Porto, also known as Oporto, is a northwest city in Portugal known for its port wine and Francesinhas, and colorful houses lining the banks of the Rio Douro. It is a short bus or train ride from Lisbon, making it perfect to visit in a weekend or 48 hours. Keep reading for my itinerary of Porto, Portugal in 48 hours.

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Weekend Itinerary for Porto, Portugal

Day 1

Stop at O Diplomata for brunch

My friends and I arrived in Porto around noon and were starving, so we stopped at O Diplomata to fuel ourselves. This restaurant is known for its pancakes and its vegan and gluten-free options. I was craving something savory and got the Rosti Burger — potato pancakes served like a burger.

Stroll down to Rio Douro (Douro River)

After checking into our hostel, the Porto Spot, we went on a walk around Porto’s historic old town (also known as Ribeira). We wandered down to the Douro River and took in the colorful houses, lively restaurants, and unique architecture. We passed the Torre dos Clérigos, a baroque bell tower, and eyed Porto’s cathedral from a distance. Eventually, we made it to Cais da Ribeira, a street that runs along the Douro River and features lively musicians, bars, and restaurants.

Try a Francesinha

The Francesinha translates directly to “little French girl,” but there are many theories as to the origin of the name. This dish is a sandwich that originates from Porto. It contains layers of beef steak, cured meat, and fresh sausages and is topped with cheese and a beer sauce. Typically, it is served with French fries. I recommend splitting one if you are traveling with other people since it is a filling sandwich. We tried one at Lado B Café (Coliseu). Our local walking tour guide also recommended Casanova 691 and Maria Odete, both of which have vegan/vegetarian options.

Go on a port wine tasting and tour at Porto Cálem

A port wine tasting is a must-do in an itinerary for Porto, Portugal. We did the tour and tasting with Porto Cálem and I highly recommend it for anyone. It was educational and the wines were fun to try.

Try traditional Porto dishes for dinner

Some foods to try during your stay in Porto include tripas à moda do Porto. This is a traditional pork stew consisting of tripe, white beans, sausage, vegetables, and herbs. Another dish is alheira, which is northern Portugal’s famous sausage and is typically served with fries, rice, and a fried egg.

Day 2

Admire the art inside São Bento Train Station

São Bento claims to be the most beautiful train station in the world, therefore making it a must-see in Porto. The azulejos (tiles) depict Portugal’s significant historic moments such as the Battle of Aljubarrota (1385) and the Battle of Arcos de Valdevez (1140). (source)

Take in Porto’s cityskape at Miradouro da Rua das Aldas

This miradouro offers panoramic views of Porto, allowing you to see the Cathedral of Porto, Douro River, and Vila Nova de Gaia. It is located next to the Igreja de São Lourenço commonly known as the Igreja dos Grilos (Cricket Church).

Visit one of the city’s parks

We stopped by Jardim do Roseiral with picturesque views. I visited in January, so the landscape isn’t as green in my pictures. In the spring, there is a beautiful rose garden. Jardins do Palácio de Cristal is a popular park known for its lovely gardens and roaming peacocks. The Porto letters were located in front of the park when I visited in January 2023, but they move location from time to time.

Support local and global artists at Ó! Galería

Ó! Galería is a colorful little gallery full of fun and unique prints and illustrations. It’s easy to spend a couple hours here browsing through all the different art pieces. The gallery is located on Rua de Miguel Bombarda, also known as Porto’s Art District due to its abundance of galleries and design boutiques.

Visit the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world

The McDonald’s Imperial is decorated with crystal chandeliers and stained glass, earning it a reputation as the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world. Previously, it was Café Imperial, a famous coffee shop that opened in the 1930s.

Stop inside the Majestic Café

Located next to McDonald’s Imperial is the Majestic Café. The locals claim that J.K. Rowling frequented this café when she lived in Porto. It used to be the meeting point for the city’s elite– writers, politicians, and artists. The coffee is rather pricey, but it’s still worth a look inside.

Browse the markets at Mercado do Bolhão

Mercado do Bolhão is a central and traditional market in Porto that features fresh produce, meat, vegetables, and flowers. It is a historic icon that should be added to your itinerary while in Porto, Portugal.

Looking for day trips from Porto? Experience the Douro Valley from a river cruise

Visiting Lisbon as well? Click here to read about 10 affordable activities in Lisbon or click here to read about my solo week in Lisbon

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