48 Hours in Porto
The Ultimate Travel Companion: Unleashing Porto, Portugal in Just 48 Hours
Porto, Portugal: A Vibrant City of Joy and Delight!
Welcome to Porto, Portugal’s second city, where happiness fills the air! This lively town bursts with color, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, and is renowned for its delectable cuisine and exquisite wines. In 1996, UNESCO recognized Porto as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity, solidifying its status as a place of immense cultural significance.
As you explore the historic downtown, you’ll be captivated by the sight of old tiled churches and meandering alleyways, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable walking adventure. So, make sure to wear your most comfortable footwear and prepare for a blissful journey!
While our tours typically start in Lisbon and end in Porto, we understand that squeezing everything into a single day can be challenging. That’s why we highly recommend booking an extra night in this enchanting city. And to make your experience even more joyful, we share the must-do activities and sights that will fill your 48 hours in Porto with endless happiness.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Porto and uncover its hidden gems. Your adventure awaits!
Where is Porto, Portugal?
It is the capital of the north. It is a colorful city filled with artists, friendly ‘Tripeiros’ (Locals from Porto), and delicious Portuguese cuisine.
Did you hear someone call Porto “Oporto”?
Both names are correct. Let me clarify that for you: Porto is not translated like Lisboa, for example.
This different form of writing Porto started with English. When they were here in Portugal, they heard us talk about “o Porto,” which “o” means the definite article. For some reason, Porto is one of the only cities in Portuguese that has a definite article before.
This city has one of most European cities most exciting, vibrant, and surprising food scenes. If you are looking for some inspiration for Portuguese food. Don’t miss our guide to Porto’s best bars and restaurants.
Indulge in the Savory Delight of Francesinha!
Prepare your taste buds for a mouthwatering experience as we introduce you to the iconic local delicacy, Francesinha. Originating right here in Porto, this delectable sandwich holds a special place in the hearts of the locals.
What are the main ingredients in a traditional Francesinha?
Imagine a symphony of flavors where bread, ham, sausage, and beef-covered cheese harmoniously blend together. But that’s not all! This masterpiece is then bathed in a tantalizing tomato sauce infused with a medley of spices, creating a burst of taste that will leave you craving for more. Drawing inspiration from the classic croque-monsieur, Francesinha offers a unique twist that is truly unforgettable.
While some may classify it as fast food, we assure you that this culinary delight transcends any ordinary meal. To complement the rich flavors, it is traditionally served with a generous side of chips, ensuring that every bite is a gratifying experience.
So, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the remarkable Francesinha during your time in Porto. Embark on a gastronomic adventure and immerse yourself in the flavors that define this vibrant city!
Is Francesinha a spicy dish?
Yes, it is really spicy!
What ingredients are found in the Francesinha sauce?
The Francesinha sauce typically contains a blend of onion, garlic, olive oil, bay leaf, tomato sauce, beer, port wine, whiskey, English sauce, white wine, cornstarch, salt, and piri-piri.
Lello Bookshop
Livraria Lello Bookshop was open in 13 de janeiro de 1906! The brothers Lello bought this store Chardron Bookshop in 1894. That is the reason we already have two different names on the main facade!
Situated in the very heart of the city. It has an impressive carmine staircase, wooden balusters, and an extraordinary stained-glass skylight! The legend says that Lello inspired J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter book series!
Is there an entrance fee or ticket required to visit Livraria Lello?
You must buy the ticket online before if you want to visit inside. If you buy a book in this bookshop, you have a discount.
Is Livraria Lello considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world?
That is in the top ten of the world’s most beautiful bookshops.
Port Wine Tour
It would not be polite to visit Porto without sampling the very thing that received its name. A great way to see the city is by taking a walk or running along the Douro River.
The majority of Port wine producers are on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river. A guided tour of the working cellar is by appointment only, so book ahead. By the way, our favorite Port wine cellars are Calem, Sandeman, and Ferreira. Indeed, you will have the best wine-tasting tours.
Read here: Current Weather in Porto, Portugal.
What are the regulations or policies regarding drinking in the streets in Portugal?
Unlike the USA, there are no open carry laws in Portugal. Porto has some great nightlife, and the drinks and food are cheap.
Where is a good place to watch the sunset in Porto?
The best places to see the sunset are:
- Palácio de Cristal
- Torre dos Clérigos
- Jardim do Morro
- Espaço Porto Cruz
- World of Wine – WOW
Where To Buy Tiles In Porto
Prometeu Artesanato
Adress: Rua da Alfândega, 7 (between Ribeira and Museu da Cidade — Casa do Infante)
This store specializes in handcrafted. In the Prometheus Handicraft spaces, you can find Alentejo ceramics, tiles, jewelry, iron pieces, wooden images, and Barcelo’s crafts, among many other solutions that are part of the careful selection available in these stores.
Please don’t buy old tiles! We need to preserve our monuments and history. If you buy old tiles, you encourage thieves to steal and wipe out our history.
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Are you looking for Private Tours from Porto?
See our tours here:
Best Walking Tour Porto
Experience a walking tour through Porto’s historical center’s streets. It was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the city through its neighborhoods and buildings on 3 hours guided tour.
