Porto is one of those unique places that ticks all the boxes. Whether you’re a solo traveller, vacationing with friends, or going on a couples trip, Porto offers a sense of escapism you’ll only find in Europe. It makes the perfect long weekend city break and is a great alternative to cities like Rome and Paris, so read on if you’re looking to spend a perfect 3 days in Porto!
I recently went on a mini solo trip and want to share my recommendations for a weekend in Porto. It’s the perfect place for a Thursday to Sunday trip or a last-minute summer getaway. Immerse yourself in the culture – also known as eating 10 pasteis de nata in two days – and see the famous blue tiles!
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Where to Stay in Porto
Mercure Porto Centro Aliados
When exploring a new city solo, I like to find a hotel in a really central location for easy exploring. Mercure Porto Centro Aliados has everything you need, including a pool for a mid-day swim and amazing service. The staff are super helpful and happy to give you lots of local recommendations. Many of the places on this Porto itinerary are thanks to them!
Suggested 3 Days in Porto Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center and Blue Tiles
- Morning:
- São Bento Station: Start your day by marvelling at the beautiful azulejos depicting the history of Porto.
- Cathedral of Porto: Just a short walk from the station, visit the cathedral to see the stunning blend of gothic architecture and blue tiles.
- Midday:
- Majestic Café: Head to this iconic café for brunch. Enjoy the opulent surroundings and perhaps a French toast.
- Afternoon:
- Chapel of Souls: Wander down to one of Porto’s busiest shopping streets to see the stunning exterior of this chapel.
- Rua de Miguel Bombarda: Spend the afternoon exploring vintage shops, art galleries, and independent bars and cafes.
- Evening:
- Ribeira do Porto: Finish your day in one of Porto’s liveliest neighbourhoods. Enjoy tapas and a relaxing evening by the river.
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Best Views
- Morning:
- Mercado do Bolhão: Start your day at this traditional market. Sample fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Café Santiago: Have lunch here and try the famous Francesinha sandwich.
- Afternoon:
- Jardins do Palácio de Cristal: Escape to this tranquil garden for a relaxing walk with beautiful views over the city.
- Church of Saint Ildefonso: Visit this 18th-century church with its impressive azulejo-covered façade and stunning interior.
- Evening:
- Serra do Pilar: Head to this monastery for the best sunset view over Porto. Enjoy a pastel de nata while you take in the scenery.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Final Highlights
- Morning:
- A Pérola do Bolhão: Visit this whimsical grocery store for unique souvenirs and to meet the friendly owner.
- Miradouro da Vitória: Enjoy panoramic rooftop views of Porto from this lesser-known viewpoint.
- Afternoon:
- Castro: Stop by for a pastel de nata while exploring the viewpoints.
- Livraria Lello: Skip the famous bookstore’s lines and fee, but enjoy the surrounding area and perhaps take some photos outside.
- Evening:
- Manteigaria: Indulge in a glass of wine and a freshly made pastel de nata as a pre-dinner treat.
- Mercure Porto Centro Aliados: Wrap up your day with a swim at your hotel pool and reflect on your adventures.
Things to Do in Porto
Porto is a city you can take at your own speed with something for everyone, from art lovers to foodies and history fans.
Where to See The Blue Tiles in Porto
Azulejois – also known as ‘blue tiles’ or ‘Portuguese tiles’- are found throughout Lisbon and Porto. You’ll find these all over the city, from narrow streets to church interiors. Think of them as a giant jigsaw painted together by hand.
Cathedral of Porto
If you’re a fan of all things ‘whimsigothic’, Porto’s Cathedral will feel like your Pinterest board come to life. Imagine seeing gothic architecture with blue tiles splashed against the dark stones. You’ll only ever find a building like this in Porto. It only costs €3 to enter and, like most cathedrals, will give you some of the best views of the city.
Chapel of Souls
Located on one of Porto’s busiest shopping streets, the stunning blue azulejo tiles feel like you’re gazing at one of the Old Masters. In fact, the tiles were only added in 1929. Be warned, Chapel of Souls is closed on most days but you can always enjoy its beauty from outside.
Church of Saint Ildefonso
This 18th-century church is near Batalha Square, its stunning blue tile exterior has over 11,000 azulejos with beautiful stained glass windows and even a pipe organ from 1811. Inside, you’ll feel like you walked into a palace with blue and white tiles covering the walls.
