Visiting Porto in Portugal for just one day can be a worthwhile experience. You might worry that the day could feel a bit rushed due to the city’s numerous attractions. However, by following this itinerary, you can make the most of your time in Porto in just one day.
How to Get to Porto from Lisbon
By Car: The distance between Lisbon and Porto spans a little over 300 kilometers, and if you travel directly, you can cover it in approximately 3 hours.
By Train: Opting for a train journey is the best way to travel from Lisbon to Porto, offering frequent connections between the two cities. Journey times range from 2 hours and 40 minutes to 3 hours and 10 minutes, depending on the type of train chosen: Alfa Pendular (high-speed) or Intercity (more stops).
Trains depart from Lisboa Santa Apolonia station, accessible via the blue metro line, or Lisboa Oriente station, reachable via the red metro line.
Tickets start at €15 when purchased in advance, with regular prices at €25 for Intercity and €31 for Alfa Pendular trains. These trains are operated by Comboios de Portugal (CP), the national railway company. You can purchase your tickets in advance on their official website: CP’s Official Website
Upon arrival in Porto, trains terminate at Porto Campanhã station, located slightly outside the center. From there, you can transfer to a train heading to the centrally situated São Bento station.
What to Do in Porto in One Day
While one day might not be enough to fully immerse yourself in all that Porto has to offer, it’s still possible to get a glimpse of its beauty, culture, and history.
It’s better to plan your itinerary in advance, focusing on the attractions that interest you the most, and be ready to prioritize your time effectively.
If you have more time to spend in this city, consider checking out this Porto 3-Day Itinerary
Admire the Colorful São Bento Railway Station
If you arrived by train, you’re already visiting the city’s first attraction. King Manuel I of Portugal admired Seville’s ceramics, introducing them to Portugal in the 15th century. Since then, the city has been a vibrant display of colorful tiles.
The 20,000 tiles displayed at São Bento railway station illustrate the country’s history, hand-painted by Portuguese artists over ten years.
Explore One of the World’s Most Beautiful Bookstores
Located at Rua das Carmelitas 144, a few minutes from São Bento station, Livraria Lello is a must-see attraction in Porto for its extraordinary architectural and historical value.
Opened in 1906, the building features a striking neo-Gothic façade with intricate wood-carved shelves. A grand stained glass window displays the monogram “Decus in labore.” The scarlet central staircase is striking.
The library gained fame as it was believed J.K. Rowling found inspiration for Harry Potter here, though she has denied this rumor. Due to high visitor numbers, there’s now a €5 entrance fee (deductible with a book purchase).
A careful 2016 restoration revived the library’s brilliance, earning global recognition from Travel + Leisure, CNN, Time magazine, The Guardian, and Lonely Planet for its historical and artistic significance.
Considered among the world’s most beautiful bookstores and architectural marvels, it’s a must-visit for book and architecture lovers in Porto.
Marvel at the Precious Tile Mural at Igreja do Carmo
Close to the bookstore on the same street is The Church of Carmo. Built in the 18th century, it’s one of Porto’s most beautiful churches.
One of its facades features a vast and precious blue-and-white tile mural, a favorite spot for tourists to take photos. I suggest going inside; its relatively small, dim interior showcases stunning 18th-century rococo altarpieces and a magnificent golden main altar.
According to a Pope’s order, two churches could not be built together so you can notice that a strange and thin house, the thinnest in Portugal, separates them.
In front of both churches you find the Gomez Teixeira Square with a monumental fountain with four winged lions.
Get a Panoramic View of Porto from 250 ft High
Standing at 250 ft (76 m) with 240 steps, the Clerics Tower of the Clérigos Church is a symbol of Porto. It houses 49 bells and offers a panoramic view of the city from the top.
The church entrance is free, while the entrance fee to climb the bell tower is €3, open every day of the year. Consider if it’s worth the effort with only one day in the city.
Stroll the Rua das Flores and Stop for Lunch
Explore this beautiful pedestrian street at the heart of the historic center, lined with colorful buildings, souvenir shops, and cafes. There are dozens of bars, outdoor terraces, street artists’ shows, and live music.
