72 hours to discover Porto

Visiting Porto in a weekend was a challenge I decided to take on. My goal? To explore the best of Portugal’s second city. And I have a confession to make: I rediscovered this city. It won me over completely, to the point that I would have loved to stay a few more days. But I came back with some precious recommendations, tips to make the most of your stay, and a more mature view of what to see, where to eat, and how to fall in love with it.

How to visit Porto in 72 hours

Two days may sound short, but Porto is a compact city, perfect to explore on foot. Just be ready to climb a few serious hills!

Practical info

• Transport: no need for public transport, everything can be done on foot.
• Currency: Euro (€).
• Local time: one hour behind Switzerland.
• Getting there: direct flights from Geneva with Swiss or easyJet (about 2h20).
• Electricity: same plugs as in continental Europe.
• Budget: an affordable destination, ideal for travellers on a budget.
• Useful tip: book the Porto Card (about CHF 5.60) for access to many monuments.

My must-sees in Porto

1. The Ribeira district

This historic district is simply unmissable. Its colourful façades reflected in the Douro are pure poetry, and a treat for your photos.

2. The famous azulejos

Fewer than in Lisbon, but just as beautiful! My favourite places to admire them:

• São Bento railway station
• Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
• Igreja do Carmo
• The Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas)
• Santo Ildefonso Church

3. A modern touch: Casa da Música

This cultural centre with its futuristic lines is impressive. The guided tour (about CHF 7) is ideal for anyone passionate about design and acoustics.

4. Tasting port wine

Cross the Douro to Vila Nova de Gaia to discover the iconic cellars. My pick? Poças. A family house for more than 100 years that offers an authentic experience, a good glass in hand, facing the sunset.

5. Livraria Lello

Famous for having inspired J.K. Rowling, this bookshop is a gem. Yes, it is often crowded, but it is a detour you cannot skip.

6. Mercado do Bolhão

Freshly renovated, this market is perfect for diving into local life. Come early to watch locals buy fish and fresh fruit.

7. Time Out Market Porto

Opened in May 2024 in the south wing of São Bento station, this food market brings together 12 restaurants, two bars and a tasting room. It is the spot to enjoy the best of Portuguese cooking in a lively atmosphere.

If you have a little more time

• A sunset sailing trip

Sailing on the Douro is a magical experience (from CHF 51).

• A day trip to Aveiro

One hour from Porto, this “Portuguese Venice” is well worth a visit.

My favourites

• Food

Euskalduna Studio, a 10-course tasting menu (about CHF 65) where Portuguese cooking reinvents itself.

• Drink

The bar at The House Ribeira Hotel, for refined cocktails in a modern setting.

• Shop

Coração Alecrim, a design shop mixing vintage and contemporary.

Porto in 48 hours is a condensed but vibrant immersion in a city that will seduce you from the very first walk. So, ready to go?