Planning a full-day trip from Lisbon to Porto? You’re in for a treat! Porto is one of Portugal’s most beautiful cities, boasting a rich history, medieval architecture, and majestic bridges. We are proud to call it our home, and in this guide, we will share a detailed Lisbon to Porto day trip itinerary with recommended stops along the way.
When we first visited Portugal in 2019 we only explored Lisbon and Sintra. We returned in 2021 and 2022 to explore northern Portugal along with Porto and since then we have visited the country numerous times, and are now settled in Porto.
We have taken the train, bus, a day tour, and also road-tripped from Porto to Lisbon (now that we live here), and vice versa!
We will provide you with a detailed guide to the different transportation options available to all the main attractions and the best places to stay, and tips so you’ll find some great insights for a successful road trip. We also delve into the best time to do this trip, how to pack for it, and some frequently asked questions and answers.
Lisbon to Porto Day Trip Itinerary
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Escape the bustle in Lisbon by spending one day in Porto. Indulge in the culture of this northern capital of Portugal, from drinking port wine to exploring its historic city center.
What is the best way to get from Lisbon to Porto?
There are many ways to get to Porto from Lisbon, so the best option is entirely based on your personal preferences (and the amount of time you have allocated in Porto for your Portugal itinerary).
You could travel via car, private tour, bus, or plane. By comparing their various travel times, costs, and comfort levels, you’ll make the right choice for you.
In a nutshell, the distance from Lisbon to Porto is as follows:
Lisbon to Porto = 315 km or 195.73 miles
It will take you about 3 hours to arrive from Lisbon to Porto.
Are you looking for the fastest, cheapest, or easiest way to get from Lisbon to Porto? Here’s a breakdown of the different travel options you have and what to expect.
| Mode of Transport | Time Taken | Note |
|---|---|---|
| By Car | 3 hours | This is the most flexible option and takes about 3 hours via the A1 motorway. |
| By Train | 2.50 to 3 hours | Trains take about 2.5 to 3 hours and offer a comfortable and scenic ride. |
| By Bus | 3.50 hours+ | Buses take around 3.5 hours and are a budget-friendly option. |
Lisbon to Porto by car – best for road trips
When driving from Lisbon to Porto via rental car it will be a three-hour trip. This travel time will vary according to traffic and weather conditions. From Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport, you’ll take the E1 from Av. Berlim then follows the A1 to Via Panorâmica in Porto.
Booking a rental car is arguably the most convenient way to travel at your own pace. Plan ahead and familiarize yourself with Portugal’s rental car requirements. You need to be at least 21 years old, and drivers under 25 years may be required to pay a young driver fee.
Keep in mind, that there are tolls that you have to pay for when traveling from Lisbon to Porto. (Most) Rental car companies will have an electronic toll payment system (called Via Verde) installed in the vehicles. This allows drivers to pass through toll booths without stopping. It’s available on all Portuguese highways with electronic toll collection systems.
Lisbon to Porto by private transfer or guided tour
Private transfers and guided tours are great alternatives if you don’t have much time or can’t figure out the best itinerary. Book this private transfer with a sightseeing tour, and make stops at the home of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and Aveiro on the way to Porto.
Don’t want to be bothered with the logistics of buying bus or train tickets and want to avoid the crowds? This private full day tour from Lisbon to Porto is the best way to travel for you.
Lisbon to Porto by train
Traveling by train is generally considered the best way to travel to Porto. Train tickets typically cost around $29 (€27). Intercity trains charge $27 (€25) for second class and $39(€37) for first class, while the Alfa Pendular train costs $34 (€32) and $48 (€45) respectively.
Take a high-speed train and arrive in about three hours and 45 minutes. Connecting the city center to the city center, express trains take you from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia Station or Oriente Station to the Campanhã Train Station in Porto.
Lisbon to Porto by bus – cheapest
Taking a bus to Porto is another popular way to travel, and it’s the cheapest option. The total journey time of traveling by bus is about 15 to 30 minutes more than via train due to the stops along the way.
Even direct buses may be slower because of traffic and weather.
Compare bus ticket prices from Lisbon to Porto on Omio to find the most suitable option for you. A standard one-way ticket to Porto will cost as little as $3.20 (€3). Book a Rede Expressos bus from Sete Rios Bus Station in Lisbon to Porto’s Campo 24 de Agosto Station.
Alternatively, you can catch the bus (FlixBus) at Oriente Bus Station in Lisbon.
Lisbon to Porto by plane – fastest
Don’t have enough time to travel by land? Flying from Lisbon to Porto may be the best option for you if you don’t mind splurging. It’s the fastest way to travel as the flight takes about 45 to 55 minutes, that’s without accounting for flight delays, lines, or cancellations.
