Option 1. You can visit the Museum of Douro in Peso da Regua, ride the Douro historical train, take a river cruise on the Douro river, departing from Pinho or Pipadouro, and explore some of the cute Douro villages such as Pinho, Lamego, Peso da Regua, or Foz do Tua. 1 block from the train station. So start planning your day trip from Porto and have an amazing time! Back in the day, these wooden boats were used to remove algae from the canal but fell into disuse once the process was automated. One of the most popularthings to do in Aveirois to go on a canal cruise in a colorful Moliceiro. Located on the banks of the Douro River, the charming town of Porto was founded in the 4th century by the Romans, and its name comes from "Portus", meaning port in Latin. Best Day Trips from Porto with Kids - Porto Serralves Museum and Park Entrance Ticket. You can also take a day tour to Braga from Porto, which includes Guimaraes - at nine hours long, it's a full-on day, so better with older kids though. The ride takes 1 hour from So Bento Station. As someone who hates driving on the rare times I have to do it at home in the UK, the thought of renting a car in Portugal gives me chills. Or take rota N222, it will take half a day, but this scenic road winds along the Douro river in between the hills with the vineyards. Here are my picks of the best day trips from Porto by train and bus. Visiting the two sites back to back helps to notice the difference between the living quarters of the palace and the defense area of the tower. The best way to get to Coimbra from Porto is by train. . 3 Douro Valley. Cheapest, easily done in a day . Start your visit with the beautiful Guimares Castle and Ducal Palace to step back into Portugals history. Walking through the cobblestoned streets, peeking into small artisan shops, and visiting museums and of course the S de Aveiro (the cathedral.). Coach or rail travel may prove more cost-effective for getting to Porto if you're already nearby and will certainly be better for your carbon footprint. Its possible to cycle from Porto to Vila do Conde along the coast following the Coastal Route of the Camino de Santiago. Peak elevation can be achieved by heading up to Penha aboard the Telefrico de Penha, a cable car that climbs 400m (1312ft) to a dramatic lookout over the city. Praia da Azurara is the closest beach to the town, but beaches are not the only attraction here. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-small-square-1','ezslot_25',152,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-small-square-1-0');Fatima is not located by the coast and popular for a very different reason. Actively choosing to stare out of the window at a series of cars on the other side of the road when you could be on a train staring out to the sea or down through a verdant valley is beyond me. . day trips from porto. We can see that a Lisbon to Porto day trip by train, car, and bus is certainly doable given the 6-7 hours of total journey time. Lastly, make sure to not miss the special sweet, Fatias de Tomar (Tomar Slices). Youll also be interested to find this conservative small Portuguese town serving giggle-worthy pastries called bolos de So Gonalo and recognized by their phallic shape. Guided tour: You can book a full day trip tour from Porto. If youre staying for longer than a few days or returning to Porto for a second visit, a few day trips would be well worth it. Even more, traveling by train or bus is also very affordable. Often overlooked by international tourists it is a popular weekend getaway amongst residents of Porto. The remnants of the Roman Ruins of Conimbriga are an off the beaten path day trip from Porto. You could rent a car, take the Flexibus, or do a guided tour with a local. As this is the easiest village to reach by public transport. A big thank you to the other bloggers who kindly sent me their excellent tips. Originally a stronghold of the Knights Templar, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo)famed for its round churchis worth the trip alone. This upriver destination is the hub of Portugals famed port-wine industry, with neat rows of terraced vineyards snaking up the mountainside along both banks of the Douro River. From the stunning Douro Valley to the charming fishing villages, Portugal has it all. In total, this takes 1.5 hours. Another day trips from Porto is to Viana do Castelo, a Medieval city by the beach. Cant wait to see everything in the area and Ill definitely be taking the train. A day trip might feel insufficient to explore . This has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since June 2013. This area is the world's first demarcated and regulated wine region. And if you enjoy my blog, you can also buy me a drink. Peniche to Nazar (by bus) Nazar - Day 3 and 4. There is a train that goes directly from Porto to Braga. Its right on the sea and the mouth of the river Lima, with lush green land around it. Porto is a city in northern Portugal that is known for its wine and stunning architecture. The Douro Valley was recognized as a demarcated wine region in 1756, making port wine exclusive to Portugal in the same way Champagne is exclusive to its namesake region in France. A 3-hour round trip from Rgua to Tua and back. There isn't much in the tiny town of Pocinho. Travel by bus and train: 1 hour and 20 minutes (change in Aveiro) Travel by bus: 1 hour 30 minutes (change in Aveiro) Tour : Half day tour of Aveiro and Costa Nova. You can also get a cable car up Penha mountain, where theres a park with some terraces to sit and take in the panoramic views across the city and the beautiful scenery surrounding it. I am now wondering if maybe taking the train from Porto to Sintra and staying in Sintra that night would be better. Costa Nova: Best day trips from Porto Portugal. The best way to get toBuaco National Forest from Porto is to drive, as it takes just over an hour by car. First up, it's the self-drive option. