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Summary

This comprehensive guide to spending 3 perfect days in Porto, Portugal, covers everything from exploring the historic downtown areas and indulging in local cuisine to enjoying a scenic cruise on the Douro River and tasting world-renowned port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia. Conclude your visit with a memorable day trip to either the Douro Valley or the charming towns of Aveiro and Costa Nova.

🌆 Day 1: Explore Downtown Porto

Begin your Porto adventure by exploring the vibrant downtown areas of Baixa and Bolhao, filled with historic sites, iconic bookstores, and delicious local cuisine.

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📚 Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello is a famous bookstore known for its stunning Gothic style interior, dramatic red staircase, and large stained glass windows. It is rumored to be the major inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, making it a must-visit for fans.

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Tips

To avoid the crowds, consider arriving early before the bookstore opens or opt for skip-the-line tickets to gain direct access without waiting in long queues.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 22 200 2037
🌐   Website: http://www.livrarialello.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Instagram TikTok Facebook

⛪ Igreja dos Clérigos

Igreja dos Clérigos is a gorgeous Baroque church that dates back to 1732. Its main draw is the panoramic views of Porto from the top of Clerigos Tower, offering a breathtaking perspective of the city.

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Tips

Be prepared to climb approximately 200 steps to reach the top of Clerigos Tower for the stunning panoramic views of Porto.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 22 014 5489
🌐   Website: http://www.torredosclerigos.pt/pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: R. de São Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Instagram

🚉 Sao Bento Station

Sao Bento Station is a beautiful train station adorned with traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles, making it a visual delight for visitors. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the intricate tile work without the crowds.

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Tips

Plan your visit during quieter times to admire the intricate azulejo tiles without the hustle and bustle of large tour groups.

Travel Information
🌐   Website: https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/pt/consultar-horarios/estacoes/porto-sao-bento
📍   Address: Praça de Almeida Garrett, 4000-069 Porto, Portugal

🍽️ Brasao Restaurant

Brasao Restaurant comes highly recommended for trying the Francesinha, a famous Portuguese sandwich. The Francesinha is a hearty dish consisting of thick bread layered with ham, sausage, steak, and cheese, smothered in a creamy tomato beer sauce and topped with an over-easy egg.

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Tips

Due to its popularity, it's advisable to make a reservation in advance to secure a table and indulge in this iconic Portuguese culinary delight.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 934 158 672
🌐   Website: http://www.brasao.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1-2 hours
📍   Address: R. de Ramalho Ortigão 28, 4000-407 Porto, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook

🌉 Day 2: Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia

Spend your second day in the picturesque neighborhood of Ribeira, enjoy a cruise on the Douro River, and indulge in port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.

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🏘️ Ribeira District

Ribeira is an old picturesque neighborhood in the heart of Old Town Porto, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. It’s one of the most authentic and liveliest areas of Porto, with colorful 18th-century townhouses lining the cobblestoned streets, tons of waterfront restaurants serving grilled sardines, and tiny wine bars with great views of the bridge and river. The area is great for exploring on foot to discover hidden gems.

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Tips

Take your time to wander through the narrow streets and alleys, and don't miss the opportunity to try the delicious freshly cooked tapas-style food at the hidden restaurants.

⛴️ Six Bridges Cruise

The Six Bridges Cruise offers a classic Porto experience, providing stunning views of the city and its six bridges. You'll see the beautiful landscapes and red-roofed buildings of both Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia from the water, offering a different perspective than on land. The guide will give loads of info about the historic bridges that connect Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, and the boat will glide under them.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Explore Stunning Porto: Six Bridges Cruise On The Douro River!", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poFQrZU8LO8", "channel": { "name": "Drone Flying with Uncle Bob"}, "published_date": "1 month ago", "length": "9:11" }</div>

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "6 Bridges Cruise, Douro River, Porto", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIk7KGR96T8", "channel": { "name": "The Flashpacker Chronicles"}, "published_date": "May 7, 2023", "length": "4:01" }</div>

Tips

Book in advance and choose a time slot that allows you to enjoy the sunset from the river. Remember to exchange your mobile ticket confirmation for a paper ticket, and you can board the boat from either Cais da Ribeira or Cais de Estiva in Ribeira or across the bridge in Vila Nova de Gaia.

🍷 Sandeman's Port Wine Cellar

Sandeman's Port Wine Cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia is famous for its port wine production, offering informative tours and tastings. All the popular Port wine cellars are located across the river in Gaia, providing a wide selection to choose from, including Graham’s Port Lodge, Calem, Taylor’s Port, Burmester, and more. It's an essential experience to delve into the history and production of this iconic Portuguese wine.

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Tips

Reserve the latest tour slot to stay in Gaia for dinner with a view. If visiting outside of summer, be sure to check sunset times and make sure your Port tour is at least an hour and a half beforehand to avoid missing the beautiful sunset on the river.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 22 783 8104
🌐   Website: http://www.sandeman.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Largo Miguel Bombarda 3, 4400-222 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

🌄 Day 3: Day Trip from Porto

Conclude your Porto journey with a day trip to either the scenic Douro Valley for wine tasting or the charming towns of Aveiro and Costa Nova for unique architecture and beaches.

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🏞️ Douro Valley

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO protected site, is a renowned wine region offering breathtaking landscapes and exquisite port wine tasting experiences. The terraced vineyards, traditional quintas, and the meandering Douro River create a picturesque setting for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Douro Valley, Portugal: Tasting Port Wine - Rick Steves ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcY8l0AODFU", "channel": { "name": "Rick Steves' Europe"}, "published_date": "Sep 4, 2019", "length": "1:33" }</div>

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Tips

Join a guided tour for a hassle-free experience and to visit multiple vineyards. These tours often include transport from Porto, wine tastings, and a leisurely cruise along the Douro River, providing a comprehensive exploration of this enchanting region.

🏘️ Aveiro and Costa Nova

Aveiro, known as the 'Venice of Portugal', is a delightful city characterized by its charming canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and exquisite art nouveau architecture. Costa Nova, on the other hand, captivates visitors with its picturesque striped houses and pristine sandy beaches, offering a perfect blend of cultural and coastal experiences.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Costa Nova: Portugal's Most Colorful Village | Aveiro", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44USSdM3TLo", "channel": { "name": "POV Tours - Portugal in 4K"}, "published_date": "Sep 10, 2023", "length": "30:17" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Costa Nova, Portugal", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kBOgiuD_Vc", "channel": { "name": "John F Cunha"}, "published_date": "Sep 19, 2018", "length": "6:55" }</div>

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Tips

To easily explore both Aveiro and Costa Nova in one day, consider using public transport or joining a guided tour. The direct train from Porto to Aveiro provides convenient access, while guided tours offer curated itineraries, including boat rides and visits to iconic landmarks, ensuring a seamless and enriching day trip experience.