After visiting Porto three times, we love this beautiful city of Portugal. This is one of our favorite places in Europe. Many people only come to Porto for a day, whether before their river cruise in the Douro Valley or during a day trip on their Portuguese adventure. Because this city is so compact, Porto is a very walkable city and it is easy to see many of its main attractions in a single day.
Although we recommend at least a few days in Porto, it is possible to see a lot because all the main attractions are close to the city center. So we have put together the perfect one-day itinerary for Porto to make the most of your short stay.
A day in Porto itinerary
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal, but it still feels small. The historic center is within walking distance and with easy and affordable public transport, Ubers and an organized hiking route, you can see a lot in a short time.
If you only have one day in Porto, we recommend using Uber to get around. We found them to be very reliable and affordable. If you plan to visit many of Porto’s attractions and use public transport, you can also consider the Porto card. We didn’t use the postcard for a day, but you can check out what’s included here.
Tomorrow
Many of our suggestions are easily reachable on foot once you have reached the area we have suggested. We have a map at the end of this article that you can follow. And we will suggest where and when to take an Uber and when to walk.
Livraria Lello
Harry Potter Fans will want to go directly to Livrario Lellow to start their one-day itinerary. Call an Uber from your hotel and head to R. das Carmelitas for the first entrance to the most beautiful bookstore in the world. It is rumored that the Hogwarts spiral stairs were modeled on the magnificent baroque stairs of Livraria Lello, but JK Rowling denies this. Anyway, there is a whole section dedicated to the beloved series and you will feel as if you have entered a magical bookstore.
Many people have the most beautiful Bookstore in the world on their list during their itinerary in Porto, but many people also miss it due to a lack of planning. Be sure to book your timed announcement in advance. The bookstore opens at 9:00 am and you will want to book a golden ticket that will allow you to skip the line and get a free book of your choice. Even if you have booked the golden ticket and can skip the queue, show up at 8:00 am to be in front.
You need to book well in advance on the LIvrario Lello website, and we have an entire blog post that tells you exactly how to book this golden ticket and how to make sure you are the first to enter the bookstore here.
Igrega do Carmo
When you’re done in Livraria Lello, head to the nearby square to see the iconic tiles Of Igrega do Carmo. This is one of the most popular tile walls in Portugal, and you can get an iconic photo in the doorway. Yes, we are guilty of taking exactly this shot. The place itself is beautiful but busy. The tours stop here to talk about the church, in the center of which there is a beautiful fountain.
If you visit Porto, you will be delighted. The historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996 for a good reason. You will never forget its winding alleys, its historic churches adorned With Azuelos (Portuguese tiles) and its beautiful buildings.
