Your Ultimate Porto 2 Day Itinerary: Hidden Gems & Local Tips

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I’ll be honest: Porto wasn’t supposed to steal my heart. My plan was a quick one-day stopover, but this city had other ideas. I quickly realized that a 2 day itinerary in Porto was essential to truly experience this city. After just a few hours wandering its hilly streets, I changed my train ticket, extended my stay, and let Porto work its magic. Here’s how you can make the most of two days in this colorful, riverside gem—plus all the little tips I wish someone had told me!

Getting There: Don’t Wing It!

I took the early train from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia Station to Porto Campanhã. Pro tip: don’t leave your ticket to the last minute—these trains fill up fast, especially in high season. Book in advance at cp.pt, and you can even pick your seat for free (first or second class, your call). I love a good window seat for those Douro Valley views! 2nd class return tickets cost €56.

Where I Stayed: Budget-Friendly & Super Central

Since I already had an Airbnb in Lisbon, I wanted something easy and affordable in Porto. I found Hotel Porto Interface Trindade by Kavia—right across from Trindade metro station. It’s not fancy, but it’s clean, safe, and you can roll your suitcase straight from the metro. Drop your bags, freshen up, and you’re ready to hit the city.

Porto 2 Day Itinerary

Day-1:

Stroll to the Historic Center:

From Trindade, walk south toward Avenida dos Aliados. This is Porto’s grand boulevard—think Parisian vibes, but with more azulejos (those gorgeous blue tiles).

Snap a photo at City Hall, then keep going to São Bento Station. Even if you’re not catching a train, you have to step inside São Bento Station. At first glance, it looks like any other grand European railway station from the outside, but the real magic is inside. The entrance hall is wrapped in over 20,000 hand-painted azulejo tiles—each one telling a piece of Portugal’s story. You’ll see epic battles, royal weddings, and scenes of everyday northern Portuguese life, all in stunning blue and white. It’s like walking into a living history book, but way more Instagrammable.

Here’s a solo traveler tip: take your time here. Most people rush through, but if you linger, you’ll notice little details in the tiles—like the expressions on the faces or the tiny ships in the Douro. I found a quiet corner, watched the light change on the tiles, and felt like I was part of Porto’s story for a moment. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the echo of a violinist busking, which makes the whole place feel even more magical.

Wander Down Rua das Flores: Porto’s Prettiest Shopping Street

After São Bento Station, walk down Rua das Flores - one of Porto’s most charming and vibrant streets. This pedestrian avenue is lined with colorful facades, cute cafés, and some of the city’s best little boutiques. I couldn’t resist popping into a few shops (solo travel perk: no one rushing you!). My favorite find? A real gem of a store selling beautiful pearls—yes, I treated myself, and yes, I totally recommend it if you love unique jewelry. Even if you’re just window shopping, the street is full of surprises, from local art to handmade souvenirs.

Monument Infante Dom Henrique & Jardim do Infante Dom Henrique:

Before heading to lunch, take a slight detour to the Monument Infante Dom Henrique. This impressive statue honors Prince Henry the Navigator, one of Portugal’s most legendary explorers and a key figure in the Age of Discovery. The monument sits in a leafy square—Jardim do Infante Dom Henrique—that’s perfect for a quick solo pause. I grabbed a bench, pulled out a flaky croissant from a local bakery, and ended up sharing a few crumbs with Porto’s boldest pigeons and seagulls. It’s a surprisingly peaceful spot to soak up the city’s maritime history, people-watch, and enjoy a little solo traveler picnic before you dive into the buzz of Ribeira.

Lunch in Ribeira:

Keep heading downhill (and I mean downhill—Porto is basically a city-wide stairmaster) to the Ribeira district. This is postcard Porto: colorful houses, laundry flapping in the breeze, and the Douro River sparkling below. Grab lunch at one of the riverside spots—Bacalhau is my pick for codfish with a view, but honestly, you can’t go wrong here.

I picked MURO DO BACALHAU right by the river—highly recommend! I sipped a glass of Quinta de Saes and started with mushrooms in a smoky, spicy fricassé. The main event was fresh codfish with potato, onion, olives, and a rich yolk sauce—so classic, so Porto. I finished with their pastel de nata and coffee: crisp pastry, creamy custard, cinnamon, and caramel. Perfect fuel for more exploring, and the riverside view is unbeatable for solo travelers.

Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge:

After lunch, the riverside walk in Ribeira is pure Porto—cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the Douro sparkling beside you. The promenade buzzes with cafés, street music, and little shops where you can pick up hand-painted tiles or cork souvenirs for a great price. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch, grab a keepsake, and soak up the city’s energy before crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge.

Port Wine Tasting in Gaia:

On the other side of the bridge, you’re in Vila Nova de Gaia, home to all the famous port wine cellars. I headed to Sandeman - I couldn’t join a tour inside (they fill up fast!), but I still got to enjoy a tasting in their lovely outdoor garden. I tried the Porto Fine Tawny, a classic port wine, but honestly, it was a bit too sweet for my taste. The real winner? The Sandeman Porto Tónico: Porto Sandeman Fine White, Schweppes tonic water, lemon zest, and a basil leaf. Refreshing, not too sweet, and perfect for sipping in the sunshine. Even if you miss the tour, the garden is a great spot to relax and soak up the Gaia vibes.

