As someone who has been to Porto and fallen in love with its charming streets, stunning views, and delicious food and wine, I often get asked: “How long should you spend in Porto?”.

In my opinion, Porto is a destination that deserves at least three days to explore, although you could easily spend more time there.

Why should you spend 3 days in Porto?

3 days in Porto will give you enough time to see the main sights, but also to explore the lesser-known areas of the city and really soak up the atmosphere.

Of course, if you have more time, you could easily extend your stay and take things at a more leisurely pace.

3 Day Itinerary in Porto: Best Things To Do

Day 1: The Historic Center

On your first day in Porto, I recommend starting with the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where you’ll find the famous Ribeira district, which is full of colorful houses, narrow streets, and stunning views of the Douro River.

Start your day with a stroll along the riverfront and take in the views of the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.

Then, head up into the historic center and wander around the charming streets, admiring the stunning architecture and popping into some of the local shops and cafes.

Be sure to visit the São Bento train station, which is known for its beautiful azuleijo tiles depicting scenes from Portuguese history. From there, you can walk up to the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city.

In the evening, head back down to Ribeira for dinner and drinks. This area is known for its seafood and Port Wine, so be sure to indulge in both!

Day 2: Museums and Gardens

On your second day in Porto, I recommend visiting some of the city’s museums and gardens.

Start with the Serralves Museum, which is known for its modern art exhibitions and stunning gardens. The gardens are particularly beautiful in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom.

After the museum, head to the Crystal Palace Gardens, which offer panoramic views of the city and the river. This is the perfect spot for a picnic or to relax and read a book.

When you’re ready to explore more of the city, you can walk down to the riverfront and visit the Foz do Douro district, which is known for its beautiful beaches and seafood restaurants.

In the evening, head back into the city center for dinner and drinks. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, make sure to stop by the Galerias de Paris street. This area is one of the best in the city for nightlife. You’ll be able to find a variety of bars and nightclubs and meet locals and tourists alike.

Day 3: Port Wine Tasting and a River Cruise

On your third day in Porto, I recommend taking a tour of one of the Port Wine Cellars and going on a river cruise.

There are several companies that offer tours of the cellars, and most of them include a tasting of the famous port wine.

After your tour, head down to the riverfront and take a cruise along the Douro River. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and admire the stunning landscape of the Douro Valley.

In the evening, I would suggest going back to the city center for your final night in Porto. If you’re looking for a memorable meal, visit the local restaurant “O Afonso”.

According to many locals (and myself), this restaurant has the best “Francesinha” in the whole city. Anthony Bourdain famously visited this restaurant in 2017 for the show “Parts Unknown”.

So, how long should you spend in Porto?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore the city and see its main sights. Of course, if you have more time available, you could easily spend more time there and explore some of the surrounding areas, such as the Douro Valley or the beaches of the Foz district.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or wine, Porto has something for everyone.

It’s a city that’s full of charm and character, and I hope you have the opportunity to experience it for yourself. One thing to note is that Porto can be quite hilly, so be prepared for some steep climbs and wear comfortable shoes.

If you’re looking to save some money, Porto is a relatively affordable destination compared to other European cities. Accommodation, food, and drink are all reasonably priced so that you can enjoy all that the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Regarding the best time to visit Porto, the summer months (June to August) are the busiest and most expensive.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and get a better deal on accommodation, I recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October).

See you in Porto!

In conclusion, Porto is a destination that’s definitely worth a visit. With its historic center, museums, gardens, port wine cellars, and stunning river views, there’s plenty to keep you occupied for several days. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family,

Porto has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with this charming city on the banks of the Douro River.

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