Enjoy old palaces, charming churches, and lively neighborhoods. See the famous iron bridge engineered by Teófilo Seyrig. The characteristic Rabelo boats lined up along the quay, which preserves the memory of old times when they used to transport the wine casks.
Port Tours in Portugal
If you would like to increase your experience. You can book a post-tour extension for Port Tours in Portugal. During this post-tour, you will learn everything about Port Wine, from the vineyard to the glass, in a unique format! That includes an interactive museum, guided tour, and Port wine tasting.
BOOK TOURS BY LOCALS IN PORTO PORTUGAL
Where is the most famous street art in Porto?
During the walking tour, you will see a few street art. Here you have a small list of the most popular.
- Rua das Flores (you have a few street arts).
- Vila Nova de Gaia – Coelho (Rabbit) by Bordalo II.
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- Rua Miguel Bombarda (the most famous gallery street in this city).
- Avenida Vimara Peres – AN.FI.TRI.ÃO – a gentleman is welcoming the people to visit Porto, by Frederico Draw.
- Miragaia – The poetess Sophia de Mello Breyner, by Daniel Eime.
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Do you have more than 48 hours in Porto?
Here are some ideas for day tours from Porto, Portugal:
Olive Oil Tasting
Let’s go to discover the luscious world of liquid gold! Learning to taste extra-virgin olive oil. It will help you recognize both an oil’s positive and negative attributes. We will analyze flavor, visuals, and olfactory.
Included:
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- Technical proof of three Portuguese olive oils.
- Tasting Portuguese products: bread, sausages, cheeses, and one glass of wine or black tea or green tea from the Azores. – The best food tours in Portugal.
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Braga City Tour
Braga is the oldest Portuguese city. One of the earliest Christian cities in the world was founded in Roman times as Bracara Augusta. This city has over 2000 years of history as a city.
That is just one hour by train from Porto.
Book this tour online and discover this fantastic city! City Tour in Braga and Private Transfer to the incredible Sanctuary of Bom Jesus.
Food Tasting in Braga
Enjoy a gastronomic and cultural experience through the spectacular Braga city center! You will have the opportunity to combine the marvelous smells and flavors of top-quality typical Portuguese products with top historic sites, monuments, and squares.
Braga is only 55 minutes by train from Porto. This city is calmer than Porto, but each street has a fascinating story to tell.
Douro Tours
Explore the incredible Douro Valley Wine Region. Visit the most famous wine estates and taste delicious Port wines. Lunch is included. Full-Day in the Douro Valley pick-up from your hotel – comfortable service!
DOURO VALLEY DAY TRIPS FROM PORTO
Douro Valley Hike
Day tours are the easiest and quickest way to explore somewhere new while comfortably fitting it into a tight travel schedule. Departing from Braga. A day trip to the Douro Valley is an excellent option for those looking for a countryside escape at the city’s doorstep. That is included one leisurely hiking tour, lunch, and wine tasting.
DAY TRIP FROM BRAGA TO DOURO VALLEY
Train from Porto to Pinhao Portugal
Pinhão is a small village in the Douro Valley. That is easy to visit one or two wineries from the train station. You need to walk for 10 minutes. Yet, the train is not 100% comfortable compared to other ones. The best train in Portugal is Alfa Pendular (High-Speed Train) from Faro to Braga. This train also stops in Lisbon, Coimbra, and Porto.
Are you in the capital of Portugal? Please get in touch with us. We can send you a few tips for the train from Lisbon to the Douro Valley.
It is extremely sad to hear travelers complain about the InterRegional train service from Porto to Pinhao. Sometimes the train is dirty inside, or the windows have been graffitied. Nobody enjoys the view! For that reason, we always recommend Porto to Pinhao by car. Thereby, our tours always include private transport from your hotel to the Douro Valley.
Read here: Best beaches near Porto.
How to Get to Porto, Portugal
It is located in the north of Portugal. You can travel there easily.
By Car – Lisbon to Porto by Private Transfer
Time – around 3 hours. For a comfortable journey, we advise choosing a private transfer with an English-speaking driver.
By Train from Lisbon to Porto
Porto is 186 miles north of Lisbon. There are frequent trains from Lisbon to Porto. We advise you to choose the speed train called Alfa Pendular (AP). The trip takes about three hours.
How to get from Oporto Airport to Porto
Oporto airport is located in Maia, approximately 11km from Porto. OPO Airport is well connected by public transport (underground, bus, and taxi). Please read here for more details about How I can get to Portugal and buy cheap tickets.
If you book a one-week vacation in Portugal. Our driver will be waiting for you at the airport arrivals with a sign displaying your name. The driver will be waiting for you inside the airport. After you pick up the luggage, you will pass a glass door. And then, you will see many people and signs (papers). Your name will be on one sign. If you don’t see your name, please use WhatsApp. The airport has free Wi-Fi. Please get in touch with us if your flight has been canceled. We can reschedule your transfer.
Need more help?
If you can’t find the tour you are looking for or need further assistance. Please get in touch with us, and a friendly tour expert will get back to you.