Best of Porto One Day Porto Itinerary With Tips + Map

Trying to figure out how to cram all the cool stuff to see Porto in one day? This 1 day Porto Itinerary covers a lot of ground in a realistic order to see as many main attractions as possible.

However, to manage this busy itinerary in Porto, especially if you’re trying to cover a lot in one day, you’ll need one key thing: stamina.

Porto is a city of hills, steps, and inclines that will challenge even the fittest of travelers!

If mobility is compromised the best way to explore Porto in 24 hours would be by day tour on a tuk-tuk or bus to reach these major attractions more easily.

Is Porto Worth Visiting?

Porto is definitely worth visiting, especially in August! I know many people often contemplate between visiting Porto or Lisbon. And honestly they are both SO different, that if you can swing it you should visit both!

Porto offers a totally different experience than Lisbon! The only downside is the weather is most likely going to be better in Lisbon than Porto. But don’t let that stop you!

It is a city full of fantastic food, interesting history, and stunning architecture! Oh, let’s not forget, it’s the birthplace of Port wine!

Just think twice about visiting Porto in the off-season, the weather can be dreadful from December to March.

Is One Day Enough in Porto?

The short answer is no. To see ALL that Porto has to offer you need more like 4 days. But this itinerary included all those iconic spots that you don’t want to leave Porto without seeing.

The trick is to arrive early and stay organized.

1 Day Porto Morning Itinerary: Culture & Cathedrals

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9:00 – Igreja Parochial de Santo Ildefonso

Let’s start our 1 day in Porto at one of the most famous cathedrals in Porto, the Igreja Parochial de Santo Ildefonso.

The Church of Saint Ildefonso is open daily from 9 am to 12:15 pm, closes briefly till 3 pm, and opens again till 5:15/6:30 pm depending on the day.

Admission here is free. You only need around 15-20 minutes to explore than magnificent church before heading on over to your next stop.

10:00 – Igreja e Torre dos Clérigos

After your visit, walk the 11 minutes (downhill woo-hoo) to Clérigos Tower.

Prepare to spend a bit more time here exploring this Baroque church and bell tower.

The church itself is free to enter, but you will need a ticket to enter the bell tower and Clérigos Museum. Also, I recommend you have water. It came in handy for me when I finally made it to the top!

The ticket should cost €8 and is well worth visiting for the cost of the admission.

Even if you don’t want to climb to the church’s top, it is worth getting a ticket and enjoying the museum.

Once you’ve explored the church, I recommend ascending to the top of the bell tower and enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of Porto from the top.

The climb might be a bit challenging for some with its narrow and steep steps, but the reward at the end, I thought, made it totally worth it.

11:00 – Igreja do Carmo & Igreja dos Carmelitas

Next, walk the 6-minute walk to the Igreja do Carmo, the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls). Admission here is €5, cash only!

I spent around 20 minutes exploring the stunning interiors of this remarkable Baroque architecture.

This church is famous for its blue and white ceramic tiles that tell a religious story of cultural significance.

After you’ve had your fill of the interiors, pop on out to the exterior and have a look at the side wall, covered in azulejo tiles. It is the perfect spot for photos.

12:00 Porto Cathedral & Palace

Next up on the one-day Porto itinerary is the Porto Cathedral and Palace.

From Ingreja do Carmo it’s a 14-minute walk some of it downhill before ending in an incline up to the Cathedral.

You could easily spend an hour here exploring the grounds, and Cathedral and then going into the palace for a self-guided tour.

The entrance to the Cathedral itself is free, but if you want access to the Cloister it is 3 €.

For those wondering, a Cloister is a covered walkway in religious buildings, surrounded by a quadrangle, traditionally used for meditation and prayer, characterized by an open arcade lining the central courtyard.

After the Cathedral you can go across to the Palace of the Stock Exchange, known as Palácio da Bolsa, where you’ll be treated to a blend of neoclassical and Moorish Revival architecture, featuring the exquisite Arab Room, a testament to Porto’s rich history and cultural diversity.

The tickets, including a glass of port, are 10€.

13:00 Lunch at Português de Gema

For a traditional lunch in Porto, a great place is Português de Gema which is located in the Largo da Pena Ventosa neighborhood.

From the Cathedral it is about a 10-minute walk. I recommend you book a table in advance which can be done online.

At Português de Gema, you’ll discover a menu that marries traditional Portuguese flavors with contemporary flair, offering a variety of dishes that cater to all palates, including vegetarian options. There are fewer options for vegan food here, unfortunately.

Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, or a plant-based dish, this restaurant provides a memorable dining experience with its selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

Its proximity to the Cathedral and the charm of the Largo da Pena Ventosa neighborhood make it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch after exploring Porto’s historic sights.

Porto Afternoon Itinerary: Riverfront & Wineries

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15:00 Cross the Dom Luís Bridge to Gaia

Next, you can walk off your lunch by heading down to the riverfront and quickly exploring The Ribeira Square (Cais da Ribeira). I would plan to just spend 20 minutes or so exploring the street vendors and soaking in the exciting atmosphere.

