If you're wondering what to do in Porto for a week, rest assured, this vibrant city on Portugal’s northern coast offers enough depth, charm, and variety to keep you enchanted for much longer. Known for its cobblestone streets, iconic wine cellars, dramatic Douro River views and UNESCO-listed historic center, Porto is the ideal base for a seven-day blend of culture, food and active discovery.
This guide outlines how to make the most of seven days in Porto, whether you prefer history and museums, local food and wine, scenic day trips, or active travel experiences. Let’s dive in.
Day 1: explore Porto’s historic center (Ribeira & Sé)
Morning: welcome to the heart of Porto
Start your trip in Ribeira, Porto’s historic riverside neighborhood. Wander through its narrow alleys, colorful facades and scenic riverside promenade. Visit:
- Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral): one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks;
- São Bento Station: famous for its blue and white tile murals depicting Portuguese history;
- Rua das Flores: a charming street filled with cafés, boutiques and street musicians.
Afternoon: climb and dine
- Clérigos Tower: climb the 225 steps for a panoramic view of Porto;
- Livraria Lello: a stunning neo-Gothic bookstore said to have inspired J.K. Rowling;
- Dine at a traditional taverna and try bacalhau à Brás or tripas à moda do Porto.
Day 2: cross the Douro and taste Port Wine in Vila Nova de Gaia
Just across the Luís I Bridge lies Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the world’s most famous port wine cellars.
Highlights:
- Wine tastings and cellar tours: visit Sandeman, Graham’s or other producers like Kopke;
- WOW Cultural District: a new complex with museums, restaurants and wine experiences;
- Cable car ride: take the Teleférico de Gaia for sweeping views over the Douro and Ribeira.
End your day with a sunset drink at Jardim do Morro, then walk back across the bridge under the golden light.
Day 3: art, culture and contemporary Porto
Today’s about discovering modern and artistic Porto, perfect for museum lovers and design fans.
Must-visits:
- Serralves Foundation: home to a world-class contemporary art museum and sculpture garden;
- Casa da Música: Porto’s architectural marvel and music venue, consider booking a tour or concert;
- Miguel Bombarda art district: galleries, bookshops and creative spaces in a walkable area.
Lunch at Mercado Bom Sucesso or Casa Guedes.
Day 4: day trip to the Douro Valley
No week in Porto is complete without exploring the breathtaking Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards line the riverbanks.
Travel options:
- Train from São Bento to Pinhão: one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys;
- Self-Guided Walk Tour: for an active, immersive experience in wine country.
Highlights in the Douro:
- Quinta do Seixo or Quinta da Roêda for wine tastings;
- River cruise in Pinhão;
- Hike the São Cristovão viewpoint trail.
Want to combine active travel with Douro exploration?
🚴 Douro Valley Self-Guided Bike Tour
Day 5: walk, bike or boat the Atlantic Coast
Head west for a relaxing yet scenic escape to Foz do Douro and Matosinhos, Porto’s coastal zones.
Choose your adventure:
- Rent a bike and ride the Douro River bike path to the Atlantic (mostly flat, 9km);
- Walk along the waterfront promenades past lighthouses, cafés and sandy beaches;
- Boat tour: take a Douro River cruise that reaches the ocean mouth.
For lunch, try fresh grilled sardines or seafood rice in Matosinhos, known as Porto’s seafood capital.
Day 6: day trip to the Minho region (Guimarães or Braga)
Discover northern Portugal’s birthplace of Portuguese identity with a trip to Guimarães or Braga, both under 1 hour by train or included in some bike tours.
Guimarães:
- Visit the medieval castle and Palace of the Dukes;
- Stroll the UNESCO-listed old town;
- Enjoy traditional pastries in Largo da Oliveira.
Braga:
- Climb or ride the funicular to Bom Jesus do Monte;
- Explore the cathedrals and gardens;
- Taste northern specialties like rojões or papas de sarrabulho.
Looking for a scenic route into Porto from Minho?
🚴 Minho to Porto Self-Guided Bike Tour
Day 7: slow morning, market stroll and sunset farewell
On your final day, enjoy Porto at a slower pace.
- Mercado do Bolhão: browse fresh produce, artisanal foods and souvenirs;
- Sip a cimbalino (espresso) at Café Majestic or another historic café;
- Walk the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for panoramic views.
End your trip with a sunset dinner cruise on the Douro or a farewell meal with local wine and fado music.
Safety, transport and local tips
Yes, Porto is one of Europe’s safest cities, with low crime rates and welcoming locals. Standard travel precautions apply: watch for pickpockets in busy areas and use official taxis or ride apps at night.
Getting around:
- Walkable city: most sights are within walking distance;
- Metro and trams: clean and efficient, especially for reaching Gaia and Foz;
- Train: ideal for day trips to Braga, Guimarães and the Douro.
When to visit:
- Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists;
- Summer brings festivals and sunny days, but more crowds.
Active travel and sustainable experiences with Authentic Trails
Looking to combine your week in Porto with active exploration, regional immersion and sustainable travel? Authentic Trails offers curated self-guided tours that begin or end in Porto and connect you with the landscapes, food and culture of northern Portugal.
Discover unforgettable experiences like:
🚴 Douro Valley Self-Guided Bike Tour;
🚴 Minho to Porto Self-Guided Bike Tour;
🚶 Porto and the Douro Valley Rail and Hike Tour.
Porto is more than a city, it’s a gateway to a region filled with history, flavor and adventure. With a full week, you’ll have time to absorb its vibrant neighborhoods, taste its traditions and discover nearby gems from the mountains to the sea.
So whether you're sipping port on the riverfront, cycling through vineyards, or hiking panoramic trails, your seven days in Porto can be as active, cultural or relaxed as you choose.
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