1-Day Family Adventure off Porto's Beaten Path: Relax & Explore

Porto, Portugal

1 days

Dom Luis Bridge
Chapel of Souls
Hill with old town
Blue tricycle waiting for tourist on the street
Ribeira, the old town

About Porto, Portugal

Experience the charm of Porto, Portugal, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-famous Port wine. Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of Ribeira, Porto's old town, and marvel at the colorful houses and ancient churches. Visit the iconic Livraria Lello, one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, and the stunning São Bento Railway Station, adorned with 20,000 azulejo tiles. Take a cruise along the Douro River, lined with terraced vineyards, or explore the city's vibrant food scene at the Bolhão Market. Don't miss a taste of the city's namesake Port wine at one of the many cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Porto offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it an unforgettable destination for all travelers.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Ribeira District, Douro River Boat Tour, and Foz do Douro

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets and admire the colorful houses. This area is perfect for families seeking a relaxed, non-touristic experience.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch in a local eatery in the Ribeira district. Try the famous Francesinha, a unique sandwich filled with different types of meat and covered with melted cheese and a hot tomato and beer sauce.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a boat tour along the Douro River. This is a great opportunity to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history. The tour also includes a visit to a Port wine cellar where you can learn about the production process and taste some of the best Port wines.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the Foz do Douro area, where you can enjoy fresh seafood in a local restaurant. This area is known for its beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the Foz do Douro beach. The sunset views here are breathtaking. If you're up for it, you can also visit the nearby Sea Life Porto, an aquarium that the kids will surely love.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Ribeira district

1
Ribeira district

A historic district filled with narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and stunning views of the Douro River.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Port wine cellar

2
Port wine cellar

A tour of a traditional Port wine cellar, where visitors can learn about the production process and taste different varieties of this famous Portuguese wine.

Tours
Food and Drink
Foz do Douro

3
Foz do Douro

A seaside neighborhood in Porto, known for its beaches and its upscale homes and restaurants.

Beaches
Neighborhoods
Sea Life Porto

4
Sea Life Porto

Sea Life Porto is a popular attraction in Porto, Portugal. It offers an immersive experience of the underwater world, featuring a variety of marine life from around the globe. It's an educational and entertaining destination for families and marine life enthusiasts.

Attractions
Museums
Douro River Boat Tour

5
Douro River Boat Tour

A scenic boat tour along the Douro River, offering views of the city's historic architecture and the region's beautiful vineyards.

Tours
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Francesinha

Francesinha

A popular sandwich in Porto, Portugal. It's made with bread, wet-cured ham, linguiça, fresh sausage, steak or roast meat, and covered with melted cheese and a hot thick tomato and beer sauce.

Port Wine

Port Wine

A type of sweet fortified wine which is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley in the northern provinces of Portugal. It is typically a dessert wine, but also comes in dry, semi-dry, and white varieties.

Bacalhau à Brás

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional Portuguese dish made from shredded cod, potatoes, and onions, mixed with scrambled eggs. It's a common dish in Porto and a must-try for tourists.

Pastel de Nata

Pastel de Nata

A famous Portuguese egg tart pastry, originally from Lisbon, but loved and enjoyed all over Portugal including Porto.

Tripas à Moda do Porto

Tripas à Moda do Porto

A traditional dish from Porto, made with various types of meat, offal, and white beans. The dish is closely associated with the history of the city, hence its inhabitants being known as 'tripeiros'.

Caldo Verde

Caldo Verde

A popular soup in Portuguese cuisine made of potatoes, collard greens, olive oil, and salt. Additionally, some recipes may add garlic and onion.

Polvo à Lagareiro

Polvo à Lagareiro

A traditional Portuguese dish typically made with octopus, potatoes, and lots of olive oil. It's a common dish in Porto and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines are a staple of Portuguese cuisine, particularly in the coastal city of Porto. They are typically served with a side of boiled potatoes and salad.

Vinho Verde

Vinho Verde

A type of young wine, which can be red, white or rosé, and is particularly popular in the northern regions of Portugal, including Porto.

Bifanas

A traditional Portuguese sandwich made with marinated pork cutlets, served in a bread roll. It's a popular snack in Porto.

Arroz de Pato

A traditional Portuguese dish made with duck, rice, and various seasonings. It's a common dish in Porto and a must-try for tourists.

