Porto is an amazing city to explore. You can spend days wandering the narrow lanes, tasting Port wine, and soaking up river views. But one of the best things about Porto is how close it is to so many great places. With just a short ride, you can reach golden beaches, green mountains, charming towns, and even a national park.
If you’re planning a trip, this guide will show you the best day trips from Porto. These are easy to reach, full of history and beauty, and perfect for adding a little variety to your visit.
Braga: Portugal’s Oldest City
If you love history, Braga is a must. Just an hour from Porto by train or car, it’s one of the oldest cities in Portugal. The highlight is Bom Jesus do Monte, a sanctuary on a hill with baroque staircases that zigzag up to the church. The view from the top is worth the climb, but there’s also a funicular if you’d rather ride.
In the old town, you’ll find Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, along with cozy cafes and gardens. Braga is also famous for its Easter celebrations, but it’s beautiful any time of year.
Secondary keywords: Braga day trip from Porto, Bom Jesus do Monte
Guimarães: Birthplace of Portugal
Close to Braga is Guimarães, another great stop. Many call it the birthplace of Portugal because it’s where the first king was born. The town is full of medieval charm, with cobbled streets, stone houses, and lively squares.
The Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança are top sights, but don’t miss Largo da Oliveira, the main square where locals gather. With its history and charm, Guimarães feels like stepping back in time.
Douro Valley: Wine Country at Its Best
No trip to Porto is complete without a visit to the Douro Valley. This is the land of Port wine and some of the most beautiful views in Portugal. You’ll see terraced vineyards climbing the hills, winding roads, and the Douro River cutting through it all.
You can take a river cruise, ride the scenic Douro train, or drive yourself for maximum freedom. Towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão are great bases to explore, taste wine, and enjoy the slower pace.
Fall is especially magical during grape harvest, but the valley is stunning year-round.
Viana do Castelo: Coastal Charm
If you’re craving the sea, head north to Viana do Castelo. This coastal city is known for wide beaches and the impressive Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, a hilltop basilica with panoramic views.
You can walk through the historic center, enjoy seafood by the harbor, or hit Praia do Cabedelo, one of the best beaches in Northern Portugal. Surfers love it, but it’s also a great place just to relax in the sand.
Peneda-Gerês National Park: Portugal’s Wild Side
For nature lovers, Peneda-Gerês National Park is the ultimate day trip. About two hours from Porto, it’s Portugal’s only national park and packed with hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountain views.
You might spot wild ponies, explore stone villages like Soajo, or cool off in natural swimming holes. It’s best if you rent a car, but guided tours from Porto are also an option.
This is where you see Portugal’s wild side, away from the cities and crowds.
Aveiro: Portugal’s Little Venice
South of Porto, Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal.” Its colorful moliceiro boats glide through canals lined with art nouveau buildings. It’s a small city, but charming and easy to explore in a few hours.
Don’t leave without trying ovos moles, a local sweet made with egg yolks and sugar. And if you want sand and waves, the nearby beach town of Costa Nova is famous for its striped houses and long boardwalks.
Nazaré: Giant Waves and Fisherman Traditions
If you’ve seen photos of surfers riding monster waves in Portugal, that’s Nazaré. It’s about two hours from Porto, so a longer day trip, but worth it if you love the sea.
The town itself is lovely, with fishing traditions still alive and plenty of seafood restaurants. Even if you’re not into surfing, standing at the cliff-top Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo and watching the Atlantic waves is unforgettable.
Tips for Day Trips from Porto
- Transport: Trains and buses are great for Braga, Guimarães, and Aveiro. For Douro Valley and Peneda-Gerês, renting a car gives you more freedom.
- Timing: Start early in the morning so you can make the most of your day.
- Seasons: Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer is hotter, and winter can be rainy but less crowded.
- Packing: Bring good walking shoes — most towns have cobblestone streets. For nature trips, pack layers and water.
Final Thoughts
Porto is wonderful on its own, but exploring beyond the city makes your trip even better. From medieval towns to mountain parks and coastal escapes, these are some of the best day trips from Porto.
Whether you want history, wine, beaches, or hiking, Northern Portugal has something for everyone. So don’t just stay in Porto — get out and see the beauty of the region.
Explore Northern Portugal. The adventure starts just outside the city.