You can expect plane tickets to cost anything between $87 (€82) and $636 (€597).
Suggestive Itinerary Stops On a Day trip to Porto from Lisbon
When traveling from Lisbon to Porto, you can make the most of your trip by starting early and making it a mini road trip, if you will.
Here are some of the stops you can make along the way,
1. Óbidos: This charming medieval town is an hour north of Lisbon. You can walk around narrow streets, visit a historic castle, and try the famous Ginja de Óbidos, a cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups. (Distance: Lisbon to Obidos is 1 hour by car or bus)
2. Nazaré: This coastal town is known for its big waves and surf culture. Stop here for fresh seafood and amazing views. (Distance: Lisbon to Nazare is 1 hour 30 minutes by car or bus)
3. Fátima: Fátima is a sacred pilgrimage site, perfect for those interested in history and spirituality. You can visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. (Distance: Lisbon to Fatima is 1 hour 20 minutes by car or bus)
4. Coimbra: This city is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and has a lot of history and culture to explore, like the stunning Joanina Library. (Distance: Lisbon to Coimbra is 2 hours by car or 1.50 hours by bus. Or 1 hour and 10 minutes from Porto by bus, train, or car)
5. Aveiro: Often called the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is famous for its canals and colorful boats. You can explore the unique architecture and try the local sweet treat, Ovos Moles. (Distance: Porto to Aveiro is 50 minutes by car or bus)
Best things to do in Porto from Lisbon | Full-day trip itinerary
There are plenty of great things to do in Porto, from walking around the historic center to going shopping along the narrow, cobbled streets. We highly suggest you visit a few of the city’s churches and museums to immerse yourself in the libraries of Portuguese history.
Too much to do but not enough time? Consider extending your trip and follow this ultimate 3 days in Porto itinerary and enjoy beach days on the Atlantic Ocean, port wine tasting, and epic Douro Valley views.
1. Take a guided tour (walking, e-biking, or via tuk-tuk)
As soon as you arrive in Porto, be sure to book an exploration tour of the city’s main highlights and attractions. This 3-hour guided walking tour takes you to a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the historic center for a deep dive into Porto’s Roman roots and invasions.
If you don’t want to do much walking, consider taking an electric bike guided tour. It also takes around three hours to complete, taking you through Porto’s hilly streets, from Clerigos Tower to Sao Bento train station and the Dom Luis I Bridge.
Alternatively, you can take a private electric tuk-tuk sightseeing tour to bypass the effort needed to explore Porto’s hills on foot or via bike. This 1.5-hour tour focuses on the overall experience of Porto, taking you from churches to famous squares and shopping streets.
2. Go shopping at Rua de Santa Catarina + Chapel of Souls
You cannot go to Porto and visit one of its most popular shopping areas. Rua de Santa Catarina is a pedestrian street lined with some of the most famous shops in Europe, from Zara to H&M and United Colors of Benetton. But this street is not just all about shopping.
You’ll find hotels, cafés, restaurants, artisanal shops, and street vendors along this one-mile street, making it an excellent place to stay, eat, and buy the best souvenirs from Porto.
Walk a little further down the street to the impressive Chapel of Souls. Decked with blue and white azulejo tiles on the exterior depicting religious imagery, this small church is one of the city’s most photographed buildings, and it’s easy to see why.
3. Stroll through Mercado do Bolhão
Located in a two-story neoclassical building, Mercado do Bolhão is one of Porto’s largest and most historic markets. It is an ideal place to purchase edible souvenirs, from Portuguese cheese to sweet treats and piri-piri.
The market boasts about 79 stalls on the ground floor selling fresh produce, 10 restaurants on the top floor, and 38 shops facing outside.
Mercado do Bolhão is a great place to have lunch before continuing with the rest of your day.
4. Marvel at the Church of Saint Ildefonso
After fueling up with some food, head over to the Church of Saint Ildefonso near Batalha Square. This 18th-century building stands tall in the heart of Porto. The church features pleasant proto-Baroque style features harmoniously blended with an azulejo tiled exterior.
It is one of the best photo spots in Porto for social media, so be sure to bring your finest camera gear. We suggest you take a picture of the church from the left side of the complex; this way, you can put a title in the frame, with the church as the backdrop.
5. Stop by São Bento Station
Hailed as one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe, São Bento Station sits in the city center, an ideal place for a major public transportation hub. The station features intricate interiors, from elaborate ceilings to large arched windows and azulejo tile work on the walls.
Each of the azulejo tiles portrays crucial aspects of the history of Portugal, like the Battle of Valdevez in 1140, the Portuguese conquest of Ceuta in 1415, as well as King John I’s visit.