Rua das Flores is a good place to find some of the best restaurants in Porto.
Restaurants typically open for lunch at 12:00 p.m. For dinner, their usual opening time is 7:00 p.m. However, dinner is commonly taken around 9:00 or even 9:30 p.m.
In Portugal, tipping is not obligatory, though customers usually leave a 10% tip to show appreciation for good service received.
Impar Flores (Rua das Flores 306) is an excellent restaurant offering delicious food at reasonable prices. Don’t hesitate because of its touristy location. I highly recommend stopping by for good Portuguese food.
Mariscar (Rua das Flores 179) is another hidden gem offering amazing seafood. If you’re having lunch on Rua das Flores, this is another highly recommended spot.
Enter the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
This medieval cathedral is a remarkable piece of architecture. Even a short visit can provide insight into the city’s history and religious significance.
The construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century in the Romanesque style typical of that era. One century later, Gothic elements were incorporated, followed by Baroque additions much later.
Apart from the main altar, there is another one that captures the attention of visitors. Entirely crafted in silver, the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament is a masterpiece of Portuguese silversmithing.
Entrance is free, but for a fee of €3 you can access the cloister, whose walls are adorned with the typical beautiful white and blue tiles.
Visit the Ribeira District
This charming UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Douro River is one of Porto’s oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Some buildings here date back to medieval times.
Ribeira Square is lively, surrounded by colorful houses. The promenade offers stunning views of the river, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the colorful waterfront buildings.
Consider a River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise. This tour on a Rabelo Boat (an old wine transport ship) takes you back in time. You can book it here in advance to explore the historic bridges connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Visit a Port Wine Cellar
The city is famous for its Port wine. Porto wine cellars are located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Many cellars offer tours and tastings where you can learn about the wine-making process.
One of these is the Tour of Historic Graham’s Port Lodge, built in 1890, through which you will learn the secrets of the production process of Porto wine while tasting cellar wines paired with cheese, chocolate, and Pastel de Nata.
Enjoy the Traditional Porto Food
Francesinha Sandwich
Did you know that the most popular food in Porto is called a ‘little French girl’? Well, that’s the translation from Portuguese for the term Francesinha. It consists of layers of bread alternating with pork, sausages, ham, and cheese, all covered with a tomato and beer sauce. Along with a side of French fries, this sandwich is one of the most caloric dishes ever.
According to locals, the best one is served at Cafe Santiago (Rua de Passos Manuel 226).
Bolinhos de Bacalau
These are delicious cod fritters—creamy on the inside and crunchy on the outside. The bolinhos are made with a mixture of cod, cooked potato, eggs, onion, garlic cloves, pepper, and salt.
You can find them almost everywhere.
Alheiras
These are white smoked sausages shaped like horseshoes. They can be made of game meats such as rabbit, pheasant, or venison, or from poultry. The preparation involves paprika, garlic, oil, and bread.
Traditionally, this dish is believed to have its roots in 17th-century New Christian communities. These integrated Christians supposedly replaced pork, forbidden in Jewish law, with poultry and paprika. However, there’s no definitive proof linking the dish to these communities.
I highly recommend trying them without assuming they’re like any other type of sausage. These are exceptionally savory.
If you have time to visit the traditional Bolhao Market in the center of Porto, you’ll find several stalls selling the typical alheiras. You can even taste them at any of the bars inside the market, accompanied by a glass of typical Porto wine.
Pastel de Nata and Other Treats
Without a doubt, you cannot leave Porto without trying the famous Pastel de Nata (Custard Tart). In fact, you can find this traditional sweet treat all over Portugal. Other local delicacies include the Almond Tart, Toucinho do Céu, and Jesuistas. You can indulge in these delights at any of the charming pastry shops throughout Porto.
For delicious biscuits and tarts, a must-visit is Chocolataria das Flores. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy coffee and savor Porto’s delicacies.
