36 Hours in Porto, Portugal: An Unforgettable Journey

36 Hours in Porto Portugal second-largest city, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights. Nestled along the Douro River, this vibrant city offers a mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication. If you have only 36 hours to explore Porto, here’s a detailed itinerary to ensure you make the most of your stay.

Day 1: Arrival and Evening Exploration

4:00 PM: Arrive and Check-In

After arriving in Porto, head to your accommodation to check in and freshen up. Consider staying in the historic Ribeira district, known for its picturesque views of the river and close proximity to many attractions.

5:30 PM: Stroll Along the Ribeira

Start your journey with a leisurely stroll along the Ribeira. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and stunning views of the Douro River. As you walk, take in the sight of traditional rabelo boats docked along the riverbanks and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge in the background.

7:00 PM: Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant

Choose one of the many riverside restaurants for your first meal in Porto. Enjoy local specialties like bacalhau (salted codfish) or francesinha, a hearty sandwich filled with meats and covered in melted cheese and a rich tomato-beer sauce. Pair your meal with a glass of vinho verde, a refreshing young wine from the region.

9:00 PM: Evening Views from the Dom Luís I Bridge

After dinner, take a walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge. The upper level offers spectacular views of the city illuminated at night. This is also a great spot to capture some memorable photos.

Day 2: Full Day of Exploration

8:00 AM: Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Try a traditional Portuguese pastry like a pastel de nata, a creamy custard tart, accompanied by a strong espresso.

9:00 AM: Visit Livraria Chaminé da Mota

Begin your sightseeing at Livraria Chaminé da Mota, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Known for its stunning architecture and grand staircase, this bookstore is a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

10:30 AM: Climb the Clerigos Tower

Next, head to the Clerigos Tower, a Baroque bell tower offering panoramic views of Porto. Climb the 240 steps to the top and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the city and the Douro River.

11:30 AM: Explore the Igreja do Carmo

A short walk from the Clerigos Tower, you’ll find the Igreja do Carmo, a stunning church adorned with blue and white azulejos (ceramic tiles). Take some time to admire the intricate tilework and explore the interior of this historic church.

12:30 PM: Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

For lunch, visit Mercado do Bolhão, Porto’s bustling food market. Here, you can sample a variety of local delicacies such as grilled sardines, octopus salad, and cured meats. Enjoy your meal in the lively atmosphere of this traditional market.

2:00 PM: Discover the Palácio da Bolsa

After lunch, head to the Palácio da Bolsa, the former stock exchange palace. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and marvel at the opulent Arab Room, inspired by the Alhambra in Granada.

4:00 PM: Relax at Jardim do Morro

Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and relax at Jardim do Morro. This scenic park offers stunning views of Porto’s skyline and is a perfect spot to unwind before your next adventure.

5:00 PM: Wine Tasting at a Port Wine Cellar

No visit to Porto is complete without tasting its namesake wine. Visit one of the many port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, such as Sandeman, Taylor’s, or Graham’s. Take a tour to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of port wine.

7:00 PM: Dinner at a Fado Restaurant

For dinner, book a table at a Fado restaurant. Fado is a traditional Portuguese music genre characterized by its melancholic and soulful tunes. Enjoy a delicious meal while listening to live Fado performances, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Portugal.

Day 3: Final Morning in Porto

8:00 AM: Breakfast and Final Stroll

Start your final day with breakfast at a local café, savoring more Portuguese pastries and coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the city, perhaps revisiting some of your favorite spots or discovering new ones.

10:00 AM: Visit the São Bento Railway Station

Before you leave, make sure to visit the São Bento Railway Station. The station’s grand hall is adorned with over 20,000 azulejos, depicting scenes from Portuguese history. It’s a beautiful and culturally enriching stop.

11:00 AM: Explore Rua de Santa Catarina

Spend your last few hours shopping on Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s main shopping street. Here, you can find everything from high-end boutiques to traditional Portuguese crafts. Don’t forget to stop by the historic Café Majestic for a coffee or a light snack.

12:30 PM: Lunch at a Traditional Tasca

For your final meal, choose a traditional tasca (tavern) to enjoy one last taste of Portuguese cuisine. Savor dishes like caldo verde (kale soup) or grilled seafood, and toast to your unforgettable time in Porto with a glass of local wine.

2:00 PM: Depart Porto

As your 36 hours in Porto come to an end, reflect on the incredible experiences, sights, and flavors you’ve enjoyed. Whether you’re heading to the airport or catching a train, Porto will surely leave a lasting impression and a desire to return.

36 Hours in Porto, Portugal

Porto, with its blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, offers a truly unique travel experience. In just 36 hours in Porto, Portugal you can explore iconic landmarks, taste exquisite local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting city. Whether you’re wandering through historic neighborhoods, savoring port wine, or simply enjoying the scenic views along the Douro River, Porto promises an unforgettable journey.

Porto Things To Do Tours & Tickets Activities: Explore the Best Things To Do

Discover the vibrant city in 36 hours in Porto, Portugal with a curated selection of tours, tickets, and activities. Uncover the top attractions and experiences that make your visit truly memorable. Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, culinary delights, or cultural adventures, find the perfect options to enhance your Porto experience. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable journey through Porto’s best offerings. And the city top 10 restaurants.