A Family Friendly 2-Day Porto, Portugal Itinerary

We’d heard good things about Porto, Portugal from our family who visited the summer before and were excited to eat the delicious food, spot the tiled facades of the buildings, and walk along the picturesque Douro River. With a unique blend of traditional charm and modern vibrancy and a city-center that is very walkable, you can see a lot in 2 days in Porto, Portugal. We found Porto to be an incredibly family-friendly city with flavors that we all enjoyed, friendly locals eager to share their culture, and a lot of historical buildings to peruse.

Get ready for a fun trip with this 2 day Porto itinerary:

Where to stay in Porto
Quick tips for visiting Porto
Day 1: Churches, Tiles, and more
Day 2: The Douro River From Both Sides

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Where to stay in Porto

Courtyard Oporto Design Apartments by Vacationy

Courtyard Oporto Design Apartments, Porto

Courtyard Oporto Design Apartments by Vacationy is located in the Campanhã district of Porto. It’s not right in the downtown district, but we quite liked our stay as we were so close to the Campanhã Train and bus station. There were plenty of local places to eat that were super budget-friendly as well as a couple grocery stores. We could take either a bus downtown or just enjoy a pleasant walk. The space is self check-in and out, comfortable, and we could cook for ourselves in the morning which is always ideal for our style of travel.

Book a stay on Booking.com or on Agoda.com.

Quick tips for visiting Porto

Porto manages to feel small and manageable despite being a pretty good size city. It’s not overwhelming but offers enough to see and do whether you want to spend a couple days or a week there.

Porto Weather

We visited in October, the weather was a mixture of blue skies, sudden downpours, and back to sunny again. In general, this is what you can expect:

Summer: June and July have gorgeous weather that isn’t overbearingly hot and it has less crowds than the very popular month of August.
Spring/Fall: As we experienced, the weather can be a mixture of beautiful blue skies, and drizzly hours or days. Bring a warm rain coat and you’ll be fine.
Winter: Chilly but not frigid, the winter can be a fine time to visit though you’ll notice less activities for visiting tourists.

Food in Porto: Known globally for its enchanting Port Wine cellars by the Douro River, Porto also offers a vibrant culinary scene with delicious options for everyone in the family. Check out guide to kid-friendly food in Porto, Portugal to learn what we ate and how you might make it work with kids.

Tour Info and Cards

Porto Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Trip: If your family likes sightseeing through clues and with a game style, check out this fun Porto Scavenger Hunt. I have made this kind of thing for my daughter just to use personally. They are a fun way to get the kids involved and learn a bit more about what they’re seeing in my experience.

Porto Card: The Porto Card may be useful depending on where you’re staying. Because we were staying out of the city center and traveling in and out of the downtown area as well as to nearby areas, we found it useful for us. The card is good for 1, 2, 3, or 4 days, has free entrance into 7 museums, discounts on others, and is your transportation card, free on the metro, bus, and train. Be sure to pick up your card at the airport or tourism office downtown.

Day 1

Get acclimated and start with some of the major historical highlights of Porto. Get ready to walk the streets of the historic neighborhood downtown.

Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas

The Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas are two churches that stand side by side with just a 1 meter wide house separating them. A stunning example of late Baroque architecture, Igreja do Carmo was built between 1756 and 1768 by José de Figueiredo Seixas, a disciple of Nicolau Nasoni.

The Igreja dos Carmelitas was built prior to Igreja do Carmo, with the exterior completed in 1628.

The Igreja do Carmo’s exterior is renowned for its impressive azulejo (blue and white tile) panels, added in 1912 by Silvestro Silvestri. These tiles depict scenes from the founding of the Carmelite Order and Mount Carmel. If you’ve seen any pictures of Porto, there’s no doubt you saw the exterior of this building among the photos. Make sure to get your own photo with the beautiful facade of tiles in the back. It’s a must!