Eventually find your way to the bridge you walk across to get to Gaia (Vila Nova de Gaia). It’s called the Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte de Dom Luís I).

This iconic double-decked metal arch bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia.

15:45 Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau

After wandering the charming streets make a pit stop at Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau.

This cozy spot is a must-visit for foodies looking to indulge in a quintessential Portuguese treat.

Their specialty, the pastel de bacalhau (codfish cake), is a heavenly concoction of flaky cod blended with creamy cheese, offering a mouthwatering taste of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage.

It’s the perfect savory snack to fuel your adventures through Porto, especially when paired with a glass of local wine.

Trust me, it’s a simple yet unforgettable culinary experience that you’ll want to savor again and again.

16:30 Calem Port Winery Tasting

That’s right, it’s time for more port wine tasting, I mean you are in Porto after all! And like they say, when in Rome…

There are over 50 port wine cellars, lodges, and tasting rooms in the greater Gaia area! I know that sounds overwhelming. The best ones include Sandeman, Taylor’s, Graham’s, and Cálem.

I personally suggest taking a tour of Cálem. They’ve got everything from the super fresh whites to those really rich aged tawnies.

When you go for a tasting, it’s like going on a mini adventure where you learn all about how these wines are made and get to try some really good ones.

The folks there are super friendly and know their stuff, so you end up learning a bunch while having a great time.

It’s the perfect spot to chill, taste some amazing ports, and just soak in those good Portuguese vibes. Learn more about booking a tasting here.

18:00 Cable Car Ride to Jardim do Morro

Taking a cable car ride to the top of the Dom Luís I Bridge area takes you to the Jardim do Morro and the Serra do Pilar in Vila Nova de Gaia.

The cable car, known as the Teleférico de Gaia, provides a stunning panoramic view of Porto, the Douro River, and the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. The ride itself is cheap at 7€ one way.

I suggest taking the ride at this time of night so you can catch the sun setting over the city.

Check out the Jardim do Morro, with views of the Mosteiro da Serra and of the city itself.

19:30 Fado Restaurant Aniki

End your one day in Porto at a traditional Fado restaurant Aniki. You can make reservations online!

As you dine on classic Portuguese dishes, let the melancholic melodies and heartfelt performances by talented Fadistas transport you into the very heart of Portuguese culture.

This experience combines the flavors of the local cuisine with the emotional depth of Portugal’s most iconic musical expression.

It’s an evening where every note and every bite tells a story, leaving you with memories that linger long after the night ends!

What You Might Miss If You Only Have One Day in Porto

As I mentioned at the start, something like a 3 day itinerary in Porto is more reasonable. But since all we had was 24 hours in Porto, I had to leave some stuff out.

This 1 day in Porto itinerary is missing the following attractions:

1. Livraria Lello: One of the world’s most beautiful bookshops, known for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and rumored to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. You will need tickets to visit. I tried to casually walk up to Livraria Lello and was turned away and scared off by the intense queue to get in.
2. São Bento Railway Station: Famous for its impressive azulejo (tile) panels depicting historical and cultural scenes of Portugal. You may São Bento train station depending on how you got to Porto.
3. Palácio de Cristal: Offers stunning gardens and panoramic views of the Douro River and the city, a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
4. Museu Serralves: A contemporary art museum set within beautiful gardens, showcasing modern art, architecture, and landscapes.
5. Mercado do Bolhão: A traditional market where you can explore local food, crafts, and culture.
6. Majestic Café: An iconic Belle Epoque café known for its opulent interior and historic significance, ideal for a coffee break.
7. Ribeira District: Although the itinerary takes you near the riverfront, more time could be spent exploring the vibrant streets and waterfront cafes of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Porto 1-Day Itinerary Tips

1. Book Ahead: To ensure a seamless experience, book your tickets online in advance for attractions like the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Fado restaurants. This saves you waiting time and secures your spot, especially important for popular sites and experiences.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Porto’s landscape is hilly, with many steps and steep streets. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must to navigate the city comfortably and to make the most of your day exploring.
3. Optimize Your Route: Your itinerary suggests a realistic order of attractions that minimizes backtracking and makes efficient use of your time. Follow a well-planned route to cover as much ground as possible without exhausting yourself.
4. Embrace Public Transport or Alternative Tours for Mobility Concerns: If you have mobility issues or simply want to conserve energy, consider a tuk-tuk or bus tour to reach major attractions without the strain of Porto’s inclines. This can also be a fun way to see the city from a different perspective.
5. Download Essential Travel Apps: Showing up in Portugal with an arsenal of travel apps preloaded on your phone will ensure a smoother trip!

Where to After Porto?

Looking to explore more of Portugal? I recommend a 3 day stay in the Algarve to get the full experience of its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

If you’re traveling solo, Faro makes an ideal base for exploring the south. This city not only offers its own attractions but also boasts an efficient transportation system, making it convenient for day trips around the region.

Another obvious choice is to visit the capital city of Lisbon! And if you are looking for interesting places in near Lisbon, you should check out Cascais or Sintra!

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