure Porto Centro: This hotel is located in the heart of Porto and offers modern and comfortable rooms with all the essential amenities. The hotel also features a bar, restaurant serving local cuisine, and a fitness center.

Budget Hotels In Porto:

1. The House Ribeira Porto Hotel: This hotel is located in the historic Ribeira district of Porto and offers simple and stylish rooms with all the essential amenities. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Douro River, a bar, and a breakfast buffet.
2. Gallery Hostel: This hostel is located in the heart of Porto and offers comfortable dorms and private rooms with shared bathrooms. The hostel also features a communal kitchen, lounge, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
3. Hotel Pao de Acucar: This hotel is located in the center of Porto and offers comfortable and spacious rooms with all the essential amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine and a bar.
4. StayIN Oporto Musica Guest Apartment: This apartment-style hotel is located in the historic center of Porto and offers stylish and comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. The hotel also features a shared kitchen and lounge area.