Porto São Bento Station
A crowded train station might seem like an odd suggestion, but it’s worth a visit for the blue tiles. It’s one of the most beautiful train stations in all of Europe, with azuejos that tell the story of Porto’s history. Make sure to take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and designs of the tiles.
Best Viewpoints Over Porto
Serra do Pilar
A monastery might not be the first place you think of for a viewpoint, but Miradouro da Serra do Pilar puts you at a vantage point to see the metro crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge below. Somehow even modern transport fits into Porto’s old-town look. Grab a pasteis de nata and head to this spot for the best sunset view over Porto.
Miradouro da Vitóra
This viewpoint is deceiving as the spot itself feels more like a concrete construction site than somewhere to soak in the city views – but you’ll get some of the best rooftop views from here.
Places to Visit in Porto
Ribeira do Porto
Immerse yourself in Porto culture in one of the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods. This World Heritage site offers some of the best tapas in the city and is a great destination for a relaxing evening.
Rua de Miguel Bombarda
I stumbled upon this hidden gem with its vintage shops, art galleries, and independent bars and cafes. Set aside an hour or two to explore the shops and local art scene.
A Pérola do Bolhão
Never judge a book by its cover – except maybe this one. A Pérola do Bolhão is the sort of grocery store that will instantly catch your eye for its whimsical exterior that makes you feel like Alice going down the rabbit hole. Don’t just stop for an Instagram picture. The owner of this independent store was one of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, with plenty of recommendations of things to do in Porto. Head here if you’re looking for a unique souvenir to commemorate your trip.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Even on a city break, you can find yourself longing for the tranquillity of a garden oasis. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city for Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, where you’ll walk amongst peacocks (and even chickens) as you wander around with stunning views of the city and river below. It’s also free to enter!
Why You SHOULDN’T Visit the Famous Bookstore in Porto
Do you ever see something on social media that seems too good to be true? The famous bookstore in Porto is one of them. Livaria Lello is one of the few bookstores in the world that will charge you to step inside.
You’ll pay a €8 admission fee, but even at closing the building was absolutely full. Grab your Instagram photos in front of the blue tiles instead and save your euros for another pasteis de nata.
Where to Eat in Porto
Porto is the land of heavenly treats. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be spoilt for choice anywhere you go.
Where to Try Pasteis de Nata in Porto
Have you ever tried a food and wondered where it’s been all your life? That’s me with pasteis de nata. Originally from Lisbon, you’ll find these sweet treats all over Portugal and are perfect for all-day snacking, whether it’s with a morning cappuccino or a glass of red wine in the evening.
Castro
If you’re heading to Miradouro da Vitória to look over the city, stop by Castro for a pastel de Nata as a mid-day snack. It takes the crown as being the best place in Porto for pasteis de Nata.
Manteigaria
Indulge in a glass of wine and warm your soul with a freshly made pasteis de nata at Manteigaria, the perfect pre-dinner spot.
Other Must-Try Spots in Porto
Majestic Café
This food spot lives up to its name. It’s opulent and majestic, with friendly staff who will make you feel right at home. I’ve been dreaming of the French toast ever since – it’s the perfect brunch option if you feel like indulging in a sweet treat.
McDonald’s
Hear me out! McDonald’s might seem like an unconventional suggestion, and I’m not just talking about the different menu items. It’s worth dropping by the McDonald’s in Porto for a mid-day snack or an emergency Diet Coke just to see the building. It’s easily the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world. This McDonald’s used to be the Imperial Café and still maintains its old Art Deco architecture and chandeliers.
Mercado do Bolhão
You can’t visit Porto without a visit to this traditional market. This iconic spot offers fresh fish, flowers, meat, and other fresh produce. Perfect for a mini food tour and to sample local delicacies.
Café Santiago
Order the Francesinha traditional sandwich, and thank me later! I’d go back to Porto just for it.
Exploring Porto over three days allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural tapestry, vibrant culinary scene, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s savouring a pastel de nata at one of the city’s renowned bakeries, marvelling at the opulence of the Majestic Café, or soaking in the hustle and bustle at Mercado do Bolhão, every experience is uniquely Porto. From the old-world charm of its architecture to the warmth of its people, Porto offers unforgettable memories. So, plan your next getaway and discover why 3 days in Porto is the perfect itinerary for a delightful and memorable adventure.
