Best Places to Visit in Lisbon and Porto Portugal – 7 Day Itinerary
Planning a trip to Portugal and looking for ideas of places to visit in Lisbon and Porto? Well, the good news is that there countless reasons to come to these two enthralling southern European cities.
We’ve made multiple trips to Portugal and each time found many things to do in Lisbon and Porto all year round. If you prefer smaller towns that are easier to get around, you will love these Portuguese destinations.
Having visited most of the main sights & more, we’re excited to create this Lisbon and Porto itinerary. It’s designed to help you plan an awesome week exploring these two wonderful cities.
What to Know Before Traveling to Portugal
Visas: Portugal is part of the European Union (EU).
Currency: Euro and credit cards are widely used.
Time Zone: (UTC +1)
Health Insurance and Vaccinations: Always make sure you have good travel insurance for travel abroad.
There are no specific health concerns or required inoculations at this time for Portugal but always check with your own Doctor before leaving.
Best Time of Year to Visit Lisbon and Porto
Best months to visit Lisbon and Porto are from late March to the end of May, although watch out for Easter crowds. September and October are also great months to visit when it’s pleasant during the day. The temperature may dip a little at night but with a light sweater/jacket you’re good to go!
If you’re looking to travel at the cheapest time of year, time your trip just after New Year in January or February. However, be warned that the weather can be quite cool at this time so it may not be as enjoyable strolling around.
Avoid July and especially August! Everywhere is packed with local families and hoards of tourists around the towns and at the beach.
How to Get to Lisbon and Porto
Getting to Lisbon
With over 250 flights a day landing at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado (LIS) Airport, this is an easy capital city to fly into. It’s only 7km from the city. Try to get a window seat on the plane and you should have perfect city views coming into land! Once on the ground, you take a taxi, bus or ride the metro into town.
Everything is well sign-posted within the terminal. Pre-book your airport transfer transport via your hotel if you feel that’s less stressful.
There are numerous airline options from within Europe and also from further afield including Dubai, Istanbul, Canada, USA, China to name but a few.
Getting to Porto
Porto (OPO) also has a good network of services although more regional. USA flights from Newark and other East Coast cities tend to be seasonal from March each year.
The airport is 6 miles from the city center with good public transport links. If you go by metro, take the purple line and aim for Trindade which is the best station if you are going downtown. It takes 35 minutes and fares are from 2 Euros.
A taxi is of course quicker – around 20 minutes – but will cost around 25 Euros. There are no dedicated shuttle buses just public bus services which take around an hour as there are many stops on route.
The national airline is TAP, which we’ve flown with and found to be pretty reliable. Most low cost European airlines – RyanAir, EasyJet and Wizz fly both routes.
Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to check routes from your own departure city. You can also check out flights to Porto as this itinerary is possible starting at either city.
How Far is It Between Lisbon and Porto
313km or 194 miles. You can fly with TAP but honestly by the time you get to the airport etc. we think that ground transportation is a better option. And you get to enjoy some of the scenery en route.
How To Get Between Lisbon and Porto
It’s really easy to drive from Lisbon to Porto (or vice versa) but you then have the hassle of renting a car for just a few hours. However, if you plan to drive around the Douro Valley area from Porto, it makes sense especially if there’s a few of you to share the rental cost. Alternatively, let someone else do the driving and take the bus or train.
A fast train bookable on Trainline is around 3 hours and costs around $30. Fares vary based on times and specific train station you’re leaving from. Book in advance and you’re likely to get a better price than just turning up at the station.
Bus: If you prefer to go by bus, it will be cheaper. Services are reliable with a modern bus fleet. Flix Bus is one of our favourites but other companies include City Express, Rede-Express.
🎒TPOP Tip
There are two bus stations in Lisbon – Oriente and Sete Rios – just check when you’re booking which one you’re leaving from. Flixbus leaves from Oriente and you will arrive at Garagem Atlantico in Porto.
Is Portugal safe for Solo Female Travelers
We have traveled solo over the years to numerous places around the world from Alaska to Australia, Hawaii to Mauritius, NYC, Vancouver, Prague, Berlin and other European cities. We feel Portugal is pretty safe and it is welcoming of solo travelers.
