48 Hours in Porto: A Perfect Guide to What to See and Do
By Lawyer Monthly Picks | Updated March 2025
Planning a short trip to Porto? With its stunning architecture, rich history, and world-famous wine, Porto offers an unforgettable experience, even if you only have 48 hours. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to this charming city, this guide will walk you through the must-see attractions, places to eat, and where to stay. In just 48 hours, you’ll fall in love with Porto!
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Porto
Ribeira District
Ribeira, the old town of Porto
Start your day in Porto by exploring its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ribeira district. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, taking in the colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. Head down to the Douro River where you can enjoy views of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. For an immersive experience, stop at a riverside café, sip on a “café com leite,” and watch the boats go by.
Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello: R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal. The nearest metro station is Aliados Station, which is a 10-minute walk from Livraria Lello. Aliados Station is located on Line D (Yellow Line), which is part of Porto's metro network.
Just a short walk from Ribeira, visit one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores—Livraria Lello. With its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and intricate wooden staircase, it’s no surprise this bookstore inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir from the gift shop!
Pro Tip: Be sure to check out the store’s website for potential queue times, especially on weekends.
Day 1 Afternoon: Savor Porto’s Delicious Cuisine
Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão
Mercado do Bolhão: R. Formosa 322, 4000-248 Porto, Portugal. The nearest metro station to Mercado do Bolhão (R. Formosa 322, 4000-248 Porto, Portugal) is Bolhão Station. Bolhão Station is part of the Porto Metro's Yellow Line (Line D) and is just a short walk from the market. This makes it a convenient option for visitors traveling via public transportation.
Porto is a food lover's paradise, and Mercado do Bolhão is a great place to sample local delicacies. Try the famed "francesinha" (a Portuguese sandwich) or fresh seafood dishes, like bacalhau (salted cod) or octopus. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and local flavors will leave you craving more.
Wine Tasting at Vila Nova de Gaia
Sandeman cellars: Largo Miguel Bombarda Nr. 47, 4400-222 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
No trip to Porto is complete without sampling its world-renowned Port wine. Take a short trip across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can visit one of the many wine cellars for a tour and tasting session. Learn about the city’s wine history and enjoy a glass of rich, sweet port.
Pro Tip: Look for guided tours that include multiple wine tastings for a deeper experience.
Day 2: Discover Porto's Cultural and Historic Landmarks
Palácio da Bolsa and Igreja de São Francisco
Visit Palácio da Bolsa: Porto's Historic Stock Exchange. R. da Alfândega, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal. Nearest Metro Station: São Bento Station, located on Line D (Yellow Line).
On day two, start with a visit to the stunning Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace). Explore its magnificent rooms, including the Arabian Room, and learn about Porto’s commercial past. A short walk away, the Igreja de São Francisco offers one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in the city.
Clérigos Tower and Church
Clérigos Tower and Church
For panoramic views of Porto, climb to the top of the Clérigos Tower. Standing 76 meters tall, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city and its river. Afterward, stop by the adjacent Clérigos Church to admire its ornate interior.
Day 2 Afternoon: Relax and Enjoy the Local Vibe
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. R. de Dom Manuel II, 4050-342 Porto, Portugal. Nearest Metro Station: Aliados Station (Line D - Yellow Line)
In the afternoon, take a peaceful stroll through the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens). The lush greenery and beautiful flowerbeds offer a tranquil break from the busy city streets. From here, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the Douro River and Porto’s cityscape.
Dinner at a Traditional Portuguese Restaurant
For your final meal in Porto, enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner. Head to a local restaurant and indulge in dishes such as roasted lamb or grilled sardines, accompanied by a glass of Portuguese wine. Finish with a sweet pastry, like the famous "pastéis de nata" (custard tart). For delicious local chicken and chips I would recommend Pedro dos Frangos Porto, located at Rua Bonjardim 223/312.
Located in the upper gallery of Porto's historic Bolhão Market, is Culto ao Bacalhau. This restaurant focuses on cod dishes, offering Portuguese classics like bacalhau escabeche, bacalhau à Brás, and rice with cod and oysters. A standout dessert is the "pão de ló" sponge cake with cream cheese, a regional Beiras specialty.
Or for another option, try the most excellent Bistrô by Vila Foz located at Rua De Álvaro Castelões 16, Matosinhos, 4450-037. This casual spot, from Vila Foz and chef Arnaldo Azevedo, offers simple, fresh seafood from Matosinhos Municipal Market, where diners can choose fish to be prepared or order from the menu.
Where to Stay in Porto
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Porto offers a variety of options for every budget. From luxurious hotels near the river to cozy boutique accommodations in the heart of the city, you'll find the perfect base to explore Porto's best attractions.
Luxury Stay: The Yeatman Hotel
The Yeatman Hotel. Rua do Choupelo, (Santa Marinha), Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto 4400-088, Portugal
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider staying at The Yeatman Hotel. Perched on a hill overlooking the Douro River, this luxury hotel offers world-class amenities, stunning views, and its own wine cellar. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Mid-Range: Pestana Douro Riverside
Pestana Douro Riverside. Pestana Douro Riverside Avenida Gustavo Eiffel 17, 4000-282 Porto
Pestana Douro Riverside is a luxury hotel located along the Douro River in Porto, Portugal. Offering stunning views of the river, the hotel provides a blend of modern amenities and traditional Portuguese charm. It's a perfect base for exploring Porto's rich history, nearby vineyards, and picturesque landscapes.
Budget: Gallery Hostel
For budget-conscious travelers, Gallery Hostel is a fantastic option. Situated in the vibrant arts district of Porto, this hostel offers affordable accommodations without compromising on comfort or style.
