What to See Near Porto

Built along the banks of the Douro River, Porto is one of the most important cities in Portugal. This place, boasting a cultural and historical life as intense as the wine that bears its name, has become a must-visit destination for travelers.

To explore it in detail, we recommend at least three days of stay. There is much to see among its main monuments, the iconic Ribeira district of Porto, and of course, its famous wine cellars.

However, we suggest dedicating one or two more days to visit nearby towns, exploring vineyards, fishing villages, and places filled with history, some considered the most beautiful villages in Portugal. You won’t regret it!

If you’re interested in knowing what to see near Porto, here are the 5 best excursions.

The 5 Best Excursions Near Porto

If you’ve spent some time in Porto, it’s worth taking the time to explore the cities in northern Portugal and immerse yourself in the experiences this region offers, filled with medieval castles, temples, and streets steeped in the nostalgia of fado.

Landscape and Wine in the Douro Valley

 

The Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world. The excursion to this place is among the most popular from Porto due to its proximity and unique beauty. Travelers are delighted as they stroll through the vineyards where the precious Port wine is harvested and produced, with landscapes offering unparalleled views.

On the way from Porto to the birthplace of the Douro, places like Amarante can be visited, famous for its pastries and where the remains of Saint Gonçalo rest in its church; a saint whom singles seek help from to find a partner.

The Douro Valley has very particular conditions and a climate that has given rise to great wines of world-class quality. Additionally, the Demarcated Douro Region is the oldest documented viticulture area in the world, with more than two thousand years of history and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.

In addition to visiting two of the region’s most famous wineries and toasting in the sun with a traditional lunch, this Douro Valley excursion offers transfers and the opportunity to take a panoramic cruise on the Douro River.

Coimbra and Fátima: The Academic and Religious Heritage of Portugal

 

Crossed by the Mondego River, Coimbra is known for housing the oldest university in Portugal and preserving a historical heritage of 2,000 years.

There’s much to see in Coimbra, starting with its historic center, the Joanina Library, and the Old Cathedral or Sé Velha de Coimbra. If you visit the Alcaçova Hill, you can join other travelers eager to explore the historic buildings surrounding the Patio of Schools.

Nearby the University of Coimbra is the Botanical Garden, which, with free admission, helps you disconnect through its wooded paths.

About 85 km away, in the same day, you can also visit the Sanctuary of Fátima and experience its rich religious heritage. Don’t miss visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fátima and walking around its vast esplanade.

Do you want to forget about transportation and enjoy both cities without worrying about how to get there and back? Discover all the hidden gems, settings, and local stories of these destinations at your leisure on this day trip to Coimbra and Fátima.

Discover the Cradle of Portugal and the Capital of Faith in Guimarães and Braga

 

Just 45 minutes from Porto, visiting the Historic Center of Guimarães is an absolute must. In this city, you will see one of the best-preserved medieval old towns in the country.

Here was born the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, and it was his first capital. In Guimarães, you can explore the Sacred Hill, where among other buildings, the Guimarães Castle stands: one of the 7 wonders of Portugal.

Another destination to visit near Porto is Braga. Considered the religious center of northern Portugal, its first cathedral was built in 1089, and today it has the highest concentration of religious temples in all of Portugal. One of them is the Portuguese sanctuary Bom Jesus do Monte, famous for its baroque staircase.

Book an excursion and visit Braga and Guimarães with transport and a guide.

Get to Know the Portuguese Venice and Fall in Love with Aveiro and the Colors of Costa Nova

 

After its beaches and Art Nouveau architecture, there’s nothing better to see in Aveiro than its emblematic canals. The city is full of colorful facades and tiles that give it a bohemian air.

Known as the “Portuguese Venice,” you can get lost in its canals, stroll, and listen to the city’s stories aboard the picturesque “moliceiros.” All this just 75 km from Porto.

About 15 km from Aveiro is Costa Nova. Here, we recommend you save battery on your phone to take dozens of photos of the “palheiros” on Avenida José Estevão: these are striped and colorful houses that once served as homes for fishermen. If you feel like continuing the walk, we recommend heading to Praia da Barra, where you can see the tallest lighthouse in Portugal.

Make the most of the day and enjoy these two destinations on our half-day excursion to Aveiro and Costa Nova with a typical boat ride.

 

Escape to Santiago de Compostela

 

Santiago de Compostela is filled with historical sites, blending religion, architecture, green spaces, and a wealth of culture. Together with Jerusalem and Rome, this city is one of the main pilgrimage centers in the world, captivating visitors with its imposing cathedral and the streets of its historic center.

Among its highlights is the historic center of Santiago de Compostela, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and of course, the imposing image of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, one of the main pilgrimage destinations and the culmination point of the Camino de Santiago.

Other areas of special interest include the Alameda Park, the Church of San Martiño Pinario, Cervantes Square, and the Abastos Market. You can also spend time wandering its streets, surrounded by beautiful old buildings along Rúa da Raíña, Rúa do Vilar, Rúa Nova, and Rúa do Franco.

You might not have thought about crossing the border into Spain from Porto, but this destination is so close that you can do it in a day. Book this day trip to Santiago de Compostela here.

 

As you can see, there are plenty of options to explore destinations inside and outside the majestic city of Porto. Discover these and other excursions in Porto in Spanish.