Portugal ranks high in the Global Peace Index (that’s a good thing!) and is politically stable. If you are travelling on your own and plan to be here for a while, we suggest you register yourself with your own consulate (Like the STEP enrollment for USA citizens). Then you’ll receive texts and emails if anything does cause concern.
Aside this from, we’re sharing our top 3 tips based on our solo trips:
- Accommodation: stay in a central location with good lighting and transport.
- Get Orientated: Book yourself on a free guided walk as a means to get current ‘insights’ when you arrive. Guides will usually love to help you with their suggestions of where and where not to go as a female solo traveller.
- Don’t Overshare with Strangers: of course we want to make new friends when we travel, but until you are sure, maybe hold back a bit from divulging too much personal information and your specific plans.
Do Lisbon and Porto Have Good Beaches
Beaches Close to Lisbon
Lisbon is a coastal capital city located on the northern banks of the Tagus River. With a population of around 3 million it’s the largest city in Portugal. There are no real beaches in Lisbon itself but there are some great ones fairly close by, within an hour’s drive:
Costa Da Caparica Beaches (around 30 mins drive south of Lisbon)
Cascais – which is where we’ve spent beach time and is easily reachable by train. There are a number of nice beaches around the area.
For a more secluded beach outing, head beyond Sintra nearer to Cabo da Roca. Adraga is an award winning beach that not so many people go to as it requires a bit more effort, but on a sunny day it’s wonderful. (It was a bit wet when we last visited, but somehow that added to the dramatics of the location!)
Where are Porto’s Beaches
Porto is the country’s second largest city with a city population of 1.3 million. Around an hour out of the city, you will be at some amazing beaches, some with Blue Flag status. It’s easy to spend a day while you’re in Porto at the beach, getting there by car or bus in around an hour! Check out:
Mindelo Beach (around 30 mins drive). Popular in the summer months with locals, this is a good sandy beach if you have kids with you.
If surfing or boarding is more your beach thing, Aterro Beach offers great waves. Around 40 minutes from Porto by bus or drive yourself there in 15 mins.
Blue flag Homem do Leme Beach – again close to Porto at around a 20 minute drive. This is a great beach to just relax and well do a whole lot of nothing 🙂
Where to Stay in Lisbon and Porto
Lisbon Accommodation
We have stayed in the old part of central Lisbon and around the coast in Cascais – a short train ride from the city. Staying at the Rossio Garden Hotel right off the Rossio square in the heart of Lisbon puts you in a perfect location. You’re essentially at a metro station and only around 10 minutes from the airport.
If you’re traveling with kids and want access to beaches daily, accommodation a little out of the city might be better. For example in Cascais you’re closer to beaches.
However, if you’re here to explore and walk around the main sights of Lisbon, stay central. Use booking.com to select accommodation that best fits your budget. Or search for an Air B&B/VbRO in the old district of Alfama with it’s REALLY steep streets and great views.
Our tip is to go for the location first. Since you’re going to be out walking a lot of the day, go for a smaller more traditional boutique type hotel. One with a rooftop terrace area will be wonderful in the evenings. Also, check how close the hotel is to your preferred public transport so you’re not walking too far to get to a metro or tram stop each day.
Porto Accommodation
In Porto, a favourite we have stayed at on the waterfront is the delightful Pestana Vintage Porto hotel. You’ll pay more for a river view but the classic rooms we chose were great.
What’s unique is that this hotel is built on a set of buildings considered by UNESCO as World Heritage.
Traveling in late April after the Easter crowds, we were lucky to get a very good deal. So shop around using hotel search sites like booking.com or Trip Advisor for best rates.
How to Get Around Lisbon
Lisbon is a compact capital city packed with so much to see. We suggest you use public transport to get around the main sights and districts of the city. If you want to see things like Sintra outside Lisbon or head to the Douro Valley from Porto, you can also use transport or purchase an organized tour. More details on this further in the post!
A Lisbon Or Lisboa Card will save you time and money if you’re going to be here for several days. Prices vary based on how many days you want it for. For example currently it’s 44 euros/adult for 48 hours.
With this card you not only get transport on buses, trams, metro but also access to over 20 museums around town.
In Lisbon, consider if it’s worth buying a 24 hour transport only ticket that covers all the city options from bus, to train and metro. Get one at any metro station around town. Check at your hotel for directions from where you’re staying.