Rabanadas

Rabanadas

A traditional Portuguese dessert similar to French toast, typically enjoyed during Christmas time but available year-round in Porto.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Porto, Portugal is during the spring months of April to June and the fall months of September and October. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history, culture, and cuisine. Additionally, the Douro Valley, famous for its wine production, is especially beautiful during these seasons.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 13

Tue

Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day

March 19

Tue

St. Joseph's Day (Santarém)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 16

Tue

Our Lady of Mércoles (Castelo Branco)

April 25

Thu

Liberty Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day (Beja)

May 12

Sun

St. Joana's Day (Aveiro)

May 20

Mon

Azores Day (Azores)

May 22

Wed

Leiria Day (Leiria)

May 23

Thu

Portalegre Day (Portalegre)

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

June 10

Mon

Portugal Day

June 13

Thu

St. Anthony's Day (regional holiday)

June 24

Mon

St. John's Day (regional holiday)

June 29

Sat

St. Peter's Day (Évora)

July 1

Mon

Madeira Day (Madeira)

July 4

Thu

St. Elizabeth's Day (Coimbra)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

August 20

Tue

Our Lady of Sorrows (Viana do Castelo)

August 22

Thu

Our Lady of Graces (Bragança)

September 7

Sat

Faro Day (Faro)

September 15

Sun

Birth of Bocage (Setúbal)

September 21

Sat

St. Matthew's Day (Viseu)

October 5

Sat

Republic Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 27

Wed

Foral of Sancho I (Guarda)

December 1

Sun

Restoration of Independence

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Porto is a compact city and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. This is a great way to see the city and take in the sights at your own pace.

The STCP (Sociedade de Transportes Colectivos do Porto) operates the city's extensive bus network. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching areas outside the city center.

Porto has three heritage tram lines that are popular with tourists. They offer a charming way to travel around the city and see the sights.

The Porto Metro is a light rail network that covers much of the city and its suburbs. It's a fast and efficient way to get around, especially for longer distances.

For trips outside of Porto, the train is a good option. Porto's main train stations, São Bento and Campanhã, offer connections to other cities in Portugal and beyond.

Taxis are plentiful in Porto and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up at taxi ranks. They offer a convenient, though more expensive, way to get around.

Uber and Bolt are available in Porto. These services offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps on your smartphone.

Porto has a growing network of bike lanes and several companies offer bike rentals. Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

The Douro River is a major feature of Porto and river cruises are a popular way to see the city. These cruises offer stunning views of Porto's riverside architecture and the surrounding countryside.

If you plan to explore the wider region around Porto, renting a car could be a good option. However, be aware that driving in Porto can be challenging due to the narrow streets and heavy traffic.

This funicular railway provides a quick connection between the Ribeira district near the river and the higher level of the city. It's also a great way to enjoy panoramic views of Porto.

For a unique perspective of Porto, consider a helicopter tour. These tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the city and its surroundings.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC 0

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Porto, Portugal as a first time visitor

1

Porto is a safe city, but like any other tourist destination, it's always wise to keep an eye on your belongings.

2

The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used in Porto is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

4

Tipping is not mandatory in Portugal, but it's customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if you're satisfied with the service.

5

Porto has a Mediterranean climate. Summers (June to September) are warm and dry with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Winters (December to February) are mild and rainy with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C).

6

Public transportation in Porto is reliable and affordable. The city has a metro system, buses, and trams. You can also use Uber or taxis.

7

Porto is a walkable city, but it's hilly. Comfortable shoes are a must.

8

Portugal uses the European two-pin plug (Type F), and the standard voltage is 230V.

9

Porto is in the Western European Time Zone (WET, GMT +0; WEST, GMT +1 in summer).

10

Tap water is safe to drink in Porto.

11

Porto is famous for its port wine. Visiting one of the city's many wine cellars is a must.

12

Traditional Portuguese food is hearty and flavorful. Try local dishes like Francesinha and Bacalhau à Brás.

13

Porto has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning.

14

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants and bars.

15

Pharmacies in Porto are well-stocked and pharmacists often speak English. Look for a green cross sign.

16

In case of emergency, dial 112. This number will connect you to police, fire, and medical services.