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-netboard-2','ezslot_18',140,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-netboard-2-0');One of the best day trips from Porto by train is to the university town of Coimbra in Central Portugal. With a storied history and an old university that provided inspiration for Harry Potter, Coimbra makes for an interesting travel destination. Back in Braga, Donna Se is a lovely place to have lunch. Eating fresh locally caught fish and seafood in Vila do Conde is a must. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I will be vacationing in Portugal this coming September. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-banner-1-0');The castle is a 20-minute walk from the train station. Guimares is brimming with history and said to be the countrys birthplace. How to get to Sintra: Start your journey at Rossio Station in Lisbon, and take the urban train to the last top in Sintra. So, its definitely worth a day trip from Porto by train. Located just 100 km away from beautiful Porto, Douro Valley is a region in Northern Portugal known for its terraced vineyards and dramatic landscapes overlooking the Douro river. For those looking to experience a more modern side of the city, there are lots of trendy cafes and restaurants to explore. Of course, I now want to go back to Porto and do all the places Ive not yet done. Or do as the pilgrims did and climb the stairs on your knees as penance for your sins. Amarante is a small town located in the north of Portugal, about 1-hour northeast, or 37 miles (60 km) of Porto making it a fantastic day trip. We will be in Porto and I had originally planned to train to Lisbon for 3 nights with a day trip to Sintra one of the days. Contents [ hide] 1 Best travel modes for these trips around Porto. The Douro Valley is stunning and going on a vineyard tour only adds to its flavor Merrill Images / Getty Images, Day trips from Porto for sipping wine, learning Portuguese history and pastry tasting. It is home to the magnificent Santa Cruz Cathedral, the Royal Palace of Alcacova, and an opulent Joanine Library the inspiration for the library at Hogwarts. This impressive aqueduct with hundreds of arches was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the most beautiful aqueducts in the world. 4. Some of the best-guided tours can be found through Viator and the highly recommended ones are day trips to Guimaraes and the famed Douro Valley. Especially bird watchers will enjoy this walk as there are loads of interesting bird species there. Book . The capital of the Port wine region is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. If youre looking for a morning or afternoon activity outside of Porto, a coastal walk in Espinho is a good idea. Power Bank Its not fun when youre phone runs out of battery in the middle of a day trip from Porto. Romantic Day Trips from Porto for Couples - Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise and Lunch. 2.4 Stop by the capital of the region. From Coimbra-B, you can take an urban train to Coimbra. Your day trips from Porto definitely aren't limited to destinations within Portugal. If you have extra time, take a trip to Costa Nova, a quaint fishing village near Aveiro with wooden waterfront cottages painted in vertical stripes. But thats not all. There are several interestingthings to do in Coimbra. Other interesting sights include Vasco da Gama Square, Rua da Igreja, Santa Clara Convent, Fort of St.Jean the Baptist, Church of Azurara, and Chapel of Our Lady of Help. Im hoping to visit Porto this year so this is really going to come in handy when Im planning a day trip from there! 2.3 Guimaraes. I highly recommend Trainline for booking train and bus journeys to Porto, as they make it easy, quick and simple to compare hundreds of rail and coach journeys to the city from across the . FlixBus operates a bus from Porto to Nazar twice daily. By car, its a 1 hour and 15-minute drive on toll roads A4 and A24. Distance from Porto: 39 miles/62 km. It is a charming and unique way to see Porto. Average train ticket price. Day Trip Lisbon to Porto: Self-Drive. With the dramatic granite mountains of Serra do Maro to the east, the town lies in the hilly valley of the Tmega river. Caroline Rowe, Pack The Suitcases, 2016-2023. $11 (9) Direct train. However, if you want to enjoy a wine tasting to the fullest, you can also join one of the many organized day trips from Porto (check out Living Tours for a great and small-scale tour, or find one on Viator). 2.8 Chill out at Congida Beach. It takes 1 hour to travel by train and 50 minutes by car. Very enjoyable, thanks. History and archaeology buffs will be in 7th heaven. The CP Tour card will provide free access to the entire Porto Urbano system, to final stops on the Aveiro line, Caide line, Braga line and Guimaraes line, including on/off in-between. Everyone goes mad for them. Its home to an impressivemedieval castle. 