One-Day Itinerary in Porto (2024): Experience Porto Like a Local

While a single day might seem short, a one-day itinerary in Porto is enough to see some of the city’s most important landmarks and soak in its unique atmosphere. As a mindful traveler committed to sustainable living, you can explore the city on foot. Here’s a one-day itinerary to experience Porto like a local.

Getting to Porto

Porto is easily accessible by air, train, bus, and car. Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport offers international connections with a direct metro to the city center. High-speed trains from Lisbon take about 3 hours, and various bus services connect Porto with other Portuguese cities and Spain. While driving is an option, consider using public transportation due to ongoing metro expansion and street construction.

One-Day Itinerary in Porto

Breakfast at Manteigaria: Enjoy a Pastel de Nata

No trip to Porto is complete without trying a pastel de nata. Start your day by making your way to Manteigaria, located in Rua Formosa near Mercado do Bolhão, for one of the best custard tarts in the city. Savor this delicious treat with a cup of coffee or a meia de leite. Manteigaria’s pastel de nata is famous for its perfectly crispy crust and creamy filling, making it a must-visit spot for any foodie.

Visit A Pérola do Bolhão

Also located at Rua Formosa, A Pérola do Bolhão is an iconic grocery store that has been around since 1917. It offers a variety of local and traditional products that support local agriculture and reduce carbon footprints associated with imported goods. Besides, the facade of the shop is stunning and Instagrammable.

Visit Mercado do Bolhão

Next, visit Mercado do Bolhão, a historic landmark that has been open since 1914. Stroll through the stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and local delicacies. Smell the beautiful flowers. Absorb the vibrant atmosphere and maybe pick up some fresh produce or snacks to enjoy later. There are stalls selling wine by the glass and mini cheese boards. The market is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The restaurants are open until midnight. Note that the market is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Mercado do Bolhão is worth visiting for its authentic market experience and historical significance.

Stroll Down Rua de Santa Catarina

From Mercado do Bolhão, take a walk down Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s main shopping street. Along the way, you’ll encounter various shops, cafes, and street performers. This pedestrian-friendly street is perfect for a morning stroll and some window shopping. If you are into thrifting, check my post on the Best Secondhand Stores in Porto. Some of the stores are located in Santa Catarina or nearby.

Admire Capela das Almas

As you continue down Rua de Santa Catarina, you’ll come across the Capela das Almas, known for its stunning blue and white tile facade. Take a moment to admire the beautiful azulejos. Capela das Almas is worth visiting for its breathtaking exterior, showcasing traditional Portuguese tile art.

Lunch at Casa Guedes Tradicional

After some shopping, walk to Casa Guedes for lunch. I recommend walking all the way until the end of Santa Catarina street where you will find Church of Saint Ildefonso. This church also has white and blue tiles and is very charming. Then make your way to Casa Guedes. This popular spot is renowned for its pork sandwiches. You need to order inside first then grab a seat and enjoy. Best sandwich is the Roasted Pork Leg with Sheep Cheese Sandwich. I like to have it with a fino (beer). Casa Guedes is a must-visit for its delicious and affordable local cuisine.

If you prefer a vegan option, I recommend Kind Kitchen. My favorite burger is the Beyond Meat, and it is beyond amazing. Kind Kitchen offers creative and tasty vegan dishes that will impress anyone.

Dessert at Venham Mais 5

For dessert, head to Venham Mais 5, a charming place known for its traditional Portuguese sweets. It’s the perfect way to cap off your meal with something sweet. You need to try the chocolate cake.

Admire the Tiles at São Bento Station

Next, head towards São Bento Station, a short walk from Praça dos Poveiros. This train station is famous for its breathtaking tile work that tells the story of Portugal’s history. It’s a must-see for any visitor to Porto. The train station has been considered several times one of the most beautiful in the world. São Bento Station is an architectural marvel and an important historical site.

Walk Through Base and Admire Clérigos Tower

Head to Base, a lovely urban garden located near the Clérigos Tower. This green space is perfect for a relaxing walk or for sitting down and taking in what you’ve seen of Porto so far. Don’t miss the chance to admire the Clérigos Tower, one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. You can also pay to visit inside but if you have a short time, I don’t recommend it. Base and the Clérigos Tower offer a tranquil escape in the heart of the city, with stunning views and historical significance.

Note: You will be very close to the famous bookstore that supposedly inspired J.K. Rowling – Livraria Lello. There are normally very long queues to visit. If you really want to visit, I recommend buying the ticket in advance and being prepared to wait in line.

Wine Tasting in Porto

The afternoon calls for a wine tasting session in Porto. Several wine bars and shops in the city center offer tastings of both local and port wines. This allows you to savor the flavors of the region. I recommend Wine Quay Bar. Enjoy a glass of wine—or several—while admiring Dom Luís I Bridge. Wine tasting in Porto is a fantastic way to sample the region’s renowned wines and relax in beautiful surroundings.

Note: If you have the time to visit a Cellar, check out Calém and Sandeman. Located in the other side of the bridge, the Caves do Vinho do Porto normally offer a visit to the wineries and museums plus the wine tasting.

Stroll Through Ribeira and Admire the Dom Luís I Bridge

If you opted for Wine Quay Bar, you are already in the Ribeira area. Stroll along the riverfront and take in the views. Ribeira is one of Porto’s most picturesque areas, perfect for a leisurely walk and stunning river views.

Dinner at Café Santiago for Francesinha

In July, the sunset happens at around 9 PM. Therefore, I recommend grabbing dinner before our last stop at Jardim do Morro. However, if you are visiting later in the year, I would watch the sunset first and then go grab dinner. Café Santiago is famous for its Francesinha, a traditional Portuguese sandwich with a special sauce. This hearty dish is a must-try for any visitor to Porto. If you are in the Ribeira area, it should take you less than 30 minutes to go back to Praça dos Poveiros area for dinner. If you are already getting tired, I would suggest taking an Uber at this point—remembering that there is construction happening all over the city. Café Santiago is the place to go for a taste of Porto’s iconic Francesinha.

Sunset at Jardim do Morro

For a breathtaking sunset, make your way across the river to Jardim do Morro. This park offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River, making it an ideal spot to unwind and take in the sunset. Make sure you check at what time the sunset takes place. You can refer to this website: Sunrise and Sunset Times. Pro tip: grab yourself a drink before getting there as you can find them much cheaper in any supermarket or grocery store. The place will be crowded as it is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and meet friends. If you don’t really want to try the Francesinha, you can bring a blanket and just have a picnic with a view at Jardim do Morro. Jardim do Morro is the perfect place to end your day with a spectacular sunset and a relaxing atmosphere. If you are lucky, you will get to enjoy live music.

One-Day Itinerary Map: Essential Stops in Porto

Make the Most of One Day in Porto

This walkable itinerary ensures you experience the best of Porto in one day: historic sites, local delicacies, breathtaking views, and cultural landmarks. Even with a limited amount of time, Porto’s charm and beauty make it a worthwhile destination. Enjoy your journey through this beautiful city!