Did you know: The “hidden house” or Casa Escondida was built between the two churches, according to legend, so that the nuns of Igreja dos Carmelitas and the monks of Igreja do Carmo were kept separate. Another explanation is that the house was built so that there wouldn’t be an awkward gap between to the two churches.

The church houses seven lavish gilt altars crafted by Francisco Pereira Campanhã, along with numerous fine oil paintings. It’s adjacent to the Igreja dos Carmelitas, and both are separated by a narrow (1-meter wide) house, historically serving to ensure chastity between the monks of Igreja do Carmo and the nuns of Igreja dos Carmelitas.

We found the interior to be brimming with interesting statues and decoration and you can even make your way up to the rooftop for a beautiful view as well. Actually, we found this church to be less busy and because of that, a better experience over all than the Clerigos Church which we visited next.

This church is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Porto’s rich architectural and cultural history. Its close proximity to the Clerigos Tower and Livraria Lello Bookshop makes it a convenient and essential stop on your exploration of the city.

Address: Praça de Gomes Teixeira 10, Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 7:15am ~ 7:00 pm; Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 9:00am ~ 6:45pm
Admission: €5.00* (Note that they only accept cash to get in.)

Clerigos Church and Tower

The Clerigos Church, built between 1732 and 1749, is an iconic Baroque monument in Porto. It was designed by the renowned Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. The tower, standing at 75 meters, was the tallest structure in Portugal when it was completed in 1763 and is known for offering panoramic views of the city. Climbing the tower’s 240 steps offers a breathtaking view over Porto, making it well worth the visit. However, be prepared for a physical climb.

Having just had a rooftop view from Igreja do Carmo and having climbed the extremely tall Cologne Cathedral in Germany, we opted just to see the inside of the church before moving on. The line to the tower can be a bit long, as it was when we arrived as well. If you want to make the climb, buy your entrance tickets online before you go to get in faster.

Address: Rua Senhor Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours: Every day: 9:00am ~ 7:00pm.
- These hours vary on public holidays.
Admission: Entry to the church is free. However, there is a fee to access the tower and museum. Discounts may apply with the Porto Card or in combination with other attractions like Casa da Música or the Serralves Museum. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office, and it’s recommended to buy in advance to avoid long queues.

Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

Established in 1839, Mercado do Bolhão is a significant market in Porto, known for its fresh produce, meat, fish, flowers, and a range of local delicacies. The market’s history dates back to when the town hall acquired the land and established it as a market area. The current neoclassical building, known for its unique architectural style, was constructed in 1914 and designed by Correia da Silva. Over the years, it has undergone various modifications and renovations.

Inside the market, you’ll find different sections for various vendors, including fishmongers, butchers, greengrocers, and florists. Even though you won’t be shopping for groceries most likely, there’s plenty to enjoy for lunch at the market. There are also small restaurants where you can enjoy homemade meals at affordable prices, buy wine by the glass, and get tapas-size plates of meats, cheeses, breads, and rice balls. This means that everyone in the family can find something they’ll surely enjoy. There are also tables and chairs around the space if you want to take a seat and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Address: Rua de Fernandes Tomas, 4000-214 Porto, Portugal
Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00am ~ 5:00pm; Saturdays: 7:00am ~ 1:00pm. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Weave through the city to Mercado Ferreira Borges

Take a walk and check out the narrow alleys, the old buildings, tile facades. If you put in a trajectory from the Mercado do Bolhão do the Mercado Ferreira Borges, you can see a lot of different buildings and views. We stopped for gelato at Amorino Gelato and then continued on our way. Once you arrive, head into the Mercado Ferreira Borges, built in the 1800s, it’s a market building. We found a great local artists market going on inside and got our favorite souvenirs while we were there.