When to Visit Porto
The best time to visit Porto is between April and September.
Porto boasts the highest average annual sunshine hours in Europe. However, it offers an advantage: during June, July, and August, temperatures typically stay below 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).
Where to Stay in Porto
If one day is not enough and you would like to extend your stay, here are the most recommended hotels for different budgets:
HIGH-END HOTELS (5*)
Pestana Porto – A Brasileira, Porto’s newest 5-star hotel in downtown, is just 12 minutes from the Ribeira district. Housed in the iconic A Brasileira Cafe, renowned for serving the first cup of coffee in the early 20th century, this luxury hotel preserves the original architecture. The hotel features a gym, two meeting rooms, a Portuguese-inspired restaurant, a French Patio with a natural vertical garden, and the historic A Brasileira café with over 115 years of history. Some rooms offer stunning views of Porto’s Historical Centre.
Book here your stay at the Pestana Porto – A Brasileira Hotel
Casa da Companhia Hotel, Vignette Collection is located a 4-minute walk from Clerigos Tower. Guests can use the spa and wellness center with an indoor pool, fitness center, and sauna, as well as an outdoor swimming pool. Rooms are gorgeous, some of them featuring a balcony. The accommodation offers a hammam. Popular points of interest nearby include Palacio da Bolsa, Ferreira Borges Market and Sao Bento Metro Station.
Book here your stay at Casa da Companhia Hotel, Vignette Collection
Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments, an award winning hotel, offers 12 deluxe rooms and Suites in a former Palace. In addition, you can choose from 11 unique Apartments located 200 metres away, on Rua das Flores, downtown Porto’s trendiest street. The Palace dates back to 1884, and offers a different exotic theme in each room – from silk to spices, coffee, tea, tapestry and porcelain. It features a bar and offers excellent breakfast.
Book here your stay at Torel 1884 Suites & Apartments
MID-RANGE HOTELS (4*)
Pousada do Porto – Rua das Flores is within an 18th-century historic building, preserving its original characteristics. It is nestled in the pedestrian street Rua das Flores, close to major attractions. The hotel boasts 84 beautifully decorated rooms and suites. Guests can enjoy the indoor swimming pool, utilize the fitness center, or unwind in the sauna or the exquisite inner courtyard, famous for its hanging garden.
Book here your stay at the Pousada do Porto – Rua das Flores
ICON Duplo Ribeira is ideally located, just a 2-minute walk from Ribeira Square and 400 yards from Palacio da Bolsa. It features air-conditioned rooms, some of which offer balconies while others provide captivating city views. A bar is available onsite, and the property offers room service, great breakfast, and tour arrangements for guests. It’s close to Ferreira Borges Market, Sao Bento Metro Station, and Sao Bento Train Station.
Book here your stay at ICON Duplo Ribeira Hotel
Legends’ House by Sweet Porto offers accommodations featuring free WiFi and kitchenettes equipped with a toaster, fridge, and stovetop. Situated less than 300 m from Sao Bento Train Station, this eco-friendly condo hotel provides car rental services and includes a garden and sun terrace. Some rooms offer balconies, while all units are provided with bed linen, towels, and kettles. Guests enjoy a wonderful breakfast.
Book here your stay at Legends’ House by Sweet Porto
BUDGET HOTELS (3*)
Holiday Inn Express Porto City Centre, an IHG Hotel is located 0.6 miles from Sao Bento Train Station and a 15-minute walk from Clerigos Tower. With a bar, the hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an electric tea pot, a shower, free toiletries and a desk. Breakfast is included.
Book here your stay at the Holiday Inn Express Porto City Centre, an IHG Hotel
Pao de Açúcar Hotel boasts art déco-style interiors, a multilingual staff, and a spacious terrace. The Douro River is a mere 15-minute walk away. Each room has air conditioning, satellite TV, and a minibar, and some rooms also offer a terrace. Breakfast is served daily; guests can enjoy it in the breakfast room or on the terrace, which overlooks the historic Porto City Hall building. The Port Wine Cellars are within a short walking distance.