If you want the full port wine experience, I highly recommend pre-booking a tour—especially in high season! Some top picks for solo travelers and first-timers:

Graham’s Lodge: Classy, historic, and a bit quieter, with beautiful views over Porto. Their guided tours are super informative and include generous tastings.
Taylor’s: Famous for its dreamy garden terrace and a great intro to port styles. Their tours are popular, so book ahead!
Cálem: Right by the river, this one is fun and interactive, with a museum and tasting room. They often have live Fado music in the evenings.
Kopke: The oldest port wine house, with a stylish tasting room and a chance to try some rare vintages.

Most tours last about an hour and are easy to book online. You’ll learn a ton, taste some amazing wines, and maybe even make a new friend or two—solo traveler bonus!

Evening Drinks with a View:

After a quick change at the hotel, I headed back to Gaia for a light dinner and drinks at Porto Cruz. Their rooftop terrace is the perfect place to watch the city light up as the sun goes down.

Day 2: Tiles, Shopping, and the Best Sunset in Porto

Breakfast at Garden Porto Café:

I started my day at Garden Porto Café, a cozy spot with leafy décor and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. For breakfast, I went for a classic avocado toast with poached eggs (so fresh and filling!) a cup of black tea—simple, satisfying, and just what I needed to wake up. It’s the perfect place to fuel up, plan your route, and soak in the local atmosphere before heading out to explore Porto. The staff are friendly, and the morning crowd is a mix of locals and travelers, so you’ll feel right at home.

Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls)

Your first stop is the stunning Capela das Almas, or Chapel of Souls. Why visit? The entire exterior is wrapped in over 15,000 blue-and-white azulejo tiles, each one hand-painted and telling stories from the lives of saints. Built in the 18th century, it’s one of Porto’s most photographed landmarks—and for good reason. The tiles absolutely glow in the morning light, and you’ll want to snap a few photos (or a dozen). Even if you’re not a history buff, the artistry here is breathtaking and uniquely Portuguese.

Rua de Santa Catarina:

From the chapel, stroll down Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s main shopping street. This lively avenue is packed with local boutiques, international brands, and street performers. Why visit? It’s the heart of Porto’s modern life, and perfect for people-watching. Pop into a few shops for unique finds—think Portuguese shoes, cork accessories, or handmade jewelry. Don’t miss the historic Café Majestic, a Belle Époque beauty that’s perfect for a coffee break if you need a little solo traveler treat.

Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral) & Surroundings

Next, make your way to the Sé do Porto, the city’s grand cathedral. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles—a true architectural time capsule. Why visit? The cathedral’s terrace offers some of the best panoramic views of Porto’s rooftops and the Douro River. Step inside to see the ornate altars and the beautiful cloisters lined with—you guessed it—more azulejo tiles. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect and soak up centuries of history.

Dom Luís I Bridge & Jardim do Morro:

After soaking in the history and views at the Cathedral, I treated myself to a Pina Colada—served in a real pineapple! Yes, I carried it all the way across the upper level of the Dom Luís I Bridge, and honestly, it made the walk even more fun. The bridge itself is an icon, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, and the views as you cross are absolutely breathtaking—Porto’s rooftops, the river, and the city glowing in the late afternoon light.

On the other side, I found my favorite sunset spot in Porto: Jardim do Morro. The park was buzzing with energy—people lounging on the grass, a live band playing, even a DJ setting the mood. Some brought their own drinks and snacks, but you can also buy something right there (pineapple cocktail, anyone?). The vibe is relaxed, social, and full of locals and travelers all soaking up the golden hour together. Watching the sun dip behind Porto’s skyline from here, pineapple in hand, was the perfect way to end my trip. I absolutely loved the atmosphere—don’t miss it

Time to Go:

After soaking up the last golden rays at Jardim do Morro, I grabbed my bag from the hotel, called a Bolt (trust me, after all those hills, your legs will thank you!), and headed to the station—still smiling from that unforgettable sunset.

🎥 Places I Missed (But You Shouldn’t!) – My Next Time in Porto List

Sometimes, even the best Porto 2 day itinerary isn’t enough to see it all! With limited time (and so many hills!), I couldn’t fit every spot into my route. But here are a few places I’m saving for my next trip and you might want to add them to your own adventure:

Livraria Lello

The world-famous, magical bookstore with a stunning staircase—perfect for book lovers and Harry Potter fans.

Clérigos Tower

Climb to the top for breathtaking 360° views of Porto’s rooftops and river.

Palácio da Bolsa

A 19th-century palace with jaw-dropping interiors, especially the ornate Arabian Room.

Igreja do Carmo & Igreja dos Carmelitas

Two beautiful, side-by-side churches with one of the city’s most iconic tiled facades.

Mercado do Bolhão

Porto’s historic market, recently renovated, for local flavors and authentic city life.

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

Gorgeous gardens with peacocks, fountains, and some of the best city views.

Foz do Douro

Where the river meets the Atlantic—think seaside walks, lighthouses, and fresh ocean air.

Casa da Música

Porto’s modern concert hall, famous for its architecture and live music.

World of Discoveries Museum

An interactive museum about Portugal’s Age of Exploration—fun and educational!

Solo Traveler Tips You Won’t Find Anywhere Else:

Porto’s hills are no joke. Google Maps might say “10 minutes,” but that could mean 200 steps or a steep climb. If you’re tired, use Bolt or the metro—save your energy for exploring, not sweating!
Book your train early and pick your seat for free at cp.pt.
Stay central - Trindade is perfect for solo travelers who want to walk everywhere and feel safe coming back at night.
And most importantly, don’t be afraid to change your plans. I almost missed out on a second day in Porto, and it ended up being the highlight of my trip.

I left Porto with sore legs, a full camera roll, and a promise to myself to come back soon. If you’re planning a solo trip to Portugal, don’t rush through Porto—let yourself fall in love, one tile at a time.