Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that make it an ideal destination for a family trip to Portugal. From iconic landmarks and charming neighborhoods to delicious cuisine and stunning river views, Porto provides a captivating experience for both kids and adults. In this 3-day Porto itinerary, we will guide you through an unforgettable family adventure in Porto.
From exploring historical sites and indulging in local delicacies to selecting family-friendly accommodations and the best time to visit, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
3 Days in Porto
Day 1: Exploring Porto’s Historical Treasures
Morning:
- Start your day at the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Take a scenic boat ride on the Douro River for a unique perspective of Porto’s iconic bridges.
- Head to the Dom Luís I Bridge and cross to Vila Nova de Gaia for breathtaking views of the city.
Afternoon:
- Visit Livraria Lello, a magical bookstore that inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
- Enjoy a delightful lunch at Rua das Flores, a vibrant street filled with restaurants and cafes.
- Explore the São Bento Train Station and marvel at its exquisite azulejo tilework depicting historical scenes.
Evening:
- Dine at Cantinho do Avillez, offering a diverse menu to suit all tastes.
- Head back to Ribeira and take a leisurely evening stroll along the riverfront.
- Stay at Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel, a family-friendly hotel with stunning views of the Douro River.
Day 2: Family Fun and Cultural Delights
Morning:
- Begin your day at the Sea Life Porto Aquarium, where kids can discover marine life up close.
- Explore the Serralves Museum and its beautiful gardens, perfect for leisurely walks.
- Have a picnic at Parque da Cidade, Porto’s largest urban park.
Afternoon:
- Visit the World of Discoveries museum, providing an interactive journey through Portugal’s maritime history.
- Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Mercado Beira-Rio, a riverside food market with a variety of cuisines.
- Discover Porto’s sweet side at Natas D’Ouro, a bakery famous for its pastéis de nata.
Evening:
- Head to Matosinhos and relax at Praia de Matosinhos, a family-friendly beach.
- Dine at O Gaveto, a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches.
- Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Porto’s Hidden Gems and Culinary Delights
Morning:
- Visit the Lello Bookshop in the early morning to avoid crowds.
- Take a short walk to the Clerigos Tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Discover the hidden gem of Miradouro da Vitória for stunning vistas.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at Casa Guedes, famous for its tasty pork sandwiches.
- Visit the Crystal Palace Gardens for a relaxing family picnic.
- Explore Porto’s charming streets and indulge in gelato from Santini.
Evening:
- Dine at Casa Vasco, a traditional Portuguese restaurant in the heart of Porto.
- Take a scenic tram ride on Tram Line 1 and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
- End your evening with a family walk at Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.
Porto’s enchanting cityscape, rich history, and delightful cuisine make it an ideal destination for families seeking an unforgettable vacation. This 3-day itinerary offers a well-rounded experience, combining cultural exploration, scenic vistas, and delightful culinary experiences suitable for all ages. From the picturesque Ribeira district to the historical treasures of Livraria Lello and São Bento Train Station, each day is carefully planned to ensure an enjoyable and immersive experience for your family.
Things to Do in Porto With Kids
From interactive museums and enchanting boat rides to scenic parks and sweet treats, Porto has something for every young adventurer. Here are some exciting things to do in Porto with kids:
- Sea Life Porto Aquarium: Dive into an underwater world and get up close to marine creatures at this fascinating aquarium, a perfect educational experience for kids.
- World of Discoveries: Embark on a thrilling interactive journey through Portugal’s maritime history, where kids can be explorers and learn about famous explorations.
- Douro River Boat Ride: Take a boat ride along the Douro River, offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic bridges and a unique perspective of Porto’s beauty.
- Serralves Museum and Gardens: Let kids roam freely in these beautiful gardens, with art installations and open spaces for playing and picnicking.
- Parque da Cidade: Porto’s largest urban park is ideal for families, offering playgrounds, walking trails, and open spaces for leisurely family activities.
- Crystal Palace Gardens: Explore this peaceful park with picturesque views of the city and plenty of room for kids to run around and enjoy the fresh air.
- Porto Tram Line 1: Hop on the historic tram and take a scenic ride through the city, a fun and nostalgic experience for kids and adults alike.
- Ribeira Square: Wander around the charming Ribeira district, where kids can watch street performers and enjoy the lively ambiance.
- Praia de Matosinhos: Head to Matosinhos Beach for a family-friendly day of sun, sand, and sea.
- Natas D’Ouro: Indulge in Portugal’s famous pastéis de nata, a delightful treat for the whole family.
