Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Porto, Portugal for First-Time Visitors

Planning a quick trip to Porto, Portugal? This 2-day itinerary includes all the top things to do in Porto, from iconic bridges and river views to port tastings and tiled churches. Whether you’re traveling with kids or as a couple, here’s how to spend 48 hours in one of Portugal’s most charming cities.

We recently spent two nights in Porto and were immediately drawn in by its colorful buildings, steep cobbled lanes, and riverside energy. Porto is easy to navigate, full of history, and packed with delicious food, perfect for a short city break.

A brief history of Porto, Portugal

Porto, located in northern Portugal, is the country’s second-largest city and one of the oldest in Europe. It dates back to Roman times and has long been a hub of trade and culture.

The historic Ribeira district along the Douro River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city is best known as the birthplace of port wine. Its iconic blue-and-white tiled churches, narrow alleys, and terraced hillsides make it a favorite for photographers and culture lovers.

💡Good to know

We use eSIMs from Airalo when we travel internationally, so we’re online as soon as we land, no hunting for Wi-Fi or local SIMs.

In Portugal, 10GB in 15 days costs $11 (use code IRINA8735 for $3 off).

Where to stay in Porto, Portugal

The best area to stay in Porto depends on your priorities, but Ribeira, Baixa, and Cedofeita are popular choices for different reasons. Ribeira is ideal for experiencing the city’s history and picturesque streets, while Baixa offers a central location for easy access to attractions. Cedofeita is a good choice for a more local experience, focusing on art and culture.

We stayed at Cocorico Porto, a beautifully restored townhouse with French-Portuguese design elements and a warm, boutique feel. The rooms were spacious and stylish, with high ceilings and thoughtful touches. Breakfast was included and served in a sunny garden courtyard in summer and inside during colder months. It’s a great location, quiet but walkable to key sights like São Bento Station and Livraria Lello.

Day 1 in Porto: historic sights, riverside views, and port tasting

Morning: Livraria Lello, São Bento Station,Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Livraria Lello, Porto

Start your day at one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello. Known for its grand staircase, stained glass skylight, and rumored influence on J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, it’s a must-see in Porto.

The standard entry requires a timed ticket, and lines can get very long, even in the morning. Thus, we decided to get the Golden Ticket, which allowed us to skip the line and included a free book voucher (redeemable for select titles in-store). It’s a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re visiting with kids, who are happy to get a new book. You can buy it in advance directly through Livraria Lello or from select tour providers.

Note: The Livraria Lello bookstore is open every day from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

São Bento Station, Porto

From there, walk to São Bento Station, famous for its massive tile murals depicting moments in Portuguese history. It’s not just a transportation hub, it’s one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe and a perfect spot for photos.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

After, continue on to Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, an 18th-century Baroque church covered in striking blue-and-white azulejo tiles. Step inside to admire the ornate altar and traditional woodwork.

Don’t miss the small museum tucked behind the sanctuary, it offers a glimpse into the church’s history with displays of sacred art, vestments, and artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries.

💡Good to know

Wear comfortable walking shoes. Porto is a beautiful city, but it’s also very hilly, and many of the streets are narrow and cobbled, especially in the historic center. Good walking shoes with grip and support are a must. If you’re traveling with kids, bring sturdy sneakers or sandals with straps.

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Lunch at Em Canto

For lunch, we ate at Em Canto, a stylish yet laid-back restaurant with fresh takes on Portuguese cuisine. The codfish dishes are especially good. Service was warm and the setting relaxed.

Stop at O Mundo Fantástico da Sardinha Portuguesa

After lunch, pop into this whimsical shop dedicated entirely to… sardines! It’s a circus-themed, over-the-top tribute to canned sardines, packed with color, music, and nostalgia. Each tin is stamped with a birth year and historical trivia, making it a perfect souvenir for kids or family. Even if you’re not buying, it’s a must-see photo stop for travelers of all ages.

Afternoon: Ribeira and the Luís I Bridge

For your afternoon, head downhill to the Ribeira district, the city’s most colorful and atmospheric neighborhood. This is Porto’s historic waterfront, with narrow alleys, hanging laundry, and plenty of riverside cafés.