6. Explore Livraria Lello
Characterized by its bold red staircase, intricately designed wooden elements, and Neo-Gothic exterior, Livraria Lello is undoubtedly the prettiest bookstore in the world.
There are plenty of literary works to browse through inside the Livraria Lello bookshop, from exhibitions featuring Time Magazine to rare first editions and manuscripts. Harry Potter fans may be surprised to know that this bookstore has a connection with the franchise.
It is said that Livraria Lello inspired the interiors of Hogwarts as well as Flourish and Blotts, as J.K. Rowling visited the store in 1991 when working on the first of the Harry Potter books. Entrance fees are payable to enter Livraria Lello; a ticket voucher will cost you $8.5 (€8).
7. Climb Torre dos Clérigos
Standing at a whopping 246 feet tall, Clerigos Tower can be seen from various parts of the city. This Baroque-style bell tower is one of Porto’s most impressive structures, featuring medieval finishing, contours, spires, and domes that are worthy of a closer look.
Visit the Clerigos Tower and its museum every day from 9 AM to 7 PM for just $8.5 (€8); students pay $5.33 (€5), and children under the age of 10 years enter for free. Tickets here
You can also book a guided tour on their website of the church, tower, and museum for just $10.12 (€9.5).
Tip: Avoid the day crowds and opt for a night pass (7 to 11 PM) to Clerigos Tower for $5.33 (€5). Note that this is only available on special occasions like Easter and Christmas season.
8. Admire Porto Cathedral
Locally known as Sé do Porto, this Roman Catholic church sits on one of the highest points in the city. The Romanesque cathedral features Gothic and Baroque style elements that were later added years after the first construction began.
Inside Porto Cathedral, you’ll see the grand Gothic funerary chapel and azulejo tiled cloister. This iconic landmark is definitely worth a visit, as it gives you a sneak peek into Porto’s history. It sits in a square with a large column in the center where criminals are hung.
9. Explore Bolsa Palace (Stock Exchange Palace)
Arguably one of the most intriguing landmarks in Porto, the Stock Exchange Palace sits right in the city center. The 19th-century Neoclassical building exudes “old world” charm, from its majestically furnished halls to its elaborate Noble Staircase and themed rooms.
You’ll also love the palace’s ornate courtyard and its large glass ceiling enclosure which lets a flood of sunlight into the hall.
Visit Bolsa Palace anytime from 9 AM to 6:30 PM to admire its stately rooms, from the Hall of Nations to the Court Room, Library, and Presidents Room.
A single entry costs $12.8 (€12), while students and seniors only pay $8 (€7.5). Children under the age of 12 years enjoy free admission unless they are visiting in a group.
10. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge + Jardim do Morro
Connecting the city of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, this double-decker, arched metal bridge spans over the magical Douro River. Views from the Dom Luís I Bridge are among the best Porto viewpoints, giving you sweeping views of the colorful cityscape, skyline, and river.
The bridge is an excellent spot for taking pictures. On the lower deck, you’ll get close-ups of the neighborhood of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia. The upper deck, on the other hand, has train lines and gives you great vistas of the entire city.
Want to see the Luís I Bridge itself from an amazing vantage point? Look no further than Jardim do Morro. This quaint hilltop green space in Vila Nova de Gaia features an open field and benches for sitting and enjoying the view. Sunsets here are among the best in Porto.
11. Take the Six Bridges Cruise
If you’d like to see the Porto sunset from the water, then consider this 6 Bridges Douro River party boat with an optional sunset tour. The tour treats you to stunning views of the city from the river, paired with refreshing drinks like port tonic and beer and eclectic music by the DJ.
Not sure if this tour is worth it? We’ve written a guide on the 6 Bridges Cruise in Porto to help you make the best decision. You’ll also get some top tips for the most unforgettable tour.
12. Explore the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
Port wine is undeniably Porto’s most famous export. The wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia are fantastic places to savor the local drink and learn the history of port wine production.
Book this wine-tasting and cheese-pairing session in Vila Nova De Gaia and enjoy three port wines paired with delicious cheese. You’ll be in a cozy lodge in the heart of the city, a small family-owned business spanning five generations.
Have more time? Don’t limit yourself to just three wines when you can book a Port Wine Lodges tour, offering you seven port wine tastings.
14. Catch a live Fado show + Dinner
Before calling it a day, attend a live Fado show in one of three perfectly acoustic locations dotted across the city. Traditional Portuguese Fado music is vibrant and melancholic, transporting you to the Porto of Old. Your live show ends with a glass of delicious port wine.
