What to do and what to visit at Porto in one day

Planning to explore Porto in one day?

Many natives, known as “tripeiros,” might initially discourage you, deeply enamored with their city.

The typical response you’ll receive when posing such a query to a “tripeiro” is a resolute, “It’s not possible.”

However, when time constraints limit us to a single day, we must make the most of it.

To maximize your day, I propose a structured itinerary: a morning stroll, a market-sourced lunch, and an afternoon visit to a monument or museum.

Let’s dive into the details:

Porto in one day
Porto in one day

Morning Exploration in Porto:

Begin your day with a downloadable map, designed to lead you through an enriching 6.5km (4mi) walk. This route encompasses Porto’s iconic landmarks, perfect for a leisurely morning jaunt. Take your time to snap photos and savor a coffee along the way.

Here are some highlights along the route:

  1. São Bento Train Station
  2. Aliado’s Avenue
  3. Bulhão’s Market
  4. Bolhão grocery store
  5. Café Majestic
  6. São João National Theatre
  7. Santa Clara Church
  8. Upper deck of the D. Luiz I bridge
  9. Senhora do Pilar Monastery
  10. Port wine cellars
  11. Ribeira neighborhood
  12. Sé do Porto (Cathedral)
  13. Livraria Lello (Bookstore)
  14. Clérigos Church Tower

Feel free to delve deeper into any location using online resources like Wikipedia, and don’t hesitate to utilize translation tools if needed.

Market-inspired Lunch:

While exploring, stop by Bulhão Market (number 3 on the map) to peruse fresh produce and traditional grocery shops.

In the recently rebuilt Mercado do Bulhão, you’ll discover an impressive food court offering numerous options to choose from.

Gather ingredients for a delightful snack to refuel during your adventure.

Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal

Afternoon Monument/Museum Visit:

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Porto’s rich culture with a visit to one of these sites:

  • Soares dos Reis Museum
  • Palácio da Bolsa
  • Clérigos Church Tower
  • Serralves Museum and Gardens
  • Casa da Música

Embrace the charm of “Porto in one day,” and feel free to reach out for further suggestions or to share your experiences.

Enjoy your adventure!

David Monteiro