🎒TPOP Tip
If you’re planning a trip to Sintra, this card can be even more of a bonus. It covers the trains to Sintra (& Cascais). If you don’t want to pay for a tour, simply present your card and hop on the train. More about where to get the train below!
How to Get Around Porto
The best way to get around Porto city is to walk! The center is small and it can get very busy in rush hour so there’s no point in taking a car – you’ll be quicker walking! You can easily cross the Douro river by strolling over the Dom Luis 1 bridge which has pedestrian paths.
If you want to venture out further, why not hire bikes. We did this via our hotel and cycled out to a couple of the really local beaches. It was an easy ride of about 10km. There were several dedicated cycling paths and most of it was flat so an added bonus!
If cycling isn’t for you, use public transport. There are buses, cabs, trams, a cable car and even a funicular to choose from. More on those later.
🎒TPOP Tip: Similar to Lisbon we suggest a Porto Card which is the city’s tourist card. This includes discounted city public transportation or just use it as a pedestrian. Either way you’ll benefit from free or discounted rates to visit main monuments, museums, galleries and even cycle hire.
What and Where to Eat in Lisbon & Porto
If you like fresh seafood, you’ll love Portugal. Let’s start with Portuguese sardines! We don’t mean those that come from a can and are tiny! These are large fish and we have found in our travels they are served in pretty much all restaurants around the coast.
Use Open Table to make reservations for top rated restaurants because they fill up fast, especially over holidays and weekends. Once when we visited it was Easter weekend and that was certainly the case.
Pricewise, Porto is very reasonable for food and along with Lisbon it is cheaper than most other European cities. Overall, it’s also cheaper than Lisbon.
Look out for the ‘Special’s Board’ which is often fish – simple but delicious. The Francesinha is Porto’s signature dish. It’s a sandwich but not one you’re probably familiar with. Wrapped in a layer of cheese, inside the francesinha you’ll find sausage, ham and beef made spicy with tomato and beer!
Not for the vegetarians amongst us but if you’re a meat eater and like a beer, it may well be your kind of thing!
We cover more about other Portuguese ‘treats to taste’ and markets in our Day to Day itinerary below.
🎒 TPOP Tip
Avoid touristy looking restaurants in the more popular areas because they are more expensive and often serve less interesting food.
Also when you go to any restaurant whether you order it or not, you’ll be presented with bread (& olives) at your table when they bring you a menu. This is called a convert. It’s not free! So if you don’t want it, just say no thanks before they set it down.
Lisbon and Porto – Best Places – 7 Day Itinerary
Lisbon, like Rome in Italy, is built on 7 hills. So there is quite a bit of up and down as you explore. Unlike Rome, Lisbon installed a funicular system to get up and down with a little less effort. It reminds me when we were in Valparaiso in Chile, which has a similar hilly network.
So as you work through our best things to do in Lisbon, do take a few rides using funiculars! Kids will especially love this different ride and it will make it easier to get between sights.
Day 1 – Alfama and Historic District of Lisbon
Morning: Walking Tour and/Or Tram Ride
We highly recommend a walking tour as one of the first things you do in Lisbon. It will give you a great overview of life here. Also guides are good at sharing more tips to make the most of your stay at the specific time you’re in town.
We like ‘GuruWalks’ or Free Tour Portugal who offer great choices including sunset walks and Fado Free Tours (traditional music!)
Tram Rides in Lisbon – Our Tips
If you prefer not to walk then Ride #28 Tram Route or Just Buy a Regular Pass to Ride the City Tram System
This isn’t like a hop on/hop off bus tour. We suggest you only take this unique tram ride for the full circuit of 7km (4.5 miles) and just enjoy the experience. The trams are from the 1930s and yes still authentic. They weave through extremely narrow streets in parts of Lisbon where modern buses and trains cannot fit. Cool, this means your views from this ride aren’t possible elsewhere.
However, this specific route is now a really popular touristy thing to do because of the old trams. People are complaining of having to wait in a long line before boarding (like up to an hour). So if you’re short on time, just hop on any tram to get around the city.
If you do decide to take Tram Route #28, a full tour takes around an hour, depending on how many stops the tram makes. Some of the turns are so tight that I found myself holding my breath but of course it’s all a perfect fit! You can buy a ticket as you board or if you have a Lisboa Card it’s free to ride!