15. Experience Porto nightlife along Rua da Galeria de Paris
After seeing the main attractions, charming museums, medieval churches, and pretty river views, Porto’s nightlife will complete your day trip with a bang.
Rua da Galeria de Paris is a hub for anything nightlife-related; from bars to top nightclubs, you’ll find the right place to blow off steam on this street. Some standout places to check out include Moreclub, Lda, Texas-themed Yellow Rose Bar, and HD Bar to Be Wild.
Note that this area comes alive pretty late in the night (usually after 10:30 pm-ish)!
Where to stay in Porto
Finding a suitable place to call home in Porto is quite a challenge, not due to the lack of options but rather because of the abundance. There are numerous hotels, lodges, and hostels scattered across the city—here are three of our top recommendations:
ZERO Box Lodge Porto
Characterized by rooms set in wooden boxes and eccentric decor, ZERO Box Lodge offers a lavish stay in the heart of Porto. The lodge features a top-floor restaurant and bar and two separate eateries on the ground floor. You’ll be within steps away from Mercado do Bolhão.
Se Catedral Hotel Porto
Set in a convenient location between the iconic Porto Cathedral and the Sao Bento Train Station, this Hilton is one of the popular places to stay in the city. The hotel has a bar and also offers room service. They are pet-friendly too!
Being Porto Hostel
Featuring shared and private accommodations, Being Porto Hostel offers you a great stay amidst Porto’s top attractions. The hostel is within a mile of Bolsa Palace, Dom Luís I Bridge, and Clerigos Tower. There’s a shared dining area and a kitchen for those who like to cook.
Best time to visit Porto from Lisbon
So, when is the most ideal time to take a Lisbon to Porto day trip? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your Porto itinerary and choose the right activities for each season:
- Spring and Fall: You’ll enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months.
- Summer: Experience warm weather and lively festivals during the summer months (June to August). This season is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Winter: Explore Porto’s attractions without the crowds during winter (December to February) and take advantage of lower prices on accommodations and attractions.
Porto Packing List
Different seasons require varying luggage. However, some must-bring items should always be on your Porto packing list.
- Comfortable walking shoes — bring scandals and sneakers for varying terrains.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses — protect you from the harshness of the sun.
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories — you won’t regret it!
- Portable charger for your electronic devices — for those long sightseeing tours.
- Light jacket or sweater — for cooler evenings.
Want to extend your trip? Here are the best day trips from Porto
Can’t get enough of northern Portugal? Why not extend your trip to some of the main cities in the region? Here are a few great day trips from Porto:
Braga: Take a day trip from Porto to Braga and immerse yourself in this northern city’s religious heritage and modern attractions. The city boasts lots of religious sites like the majestic Bom Jesus do Monte complex, quaint shops, and charming architecture.
Guimarães: Visit the historic city of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, and explore its medieval center and impressive castle. Spend one day in Guimarães and unpack the rich culture and history buried along its narrow lanes. And don’t miss out on the vibrant squares.
Douro River Valley | City of Pinhão: Take a day trip to the Douro Valley, Portugal’s oldest wine region, and enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards while admiring the scenic landscapes. Pinhão is the most picturesque town in the valley, with rolling green hills and white homes.
Aveiro: Known as the “Venice of Portugal”, this charming coastal city boasts picture-perfect canals and colorful boats and houses. A day trip from Porto to Aveiro promises a magical experience exploring art galleries, museums, and lots of churches.
Lisbon to Porto day trip | FAQs
Still uncertain about how to plan the perfect day trip from Lisbon to Porto? We’ve put together a list of the most commonly asked questions and answers to assist you.
Is a day trip from Lisbon to Porto possible?
Absolutely! The only drawback is that the trip may take up much of the day (about three to five hours), so plan to stay in Porto for a minimum of two days.
Is the train ride from Lisbon to Porto scenic?
Yes. You can take a scenic train from Lisbon to Porto, passing the Portuguese countryside and charming cities like Coimbra along the way. The railway also runs along the Atlantic coast, giving you incredible ocean views.
Should you go to Lisbon or Porto first?
The Lisbon vs. Porto debate may leave you unsure about which city to visit first. Lisbon is big and requires days to explore, while Porto is compact and ideal for long weekend trips.
Wrapping up the best day trip from Lisbon to Porto
Porto has a lot to offer if you’re seeking insights into Portugal’s history, culture, and culinary delights. From exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Center to indulging in wine tasting at the famous port wine cellars, there’s something for you in this beautiful city.
Whether you choose to take a guided tour, travel by train or bus, or opt to embark on your adventure via rental car, Porto promises a day filled with unforgettable experiences.
Travel Tips Lisbon Porto Day Trip
Pin: Day trip to Porto from Lisbon Portugal
