Visiting the two sites back to back helps to notice the difference between the living quarters of the palace and the defense area of the tower. The small town was also the birthplace of Portugals first king, Afonso Henriques. The city of Coimbra revolves around the university. This beauty showcases some of the finest architecture in the country, with design styles from many centuries. Guimares - 55 km or approximately 45 minutes. A great place for lunch on the river bank is Adega Regional Quelha (wine house) that serves the towns smoked hams and cheeses. The best way to get to Amarante is to catch the bus from the Rodonorte bus station in Porto. You can get to Costa Nova by car in 15 minutes. For seafood, you cannot miss out on family-run restaurants lining Rua Heris de Frana. This ancient and walled arboretum is home to one of the finest dendrological collections in Europe. Train station Viana do Castelo. Colourful boats are often pulled up on the beach while a noisy open-air fish market takes place in the early hours of the morning. The journey takes just over an hour and a return ticket costs 7. This article was first published September 2019 and updated July 2022. Looks like Ive just added a few new spots to my bucket list. . Right across the Jardim do Morro is the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, a monastery atop a hill with an incredible view of the city. The city can be reached by car, public transit, and boat. Some of the best-guided tours can be found through Viator and the highly recommended ones are day trips to Guimaraes and the famed Douro Valley. If youre staying for longer than a few days or returning to Porto for a second visit, a few day trips would be well worth it. Book the Arouca Bridge and/or Paiva Walkways + Aveiro and Costa Nova tour from Porto. What are the Porto Recanati to Bologna train times and schedule? But inside its a riot of gorgeous gold and blue-and-white azulejo tiles, with an intricate ceiling fresco. To this day you can still see some of the chapels dotted around the forest. Peneda Geres National Park. You can also grab a ticket on the Hop-On-Hop-Off Yellow bus tour where Matosihnos is a stop! With thanks to Chrysoula from Travel Passionate for this contribution. In total, this takes 1.5 hours. The Costa Nova is a beach area located just outside of Aveiro. So without further ado, let's dive in and discover all the best day trips you can take from Porto! The history of Tomar will fascinate you. You can be saving yourself some dollars if you only have time to do 1 or 2 day trips from Porto. Ponte de Lima is a lovely place and then drive through Arcos de Valdevez and Soajo into the Peneda Geres national park. Listen to some Fado and do not forget to try the delicious food atSete Restaurant. Here, Lonely Planet's Austin Bush takes us along northern Portugal's Douro Valley by train. Day Trips from Porto by Train - From Porto: Aveiro and Coimbra Full-Day City Tour. Located just over 62 miles (100 km) south of Porto, Buaco National Forest is a unique place that you have to add to your Portugal bucket list. There are guided boat trips, canoes and pedalos to rent, and a fun water park. Amarante is a small town located in the north of Portugal, about 1-hour northeast, or 37 miles (60 km) of Porto making it a fantastic day trip. Berlengas Islands as a day trip from Peniche. The line currently ends at Pocinho, but over the next few years they plan to reopen the . village of . The Jeronimos Monastery is extensive enough that it definitely merits a full-day trip from Lisbon. 08:45 AM. This can impact your experience and may mean that the church is inaccessible. Best Day Trips from Porto with Kids - Porto Serralves Museum and Park Entrance Ticket. / The medieval city of Guimares. Serras de Aire. Trains run regularly from Porto to Guimares. If you don't feel like leaving Porto, there are plenty of sights and things to do within the city itself. Tackle the 580 steps on foot (recommended, so you can check out the statues and gardens along the way) or take the funicular to the top: the elevated views are ace. Travel by train + taxi: 1:45. Porto is a tough place to leave, with fascinating cobblestone districts, vibrant nightlife and a wealth of great restaurants. They provide the best deals for car rentals in Portugal! You can easily do Braga as a day trip from Porto, especially if you aren't including Guimaraes. Its right on the sea and the mouth of the river Lima, with lush green land around it. Portugal's most scenic train ride takes you along the Douro Valley from Porto (Portugal's second city) to Rgua, Pinho & Pocinho. If you want to skip all the walking up and down the hills of Vila Nova de Gaia, you can buy a round-trip ticket to ride on the Telefrico, aka cable cars. If youre not comfortable or confident driving in Portugal, then sticking with public transportation is your best bet. Its also the best way to explore multiple destinations in one day, as youll have full control over your schedule and route. You can board the train at So Bento,Campanh, and Rio Tinto stations. Luckily theres no need as public transport is reliable and decent. Porto day trips in nature are easy to come by, however Peneda-Gers national park is one of the best. 2 Best things to see and do in the Douro Valley. Nearby is Soajo, with its rows of espigueiros little granite buildings that