Porto has six bridges connecting it to Vila Nova de Gaia, each built in a different era to support the city’s growth and trade across the Douro River. From 19th-century iron rail bridges to modern roadways, they reflect the city’s evolution and engineering legacy.

You can walk across the double-decked Luís I Bridge, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel. The upper level offers sweeping views of both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite side.

Port Tasting at Kopke

Once across the bridge, stop for a port wine tasting at Kopke, the oldest port house in Porto, dating to 1638. The tasting room is stylish and welcoming, with knowledgeable staff guiding you through their white, ruby, and tawny ports. It’s an easy introduction to the region’s signature wine.

Children can sit and relax with juice or a snack while adults enjoy the tasting.

Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez

That evening, we dined at Cantinho do Avillez, one of Chef José Avillez’s more casual restaurants. Dishes like the tuna tartare and grilled octopus bring a modern touch to Portuguese ingredients. The atmosphere is lively but still family-friendly.

Day 2 in Porto: cruise, markets, and rooftop views

Morning: Douro River Cruise

Start the day with a Six Bridges Douro River cruise, which departs from the Ribeira area and sails under Porto’s iconic bridges. This 50-minute ride is a great way to see the city’s skyline from the water!

Book tickets online or at the quay. Boats leave frequently throughout the morning.

💡Good to know

You can take the Douro River cruise from either the Ribeira side or Vila Nova de Gaia. Boarding from the Gaia side often means fewer crowds, slightly lower prices, and the chance to find combo deals with port tastings—all while enjoying the exact same scenic route along the river.

Lunch at Bacalhau

After the cruise, we had an early lunch at Bacalhau, a relaxed riverside restaurant focusing on codfish dishes, served with a modern twist. We sat outdoors, shaded from the sun, and enjoyed cod with chickpeas and a cold glass of vinho verde.

Miradouro da Vitória

Afterward, walk up to Miradouro da Vitória, one of the best viewpoints in the city. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of the Douro River, Porto’s rooftops, and the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia across the water.

Afternoon: Mercado do Bolhão and Pastel de Nata Stop

Keep exploting Porto on foot and make your way to Mercado do Bolhão, a traditional food market where vendors sell fresh fish, flowers, meats, and regional products. It’s a good spot to pick up souvenirs like canned sardines or olive oil.

Before heading back to rest or pack, stop by Manteigaria for a freshly baked pastel de nata, Portugal’s beloved custard tart. The crisp shell and warm filling are the perfect afternoon treat.

Dinner at Casa Guedes Rooftop

We wrapped up our 2-day stay in Porto with dinner at Casa Guedes Rooftop, a relaxed spot serving the city’s iconic Francesinha, a hearty sandwich layered with cured meats, melted cheese, and covered in a spicy, beer-based sauce.

What to eat in Porto, Portugal

Here are a few must-try dishes during your visit:

• Francesinha – A decadent sandwich filled with meats, cheese, and spicy tomato-beer sauce
• Bacalhau – Salt cod prepared in countless ways
• Pork sandwich with Serra cheese – Local favorite at Casa Guedes
• Pastel de nata – Best eaten warm, with cinnamon and powdered sugar
• Port wine – Especially tawny and vintage styles

What to pack for Porto, Portugal

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light jacket or sweater (even in summer, it can get breezy)
• Layers, especially in spring or fall
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• A small day bag for snacks, water, and souvenirs

Bottom Line

Porto is a compact, walkable city packed with history, flavor, and charm, making it an ideal stop for families, couples, and first-time visitors to Portugal. With just two days, you can explore its historic Ribeira district, taste local dishes like the Francesinha, cruise the Douro River, visit iconic landmarks like Livraria Lello, and enjoy a port tasting at a centuries-old wine cellar. Our 2-day Porto itinerary helps you experience the best of the city without rushing, while leaving room for leisurely meals, scenic views, and a few unexpected finds, like a circus-themed sardine shop. Whether you’re adding Porto to a longer Portugal itinerary or planning a quick weekend getaway, this guide has you covered.