Other Notable Places to Visit in Porto
Avenida dos Aliados
Avenida dos Aliados is a major avenue in the heart of Porto, Portugal. It is known for its grand architecture, wide spaces, and as a central point of the city.
Estádio do Dragão
Porto Stadium, also known as Estádio do Dragão, is the home of FC Porto, one of Portugal's most successful football clubs. Located in the city of Porto, the stadium is renowned for its modern design and capacity to hold over 50,000 spectators.
Luís I Bridge
(Ponte Luís I) is an iconic double-deck iron bridge that spans the Douro River, connecting the city of Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. Known for its stunning architecture and historical significance, it was designed by Téophile Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, and opened in 1886.
The bridge's upper deck offers panoramic views of Porto and is used for pedestrians and the city's metro line. The lower deck serves vehicular traffic and pedestrians, offering a closer view of the river. Address: Ponte Luís I R. da Praia, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.
Matosinhos Beach - Praia do Matosinhos
Matosinhos, part of the Greater Porto Metropolitan Area, has a population of around 172,000 (INE, 2021). It blends seaside beauty, modern architecture, and historic landmarks, while being one of Portugal’s most industrialized areas.
The municipality has shifted from an industrial economy to a service-oriented, tourism-driven one, yet still maintains a strong fishing industry. Matosinhos is dedicated to sustainable development, focusing on environmental projects like green corridors, biodiversity conservation, and circular economy initiatives, aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Matosinhos Beach - Praia do Matosinhos
Porto Getting Around: A Travel Guide
Porto, Portugal, is a lively and historic city that offers a wide range of convenient transportation options to help visitors navigate its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and scenic riverside views. Whether you're exploring the city center, heading to the beach, or venturing further out, there are plenty of ways to get around and experience all that Porto has to offer.
The city's public transport system is well-established and affordable, making it easy to move around. The Porto Metro is one of the quickest ways to travel, connecting key areas of the city and suburbs with four lines (A, B, C, and E). Popular metro stops include São Bento, Aliados, and Trindade. Buses and trams also provide convenient access, with the iconic yellow trams, such as Tram 22, taking you past notable attractions like the Clérigos Tower and the Ribeira District.
For those who prefer more personalized transportation, taxis are widely available throughout the city, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt offer an easy, convenient way to get around at competitive rates.
Porto is a city best explored on foot, thanks to its narrow streets, picturesque neighborhoods, and beautiful waterfront. Major attractions like Livraria Lello and Palácio da Bolsa are within walking distance, so you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history as you stroll through its charming districts. Additionally, cycling has become an increasingly popular way to get around, with bike rental services scattered across the city, allowing you to explore Porto's unique hills, parks, and riverside areas.
Given Porto’s stunning location along the Douro River, boat tours are also a fantastic way to take in the city’s scenic beauty. From traditional rabelo boats to modern sightseeing vessels, these river cruises offer panoramic views of Porto’s historic bridges and vibrant riverside.
For those planning to venture beyond the city, renting a car is a great option. It gives you the freedom to explore the Douro Valley or coastal towns like Matosinhos. However, be aware that parking in Porto’s city center can be limited and traffic can be dense.
Visitors can make the most of their trip by purchasing travel passes like the Andante Card, which offers unlimited access to public transport for a set number of days, or the Porto Card, which combines transport access with discounts on major attractions.
With a variety of options for getting around, Porto makes it easy for tourists to explore its many wonders, whether by metro, bus, tram, on foot, by bike, or even on the water.
Porto Airport and How to Get to the City
Porto’s main international gateway is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), located about 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the city center. The airport is well-connected to Porto, making it easy for visitors to travel to the heart of the city.
One of the most convenient and affordable options is the Porto Metro. The Purple Line (Line E) connects the airport to central Porto, with stops at key locations such as Trindade, Aliados, and São Bento. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day. The cost is about €2.00, including the airport surcharge.
For those who prefer buses, several routes connect Porto Airport to different parts of the city. Bus 601 and Bus 602 provide direct routes to the city center, while the Aerobus offers an express service to various tourist hotspots. Bus fares range from €2.00 to €6.00, depending on the route, and buses depart every 30 minutes.
Taxis are readily available at the airport’s designated taxi stand, located just outside the arrivals area. A taxi ride to the city center typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and usually costs between €25 and €30. Taxis are available 24/7.
Alternatively, ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are also an option, providing convenient and affordable transportation. The cost for a ride to the city center is approximately €20 to €25, and the journey takes about 20-30 minutes.
For a more personalized experience, private transfers are available. These services can be pre-booked online, and a driver will meet you at the arrivals terminal to take you directly to your hotel or destination. Private transfers usually start at around €40-€50 for a one-way trip.
If you prefer more flexibility, car rentals are available at Porto Airport. Several companies offer rental services, and the city center is easily accessible by car, typically in about 20-30 minutes. Prices vary depending on the car model and rental company.
Getting from Porto Airport to the city center is simple, with a variety of options to suit your preferences, whether you're looking for affordability, convenience, or a personalized experience.
Why I Loved Porto and Why I Would Return
Porto, Portugal, quickly stole my heart with its unique charm, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere. From the breathtaking views along the Douro River to the city’s unforgettable cuisine, there’s no shortage of reasons why I would return to this stunning city.
Porto is a city brimming with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. With only 48 hours to spare, this guide will help you make the most of your short visit. Whether you're wandering through its historic districts, savoring delicious food and wine, or enjoying stunning views, Porto will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Plan your trip and start exploring this wonderful city today!