Walk along R. das Flores

Rua das Flores is known for its vibrant street life, including performances and murals. It’s a lively area where you can immerse yourself in Porto’s culture. Of course you can go shopping, but we found the performers to be especially fun. The magician asked our daughter to join in and next we spotted a very interesting musical performer with pet birds and then spotted a giant cat peering at us from around the corner. The perspentico blue cat was done by artist LIQUEN. Suffice to say, keep your eyes peeled.

Dinner at Tasquinha Rebelo

For dinner, Tasquinha Rebelo offers a cozy and authentic dining experience with a focus on local Portuguese cuisine. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional dishes in a quaint setting. We actually ate here when we first arrived, this night, and before we left. They were so kind and welcoming and everything we ate was delicious!

Address: R. de Miraflor 1, Porto, Portugal

Day 2

See the Douro River from above and then take a ride on it. There’s so much to do on the riverside. See what you can get into.

Walk along the Douro River

The Douro River, which flows through Porto and extends to the wine country, is known for its calm and wide expanse. In the city, you can admire the many boats along the river, reminiscent of the ones that historically transported wine from the valley. A popular activity is to take a river cruise, to get picturesque views of the riverbanks, bridges, and the city’s colorful houses.

One of the highlights of our walk was finding the murals, specifically the São João Mural Painting. This vibrant and creative mural is a celebration of the São João Festival, a significant event in Porto’s cultural calendar. Illustrated by Mariana Malhão, the mural is located at Passeios das Fontainhas, on the retaining wall of the Duque de Loulé viaduct.

São João Mural Painting, Porto, Portugal

The São João Mural is characterized by its depiction of various symbols associated with the festival, including a two-legged hammer and a giant balloon. The use of bold colors and imaginative characters in the mural reflects the festive and lively spirit of São João.

Bolsa Palace

The Bolsa Palace, built in the 19th century, is a historical building that showcases Neoclassical architecture. It was constructed by the city’s Commercial Association on the ruins of the Saint Francis Convent. The palace’s design and construction were carried out by several architects and artists, contributing to its richly decorated interiors. The Bolsa Palace is not only a significant historical site but also a marvel of artistic and architectural beauty. Each room within the palace tells a unique story of Porto’s rich commercial and cultural history.

To enter, you need to join a tour and they fill up. Go in to get your tickets and see what tour times are open. If one isn’t open until later, you can walk around the area a bit and come back when it’s your turn.

Interior Highlights:

Grand Staircase: Designed by architect Gonçalves e Sousa in 1868, this marble and granite staircase is adorned with sculptures and ceiling frescoes by notable artists.
Arab Room: Inspired by the Alhambra in Granada, this room is a masterpiece of the Moorish Revival style and used for receptions and official events.
Nations’ Courtyard: The central courtyard features a metallic, octagonal dome with the coats-of-arms of countries related to Portugal’s trade in the 19th century.
Other Notable Rooms: The Palace has several other decorated rooms like the Tribunal Room, President’s Room, and General Assembly Hall, each with unique artistic and historical significance.

Address: Rua Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal.
Hours: Open from April to October: 9:00am ~ 6:30pm and from November to March: 9:00am – 12:30pm and 2:00pm ~ 5:30pm
Tickets: Guided tours are available, with ticket prices at €12 for adults and €7.5 for students/seniors.
- Admission is free for children under 12.
Accessibility: Facilities are available for people with reduced mobility.
Booking: It’s recommended to book your guided tour in advance, especially during high season.

Walk across Ponte Luis I

This iconic bridge is a marvel of 19th-century engineering and an emblem of the city. The bridge was designed by Téophile Seyrig, a disciple and business partner of Gustave Eiffel. It was completed in 1886 and at the time, boasted the longest span of any metal bridge in the world. The bridge was inaugurated on the 31st October 1886.

The bridge has two levels – the upper deck originally for road traffic and now used by the Porto metro (D line) and pedestrians, and the lower deck for road traffic and pedestrians. If you walk along the Douro like we did, you’ll easily come to where you can cross the upper deck. The upper deck offers stunning views of the River Douro and the Ribeira, but do be prepared for the wind. We were holding our little lady’s hand pretty tightly!