Depending on where you start this tour, either do a full route and then make your way to Sao Jorge castle (use tram 28 or 12). Alternatively, get off here and rejoin any tram or metro line later once you’re finished visiting the castle.
Afternoon: Exploring Alfama – Historic District
As you walk around, you will see beautiful old tiles, wrought iron gates, ornate designs and most likely hear melodies of Fado music. It’s a very unique experience so stop for a coffee or lunch and absorb the atmosphere. Also look out for fountains around here – this is how the area got its name!
Castle of Sao Jorge
The 13th century Castle of Sao Jorge is probably the most popular sight to visit while in Alfama. This impressive structure dates back centuries serving both as a military base and royal residence.
Today, you can visit the castle and enjoy relaxing in its grounds, with the resident peacocks. It’s open daily and costs 15 Euros (Adult) and Free for kids under 12.
Nearby, Lisbon’s Se – Cathedral is also worth a visit. On this site, you will find ‘skip the line’ tickets too. If you’re tight on time, definately book ahead and consider this option.
Don’t leave Alfama without spending some time soaking in the incredible views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia. The combination of rooftops and water sparkling in the sunshine makes for fantastic photos. Take a few extra minutes to see the beautiful blue tile fresco at Santa Luzia Church which is tucked into a little garden beside here.
Additional Sights to See in Lisbon
National Pantheon
Sometimes when you hear a phrase in Portugal for something that seems to be taking forever it translates into ‘a job like St. Engratia’. This was the original name for the church which is now the National Pantheon. We think this reference is fully justified as the construction started in 1862 and the dome was completed in 1966! Many diverse figures from Portugal’s past are buried here from presidents to early world explorers.
Even if you don’t enter (it costs around 8 euros to do so), do walk by to see the stunning ceramic tiles that declare the external facade. Truly a work of art. Twice a week there is a flea market in the square around the building. Afterwards, take a break in the Botto Machado Garden that faces the monument where you can enjoy a refreshment from the small cafe.
Climb the Rua Augusta Arch
This a triumphal arch was built after the awful earthquake and associated tsunami in 1755. Its dominance and stature reflect the determination to give re-birth to Lisbon. From the top, the views over Baixa district down to the river are stunning. It’s open daily from 10am to 7pm.
Finally, if you’re around Alfama during the summer months, you may find yourselves in the middle of a street party with the locals. There are many festivals and community events so if invited join in! This is also where you’re likely to hear traditional Fado music.
Day 2 – Sintra, Cascais & Cabo da Roca
If you have 3 days in Lisbon, we suggest you spend Day 2 out of the city and head to Sintra, a UNESCO world heritage site. Taking this tour today leaves you a final full day to visit sights in Lisbon before heading to Porto.
Sintra always feels like a magical place to visit. Whether in rain or sun, it captivates with its location in the hills and ancient narrow street system below Pena Palace and the Castle of the Moors.
To get to Sintra, you can either:
Train: take a train from Lisbon for the day. It will take around 40 mins and you leave from Rossio Train Station. Use this SintraTravel Link to book your tickets.
When you get to Sintra Station, you then need to take a bus – number 434 – to take you directly to Pena Palace.
Book A Tour: We booked with Sintra Private Tours and they were excellent from start to finish. Although a little more expensive, it allowed us to save time getting from place to place during the day!
Don’t try and drive here – there is no parking and driving up to the Palace is not allowed.
Things to See & Do in Sintra
The old village of Sintra is very atmospheric. It feels like you’re stepping back in time, with winding hilly narrow streets bustling with ceramic, linen and other souvenir shops, interspersed with places to eat. It can feel a little touristy but do spend a little time here. Have lunch or go for a food tasting after visiting the Pena National Palace.
Pena National Palace is gorgeous with its watchtowers, gateways, walls and mix of different architectural styles. It’s easy to see why this palace, only 20 mins from Lisbon, is the most visited spot across the country. The palace is so colourful with a quirky personality that invites you to come in and explore the inside chambers. Incredibly, it was built in 1840 on top of an old monastery as a summer castle for Portuguese Royalty
Tips For Visiting Peña Palace, Lisbon
It’s a fascinating tour inside the palace. Plan for around 90 minutes to walk through it all. The last royals left in 1910 and what you see is pretty much how it was then. If you are planning to visit, here’s a few tips:
- Go Early! The palace opens at 9.30am with many tour buses arriving around mid morning, so go as early as you can.