Where to Eat in Porto With Kids
Porto boasts a diverse culinary scene, and families with kids can enjoy a range of delicious dining options. From traditional Portuguese cuisine to international flavors, here are some family-friendly restaurants and eateries in Porto:
- RIB: This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and serves mouthwatering burgers, ideal for satisfying kids’ appetites.
- O Diplomata: Treat your kids to a delightful brunch experience with a variety of sweet and savory pancakes.
- Casa Guedes: Try the famous pork sandwiches, “Prego no Pão,” a local favorite that kids will surely enjoy.
- Mercado Beira-Rio: Located by the riverside, this market offers a diverse selection of food from various vendors, catering to different tastes.
- Natas D’Ouro: Indulge in Portugal’s famous pastéis de nata, a delightful treat for the whole family.
- Zenith Brunch & Cocktails: A great spot for brunch, offering a range of dishes, including delicious French toast.
- Capa Negra II: A friendly restaurant offering generous portions of traditional Portuguese dishes suitable for families.
- Casa Vasco: Savor authentic Portuguese cuisine in a cozy ambiance, with dishes that appeal to both adults and kids.
Best Areas to Stay in Porto
Porto, a vibrant city with a rich history and stunning landscapes, offers a variety of neighborhoods for travelers to stay in, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Porto:
- Ribeira: Located along the Douro River, Ribeira is Porto’s historic heart. Staying here offers picturesque river views, colorful buildings, and easy access to many landmarks and attractions.
- Baixa: Porto’s downtown area, Baixa, is a bustling district with lively streets, shops, and restaurants. It is an excellent choice for those who want to be in the heart of the city’s action.
- Cedofeita: This trendy and bohemian neighborhood is known for its artistic vibe, independent shops, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great area for those seeking a more alternative experience.
- Foz do Douro: Situated by the sea, Foz do Douro offers a relaxed and upscale ambiance. It’s an ideal option for families or couples looking for a tranquil stay with easy access to the beach.
- Boavista: Boavista is a modern and residential area with plenty of green spaces, making it a good choice for those seeking a quieter stay while still being close to the city center.
- Vila Nova de Gaia: While technically across the river from Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is an excellent area for port wine enthusiasts and those seeking beautiful views of Porto’s skyline.
- Santo Ildefonso: This central neighborhood offers a mix of traditional and contemporary features, with many local shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
- Miragaia: Known for its narrow streets and historical charm, Miragaia is an authentic neighborhood with plenty of character and easy access to Ribeira.
- Sé: The Sé area surrounds Porto’s cathedral and is a great choice for those seeking a tranquil stay with easy access to the city’s main attractions.
- Campanhã: If you’re arriving by train, Campanhã is a convenient area to stay in, offering excellent transport links to other parts of Porto and beyond.
Best Time to Visit Porto
The best time to visit Porto is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Here are the advantages of visiting Porto during these times:
Spring (March to May):
- The city comes alive with blooming flowers and green landscapes, creating a picturesque atmosphere.
- The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- There are fewer tourists, allowing you to explore Porto’s attractions without the large crowds.
- Accommodation prices are more affordable compared to the peak summer season.
Fall (September to November):
- The weather remains mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), providing comfortable conditions for exploring the city.
- Porto celebrates its annual wine harvest, and you can witness the traditional grape stomping at the vineyards in the Douro Valley.
- Fall foliage adds charm to the city, making it a perfect time for scenic walks along the riverfront and in the parks.
- Like in the spring, accommodation prices are more budget-friendly compared to the peak summer months.
Although summer (June to August) can be a popular time to visit Porto due to its festivals and beach weather, it can also be quite crowded and hot, with temperatures reaching 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). If you prefer a more relaxed and pleasant experience, consider visiting Porto during the shoulder seasons. However, regardless of the time of year, Porto’s unique charm and cultural offerings will captivate you and ensure a memorable visit.
How Long to Stay in Porto
The ideal duration for a stay in Porto depends on your travel preferences, interests, and the experiences you wish to have in the city. While a short visit of 2 to 3 days can provide a taste of Porto’s highlights, a longer stay of 4 to 5 days allows for a more immersive and relaxed experience. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how long to stay in Porto:
- Sightseeing: If you want to visit the city’s main attractions, such as Ribeira, Livraria Lello, São Bento Train Station, and the Dom Luís I Bridge, a 2 to 3-day stay can be sufficient.
- Wine Tasting: Porto is famous for its port wine, and if you plan to explore the cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, attend wine tours, or visit vineyards in the Douro Valley, consider extending your stay to 4 or more days.
