By Danielle Lockwood.
After missing our flight from an extended London afternoon tea, (idiotic, but dare I say, worth it) we (by the grace of God) were able to catch the last flight to Porto. To our credit, the train station we were supposed to leave from was closed that day so Brady and I had to run through the streets of London with our suitcases to find another station. Once our flight landed in Porto, the entire plane was cheering and we thought it was just grateful passengers thanking the pilot for our safe arrival. I almost cheered myself over the fact that we actually made it to Porto after running through the train station and airport like maniacs. (Picture that scene in Home Alone except with more bickering).
What we didn’t realize was that Portugal had won the Nation’s Cup, hence the cheering upon landing. That meant massive celebrations were upon us. Walking into the town square we saw drunken men cheering and singing in the street, what a welcome! We spent our first night belting our lungs out to Oasis with drunken Brits at a lovely piano bar overlooking the Dom Luis I Bridge. Due to having to wait 9 hours in the airport for the last flight, we unfortunately missed our first day in Porto giving us only one full day. We fit as much in as possible in our one full day but rest assured I will be returning and will report back on more recommendations! Keep reading for our guide on how to see Porto in 2 days!
Now a little bit about Porto. Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal. It is a coastal city that is found in the northwest of Portugal. It boasts of the best port wine as this is where it originated (and what gave this wine its name). Port wine is one of Portugal’s most famous exports so if you are going to have port, this is the place to do so! Porto seems to be a bit less crowded than Lisbon and late summer is typically the best time to go. Porto is centered around the Duoro River which offers beautiful views from almost anywhere in the city.
Porto is very easy to get around. When exploring the city, it is best done on foot. It is quite hilly with steep cobblestone streets so prepare to bring your walking shoes. Exploring may be quite the workout but the views are simply stunning. This darling city has old world charm with red-tiled roofs, incredible churches, and the signature blue tiles. Portugal is known for its stunning tile that can be found on every street and building. It feels as though everything is a work of art in Porto, even the train station is stunning! The center of the city is the Dom Luis I Bridge, built by the same architect who did the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Gustave Eiffel was quite a busy man! Beautiful pastel-colored homes and buildings color the Duoro River just beyond the bridge.
REVOLVE 50% SALE
What to do in Porto
Wine Tasting
As I mentioned, Porto is known for its port so make sure you visit the various port cellars up and down the river. We learned the hard way that these often fill up so you must go and make a reservation to tour the wineries.
Duoro Valley
Our one regret in Porto was not making it to the Duoro Valley. We simply didn’t have enough time and had lost a day when we missed our flight. Duoro Valley is a day trip outside of the city. This is the oldest wine-producing region in the country. This is a stunning place that features picturesque views and the country’s best wine tasting of course. We heard it is best to take a river cruise in Duoro Valley or ride bikes through the stunning vineyard terraces.
Climb the Clérigos Tower
This stunning church and bell tower is in the center of the city. If you have it in you to climb all 240 steps you are rewarded with the most breathtaking view of Porto. The church is so beautiful and ornate, you feel as though you are in a different world upon entry. I sat in there for a good half an hour with my jaw on the floor.
Have a Drink and People Watch at Base Porto
After climbing the Clérigos Tower, you can reward yourself with a spritz in Base Porto park. This is such a fun little spot where young people listen to good music and picnic while gazing at the tower. The Aperol Spritzes are quite divine as well.
Livraria Lello
For any Harry Potter fans, Livraria Lello is an awesome spot to see and is said to be where JK Rowling wrote all of her magic. It is a beautiful library but it can get incredibly crowded so make sure you get there first thing in the morning. When we went you had to wait in a line of a massive crowd of people! My frustration subsided when I took a moment to appreciate how many people love Harry Potter. I mean, can you blame them?
Best Restaurants and Bars in Porto
La Ricotta
Now again, I wish we had more time here so I could give you a list of all of my favorites but I will tell you that our lunch spot was one that I still think of. With this being our first day in Portugal after losing all of our money in London, I nearly cried tears of joy when I saw the prices for lunch here at La Ricotta. You are served a 4-course meal including a glass of wine, champagne, and dessert. All for what a single entrée would cost back in LA. Brady and I were in HEAVEN.
Bar Ponte Pensil
Bar Ponte Pensil was the piano bar that we visited the first night. This is settled right under the Louis I Bridge overlooking the Duoro River. It is a beautiful vibe at night (even with drunken British men belting out Oasis) and it’s even more beautiful during the day. This a great spot to grab a drink and gaze at the views.
I wish that I could give you more tips, restaurants, bars and to-dos. Unfortunately having only one day in Porto did not allow for more exploration. I HIGHLY recommend you stop by this town if you are doing a trip to Portugal.
Thank you for reading about my Porto top favorites! Have you been to Porto before and have additional places you’d love to add? Comment below!
Xx,
Danielle and Simone
WHAT WE PACKED
Pin now to save this post for your future travels!