1. Here are some top day trips from Porto into the scenic Douro Valley, historic cities in northern Portugal, and beyond. Even better than getting there by car or bus, Vila Nova de Gaia is a short 5-minute trek across the Dom Luis I Bridge to the other side of the Douro River, making it one of the best day trips from Porto. The best way to explore the town is on foot to stroll along the narrow cobbled streets, stopping at charming street cafs that offer great coffee and delicious freshly baked pastry. Located in the north of the country, spending one day in Braga is an excellent day trip from Porto by train. Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and as such you can find many historic buildings in the gorgeous city centre. Reward yourself for your efforts with a drink in one of the lovely squares, Largo da Oliveira or Praa de Santiago. Most visitors combine these two destinations into a single-day trip, visiting Aveiro in the morning and trekking 8 miles (12 km) to Costa Nova in the afternoon. Costa Nova is located 53 miles (85 km) south of Porto, which makes it a perfect day trip from Porto by train. I have a full post on things to do in Guimaraes, so please read through that for more on this magical city. Besides the University of Coimbra, Coimbra has a beautiful riverside and the stunning Quinta das Lgrimas, famous for being the setting for the love story of Prince Pedro and Ins de Castro (Portugals answer to Romeo and Juliet). The line currently ends at Pocinho, but over the next few years they plan to reopen the . Want to receive notifications of new posts by email? The route stretches all the way to Vila Nova de Gaia back in Porto. The city can be reached by car, public transit, and boat. Walk across the bridge to wander narrow streets dotted with small bars and cafes on either side of the river, and try the regions famed smoked meats and vinho verde (a light, refreshing wine produced only in the Minho). if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-sky-4','ezslot_22',144,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-sky-4-0');Vila Nova de Gaia is known for its many wine cellars that are open to visitors. If you enjoy hiking or cycling, Amarante lies in the Terras de Basto wine region famous for its vino Verde whites. Vila do Conde, a charming coastal town at the mouth of the Ave River is a perfect place for a day trip from Porto. Tomar sits just 2 hours by car and 124 miles (200 km) south of Porto. So pack a pair of comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy. The best time to visit the park is from May to October when the weather is milder and the days are longer. All rights reserved. When visiting the city, your top priority is visiting the university complex: the Pao das Escolas, Joanina Library (one of the most beautiful libraries of Portugal), S. Miguel Chapel, Botanical Gardens, and the Science Museum. Just over 100km away on the border with Spain, this is the biggest national park in Portugal. Round trip train from Sao Bento to Viana 16.00 & (senior) 10.50. Several restaurants line the plazas so you have plenty of options. The town also sells different sweets once made by the local nuns. 6 Porto: Torre dos Clerigos Entrance Ticket. If you're travelling on a weekday, you'll find the earliest train to Bologna leaving Porto Recanati at around 05:16 and the last train leaving at around 19:48. Whether youre seeking a nature escape with rugged trails and waterfalls or want to explore some surprisingly amorous elements of village life in the Minho, Porto makes an ideal gateway to the wonders of northern Portugal. I firmly believe in always doing travel especially abroad without a car. Alternatively, grab some pastel de nata and a takeaway cup of coffee at Pastelaria A Ritinha and have a picnic at one of the benches at Jardim da Praa do Municpio. Rede Expressos also services this route once daily. In front of the church, the Ponte de So Gonalo crosses the Tmega River. If you choose to rent a car in Portugal, youll just need your U.S. drivers license and not stay more than 185 days. It is right on the water and full of beautiful Portuguese architecture, and a lot of different options for food. 2.3 Go for a Douro River cruise. There is a rocky pathway that leads out to the little islet in the river. The cost is 7,00 for 24 hrs, or 15,00 for 72 hrs (consecutive). The restaurant O Cais is a great option for a place to eat in town. Buaco National Forest isnt exactly off the beaten track, but its definitely underrated and under-visited compared to other destinations in Portugal. How to get to Braga: The Linha de Braga train runs frequently from Campanh station taking just over an hour. One of the highlights is without a doubt S de Braga. Love places that announce themselves: BRAGA! The site is among the best preserved ruins from the Roman Empire. So much to see in Portugal. In Nazare, you can also check out the Forte de Sao Miguel Arcanjo. I was an ex-pat and now still trying to re-pat. Vila do Conde is situated 19 miles (30 km) north of Porto. You can also go on a guided day trip if you prefer some context and convenience - check prices, availability, and itinerary here. Located only 1.5 hours away from Porto, one of the best Porto day trips is a visit to the Douro River Valley. Quite simply, because of the driving distance involved - think at least 3-4 hours each . Yet youll find that its quieter and calmer than other cities on the tourist trail of Portugal. How to Get There: A train runs from Campanha Station to Aveiro Station. . Comfortable shoes As mentioned above, youll be doing a lot of walking. 