Porto 5 Day Itinerary (What to See in Porto in 5 Days)

Planning a trip to Porto for the first time? I recently spent 5 days exploring Portugal’s charming second city, and it completely won me over. From colourful tiled buildings to riverfront views and iconic landmarks, this city has so much to offer. In this blog, I’ll walk you through my 5-day Porto itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxation and a true taste of local life.

Day 1 – Getting to Grips with Porto

After checking into my hotel and dropping off my bags, I spent the first day doing what I always love doing in a new city – wandering. I didn’t have a set plan or destination. Instead, I allowed myself to roam freely through Porto’s winding streets and steep hills.

It didn’t take long to notice the city’s iconic blue and white azulejos (ceramic tiles) decorating many of the buildings. I also stumbled across small neighbourhood cafés, local bakeries selling pastel de nata, and the occasional miradouro (viewpoint) with sweeping vistas over the Douro River.

If it’s your first time in Porto, I highly recommend dedicating the first day to simply getting lost. It helps you settle in, understand the city’s layout, and discover some hidden gems you won’t find in any guidebook.

Day 2 – Historic Highlights and Riverside Views

Day 2 was all about hitting the major sights – and it turned out to be one of the most scenic days of the trip.

I started the morning at São Bento Station, known for its stunning azulejo tile panels that depict scenes from Portuguese history. Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s a must-see spot.

From there, I wandered through the charming little streets around the station. The area is packed with quirky cafés, independent shops, and a maze of alleys that give Porto so much character.

Next, I made my way down to the Ribeira waterfront, the city’s most touristy area but undeniably beautiful. The colourful houses lined up along the river, the street performers, and the lively energy made it the perfect place to grab a drink and people-watch.

After enjoying the river views, I climbed to the top level of the Dom Luís I Bridge and walked across it. The panoramic view of the Douro River was absolutely worth the trek. On the other side, I took the Gaia Cable Car from Jardim do Morro down to the waterfront area of Vila Nova de Gaia. The short ride offered lovely aerial views and dropped me off right near the famous port wine cellars.

The street below was bustling with local vendors selling souvenirs, cork products, handmade jewellery, and lots more – a great spot if you’re looking to bring back a unique gift.

Day 3 – Internet-Famous Sights and Iconic Landmarks

Another action-packed day was in store for Day 3. I decided to visit the most recommended spots that kept popping up online, and honestly – they did not disappoint.

I revisited São Bento Station, just to take it in one more time. From there, I walked over to the Clérigos Church and climbed the Clérigos Tower for some of the best views over the city.

Then came one of the most anticipated stops – Livraria Lello, often referred to as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. With its grand staircase and neo-Gothic interiors, it’s no surprise that this place gets so much attention. You can read my full Livraria Lello review here to see whether I think it’s really worth it.

Next, I popped into what might be the fanciest McDonald’s I’ve ever visited – McDonald’s Imperial. This former Art Deco café has chandeliers, stained glass, and an old-world feel that you won’t find at your typical fast-food joint.

I ended the day at Mercado do Bolhão, a lively food market that gives you a real taste of local life. Stalls were packed with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and traditional Portuguese delicacies. It’s a great spot to grab lunch or snacks and just soak up the atmosphere.

Day 4 – Rest and Recharge

By Day 4, I’ll be honest – my legs were aching. Porto is a very walkable city, but it’s also incredibly hilly. So I decided to take things a bit slower and stay local to where I was staying.

I explored the nearby streets, discovered some low-key cafés and shops, and spent time relaxing. One place I visited was the Alameda Shopping Centre, which is more of a modern, local hangout than a tourist spot. It was nice to do a bit of browsing without the crowds and enjoy a quiet coffee away from the bustle of the city centre.

Sometimes, rest days like this are essential, especially in a city like Porto where the terrain can be pretty unforgiving. If you’re planning a longer trip, I definitely recommend factoring in a slower day like this to avoid burnout.

Day 5 – Monastery Views and Final Explorations

On my final day, the weather turned a bit cloudy – which honestly, was perfect after a few days of strong sunshine.

I hopped on the metro and made my way back to Jardim do Morro, then climbed up to the Monastery of Serra do Pilar. This spot offers truly spectacular views of the Luís I Bridge and the entire cityscape of Porto. It’s one of the best photo opportunities in the city and gives you a different angle from what you see down by the river.

Afterwards, I walked around the Bolhão district, exploring more side streets, bakeries, and independent shops. It felt like the perfect way to round off the trip – blending iconic viewpoints with more of the city’s authentic, everyday charm.

If you’re wondering how to get around for trips like this, I used the Metro every day during my stay and found it incredibly simple and reliable. Check out my full Porto public transport guide for tips on using the Metro and Andante cards during your visit.

Final Thoughts – Is 5 Days in Porto Enough?

Absolutely. Five days in Porto gives you plenty of time to see the major sights, sample the food, and enjoy the local pace of life without rushing. I loved how the city combines historic charm with a laid-back vibe, and even though some parts are touristy, it never felt overwhelming.

Whether you’re into architecture, local markets, stunning viewpoints or simply strolling aimlessly (like I did on Day 1), Porto is a fantastic place to experience at your own pace.

Porto surprised me in the best way possible. It’s the kind of city that doesn’t try too hard to impress – yet leaves a lasting impression with its charm, energy, and effortless beauty. Whether you’re crossing the Luís I Bridge at sunset, browsing books in Livraria Lello, or simply enjoying a glass of port by the river, there’s always something magical around the corner.

If you’re a first-time visitor, I hope this 5-day itinerary gives you a real feel for what the city has to offer. And if you’re already planning your own adventure – I’d love to hear what you’re most excited to see or do.

Feel free to leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram to follow along on more solo travel adventures.