- The Palace is part of a national park so take advantage and bring a picnic for lunch if you enjoy al fresco dining and avoid higher prices in Sintra Village restaurants.
- Buy a Palace and Park ticket if it makes sense. The Lisbon Card we mentioned earlier will get you a further 10% discount.
Use the official Pena Palace Website to check current prices. If you buy tickets online before you go, you’ll save time on arrival as you just show your phone.
There is a ramp for wheelchair access but note that this is still a steep path up to the palace entrance.
After touring the palace interiors, take a walk down through the village and within 15 mins you will be at the Castle of Moors.
Castle of Moors In Sintra
This is an incredible piece of construction, built essentially into a rock face, giving the fortress a strategic advantage over any potential invaders in centuries gone by.
However it was conquered back in the 1100s and subsequently fell into ruins and was overgrown. Then in the 1800s the king at the time decided to partially restore it as a ‘sight to enjoy’ when he looked down upon it from his palace above.
Cabo Da Roca – End of the world!
If you are on a private tour, you will have a lot more flexibility to pack additional sights into this Day Out from Lisbon. For example, don’t miss going through the Sintra/Cascais Natural Park and heading to the most western point of the continuous European continent. Before the Americas were discovered, this point called Cabo da Roca was believed to be the end of the world!
It can be very windy and stormy here – it was when we visited! But at the same time, the rain and blowing gale somehow made the idea of this being the end of the world all the more believable. As you look past land’s end, there is absolutely nothing other than water!
Stop for Ice Cream At Cascais Bay
On the way back to Lisbon, it’s nice to make a stop at Cascais Bay. Cascais is so close to Lisbon and is a beautiful historic town that nestles around a sweeping bay, full of resorts and a charming promenade walking area. Don’t miss having an ice cream at the world famous Santini started by an Italian in 1949 and has continued to expand into Lisbon and other locations.
For a final stop, check out Estoril, a chic beach resort town with sought after hot springs that is popular with families. It has a number of claims to fame, one being spy central. During WW2 several spies lived here.
And inside the historic Royal Casino it’s reported that Ian Fleming came up with the idea of Casino Royal and the James Bond character. Note for Bond fans – one of the films was partially filmed here (On Her Majesty’s Service).
Day 3 – Lisbon’s Markets, Museums & Pastels!
Time Out Market
After a day out of town, put your walking shoes back on and start your day with a coffee and Pastel de Nata.
They are sold all over the city (& country). Fabrica da Nata is felt by many to be the most authentic place (hence the long queue normally). That said, the winner of the best Pastel de Nata in 2023 was Confeitaria da Gloria in Amadora area and this was their first entry to the competition. In our experience they’re all delicious!
Why the fuss? Well, it’s a delicious egg custard tart which basically melts in your mouth.
If you love markets, maybe head to the Ribeira aka TIme Out Market in Cais do Sodre. It’s literally 2 mins walk from Cais do Sodre.
Although one of oldest market sites in Lisbon dating back to 1882, it has been updated over the years while still offering affordable and authentic foods. Many top restaurants have outlets here so it’s perfect for dining at and buying your supply of Pastels!
Walking Food Tours are increasingly popular in Lisbon. Taste of Lisboa Company offers several and a favourite travel experience of ours – cooking classes.
Monastery, Museum and Towers
After getting fueled for the rest of the day, we suggest you spend the afternoon exploring more iconic sights of Lisbon. Afterwards you’ll be ready to enjoy dinner on or by the river. Don’t miss:
Mosteiro dos Jeronimos in Belem – built to commemorate Portugal’s successful voyage to India by explorer Vasco de Gama. Belem was the city’s launch point for this and other early explorer expeditions. The opulence of the monastery design is evident with highly carved stonework in nautical themes including shells and waves along with flowers.
Together with neighboring Torre de Belem, built in 1521, these two sights are part of a UNESCO heritage site. The tower sits in the river Tagus and also has it’s fair share of ornate stone carvings.
