Jerry Zhou

Exploring Porto in 4 Days

Jerry Zhou
Exploring Porto in 4 Days

Welcome to Porto, a city that feels like stepping into a postcard. Over four days, I explored its historic streets, tasted its world-famous food, and soaked in views that will stay with me forever. If you’re planning a trip to this charming city, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Porto.

Day 1: Wake Up to Porto’s Charm

Start Your Morning with a View
I stayed at the Vincci Ponte de Ferro Hotel, and let me tell you, waking up here was magical. Each morning greeted me with a view of the Luis I Bridge, one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks. Pro tip: The upper deck offers sweeping views, perfect for sunrise photos, while the lower deck gives you a closer look at Porto’s riverside charm.

Explore the Ribeira District
Take a walk through Ribeira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval streets, colorful facades, and traditional azulejo tiles bring history to life. These tiles aren’t just beautiful—they’re functional too, helping to keep buildings cool.

Local Tip: Wear comfy shoes! The cobblestone streets are picturesque but can be tough on your feet after a while.

Day 2: Dive Into Porto’s Food Scene

Breakfast at Casa Guedes
Kick off your foodie adventure with a pulled pork sandwich from Casa Guedes. It’s simple, juicy, and downright delicious. Pair it with their veggie soup for a hearty start to the day.

Seafood Lovers, Rejoice
Lunch at Taberna Mercadores was a highlight. The seafood rice is a must—packed with shrimp, mussels, and fish in a spicy broth that’s pure comfort in a bowl. Don’t miss the octopus salad or their sweet pear in wine sauce for dessert.

Sweet Stop: Manteigaria
No trip to Porto is complete without indulging in pastel de nata, Portugal’s famous custard tart. Watching them bake these from scratch at Manteigaria is half the fun. Warm, buttery, and perfectly crispy, these tarts are pure magic.

Evening at Calem Cellars
For a true taste of Porto, head to Calem Cellars for a guided Port wine tasting. You’ll learn all about this fortified wine, and yes, you’ll want to bring a bottle home.

Day 3: Porto’s Iconic Landmarks

Climb Clérigos Tower
Start your day with a climb to the top of the Clérigos Tower. The panoramic views of Porto’s red rooftops, the winding Douro River, and the Atlantic Ocean are well worth the effort.

Marvel at São Bento Station
Even if you’re not hopping on a train, visit São Bento Station. The azulejo tile murals in the entrance hall tell stories of Portugal’s history, and they’re absolutely stunning.

Don’t Miss Livraria Lello
This isn’t just a bookstore—it’s an experience. From the spiral red staircase to the stained-glass ceiling, Livraria Lello is a feast for the eyes. It’s said to have inspired J.K. Rowling while she was writing Harry Potter, and stepping inside feels like entering a magical world.

Evening Walk Across the Luis I Bridge
As the sun sets, take a walk across the Luis I Bridge. The views of the river and city lights will leave you speechless.

Day 4: Soak Up the Atmosphere

Morning Stroll Through Porto
Dedicate your last morning to soaking up the atmosphere. Wander through Igreja da Carmo, with its striking blue azulejo tiles, and visit the Sé do Porto, the city’s stunning 12th-century cathedral.

Catch a Sunset at Miradouro Vitaly
End your trip with a sunset at Miradouro Vitaly, a scenic lookout offering breathtaking views over Porto. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on your adventure before heading home.

Pro Tips for Your Porto Trip

  1. Stay Central: Staying near the Ribeira District or the Luis I Bridge makes exploring the city so much easier.

  2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Porto’s streets are hilly and cobblestoned, so good footwear is a must.

  3. Bring an Appetite: The food is unforgettable, so plan to indulge!

  4. Get Up Early: Porto is magical in the early morning light, especially for photography enthusiasts.

Porto is a city that blends old-world charm with vibrant modern life. Whether you’re walking its historic streets, savoring a glass of Port wine, or simply enjoying the view, this city will capture your heart.