17

Public restrooms are not as common as in other European cities. Cafes and restaurants usually have facilities for customers.

18

Supermarkets are closed on Sundays, so plan your grocery shopping accordingly.

19

Porto has a dress code that leans towards the conservative side, especially in religious sites. It's best to avoid revealing clothing.

20

If you're planning to visit several museums or attractions, consider getting a Porto Card for unlimited public transport and discounts at various sites.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Olá

Ola

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adeus

Adoosh

Saying goodbye

Please

Por favor

Pour fah-vohr

Making a request

Thank you

Obrigado

Obri-gah-doh

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Sim

Seem

Agreeing or affirming

No

Não

Nown

Disagreeing or negating

Excuse me

Desculpe

Desh-kool-peh

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lamento

Lah-men-toh

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Fala inglês?

Fah-lah een-glesh?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Não entendo

Nown en-ten-doh

Expressing difficulty in understanding

Where is the bathroom?

Onde é o banheiro?

Onde eh o ban-yay-roh?

Asking for directions

How much does it cost?

Quanto custa?

Kwan-toh koos-tah?

Asking the price of something

I would like...

Eu gostaria...

Eh-oo goh-stah-ree-ah...

Making a request or order

Can I have the bill, please?

Posso ter a conta, por favor?

Pos-soh tehr a kon-tah, pour fah-vohr?

Asking for the bill in a restaurant

Help!

Socorro!

So-ko-roh!

In case of emergency

Call the police!

Chame a polícia!

Shah-meh a po-lee-see-ah!

In case of emergency

I need a doctor

Preciso de um médico

Preh-see-zoh deh oon meh-dee-koo

In case of medical emergency

Cheers!

Saúde!

Sah-ood!

Making a toast

Good morning

Bom dia

Bom dee-ah

Morning greeting

Good night

Boa noite

Boa noyt

Evening or night greeting

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Sweater or light jacket

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat or cap

  • Swimsuit (if planning to visit the beach)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Face mask

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter (if coming from a country with different plug type)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Porto

  • Map of Porto

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Umbrella or raincoat (just in case)

  • Backpack or daypack

Weather Conditions

When visiting Porto, Portugal, it's important to be aware of the city's weather patterns to make the most of your trip. Porto experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months (June to September), expect temperatures to range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). This is the perfect time for outdoor activities like wine tours, beach visits, and exploring the city's historic sites. However, it's advisable to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. In contrast, the winter months (December to February) are cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (5°C to 15°C). If you're visiting during this period, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof shoes, as you may encounter rain. Despite the rain, winter can be a great time to visit Porto's indoor attractions like its famous wine cellars and museums. The shoulder seasons - spring (March to May) and autumn (October and November) - offer mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These periods are ideal for sightseeing and enjoying Porto's vibrant café culture. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Remember, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so packing a light jacket or umbrella can come in handy. Enjoy your visit to Porto!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

14° / 5°

January is the coldest month in Porto, with occasional rain, so pack warm and waterproof clothing.

February

15° / 6°

February is slightly warmer but still chilly, with a chance of rain, so warm and waterproof clothing is recommended.

March

17° / 8°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures rising slightly and rain decreasing, but still pack for cooler weather.

April

18° / 9°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and less rain, perfect for outdoor activities.

May

21° / 12°

May brings warmer temperatures and more sunshine, making it a great time for beach visits and city exploration.

June

24° / 15°

June marks the start of summer with warm temperatures, less rain, and long sunny days, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities.

July

26° / 16°

July is one of the hottest months in Porto, with plenty of sunshine and minimal rain, perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor dining.

August

26° / 16°

August is equally hot and sunny as July, with long days and warm nights, making it ideal for nightlife and beach activities.

September

24° / 14°

September sees slightly cooler temperatures but still plenty of sunshine, making it a great time for sightseeing and wine tasting.

October

21° / 12°

October brings cooler temperatures and increased rain, but it's still warm enough for outdoor activities, just pack a light raincoat.

November

18° / 9°

November sees a further drop in temperatures and increased rain, so pack warm and waterproof clothing.

December

15° / 6°

December is chilly with a chance of rain, but the festive atmosphere in Porto makes it a magical time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Porto, Portugal is known as the 'City of Bridges', with a total of six bridges crossing the Douro River?

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