If you want to do a Lisbon to Porto day trip this is how to do it and what is recommended to see when there.
Lisbon To Porto Day Trip Itinerary
A Lisbon to Porto day trip is ambitious, considering the distance between the two cities. The most efficient way to travel between Lisbon and Porto is by train, which takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours one way.
Given this travel time, you’ll have a limited amount of time to explore Porto. This is a suggested itinerary for your day trip but naturally, you can change it around to other things you may have more interest in.
This is the official site for trains in Portugal where you can check timetables and book tickets.
Morning
Early Departure (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM):
Catch an early morning train for your Lisbon to Porto day trip. Make sure to check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance.
Arrival in Porto (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM):
Arrive at São Bento Station in Porto. Start your day with a quick breakfast of Portuguese cuisine at a local cafe near the station.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon
Explore Ribeira District (10:30 AM – 12:30 PM)
Walk around the Ribeira district for 2 hours exploring the sights.
The Ribeira District, also known simply as Ribeira, is a historic district in the city located on the northern bank of the Douro River, and its name “Ribeira” translates to “riverbank” in English. This area is a must-visit on your Lisbon to Porto day trip.
The district is characterized by its narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and picturesque waterfront. Ribeira is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The buildings typically have colourful facades adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles.
The Ribeira Square is a hub of activity with restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to gather and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Located in Ribeira the São Francisco Church is a Gothic church known for its ornate Baroque interior. The church is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also, visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and enjoy the views of the Douro River and one of the best scenic views of Porto.
Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
Choose a riverside restaurant or one in the Ribeira area to savour some traditional Portuguese cuisine, such as the famed Porto Francesinha or Bacalhau.
The Francesinha in particular is a favourite among residents of Porto for a filling lunch.
It is a sandwich that originated in Porto and the name “Francesinha” translates to “Little Frenchie” in English. This hearty and flavourful dish is a popular comfort food in Portugal.
Francesinha is a rich and indulgent dish, and it has become a culinary symbol of Porto. Be sure to try it for lunch, although if you are vegetarian/vegan it definitely won’t be appropriate as it has several layers of meat inside normally consisting of steak and pork.
Afternoon
Visit Livraria Lello (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Livraria Lello, also known as Lello Bookstore, is a historic bookstore considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It is not just a bookstore; it’s a cultural and architectural gem that attracts visitors from around the world. It’s a must-visit if you are interested in literature and architecture.
The bookstore was inaugurated in 1906 by the brothers José and António Lello. It has a rich history and has been a gathering place for intellectuals and literary enthusiasts over the years. The interior features a beautiful stained glass ceiling and a unique blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco elements.
Livraria Lello is a popular tourist attraction and if you like literature and architecture is a must-visit on your Lisbon to Porto day trip. You can appreciate the opportunity to explore the bookstore, take photographs, and purchase books. Due to its popularity, there may be an entrance fee, but this fee is typically redeemable against book purchases.
Clerigos Tower and Church (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
Head to the Clerigos Tower and Church for panoramic views of Porto.
The Clérigos Tower is a historical and architectural gem of Porto and also a symbol of the city. Its central location and impressive height make it a must-visit attraction when in Porto, providing a unique perspective of the city’s landscape from its viewing platform.
It is part of the Clérigos Church complex and near the Ribeira District. It is known for its distinctive Baroque architecture and stands at a height of 76 meters (249 feet), making it one of the tallest bell towers in Portugal. You can climb a narrow spiral staircase of 225 steps to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views of Porto and the surrounding areas.
The tower is often associated with the Clérigos Church (Igreja dos Clérigos), a Baroque church that is part of the same architectural complex. The church and tower are considered one of the most important Baroque ensembles in Portugal.
Late Afternoon/Evening
Sé Cathedral and Old Town (5:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Visit Porto Cathedral (Sé Cathedral) and wander some more through the narrow streets of the Old Town.
The Sé Cathedral is a significant religious and architectural landmark in the city and is located in the heart of Porto’s historic district, near other important landmarks such as the Clérigos Tower and Livraria Lello.
Inside the cathedral, you can explore the main chapel, the Gothic cloister adorned with traditional Portuguese ceramic tile), and various chapels containing religious art and artefacts.
The cathedral also offers panoramic views of Porto from its terrace, giving you a great vantage point to appreciate the city’s layout and the Douro River.
Dinner and Sunset by the River (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a riverside restaurant while watching the sunset over the Douro River. This is the perfect way to end your Lisbon to Porto day trip.
Evening
Return to Lisbon (9:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Catch an evening train back to Lisbon.
Arrive in Lisbon (around midnight)
Return to your accommodation in Lisbon.
Find accommodation in Lisbon here.
Portugal Travel
Portugal is one of the more diverse and beautiful countries to visit in Europe and if you are there on a shorter trip and want to see as much as possible then you can do a Lisbon to Porto day trip.
Remember that this itinerary is quite packed, and you may need to adjust it based on your interests in what you want to see when there. If possible, consider spending a night in Porto to have more time to explore this beautiful city.
If you do decide to spend the night then you can find accommodation in Porto here.
Additionally, verify the train schedules and make reservations in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
For more on Portugal have a look at my article about the 20 best castles in Portugal to visit.
Share the Lisbon to Porto day trip by train:
