Explore the beauty of northern Portugal with our top 5 day trips from Porto. Just beyond the city’s charming streets, discover historic towns, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned wine regions.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or cuisine, these unforgettable day trips promise an immersive experience.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1). Day Trip to Douro Valley with Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch:
Embark on a 10-hour journey from Porto to explore the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Begin with a scenic drive to Régua, where you’ll board a boat for a leisurely cruise along the Douro River.
Take in the stunning valley views, rolling hills, and picturesque villages as you sail. Disembark at a local wine estate, where you’ll indulge in a wine tasting experience, sampling some of the region’s renowned Port wines.
Enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch at the wine estate, surrounded by lush vineyards. Spend the afternoon exploring the estate’s cellars and learning about the art of Port wine production.
Visit additional wine estates or scenic viewpoints, depending on the season. Return to Porto in the evening, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences amidst the Douro Valley’s natural beauty.
Tour Rating: Outstanding reviews speak for themselves: 12,567 reviews, 4.7/5 rating on Get Your Guide, promising an unforgettable journey.
2). Day Trip to Braga and Guimarães:
Experience the rich history and cultural heritage of the Minho region on this 9-hour guided tour from Porto. Begin in the historic city of Guimarães, known as the “cradle of Portugal,” and explore its well-preserved medieval center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visit the stunning Guimarães Castle, the birthplace of Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, and the nearby Palace of the Dukes of Braganza. Continue to the charming town of Braga, famous for its stunning architecture and religious significance.
Discover the iconic Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga) and the majestic Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its stunning Baroque staircase and panoramic views.
After lunch, visit the picturesque town of Barcelos, renowned for its medieval bridge, historic center, and the legendary Cross of Galicia. Return to Porto in the evening, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
Tour Rating: Enjoy a truly unforgettable experience, solidified by 2318 reviews and a 4.6/5 rating on Get Your Guide.
3). Day Trip to Aveiro, Paiva Walkways and Arouca 516 Footbridge: (8 KM Hike)
Experience the natural beauty and cultural charm of Portugal on this 9-hour guided tour from Porto. Begin in Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” and admire its colorful canals, picturesque bridges, and traditional moliceiros (boats).
Visit the stunning Aveiro Cathedral and explore the historic center, discovering local artisans and traditional sweets. Next, head to the Paiva Walkways, a breathtaking scenic trail along the Paiva River.
Hike the 8-kilometer trail, taking in the stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and surrounding landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Afterward, visit the picturesque village of Castro de Paiva, with its historic castle and scenic views. Return to Porto in the evening, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences.
Tour Rating: Discover an exceptional experience, confirmed by 705 reviews and a 4.9/5 rating on Get Your Guide.
4). Day Trip to Santiago de Compostela:
Embark on a 10-hour journey from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage site in northwest Spain. Discover the city’s profound significance as the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Visit the iconic Santiago Cathedral, housing the tomb of Saint James the Greater, and explore the historic city center. Wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the stunning architecture, and visit the Pilgrim’s Office, where pilgrims receive their certificates.
After lunch, explore the city’s landmarks, including the Fountain of the Horses, the Church of San Martino Pinario, and the scenic Plaza del Obradoiro. Learn about the city’s rich history, cultural significance, and the legend of Saint James.
Return to Porto in the evening, reflecting on the spiritual and cultural essence of Santiago de Compostela.
Tour Rating: With a 4.6/5 rating from 626 reviews on Get Your Guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
5). Day Trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park with Lunch:
Experience the natural beauty of Gerês National Park on this 9-hour guided tour from Porto. Begin with a scenic drive to the park, Portugal’s only national park, and explore its stunning landscapes.
Take a leisurely hike through the park’s rolling hills, forests, and picturesque villages. Discover the stunning Arado Waterfall and the breathtaking views from the Junceda viewpoint.
Next, visit the historic village of Gerês, with its traditional stone houses and cobblestone streets. Enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties at a traditional restaurant.
After lunch, explore the park’s crystal-clear rivers, lakes, and scenic trails. Take a dip in the natural pools or simply relax amidst nature.
Return to Porto in the evening, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable adventures.
Tour Rating: Unforgettable experiences await, backed by 770 reviews and a 4.9/5 rating on Get Your Guide.
Porto’s surroundings offer a wealth of exciting experiences. From the scenic Douro Valley to historic Braga and Guimarães, and from the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês National Park to the charm of Aveiro, each day trip provides unique memories.
Use this guide to plan your adventures and uncover the hidden gems of northern Portugal.
