What other cities can you explore near Porto?

You can spend a week in Porto and still have a long list of things to do. That said, if you have the benefit of time, we recommend exploring some great nearby destinations. After a food tour with us, why not make time for one of these day trips from Porto?.

Just one or two hours by train is enough to reach some of the most beautiful cities in the north (and even the center) of the country. Here are our five favourite day trips from Porto.

Day Trips from Porto: Aveiro

Once upon a time, Aveiro was a small fishing town by the sea, situated beside the Ria, a shallow coastal lagoon that surrounds the city centre. Because of its many canals and the typical boats, Moliceiros, Aveiro is known as the “Portuguese Venice”. Today, it is a modern city that still keeps its traditions, mainly when it comes to the typical egg sweet known as Ovos Moles. But this is not the only sweet you can try in this beautiful city by the sea. Curious? Hop on the train!

Aveiro is about an hour away from Porto by train. The train station is right at the beginning of the main avenue, so you can just start walking around. The good news is that there are also free bikes you can use. And don’t worry, we promise you there are no hills!

Read also our guide for a wonderful Day Trip to Aveiro. It includes everything you need to know for a wonderful day in the Portuguese Venice.

Day Trips from Porto: Braga

Braga is Portugal’s third-largest city and is known for its devotion to tradition and religion. There are ancient buildings and churches around every corner, the majority of which have a baroque influence. All of this beauty will make you understand why this northern city is frequently described as magnificent. But don’t let the heritage fool you! Even though Braga is a very traditional city, it is also full of life and young people.

• In 2012, it was named the European Youth Capital;
• It is home to one of the country’s biggest universities, Universidade do Minho;
• It is also one of Portugal’s most active innovation hubs for startups.

The great news is that by train it will only take you around one hour to get there from Porto! Plan an amazing Day Trip to Braga with our detailed guide and visit one of the oldest and most religious cities in Portugal.

Pssst… Join our Food & Drink Tours and discover a side of Porto that most tourists rarely see »

Day Trips from Porto: Guimarães

To visit Guimarães is to literally go back in time to the roots of Portugal. After all, Guimarães was the place where Afonso I, the first king of Portugal, was born. But this is not the only reason.

The city’s welcoming spirit is just as much a part of its charm. The history and hospitality were recognized in 2001 when Guimarães was named a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. To fully understand this honor, be sure to visit the:

• Amazing medieval buildings;
• Impressive Castle up on the hill;
• Braganza Palace of the Dukes (surrounded by incredible gardens!);
• Beautiful historical center that you definitely shouldn’t miss.

We assure you, the city is very walkable! And it will take you only around one hour to get there by train from Porto. Now, discover the birthplace of Portugal, one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the country, with the help of our guide for a perfect Day Trip to Guimarães.

Day Trips from Porto: Coimbra

As with Guimarães, history is very much alive in Coimbra. This ancient city is home to the oldest university in Europe (Universidade de Coimbra). It still carries the pride of being the medieval capital of Portugal back in the 12th century.

By night, you’ll often hear the notes of the guitar accompanying Fado singers. By day, students fill the streets, cafés and bars, giving the city a lively atmosphere.

In Coimbra, we are no longer in the north of Portugal, but one thing remains the same: the hills. The historic city cascades down the hillside to the banks of the Mondego River. This is why we recommend starting at the top with the university and working your way down. To get to Coimbra, it will take you no more than two hours by train from Porto.

Day Trips from Porto: Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is a must for anyone traveling to Porto. It is probably Portugal’s most famous wine region and one of the most beautiful and oldest in the world. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2001, a day trip might feel insufficient to explore the entire region, but it is enough to whet your appetite for a return visit. Beware, you will leave wanting to return!

The region offers so much beauty and such a magical atmosphere that many refer to it as the enchanted valley. You can access it by train, car, or even by taking a cruise up the Douro River. Each option offers a different way to experience the valley, so it’s difficult to recommend just one. In fact, some tour providers offer you the chance to cruise up the Douro River and ride the train back to the city.

Douro: a paradise on earth

Soon after leaving Porto, you’ll know you’ve arrived in the Douro Valley. You’ll start seeing breathtaking steep slopes covered with vineyards, winding roads climbing towards the peaks, and quintas (wineries) scattered across the hillsides. If you have time, book a wine tour, visit the vineyards, and taste some of the excellent Douro Valley wines.

Truth be told, a visit to Porto is never complete without a visit to the Douro region. So plan your unforgettable Day Trip to Douro, one of the most beautiful and oldest wine regions in the world with our online guide.

More Day Trips from Porto: Northern Portugal

If you’re looking for authentic villages, scenic walks, memorable meals and places that still feel deeply connected to local life, northern Portugal has plenty more to offer. So if you decide to rent a car during your stay, we also recommend exploring these five hidden gems in Northern Portugal.

Day Trip from Porto: Camino de Santiago

For something a little different, why not follow part of the Camino de Santiago from Porto? While the famous French Way attracts most pilgrims, more travellers are choosing routes that offer a slower pace, quieter villages and a more personal experience. So before you put on your boots and start following those famous yellow arrows, read our guide to the Camino de Santiago from Porto.

Ready to explore beyond Porto?

We hope these train-friendly suggestions help you make the most of your time in Portugal. Take the opportunity to venture beyond Porto and discover more of what this beautiful country has to offer. And if you still need a hand planning your trip, our Porto Travel Concierge service can help you put together an itinerary that fits your interests, schedule and travel style.

Safe travels and enjoy every moment of your Portuguese adventure!

With love,
The Taste Porto Team