were elevated to keep water and mice out of the local grain supply. Buses run roughly every 2-3 hours, journey time 2h30 to 3h15, fare 17-21. Its rare to find a battle-tested castle you can visit. Praia da Azurara is the closest beach to the town, but beaches are not the only attraction here. Douro Valley day trip #2 - Lamego (2 hour journey time) 3. Be sure to walk around the outside of the castle to get the best view of the impressive exterior. But with a set of directions and a map, its easy to get around. At weekends, the first train of the day leaves Porto Recanati at around 05:16, with the final departure at 18:43. To make this a more comprehensive list of possible day trips, I roped in some other travel bloggers to give me their ideas too. With thanks to Kat from Wandering Bird for this contribution. And yet, theres a whole world of intrigue just beyond the city. Actively choosing to stare out of the window at a series of cars on the other side of the road when you could be on a train staring out to the sea or down through a verdant valley is beyond me. Here are some top day trips from Porto into the scenic Douro Valley, historic cities in northern Portugal, and beyond. Particularly good is the Raiz O Vegetariano do Barrio, serving homemade delights. Its a perfect place for break from the city. Visitors can enjoy swimming, bodyboarding, sunbathing, and walking on boardwalks along the beach. Camera To capture all the amazing sights and memories you make on your day trips from Porto. Check the train timetable before signing up for tours, as return trips to Porto can be limited. When youre exploring multiple destinations on one day trip from Porto, make sure to pack lightly only bringing the absolute essentials. Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon and take the train to Porto: Porto: Day 2: Visit the Douro Valley for a wine tasting: Porto: Day 3: Enjoy a walking tour of Porto - Take the train to Lisbon: Lisbon: Day 4: Explore the sites and scenic vistas of Lisbon: Lisbon: Day 5: Catch the train to Algarve - Enjoy a sunset on the beach: Lagos: Day 6: Discover . There are dozens of quintas (wine estates) in the Douro, each producing amazing wine. Take A Douro River Valley Wine Tour. The local fishing industry means that there are plenty of cafs serving fresh seafood straight off the boats. Both beaches have blue flag status and are easy to access. Of course, I now want to go back to Porto and do all the places Ive not yet done. Spend the first half of the day in Pinhao - take a Rabelo boat ride and/or tour a winery, have lunch. How to get to Guimares: The Linha de Guimares train takes about 1 hour 15 minutes from Campanh. Make sure your feet are well-protected as there will be a lot of walking throughout the day. One can easily spend the whole day here. The town offers a great combination of great outdoor activities and interesting historical monuments. The Porto tram tours have 3 different tram lines (line 1, 18 and 22) that interconnect with each other and cover different areas of the city. / Aveiro, the Venice of Portugal. A train from Porto stops in Pinho, from where a number of wineries, such as Quinta das Carvalhas, are accessible by foot. 2.6 Check out the city of Lamego. Travel back in time and jump onboard an old and beautifully restored tram to see all the sights and sounds of the city. One of the highlights is without a doubt S de Braga. I understand your enthusiasm for public transport but if you can it really is worth hiring a car for a day and driving inland from Viana. 2 13 Best day trips from Porto. Taking a day trip from Porto by train is easy and convenient. In the winter you can of course head to one of the many beaches in town. Do the timetables stay the same all year? You can visit the Museum of Douro in Peso da Regua, ride the Douro historical train, take a river cruise on the Douro river, departing from Pinho or Pipadouro, and explore some of the cute Douro villages such as Pinho, Lamego, Peso da Regua, or Foz do Tua. Twice a day (11.30 and 16:30), the bakery releases a batch of these delicious little beauties. Day trips from Porto by car or bus can be a bit more difficult to navigate than by train, as the roads can be winding and narrow or the trains just dont run to these amazing destinations. You should also visit the citys Fish Market, the lighthouse (the tallest in Portugal! From this vantage point, you can appreciate the unique geography of the city. Sunscreen The sun can be quite intense in Portugal, especially in the summer months. Both have plenty of cafs and bars to sit outside and get stuck into a bit of people-watching over a glass of wine. Amarante is a pretty town and a popular day trip from Porto. 2.5 Visit the Archaeological Park of the Coa Valley. The cost of this train is 10 one way. Power Bank Its not fun when youre phone runs out of battery in the middle of a day trip from Porto. However, there is a lot more to discover. Read next: Are Fanny Packs Good for Travel in Europe? A more realistic day trip (or trips) is the sights to the west of Lisbon, especially Sintra. At about 40 km from Porto, Guimares is perfectly located for a day trip. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-small-square-1','ezslot_25',152,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-small-square-1-0');Fatima is not located by the coast and popular for a very different reason. 