- Relaxation: For a more laid-back experience and time to explore the city at a leisurely pace, a 4 to 5-day stay allows you to savor the ambiance of Porto, stroll along the riverfront, and enjoy its parks and gardens.
- Day Trips: If you wish to take day trips to nearby towns and attractions, such as Guimarães, Braga, or Aveiro, consider adding an extra day for each day trip you plan.
- Festivals and Events: If you want to participate in specific festivals or events happening during your visit, such as São João Festival in June or wine-related events, factor those into your itinerary and stay duration.
Ultimately, spending a week in Porto allows you to strike a good balance between sightseeing, experiencing the local culture, and taking day trips to nearby destinations. Whether you choose a shorter or longer stay, Porto’s captivating atmosphere, historical charm, and delicious cuisine will leave you with lasting memories of this enchanting city.
Getting Around Porto
Getting around Porto is relatively easy and convenient, thanks to its well-developed public transportation system and walkable city center. Here are the various transportation options available for getting around Porto:
- Metro: Porto’s metro system is efficient and connects major areas of the city. There are six metro lines, covering most tourist attractions and popular neighborhoods.
- Tram: The historic tram line 1 takes a scenic route along the riverfront and is a must-try experience. It connects Ribeira to Foz do Douro, passing through many landmarks.
- Bus: Porto has an extensive bus network that complements the metro system, providing coverage to areas not directly served by the metro.
- Walking: Porto’s city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore attractions like Ribeira, Sé, and Clerigos Tower on foot.
- Funiculars and Elevators: To navigate the city’s steep slopes, you can use the Funicular dos Guindais or the Dom Luís I Bridge elevator, which connects the upper and lower parts of Porto.
- Taxis and Rideshare: Taxis are readily available in Porto, and rideshare services like Uber are also available for convenient transportation.
- River Cruises: To explore the Douro River and enjoy beautiful views of Porto’s skyline, consider taking a river cruise, which also includes tours to nearby wineries.
- Hop-on-hop-off Bus: A tourist-friendly option is the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus, providing an overview of the city’s main attractions with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
- Biking: Porto offers bike rentals and dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a great way to explore the city’s streets and parks.
For public transportation, consider purchasing the Andante card, which can be used for all modes of transport, including metro, buses, and trams. The card can be loaded with credit and used for multiple passengers, making it a cost-effective option for families or groups. With a combination of these transportation options, you can easily navigate Porto and make the most of your visit to this captivating city.
How to Get to Porto
Porto is well-connected to major cities in Portugal and other European destinations, offering various transportation options for travelers. Here’s how to get to Porto:
By Air:
- Porto is served by Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), which is located approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) northwest of the city center.
- Many airlines operate direct flights to Porto from major European cities, making it convenient for international travelers.
- From the airport, you can take a metro, bus, taxi, or rideshare service to reach the city center.
By Train:
- Porto is well-connected to other cities in Portugal via the train network.
- The city’s main train station is Porto Campanhã, which serves domestic and international routes.
- From Lisbon, you can take a direct train to Porto, which offers a comfortable and scenic journey.
By Bus:
- Several bus companies operate routes to Porto from various cities in Portugal and neighboring countries.
- The main bus station in Porto is the Batalha Bus Station, located in the city center.
By Car:
- If you prefer driving, Porto can be easily reached by car from other cities in Portugal and neighboring countries.
- Major highways connect Porto to Lisbon, Braga, and other cities.
- Rental cars are available at the airport and other locations in Porto.
By Boat:
- Porto is a popular cruise destination, and some cruise lines include Porto in their itineraries.
- Cruise ships dock at Leixões Cruise Terminal, located in the nearby town of Matosinhos, which is well-connected to Porto by public transportation.
By Train (from Lisbon):
- If you are already in Lisbon, you can take a train to Porto from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Lisbon Oriente train stations.
- The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the type of train.
By Bus (from Lisbon):
- Buses also operate between Lisbon and Porto, with the journey taking around 3 to 4 hours.
By Plane (from Lisbon):
- If you prefer flying, there are frequent flights from Lisbon to Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
No matter your starting point, Porto offers various transportation options to make your journey to this captivating city convenient and enjoyable.
In Porto, you can discover a perfect balance between family-friendly activities, cultural enrichment, and ample time to unwind and enjoy the city’s vibrant ambiance. Remember to adapt the itinerary to your family’s preferences and pace, leaving room for spontaneity and relaxation. Porto’s charm will captivate both kids and adults, leaving you with cherished memories of this exceptional Portuguese city.
