Sip, stroll, and savor the best of Portugal’s northern gem
Explore the essential highlights of Portugal with this exciting eight day trip with Europe Express.
Insider’s Guide to Porto
Porto may be Portugal’s second-largest city, but it easily competes for first place when it comes to charm, culture, and unforgettable views. With its colorful riverfront, tile-covered landmarks, and world-renowned wine culture, Porto is much more than a pit stop—it’s a destination worthy of a deeper dive. Whether your clients are visiting for the first time or returning for another taste, here’s everything they need to see, do, and savor.
What to See and Do
From riverside strolls and tile-adorned train stations to panoramic bridge climbs and modern art gardens, Porto is packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether travelers are exploring historic landmarks or cruising the Douro River, the city offers a perfect balance of culture, beauty, and adventure. (We have plenty of sightseeing tours for this destination you can explore here, but some of our favorites are the Porto city full day tour, private Douro Valley 4×4 tour, and Aveiro and Costa Nova morning tour.)
Stroll the Ribeira
Porto’s lively riverfront is a must. Lined with colorful houses, restaurants, and cafés, the Ribeira is perfect for soaking in views of the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
Visit Livraria Lello
This legendary bookstore is a visual feast—its ornate staircase and stained-glass ceiling are straight out of a fairytale (and a major inspiration for Harry Potter fans).
Climb the Arrábida Bridge
For panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River, book a bridge climb at sunset—it’s an epic way to see the city.
Admire São Bento’s Azulejos
The São Bento Train Station features more than 20,000 azulejo tiles, each one telling a piece of Portuguese history.
Cruise the Douro
Hop on a river cruise to see the city from the water—it’s peaceful, picturesque, and a great way to connect Porto’s past and present.
Climb the Clérigos Tower
If you’re up for it, the 200-step climb rewards you with one of the best views in town.
Explore Serralves
This sprawling park and modern art museum is the perfect place to wander through gardens, galleries, and sculpture-filled lawns.
What to Taste
Porto’s culinary scene is as bold as its architecture. Guests can sip world-famous Port wine, sample local favorites like the indulgent francesinha, and enjoy fresh seafood or a warm pastel de nata—all while discovering the city’s rich gastronomic traditions. (Check-out our local food tour with lunch or our secret food guided walking tour).
Port Wine
You can’t visit Porto without sampling its namesake. Head to renowned wine cellars like Graham’s or Taylor’s for a tasting.
Vinho Verde
This slightly sparkling, ultra-refreshing white wine is a local favorite—especially on warm afternoons.
Francesinha
Porto’s signature sandwich is a meat-lover’s dream: layers of cured meats, melted cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce.
Pastel de Nata
Portugal’s beloved custard tart is best enjoyed warm, with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Fresh Seafood
Grilled sardines and bacalhau (salt cod) are regional staples—simple, flavorful, and best enjoyed at a seaside restaurant.
Insider’s Tip
Don’t limit the Douro Valley to just a day trip. Spend at least two nights to truly soak in the region’s quiet beauty—sunsets over the terraced vineyards are unforgettable. Visit in late spring (April–June) or early fall (mid-September) for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and (in September) the chance to witness the grape harvest in full swing.
Best Time to Visit
Porto is beautiful year-round, but May to June and September to October offer the perfect mix of pleasant weather and fewer tourists. July and August are peak travel months, but hotel rates and crowds can spike. Shoulder season brings more affordability—and still plenty of sunshine.
Common Misconception
Many travelers assume Porto is only worth a short stop, but that’s a missed opportunity. Between the riverside neighborhoods, local eateries, nearby beach towns, and easy access to the Douro Valley, Porto makes an ideal base for a longer, slower-paced Portuguese escape.
Culture & Etiquette Tip
Portuguese people are warm and welcoming, but they also value politeness. A friendly “Bom dia” (good morning) or “Boa tarde” (good afternoon) goes a long way. When dining, keep your hands visible on the table and wait for your host to say “Bom apetite” before starting—it’s a simple sign of respect that helps guests blend in with ease.
How Europe Express Can Help
Europe Express makes it simple for advisors to book an unforgettable Porto experience with:
- Customized itineraries tailored to each client’s style and budget
- Exclusive hotel options, from boutique city stays to scenic Douro Valley quintas and castles
- Self-drive packages and car rental support
- Expert-led tours, wine tastings, and Douro River cruises
- 24/7 in-destination support for smooth, worry-free travel
Let us handle the logistics so your clients can focus on discovering the best of Northern Portugal.
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