Porto
A captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrance, Porto is one of Portugal’s most enchanting cities. Known for its historic Ribeira District and the majestic Douro River, Porto offers a picturesque landscape where colorful buildings rise above bustling waterfronts. The city’s iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, traditional rabelo boats, and ancient port wine cellars reveal a rich heritage, while its lively markets, cozy cafes, and stunning viewpoints bring an undeniable energy to every corner. In Porto, each day unfolds with scenic adventures and cultural discoveries that make it unforgettable.
Sample 4 Day / 3 Night Itinerary
Day 1
- Fly to Porto from Ireland (flight options below).
- Upon landing, take a coach transfer to the city, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
- Lunch at Concept 31 offers a chance to savour local cuisine. Afterward, embark on a guided bus tour of Porto, exploring the city’s highlights and rich history. Check in at the Hotel Pão de Açúcar for a comfortable stay, then unwind with a picnic snack at Park das Virtudes.
- Join a photography course to capture the stunning sights of Porto. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel before participating in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to make the traditional Pastel de Nata!
- Return to accommodation and overnight.
Day 2
- After breakfast, start the day with breakfast at Hotel Pão de Açúcar before boarding the bus for a full-day adventure. Enjoy the scenic transport as you head towards the Peneda-Geres National Park.
- Arrive at the National Park for a guided tour, where you’ll experience breathtaking sights and go hiking in this stunning natural environment. After some exploration, take a break for lunch with a picnic and enjoy some swimming. Continue your guided tour in the afternoon to further discover the park’s beauty.
- As the day winds down, visit a viewpoint to witness a stunning sunset over the park. Afterward, enjoy dinner at the Essentia do Gerês restaurant, savoring local flavors before returning to your accommodation for a restful night.
Day 3
- Enjoy breakfast at Hotel Pão de Açúcar before embarking on an exciting day. Start with a thrilling cable car ride followed by a scenic boat tour, taking in the beautiful views of the region.
- Travel by coach to Matosinhos Beach, where you can relax and enjoy lunch at Lais de Guia Restaurant right on the beach. Afterward, head to Azura Adventure Park for an afternoon filled with fun and excitement as you tackle various outdoor activities.
- After your adventure, take a coach to the Porto Bridge for a breathtaking sunset climb, offering stunning views of the city. Following this, enjoy dinner at Churrasqueira Lameiras, savoring delicious local dishes before returning to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Day 4
- Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Then, board a coach for a full-day excursion to Arouca, enjoying the scenic drive.
- Arrive at the Paiva Walkways and Suspension Bridge, where you can experience breathtaking views and enjoy a leisurely walk through this stunning natural area. After exploring, take a coach to Tasquinha da Quinta for a delicious lunch. Following lunch, head to Aveiro for a guided city tour, including a scenic gondola boat tour through its picturesque canals.
- Transfer to the airport for return flight home. See below for an indication of the airports in Porto that serve the Irish market.
Building Your Itinerary - Cornerstones
Cornerstones are the attractions that should form the core of any itinerary – the “do not miss” items!
For us there are 4 such cornerstones to a Porto itinerary:
Guided Tour of Porto + Photography Course: The photography course adds a unique touch by helping you capture the city’s beauty through your lens, ensuring that you leave with memories both in your mind and on your camera.
Hike and Exploration in Peneda-Gerês National Park: One of Portugal’s most stunning national parks, known for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife.
Arouca Suspension Bridge & Paiva Walkways: Walking across the Arouca Suspension Bridge offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and river below. The Paiva Walkways, provide a stunning opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the area at your own pace.
Sunset Climb at the Porto Bridge: The sunset climb at the Porto Bridge offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city as it transforms during the golden hour. It’s an unforgettable way to end a day of adventure in Porto.
Itinerary - Day Trips
Porto – Tour of Peneda-Gerês National Park: Explore Portugal’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, a breathtaking landscape of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountains. Enjoy scenic trails, spot unique wildlife, and splore trekking routes for an immersive experience in Portugal’s natural beauty.
Porto – Water Park Amarante: A thrilling water park featuring a variety of slides, pools, and attractions for all ages. Enjoy the excitement of water rides, relax in the wave pool, and let the kids splash around in dedicated play areas. With beautiful scenery and family-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect spot for a day of summer adventure!
Douro Valley: Explore the stunning Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and scenic river views. Enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards, take a relaxing river cruise, and indulge in regional cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking landscapes.
Guimarães: Visit the historic city of Guimarães, often referred to as the birthplace of Portugal. Discover its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes, and stroll through the charming streets of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Itinerary Fillers and Evening Activities
Filling time and gaps in an itinerary won’t be a problem in Porto – trying to cut out attractions will be the challenge!
The SeaLife Porto, where students can enjoy learning about sealife.
Porto 6 Bridges Cruise: Glide along the Douro River as you take in stunning views of the city’s iconic bridges, each with its own unique history and design.
Surf Classes in Matosinho Beach: The beach provides perfect conditions for learning, guided by skilled instructors.
Xtreme Jet Boat River Safari: An adrenaline-pumping adventure that takes you on a thrilling ride through the stunning landscapes of Porto. Experience high-speed twists and turns as the jet boat glides over the water, offering breathtaking views of the city’s iconic landmarks from a unique perspective.
Accommodation Options
Our preferred accommodation is the Hotel Pao de Acucar in Porto: a welcoming and comfortable lodging located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from iconic attractions like the Ribeira District and the Dom Luís I Bridge.
We offer the possibility of staying in 2/3-star hotels, subject to price change and availability.
Breakfast and dinners are provided, unless specified in the itinerary.
Connections from Ireland
Flight routes change all the time, but currently the options include:
- Dublin to Porto is currently the only flights available that are non-stop direct flights