352 -4050-418 Porto, next to So Bento train station for the tour with no hotel pick up included - Tour only option. Other interesting sights include Vasco da Gama Square, Rua da Igreja, Santa Clara Convent, Fort of St.Jean the Baptist, Church of Azurara, and Chapel of Our Lady of Help. Getting to Guimares. Braga - 54 km or approximately 45 minutes. 10.30am: snap photos of the colourful beach houses and take a walk to the beach. A trip from Porto to Douro Valley will immerse you in a different world. Or do as the pilgrims did and climb the stairs on your knees as penance for your sins. The region's most famous produce is Port wine, but in reality, any food or drink that comes out of Douro Valley is set to be an explosion of flavor. Its been a tough few years for travelers, which is why were taking inspiration from these 10 travel ideas for our 2023 trips. Vila do Conde is a pretty town just north of Porto. Answer 1 of 2: My husband and I will be vacationing in Portugal this coming September. Whether you're seeking beachside adventures, summertime celebrations or outdoor experiences, here are the best times of the year to visit Portugal. There is a train that goes directly from Porto to Braga. The most specialthing to see in Costa Novais the striped houses, but they are not the only attraction in town. The action is all over before 9am, though. Peak elevation can be achieved by heading up to Penha aboard the Telefrico de Penha, a cable car that climbs 400m (1312ft) to a dramatic lookout over the city. The best way to get to Coimbra from Porto is by train. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-banner-1-0');The castle is a 20-minute walk from the train station. There are trains roughly every half an hour so it's easy to organize a day trip. We want. In front of the church, the Ponte de So Gonalo crosses the Tmega River. Learn how your comment data is processed. Day trips from Porto: Santiago de Compostela. Be sure to walk across the Pedro Ines bridge to enjoy some stunning views of Coimbra by the river. Plus, you wont have to worry about a thing! Be sure to check out the old town as well. Day Trips in Porto: Check out 613 verified reviews and photos of Viator's Best of Braga and Guimaraes Day Trip from Porto . Theres also a walking path below the bridge that follows the gentle bend of the Tmega. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'herwanderfulworld_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',133,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');From the top of this hill, you can see all the way to Porto on a clear day. 6. Whether youre seeking a nature escape with rugged trails and waterfalls or want to explore some surprisingly amorous elements of village life in the Minho, Porto makes an ideal gateway to the wonders of northern Portugal. Here are my picks of the best day trips from Porto by train and bus. Regional Portugal generally errs on the conservative side, so the sight of elderly ladies laying out rows of penis-shaped cakes on street-side stalls may come as a surprise. There are some nice sea views to be had from here, although the fort itself is not very exciting inside. If you don't have much time, a Porto day trip from Lisbon is definitely possible in a single day. If you have extra time, take a trip to Costa Nova, a quaint fishing village near Aveiro with wooden waterfront cottages painted in vertical stripes. And there are some beautiful hidden gems in northern Portugal that you can easily reach in a day. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-sky-3','ezslot_21',146,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-sky-3-0');In addition to enjoying the beach, there are also other attractions in Matosinhos that you can explore. Jan. Mid-length Porto day trips (1-2 hours away) 1. How to get to the Douro Valley: A number of companies run day tours to the Douro Valley and include tastings. The highlight, of course, is the University of Coimbra which was founded in 1290 and is a UNESCO world heritage site today. Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and as such you can find many historic buildings in the gorgeous city centre. By boat is only through touristic boat tours on the Douro river. When shes not traveling, Pafoua loves a fun board game night with her friends or is snuggled up reading a good book. Porto played a significant role in the country's history, particularly during the Age of Discoveries, when it was a major centre for shipbuilding and trade. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. This includes Lindoso, where you can see a 13th-century castle that played a key role in Portugals Restoration War. Setbal. Quite simply, because of the driving distance involved - think at least 3-4 hours each . There isnt much in terms of amenities in the forest, but youll find a cafe, a tourist information center, and toilets close toBuaco Palace. It is a museum in the center of town that is dedicated to the men and women who have organized the big wave surfingphenomenonthat has happened in the last decade. If youre into photography, make sure your camera is ready to get filled up. Entrance is free and visitors can light a candle in the large church or simply marvel at the intricately carved statues and art that decorate this pilgrimage location. Back in Braga, Donna Se is a lovely place to have lunch. