What to see in Porto in 3 days
If you're wondering what to see in Porto in 3 days, this complete travel guide helps you explore the best of the city’s history, culture, food, and coastal scenery.
With its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and the Douro River winding through its heart, Porto is a compact yet vibrant city full of charm.
Perfect for a long weekend or a short escape, this 3-day Porto itinerary covers everything from iconic landmarks and neighbourhoods to hidden gems and scenic viewpoints.
Your perfect 3-day Porto itinerary
Explore Porto in three unforgettable days with this step-by-step itinerary:
- Day 1 – Historic centre & Baixa: Porto Cathedral (Sé), São Bento Station, Church of Saint Ildefonso, Lello Bookshop, Clérigos Tower and Church, Church of Carmo, Avenida dos Aliados.
- Day 2 – Ribeira, Port Wine & Vila Nova de Gaia: Ribeira District, Palácio da Bolsa, Dom Luís I Bridge, Port wine cellars, Gaia Cable Car, Jardim do Morro.
- Day 3 – Art, gardens & Atlantic coast: Crystal Palace Gardens, Soares dos Reis National Museum, classic tram ride, Foz do Douro, Felgueiras Lighthouse.
Día 1 – Explore Porto’s historic centre and Baixa
Start your Porto sightseeing tour in the heart of the old town with a visit to the Porto Cathedral (Sé), an impressive monument with Romanesque and Gothic influences.
Just a short stroll away, admire the Church of Saint Ildefonso, famous for its traditional blue azulejos, and the São Bento Railway Station, where murals made from 20,000 tiles tell the story of Portuguese life.
Next, stop by the Lello Bookshop, one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops and a must-visit in Porto. JK Rowling is said to have drawn inspiration from this magical place while writing Harry Potter.
Continue your walk to the Clérigos Church and Tower. Climb the 240 steps to the top for panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and the Douro River. Then head to the stunning Church of Carmo, another architectural gem covered in blue and white tiles.
Finish the day along Avenida dos Aliados, Porto’s central avenue surrounded by majestic buildings and buzzing cafés.
Day 2 – Ribeira, Vila Nova de Gaia and Port Wine Tasting
Your second day is all about Porto’s riverside charm and its world-famous wine.
Begin with a morning walk through Ribeira, the most picturesque quarter in Porto. With its colourful facades, narrow alleyways, and riverside cafés, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true highlight.
Visit the stunning Palácio da Bolsa, a former stock exchange that reflects the city’s commercial past. Don’t miss the exquisite Arabian Hall on the guided tour.
Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to Porto’s historic wine cellars. Take in breathtaking views of Porto’s skyline from the other side of the river and enjoy lunch at one of the many riverfront restaurants.
Afterwards, visit a traditional Port wine cellar for a guided tour and wine tasting. Learn about the winemaking process and sample the different styles of this globally beloved Portuguese drink.
End the day with sunset views from the Jardim do Morro, a popular park overlooking the Douro and the old town. For a touch of adventure, ride the Gaia Cable Car for even more scenic views.
Day 3 – Gardens, museums and the Atlantic coast
On the final day of your Porto itinerary, explore a quieter side of the city.
Start with a walk through the peaceful Crystal Palace Gardens, offering stunning views over the Douro River and a relaxing green escape from the city buzz.
Next, visit the Soares dos Reis National Museum, the oldest museum in Portugal. It's perfect for art lovers and history buffs, housing 19th- and 20th-century sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts.
To finish your trip, hop on one of Porto’s historic wooden trams to Foz do Douro, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Walk along the seafront promenade, visit the Felgueiras Lighthouse, and relax with a drink at a beachside café.
Wrap up your 3 days in Porto with a sunset dinner in Foz, soaking in the sea breeze and coastal views.
The best things to see in Porto in 3 days
This 3-day guide to Porto includes all the top sights and hidden treasures. From the historic centre and scenic Ribeira to Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia and the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast, Porto offers a blend of culture, food, and atmosphere that makes every day unforgettable.
For a stylish and comfortable stay in the city centre, chic&basic Gravity is your best choice. Our boutique hotel in Porto combines modern design, cosy rooms, and a prime location close to all major attractions.