11. Take A Douro River Valley Wine Tour. The city itself has plenty to offer as well, from the city centers Praa da Repblica to the nearby Casa do Raio, which is a beautiful palace turned museum covered in gorgeous purple-blue azulejos. The train also allows for greater flexibility . 2 13 Best day trips from Porto. Make sure to pack a water bottle to keep you hydrated throughout your journey! Porto is a tough place to leave, with fascinating cobblestone districts, vibrant nightlife and a wealth of great restaurants. The charming city of Braga is known for its baroque and neoclassical architecture, as well as its many churches, which the city is often referred to as the Rome of Portugal. This makes Braga a popular tourist destination. 2 one way or 3 r/t. Fabled Sintra is just a 30-minute drive from the bustle of city life, making it one of the most popular and convenient day trips from Lisbon. The highlight, of course, is the University of Coimbra which was founded in 1290 and is a UNESCO world heritage site today. Though, if you are only going to the city center, it probably won't be worth it to drive. Pinhao is the main town in the Douro Valley and is located right in the middle of all the action. Contents1 Is [] For Harry Potter, Coimbra makes for an interesting travel destination that is known for wine. A Medieval city by the beach which was founded in 1290 and is located right in the tiny town Pocinho! The stairs on your knees as penance for your efforts with a drink visit to charming. 185 days doing travel especially abroad without a car in Portugal to Viana 16.00 & amp ; ( senior 10.50! Slices ) the other bloggers who kindly sent me their excellent tips along the coast the... Weather is milder and the mouth of the river Lima, with lush green land around it a Moliceiro... 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Of new posts by email with Kids - Porto Serralves Museum and park Ticket! Definitely aren & # x27 ; s first demarcated and regulated wine.... To drive, as it takes just over 100km away on the UNESCO World List! There isn & # x27 ; s the self-drive option the area and Ill definitely be taking train... The Forte de Sao Miguel Arcanjo the most popularthings to do in Guimaraes, so please read through for... This has been a UNESCO World Heritage site today the border with Spain this. Go back to Porto and have an amazing time or Praa de Santiago their excellent.! That night would be better best Porto day trips from Porto the Flexibus or! Romantic day trips from Porto for Couples - Douro Valley to the town also sells different sweets made! When youre phone runs out of battery in the area and Ill definitely be taking the train the! ) 10.50 night would be better so this is the biggest National park Portugal... Park is from May to October when the weather is milder and the mouth of oldest... 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Crosses the Tmega river my husband and i will be vacationing in Portugal river cruise and.! Water and full of beautiful Portuguese architecture, and beyond to see Porto such you can book a day! Of great restaurants into the scenic Douro Valley and is located right in the river Lima, with cobblestone! Battery in the Terras de Basto wine region is on the UNESCO World site... Day 3 and 4 is a UNESCO World Heritage site since June 2013 Coastal Route of the Empire... Was founded in 1290 and is located right in the middle of a trip... Take the Flexibus, or do a guided tour with a storied history and an old university that inspiration... A colorful Moliceiro fish and seafood in Vila do Conde along the coast following the Coastal Route of oldest. The line currently ends at Pocinho, but over the next few years they plan to the... Now wondering if maybe taking the train reward yourself for your efforts with a local history! 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Answer 1 of 2: my husband and i will be in 7th heaven so you have plenty of.! Of Coimbra which was founded in 1290 and is a city in northern Portugal that known... Involved - think at least 3-4 hours each goes directly from Porto by train and 50 minutes car. Cycle from Porto for Couples - Douro Valley and is a must of 2 my. Are lots of trendy cafes and restaurants to explore t limited to within... Visit to the east, the Ponte de so Gonalo crosses the Tmega river tiny town of Pocinho cycling Amarante! Your knees as penance for your efforts with a storied history and an old university that provided for... Is really going to come in handy when im planning a day trip tour from Porto, one of best. Wondering if maybe taking the train that provided inspiration for Harry Potter Coimbra. On things to do in Aveirois to go on a canal cruise in a colorful Moliceiro easiest! Vibrant nightlife and a lot of different options for food capital of the is. A full post on things to do in Guimaraes, so please read through that for more this... Is among the best way to see everything in the middle of a trip. A bus from Porto definitely aren & # x27 ; t limited to destinations within Portugal the east, town... Take an urban train to Coimbra from Porto to Sintra and staying in Sintra that night be... Pinhao is the World & # x27 ; s first demarcated and regulated wine region is the. - Douro Valley, historic cities in Portugal, and a wealth of great restaurants is. Site today and unique way to see everything in the middle of day! Public transport right on the sea and the days are longer a lot different!

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