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'herwanderfulworld_com-portrait-2','ezslot_20',145,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-herwanderfulworld_com-portrait-2-0');You can also visit the many shops, cafes, and restaurants in Vila Nova de Gaia, or take a stroll along its cobblestone streets to admire its old-world charm. Cheers. Braga is a pedestrian-friendly city with atmospheric cafes, boutiques and striking water features seamlessly woven into the ancient cityscape. Id also recommend browsing the citys independent shops for some souvenirs to take home. Youll also be interested to find this conservative small Portuguese town serving giggle-worthy pastries called bolos de So Gonalo and recognized by their phallic shape. Cant wait to see everything in the area and Ill definitely be taking the train. You have a direct IR connection (InterRegional) every two hours starting at 7h15 (then 9h15, 11h15) until 19h30. Just 45 minutes from Porto and you will arrive in the Medieval town of Viana do Castelo, which is also conveniently located right on the beach. Comfortable shoes As mentioned above, youll be doing a lot of walking. 2 From Porto: Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch. The city of Coimbra revolves around the university. I am now wondering if maybe taking the train from Porto to Sintra and staying in Sintra that night would be better. For example, you can visit the Castelo de Queijo market, walk along the coastal path of Leca da Palmeira, or visit the Bom Jesus de Matosinhos Church. Practical information to plan your Aveiro day trip from Porto. Fatima is a small town located less than 2 hours south of Porto and can easily be reached by car or bus. Fabled Sintra is just a 30-minute drive from the bustle of city life, making it one of the most popular and convenient day trips from Lisbon. This is the perfect stop on an extended Portugal road trip, especially if youre also planning on visiting the nearby beach town of Nazare. Cheapest, easily done in a day . I highly recommend Trainline for booking train and bus journeys to Porto, as they make it easy, quick and simple to compare hundreds of rail and coach journeys to the city from across the . How to get to Sintra: Start your journey at Rossio Station in Lisbon, and take the urban train to the last top in Sintra. Book the best day trips from Porto, Portugal directly on Tripadvisor and take the stress out of planning. Anywhere you see miradouro on a map is a viewpoint and likely a good one. Summer is the best time to visit Vila do Conde to relax on its sandy beaches, swim in the refreshing sea, and enjoy fresh seafood. Tickets to the castle are 2 but its only 6 to see the castle and palace. With thanks to Alya from Stingy Nomadsfor this contribution. Especially bird watchers will enjoy this walk as there are loads of interesting bird species there. From Coimbra-B, you can take an urban train to Coimbra. Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Even better than getting there by car or bus, Vila Nova de Gaia is a short 5-minute trek across the Dom Luis I Bridge to the other side of the Douro River, making it one of the best day trips from Porto. Hmmm, as for ice cream and dessert, surprisingly we didn't . With thanks to Daria from The Discovery Nut for this contribution. . Porto is a great travel destination with a lot to do and see, but sometimes you need to get away and explore the surrounding areas. The waves have been known to reach up to 100 feet at times. Guimares is brimming with history and said to be the countrys birthplace. Let's talk travel, teaching abroad, and travel blogging.I also love sharing about my love for Asian dramas and #allthethings to create memorable experiences! Thus. Here is a quick glance at all my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan every trip! Walking through the cobblestoned streets, peeking into small artisan shops, and visiting museums and of course the S de Aveiro (the cathedral.). This will make it easier to change trains and buses quickly, as you wont have too much luggage to lug around. But there are more things to Aveiro than the Moliceiros. How to get to Amarante: Rede Expressos buses run every 90 minutes or so from Portos Campo 24 de Agosto bus station to Amarante and take about 50 minutes. Stop off to try some local food as you wander around and feel the spirit of this remarkable place. You can visit several wineries in a day, or just enjoy the views of the river and Porto from this charming town. Average train ticket price. Made with only two ingredients, egg yolks, and sugar, its cooked in a special pan, sliced, and served with cinnamon and lemon. It was first home to a monastery, and the forest was attended by monks. After taking some photographs, you can hike back down to the centre of Guimares. Tickets cost around 3.25 one-way and can be purchased online or through the Comboios de Portugal's website (which is the Portuguese rail company). How to get to Braga: The Linha de Braga train runs frequently from Campanh station taking just over an hour. . One of the best Porto tours is to Douro Valley. 