The bridge connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia, offering easy access to the famous port wine cellars.

Location: It’s easily reachable from Cais da Ribeira and is a short walk from São Bento Station. The bridge is beautifully illuminated at night, making for a breathtaking sight.

Walk through the narrow alleys to find the Half Rabbit Mural

After crossing the Ponte Luis I bridge, follow the roads with signs that will lead you through the neighborhood down to the riverside. On the way, be on the lookout for the Half Rabbit Mural. This intriguing piece of street art is a creation of the Portuguese artist Bordalo II, known for his unique 3D works made from recycled materials and found objects.

The Half Rabbit is located on the corner of Rua Guilherme Gomes Fernandes and Rua Dom Alfonso 111 in Vila Nova de Gaia, a short distance from the bridge. The artwork is a social commentary on mass production and consumption and their effects on nature, aiming to raise awareness about sustainable living.

Lunch at Mercado Municipal de Gaia

Once down on the boardwalk, look for Mercado Municipal de Gaia, this local market has various stalls with food that everyone will enjoy. While my husband and I opted for the seafood dishes, my daughter got a delicious pancakes topped with fruit dish. There was pasta, sandwiches, tapas, and of course plenty of local wine and beer to enjoy as well. Eating at the markets is ideal when you have people in your family that may want various things.

Address: Largo Sampaio Bruno 1, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
Hours: Every day: 11:00am ~ 10:00pm

Gaia Cable Car

The Gaia Cable Car offers a panoramic view of the city, the Douro River, and the famous port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. It’s an ideal way to appreciate the city’s scenic beauty from above and is a popular activity for tourists. It’s also a great way to get back up to the top of the hill whence you came. This is a super popular tourist activity. The ride lasts 5 minutes and covers 600 meters.

Stations: One station is near the Jardim do Morro metro stop on the Porto side, and the other is on Avenida Ramos Pinto alongside the Gaia riverfront.
Hours: January – March: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm; March – April: 10:00am ~ 7:00pm; April – September: 10:00am ~ 8:00pm; October: 10:00am ~ 7:00pm; November – December: 10:00am ~ 6:00pm
Prices: One way: Adult: €7, Child 5-12: €3.5; Round Trip: Adult: €10, Child 5-12: €5; There are also packages with the cable car and cruise option if you want to do that as well.

6 Bridges Douro River Cruise

Once you’ve had your fill, this is an ideal time to take a cruise on the Douro River. Cross back over the Ponte Luis I, this time on the bottom, walk along the riverside and you’ll find the boats. The boats are traditional-style boats that were used to transport Port wine barrels. The trip takes an hour and your kids will love it, just make sure to get a seat near the edge and not inside so you can really see everything with the little ones.

Book a Ticket: You can book your ticket in advance on Get Your Guide.

Dinner at Conga

Conga is not just about food; it’s about experiencing a piece of Porto’s culinary history and local culture. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into the authentic flavors of the city. This restaurant is famous for creating “Bifanas” – a simple yet delicious Portuguese sandwich made of bread, thinly sliced pork meat, and a special sauce. The recipe of the sauce, a key element of their Bifanas, is a well-guarded family secret. The ambiance is typically loud and crowded, reflecting the lively spirit of Porto. Though hectic inside, the waitstaff are very friendly and helpful.

Known for its signature dish “Bifanas,” Conga has been a popular spot in Porto since its opening in 1976. While Bifanas are the star of the menu, Conga also offers a range of other dishes, many with strong flavors. Be prepared for a bit of heat if you’re not used to spicy food. For us coming from Korea, we didn’t find anything overly spicy. We actually found the dishes to be a bit on the saltier side rather than spicy. With two Koreans with me, we were happy to see that you can order a helping of rice with your meal. Watch out, it’s a BIG helping though! One dish was enough for us all to share.