Padrao dos Descobrimentos is just across from the monastery. At first, this seemed a little out of place but once you understand the history of Portugal this massive ship like monument makes sense. Firstly walk around the slab right on the river and study the characters embedded into the stone from different angles. Next walk up the 300 steps inside ( or take the elevator to the top)
National Tile Museum
Finally, if you love the Azulejos ceramic tiles you have seen around the city, squeeze in a visit to The National Tile Museum which is in Madre De Deus Convent. The museum houses an extensive collection of tiles dating back from the 15th century to contemporary designs.
As you wander through the exhibits you will see much of historic to contemporary Portuguese culture through art. Closed on Mondays. Entrance is free with a Lisboa Card or 8 Euros if you don’t have one.
Dinner on The River
We suggest enjoying your last evening in Lisbon on the river, either a sunset cruise or dinner (or both!). Viator offers a wide selection or ask for recommendations at your accommodation.
These are popular and in our experience we strongly suggest you book ahead to get the cruise you want especially if it’s a weekend or peak season.
When you’re onboard, perhaps try a Portugese wine or Port as you get ready to head to Porto and Douro Valley where many wineries are waiting for you.
🎒TPOP Tip
Depending on how ‘busy’ you want to be, add or remove things from our itinerary. Pick 1-2 ‘must do’ things for each half day based on your interests, the level of activity you prefer and your budget. Then add more if you have time and energy!
Day 4 – From Lisbon to Porto
Plan on taking a half day on Day 4 to get from Lisbon to Porto whatever your mode of transport. Scroll back up for car, train and bus options!
If you arrive in Porto early afternoon, we recommend you join a free walking tour . Book in advance as they get busy. It’s a lovely way for local guides to show you the best places to visit, return to and generally pick up tips about the area like local hangouts.
Check into your hotel in Porto and you’re ready to enjoy the afternoon and evening in Portugal’s second city. Why not enjoy a glass of port or Portuguese wine in any of the inviting cafes overlooking the river and head to a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 5 – Porto’s The Riberia
Morning. If you buy any postcards of Porto or check out any travel sites, you’ll see a stunning promenade waterfront with colourful buildings known as Porto Riberia. This is the historic city center and a UNESCO heritage site. Spend the morning exploring this area.
Here you will find numerous shops, cafes and restaurants with lovely terraces. So, stop and enjoy coffee in one of them around the Largo do Terreriro square. Do check prices though before you indulge as some of these spots are pricey!
As you are walking through this area look out for some wonderful old buildings that were previously used as customs houses. There were also several craft markets and stalls set up when we were here so it was fun to browse and admire local handicrafts.
After you feel refreshed, walk along the promenade to the Dom Luis 1 Bridge. Views from this iconic bridge ( built in 1877 by Teofilo Seyrig, a partner of the famous Eiffel of Paris) are spectacular. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the history.
Find the small metal plaque where locals light candles which they dedicate to the “portuenses”- locals who died in battle with Napoleon’s troops. The bridge then was less robust and many died when the old bridge collapsed.
Dom Luis I Bridge
Continuing on, walk over the bridge to reach the district of Vila Nova de Gaia and the wine lodges. Enjoy the views of the Douro River from the other side. This lower bridge crossing is also used by cars but there is a clear path on it for pedestrians. It’s not a long bridge and will only take you about 5 minutes to cross.
If you look up, you’ll see another way walkway/crossing. In terms of vehicles, the upper level is only used by trams. Pedestrians can cross but you’ll have to access it via a walk down from Sao Bento Railway station. We did both and the best views were from the top.
Visit A Winery
Afternoon. Once on the other side of the river, continue your walk along to any of the Porto Wine Cellars. This wine is produced in the Douro Valley region and stored in cellars known as caves. On a tour to one of these cellars, you’ll learn about the history, processes and the impact that wine has had on the city.
Of course, there’ll be a little sampling to be had. It would be impossible not to try Ruby Port! Book your tour in advance. There are plenty to choose from – favourites are reported to be Calem, Grahams and Sandeman.
Full Day Option 1 – A Winery /Port Tour
Alternatively, if you want to venture out of town, you could choose to explore Duoro Valley & Aveiro (town). This is a full day trip from Porto and here you can get a first hand education on the 2000+ year old process of port making from grape to tasting!
