Two Days, One Porto: A Quick Escape

Ribeira Riverside walk: Strolling along the Ribeira, Porto’s historic riverside district, is an absolute must. Colorful buildings, bustling cafes, and the gentle flow of the Douro River create the perfect backdrop for both people-watching and photos. Take your time wandering the narrow streets, popping into shops, or stopping at a riverside terrace to soak in the lively, charming atmosphere.

Guided tukt uk tour: We hopped on a tuk tuk to get the lay of the land, and it was an instant highlight of our trip. The tour made it easy to see Porto’s main sights while effortlessly reaching some of the city’s higher viewpoints. It’s a playful, low-stress way to get oriented and fall in love with the city from the very first day.

Port wine cellar tour: No visit to Porto is complete without exploring a port wine cellar across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Guided tours give you insight into the city’s centuries-old winemaking tradition, and tastings let you savor some of the region’s finest flavors. It’s a delicious, informative experience that leaves you appreciating Porto’s rich culture with every sip.

Mercado do Bolhão: For a taste of local life, wander through Mercado do Bolhão, a lively market at the heart of the city. Fresh produce, colorful flowers, and traditional Portuguese treats fill every stall, inviting you to explore and sample. The energy of the market, combined with the friendly vendors, makes it a wonderfully immersive way to experience Porto’s daily rhythms.

Sunset from Dom Luís I Bridge: End your day with a stroll across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, one of Porto’s most beloved landmarks. As the sun sets over the Douro River, the city’s rooftops glow in golden light, creating a picture-perfect moment. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause, breathe, and feel completely swept up in Porto’s magic.

Taberna dos Mercadores: This intimate 16-seater is a true gem in Porto, where every dish is made fresh to order. Start with the alheira sausage and codfish croquettes, and don’t miss the octopus rice, served in heated bakeware for extra crispy, flavorful bits with perfectly tender octopus. The salt codfish is a masterclass in balance, with potatoes soaking up the rich sauce and topped with onions and sweet pepper strips. Reservations are essential for this unforgettable dining experience.

Mercado do Bolhão: A must-visit, especially for lunch, Mercado do Bolhão is a lively introduction to Porto’s local flavors. With something for everyone—including cured meats, sliced to order, pasta rolled in a parmesan wheel, bakery treats, fresh fruit and juices, and of course, wine. Since none of the vendors serve full entrees, you can sample a little bit from everyone and enjoy a truly immersive culinary experience.

My Coffee Porto: Start your day at My Coffee Porto with a perfectly brewed hot beverage, a refreshing acai bowl, or their hearty brunch to fuel your adventures. This charming little café offers a cozy atmosphere that pairs beautifully with Porto’s cobblestone streets and riverside views. It’s the ideal spot to relax, watch the city wake up, and plan your day ahead.

Muro do Bacalhau: Dine right on the riverside at Muro do Bacalhau and take in stunning views of Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River. Be sure to try the signature bacalhau à lagareiro, perfectly roasted with garlic and olive oil, and the octopus salad, tender and flavorful with a zesty dressing. With the combination of fresh seafood and postcard-worthy scenery, it’s a dining experience not to be missed.