Porto: One Week in the Invicta City
Porto, Portugal’s second city, is like that friend who always knows how to throw the best party, yet still manages to be charming and down-to-earth. From its iconic Ribeira district to its famous port wine, Porto is a city that’s bound to steal your heart (and probably a few of your favorite food memories). So, pack your bags and get ready for a week in this city that gives Lisbon a run for its money and where every street tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
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Choosing the Best Time to Go
Porto is known for its unpredictable weather, which is just a fancy way of saying you might experience all four seasons in a day. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best time for your visit:
Spring (March to May): This is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and the city is less crowded. Perfect for wandering around without an umbrella and dodging the occasional rogue pigeon (we have a lot of those in Portugal, especially Lisbon and Porto).
Summer (June to August): Expect warmer temperatures and more tourists. It’s a great time to hit the beach, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices. The summer evenings are magical with long sunsets over the Douro River.
Autumn (September to November): The temperatures are still pleasant, and you’ll get to enjoy the city’s vibrant fall colors. Plus, you can try some amazing seasonal food, like hearty stews and roasted chestnuts (One of Sara’s favorite snacks!).
Winter (December to February): Porto’s winter is relatively mild but can be rainy. The city gets into the holiday spirit with festive lights and markets, making it a cozy time to explore if you don’t mind a bit of drizzle.
Budget
Accommodation:
Budget Options: If you’re looking for affordable digs, try hostels like Gallery Hostel or Porto Spot Hostel. Prices range from €15 to €30 per night for a bed in a dorm. For private rooms, expect around €40 to €70 per night.
Mid-Range: For a bit more comfort, consider Hotel da Bolsa or Moov Hotel Porto Centro. Prices for these will be around €70 to €120 per night. They offer a good balance between comfort and cost, with some extra amenities.
Splurge: Feeling fancy? Book a stay at Pestana Palácio do Freixo or Yeatman Hotel. Expect to pay €150 and up per night. But we must say, the views are something else. We were lucky enough to spend a New Years eve at the Yeatman Hotel and it was unforgettable!
Food and Restaurant Suggestions:
Cheap Eats: For budget-friendly bites, visit Mercado do Bolhão or grab a francesinha (a local sandwich that’s basically a calorie-packed hug) at Café Santiago. A meal here will cost you around €5 to €10. Don’t forget to try a bacalhau (salted cod) dish if you’re feeling adventurous!
Mid-Range: Enjoy a leisurely meal at Cantinho do Avillez or Casa Guedes. Meals will range from €15 to €25 per person, and you’ll get a taste of some creative Portuguese cuisine without breaking the bank.
Fine Dining: For a top-notch dining experience, book a table at DOP or Ode Porto Wine House. Meals here start around €50 per person and can go up from there. Perfect for a special night out or a well-deserved treat, and definitely delicious.
Transportation and City Pass:
Public Transport: Porto’s public transport system includes buses, trams, and the metro. A single ticket costs €1.20 to €2.00, depending on the distance. For those planning to explore extensively, the Andante Tour Card might be a good option. It’s around €7.50 for unlimited travel for one day.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis start at €3.50 plus €0.50 per additional kilometer. Uber and Bolt are available and might offer cheaper rates, especially during off-peak times.
Walking: Porto is a fantastic city to explore on foot. Just be prepared for some steep hills (not as steep as Lisbon but still) and cobblestone streets. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a good map or GPS to avoid getting lost in the labyrinth of charming streets.
City Pass: The Porto Card offers unlimited public transport and discounts on various attractions. It costs around €15 for 24 hours. If you plan to use public transport frequently and visit multiple attractions, it’s definitely worth considering.
Itinerary
Day 1: Getting Acquainted
Morning: Start your trip with a visit to the Livraria Lello (€10 entry). This stunning bookstore is often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the world. Prepare for a bit of a crowd, but it’s worth it, we promise! Make sure you book in advance in their website. There is a slightly pricier version, the Gold Ticket which allows you to buy special edition books with discounts!
Afternoon: Explore the Ribeira District and you can enjoy lunch at Ribeira Square. A meal here will cost around €15 to €20 per person. After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the Douro River and soak in the views.
Evening: Head to Cais de Gaia for a wine tasting tour at a port wine cellar like Sandeman or Graham’s. Tours cost around €15 to €25 and offer a great introduction to Porto’s famous port wine. We would say this is a must!
Day 2: Culture and History
Morning: Visit the Clérigos Tower (€6 for entry). Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and get a sense of Porto’s layout (and some amazing photos).
Afternoon: Walk to the Palácio da Bolsa (€10 entry) and explore its beautiful neoclassical architecture. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at Cafe Majestic—a bit pricier at around €25 per person, but the atmosphere is worth it.
Evening: Catch a performance at the Casa da Música. Ticket prices vary depending on the show, but expect to pay around €15 to €30. It’s a fantastic way to experience Porto’s vibrant cultural scene.
Day 3: A Taste of Porto
Morning: Take a day trip to the Douro Valley. Book a river cruise or a wine tour for a full day of scenic views and wine tasting. Prices for tours start around €70 and can go up depending on the inclusions, but we would highly recommend that you consider it: Wine tasting tour or Douro Valley cruise.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch on your tour or pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful vineyards.
Evening: Return to Porto and have a casual dinner at Taberna dos Mercadores. Expect to pay around €20 per person for a delightful meal.
Day 4: Art and Architecture
Morning: Visit the Serralves Museum (€10 entry). This contemporary art museum and its surrounding park are a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Afternoon: Explore the Foz do Douro area, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach and have lunch at a seaside restaurant like Lareira - Serralves. Meals here are around €20 to €30.
Evening: Discover Porto’s nightlife in the Galéria de Paris area. Enjoy drinks at bars like The Royal Cocktail Club, where cocktails are around €10 each.
Day 5: Exploring Porto’s Neighborhoods
Morning: Visit the São Bento Railway Station to marvel at its stunning azulejos (blue tiles). It’s a perfect photo spot and free to visit.
Afternoon: Head to the Boavista District and have a stroll there. Have lunch at O Diplomata, known for its delicious pancakes and light bites. Expect to spend around €15 for a meal.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Adega São Nicolau in the Ribeira district for traditional Portuguese dishes. Meals here cost around €25 per person.
Day 6: A Day for Kids (or the Kid at Heart, so it’s up to you!)
Morning: If you have kids or just want a fun day out, head to Parque de Aventuras for a thrilling day of climbing and zip-lining. Tickets cost around €20 to €30.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Casa Guedes. Expect to spend around €20 per person.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at Parque da Cidade. Pack a picnic and unwind in Porto’s largest park.
Day 7: Last Hurrah
Morning: Visit the Cathedral of Porto (Sé do Porto). Entry is free, but a small donation is appreciated. Take in the views, snap some amazing pics and explore the surrounding area.
Afternoon: Do some last-minute shopping in the Rua de Santa Catarina and enjoy lunch at a local café.
Evening: Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at O Paparico. Expect to spend around €50 per person for an exquisite dining experience that will leave you with sweet memories of Porto.
And there you have it! Porto for us is like that comfortable pair of jeans that you can wear over and over again and still feel great. Each visit reveals a new corner, a new flavor, or a new story that makes the city feel like home. So, whether you’re indulging in a francesinha or sipping port wine by the Douro, Porto will welcome you with open arms and a full glass. Enjoy every moment and don’t forget to leave some room for a few more pastéis de nata! Até à próxima!