Often these tours include an afternoon river trip vs more wineries. What a great combination to relax after a busy morning of touring and enjoy the countryside around Porto.
These tours can be booked via your hotel, directly at the waterfront or check out Duoro Valley Wine Tasting and Day Trip Options here.
Full Day Option 2 – Beaches of Porto
There are several beaches close by – some are rocky, others more sandy. We hired bikes for the day and took our time exploring several along the coast.
The closest ones in a district called Foz do Douro are rocky but head further on to Matosinhos Beach, you’ll find more sand. There is a promenade to walk along on both these beaches with cafes and restaurants.
Evening . Porto and its bridges are stunning at night. So whether you enjoy dinner as part of an evening river cruise or watch the sunset from a waterfront restaurant, evenings in Porto are very chilled.
Enjoy a meal down by Riberia and soak up the atmosphere. Fado musicians often play around here so it is lively but at the same time relaxing.
Day 6 – Sights To See In Porto
After indulging in a Porto version of Pastel de nata, or a Bola de berlim (egg custard doughnut!) you’re ready for more exploring around Porto.
Morning. There are a lot of ideas on our list for today. So, maybe pick your order from this list of unique sights based on where you’re staying, your energy and available time. Make your way to Avenida does Aliados to start:
Avenida dos Aliados (Avenue of the Allies) is part of the central square in Porto. Here you will find many impressive buildings with incredible sculptures that seem to leap from the facades and roofs. Don’t be surprised to see a Macdonald’s which has been cited as the most ‘beautiful one in the world’ with its art deco stained window and period chandeliers inside!
Clerigos Church Tower – Admire this granite and marble bell tower and decide if you want to head to the top. The climb is 240 narrow steps to reach a viewpoint of 249 feet. Entry to the church is free and 6 euros for the tower. 50% discount with the Porto Card! Get here by walking from Avenida dos Aliados.
Close to the church is the Liovraria Lello & Irmao bookshop considered by some to be the most beautiful bookshop in Europe! Built in 1906, it meanders over two floors with an elegant wooden and red velvet staircase connecting the floors. You will have to pay to enter but this is refunded if you buy a book of that value (around 8euros)
Porto Cathedral National Monument
Porto Cathedral is located in the historic center of the city. It’s interesting because it was constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries but was rebuilt and renovated several times over the years. Hence it has a mix of architectural styles with emphasis on Baroque. Now a National Monument you will find it located at Terreiro da Se.
Picnic in the Palace Gardens
Location: Rua Don Manuel 11 – Cordoaria District.
If you’re looking for some green space, head to the beautiful Jardins do Palacio de Cristal (Crystal Palace Gardens).
These gardens sit on a higher area of Porto which is a bonus! As well as wonderful gardens, you’ll get amazing views of the city, the mouth of the Douro. You will even see the Atlantic Ocean.
Alternatively find yourself a cafe for lunch and if you enjoyed the sardines (sardinhas grelhadas) in Lisbon, why not try them here too. If you’re here in June when it’s Popular Saints celebrations, this dish is everywhere!
Railways and Cable Cars In Porto
Sao Bento Railway Station
A railway station might not sound that exciting but it is one of the most beautiful! Set on the site of a former monastery it is totally unique.
Inside the main hall 20,000 tiles reflect the history of Portugal. It’s also where you catch the train for day trips to the Douro Valley or other picturesque villages close by.
Take to the Air in Porto
View the city from the cable car. Although this is a very short ride, it’s fun and the views are fabulous.
Fado Show/dinner. After a full day of exploring Port, don’t leave without taking in a Fado Music show. Many say Fado is to Lisbon and Porto as Flamenco is to Seville, Spain. It’s certainly one of the oldest urban music genres in the world and a truly emotional performance. Most shows last around an hour and you can enjoy Portugal’s traditional music whilst sipping a farewell Porto wine!
Wrap Up – Week In Lisbon and Porto
You may just have time to squeeze in a couple more things you missed from our above itinerary before it’s time to head home. There are so many things to do in Lisbon and Porto that a 7 day visit may just be the start.
The combination of smaller cities, rambling old districts, beloved Fado music and traditions like ceramics meld together to make Lisbon and Porto fantastic destinations.
If you enjoy motorcycle trips check out this guide to Portugal and Spain by Motorcycle for route and trip itinerary ideas.