Porto is a lovely city in Northern Portugal, and its surroundings are just as scenic. There are many unique destinations in this part of Portugal that you can visit on a day trip from Porto. So, suppose you are exploring a beach getaway, hiking in nature, or a cultural getaway; we have prepared some of the best day trips from Porto and everything you need to know about them.
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How do you take the best one-day trips from Porto?
Firstly, you can travel to these places by car, train, bus, or on an organized tour. There are many best transport modes, as it will ultimately depend on the destination you’re heading to. For example, you can visit smaller towns or hike in a rental car since they need easy access to public transport.
Secondly, we recommend joining a guided tour to visit other places, like the Douro Valley or Peneda-Gerês National Park. That way, you can avoid long driving and will have a local guide taking you to all the finest local spots.
You can also go on multiple-day trips from Porto by train or bus since well-known destinations like Coimbra have suitable public transport links. One thing to consider if you rent a car is that it takes a lot of work to find parking in central Porto, so book your accommodation somewhere with easy access.
However you choose to travel on the Best one-day trips from Porto, we’re sure you will have a fantastic time!
Best day trips from Porto
In this guide, we recapped a few of the best day trips from Porto. So, let’s discover all the best day trips from this marvelous city!
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Douro Valley
Porto can only be fully experienced by sampling port wine and exploring the Douro River’s vineyards and green hills. The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the world’s oldest wine-growing region, and a popular day trip destination from Porto, accessible by boat.
To explore independently, hire a car or take a bus and train to Régua, Pinhão, Pocinho, or Barca d’Alva, followed by a boat ride back to Porto. Tours are also available, offering multiple tastings, lunch, a boat trip, and a guided transport tour of the valley.
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Day trip to Braga
Braga, the oldest and third largest city in Portugal, is located in the far north of Portugal. It is a must-visit destination that can be effortlessly reached by train just one hour from Porto’s São Bento or Campanhã stations.
Braga is a reasonably compact city with many charming streets and plazas that you can easily explore on foot. It is over 2,000 years old and boasts many historic buildings. The main highlight is the Sé de Braga, an exquisite 11th-century cathedral.
However, one of Braga’s biggest attractions is the Bom Jesus do Monte, an 18th-century sanctuary and UNESCO World Heritage Site (free entry). It lies 5 km outside the city center, but visiting it is worthwhile.
Braga is also home to a large university, so the city is lively with many young students and a great nightlife scene. Please take advantage of exploring this vibrant city and all it offers!
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Enjoy the Canals of Aveiro
Aveiro, also known as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ is a charming city with picturesque canals and colorful buildings that make great Instagram fodder. Popular activities in Aveiro include:
- A ride on a moliceiro.
- Exploring the Art Nouveau scene.
- Taking photos in the neighborhoods of Barra and Costa Nova.
You can visit Aveiro independently by taking a frequent train service between Aveiro and Porto. Alternatively, you can take a half-day tour that includes a ride on a policier and a tour of Costa Nova or a full-day tour that provides for Aveiro, the world’s second-longest suspension footbridge, the Paiva Walkways, and lunch in a typical Portuguese restaurant.
Top Tip: If you plan to visit Porto and Lisbon, consider splitting your trip with Aveiro, which is halfway between them.
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Discover the past in Guimaraes
Guimarães is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. It is the birthplace of Alfonso Henriques, the first independent king of Portugal. In 2001, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town offers a well-preserved castle, a 15th-century palace, and narrow medieval streets that glimpse the past. Guimarães was declared the City of European Culture in 2012, making it an ideal destination for a day trip to history and modern art. You can reach Guimarães by train from São Bento or Campanhã in around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Guided tours are also available, including one that covers Guimarães and Braga and includes lunch.
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Peneda-Gerês National Park
Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês is Portugal’s only national park and an excellent day trip from Porto. Located in northwest Portugal, it offers pristine beaches, scenic trails, and thrilling adventures, making it a top choice for nature and history lovers. You’ll need your vehicle to get around, and driving from Porto should take about 90 minutes. Alternatively, an all-day tour can be a great way to explore the park and its many attractions, such as ancient stone villages, waterfalls, and lagoons.
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Coimbra
Situated on the banks of the Montego River, about 100 kilometers southeast of Porto, Coimbra makes one of the best one-day trips from Porto. Furthermore, eighteen trains leave for Coimbra daily, taking about 90 minutes. That’s why we recommend taking the train.
Dubbed the city of students, its 13th-century university is amongst the oldest in Europe and is the town’s jewel. Usually, the first stop for tourists is the bell tower, providing panoramic city views. Furthermore, the Baroque organ in the chapel and the library are breathtaking, too.
This medieval city’s attractions are the 12th-century fortress-like cathedral, the splendid 11th-century Monastery of Santa Cruz, and countless museums, historical buildings, and gardens. Ultimately, a riverboat ride is also an absolute must.
A Day Trip to Lisbon?
Yes, a day trip from Porto to Lisbon is possible, particularly if you’re short on time. Lisbon to Porto day tours offer an exciting experience of Lisbon’s highlights, making it possible for those on a tight schedule.
That said, while day trips from Lisbon to Porto (or vice versa) are convenient, you might need more time to immerse yourself in all Lisbon fully offers. That’s why, if your travel plans permit, it’s worth dedicating a few days to explore Lisbon in depth.
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Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips From Porto
A world of adventure awaits just outside Porto’s city limits. Whether you’re wondering what to do in Porto over an extended stay or looking for weekend trips from Porto to spice up your itinerary, there are endless options.
From day trips around Porto that plunge you into history to Porto day trips by train that whisk you to scenic landscapes, the choices are as diverse as they are delightful. Consider Porto trips that lead to the lush vineyards of the trips to Douro Valley from Porto or embark on serene boat trips from Porto that allow you to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
With so many places to visit near Porto, the hardest decision you’ll face is choosing which adventure to embark on next. Your next trip to Portugal promises to be filled with memorable excursions and enchanting discoveries.
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Feature photo credits: mummytravels.com