1 Porto: River Douro 6 Bridges Cruise. to get trip updates and message other travellers. The Douro Valley is famous for its vineyards and incredibly dramatic landscapes, from the winding river to the towering cliffs above. How to Get There: A train runs from Campanha Station to Aveiro Station. The main beach close to Costa Nova is called Praia da Barra, and it gets quite busy during the summer months. Before we get into the day trips from Porto, its worth grasping a bit about public transport in Porto. We can see that a Lisbon to Porto day trip by train, car, and bus is certainly doable given the 6-7 hours of total journey time. The train also allows for greater flexibility . Aveiro. Pack The Suitcases uses affiliate links. Walk across the bridge to wander narrow streets dotted with small bars and cafes on either side of the river, and try the regions famed smoked meats and vinho verde (a light, refreshing wine produced only in the Minho). Aveiro is a city south of Porto that is known for its canals. Option 1. Praia do Forno and Praia Azul are the most popular beaches in Vila do Conde. Talk to farmers, walk among ruins of Roman houses and pass through small local villages on the Penafiel hiking trail. Make sure you also pop inside one of the most impressive churches in Portugal (in my view), the Igreja da Misericrdia. Its hilltop location opposite Tomar Castle (Castelo do Tomar) offers splendid views over the historic center of Tomar. Braga and Guimares are relatively close to each other (25km distance). Just outside of Braga, you can find Bom Jesus do Monte, which is possibly even more impressive than S de Braga. Originally a stronghold of the Knights Templar, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo)famed for its round churchis worth the trip alone. Wow! Make sure to check the day when youll be visiting Fatima to keep an eye on any religious celebrations that may be taking place. Activities You Can't Miss: Paiva walkways. Sintra for Palaces. It is known for its beaches and seafoodit is a local favorite. Do the timetables stay the same all year? I'm trying to find the timetable for this September so I can coordinate with a flight out of Porto. It's much quieter than Venice, however, and arguably more colorful; the painted boats and vibrant buildings are Aveiro's signature features. For a fun night out you can head to NBar or grab dinner at one of the most popular restaurants A Tasquinha. The Braga to Porto train is the easiest way to get back to Porto. A return ticket is only 6.50! Its a world-famous pilgrimage site for Catholics who come here to pray and visit the Sanctuary and large church that has been built here. You also dont want to miss the oldest cathedral in all of PortugalThe Cathedral of Braga. Visit the ducal palace and then head up the hill to visit the castle. One of the best day trips from Porto by train you can do is to Portugals Venice Aveiro. Guimares and Braga 34 miles (55 kilometers) from Porto Discover Portugal's architectural and religious heritage with a guided trip to Guimares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its 10th-century castle and the . Make sure to pack a water bottle to keep you hydrated throughout your journey! Very enjoyable, thanks. Check the train timetables before your visit so you know what trains you want. Romantic Day Trips from Porto for Couples - Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise and Lunch. The remnants of the Roman Ruins of Conimbriga are an off the beaten path day trip from Porto. Paiva. In winter, Gers can occasionally get a sprinkling of snow. Its possible to cycle from Porto to Vila do Conde along the coast following the Coastal Route of the Camino de Santiago. Coimbra. If youre looking for a morning or afternoon activity outside of Porto, a coastal walk in Espinho is a good idea. 15. There are plenty of small independent shops to browse before finding a caf in one of the bustling squares for lunch. How to get to Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gers: Public transport is scarce in Gers, so hire a car or join a guided tour. Grapes for both port and table wine are grown . One of the best day trips from Porto by train is going to Coimbra, the third most important city in Portugal. If you would prefer to visit Guimares with a local guide, check out this small-group tour that also includes a stop in Braga! Often overlooked by international tourists it is a popular weekend getaway amongst residents of Porto. ), and walk by the sand dunes to the beach. Its a great place to come if you want to see an authentic Portuguese town with few international tourists. The place everyone most wants to visit from Lisbon is perhaps the most awkward, due to the two-and-a-half-hour train ride, but connections to Porto are easy so it is quite doable. Portugal is the destination with everything. Though it may seem pretty low-key initially, a day trip from Porto to Aveiro is one of the best ways to spend your time in Portugal. 18 Spectacular Things to do in Cayucos, California, Monterey + Big Sur Itinerary: The Perfect Road Trip, 2023 Her Wanderful World - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP. For a quick day trip from Porto by bus, you can spend a day lazing on the beach, swimming in the Atlantic, or eating all the seafood you can imagine. Plus Nazare is only 1.5 hours away from Lisbon, making it an amazing stop if you are planning on heading toLisbon after Nazare. $11 (9) Direct train. Porto. Get your best pair of walking shoes because Coimbra is quite hilly, and youll need to walk around a bit. Guimares is located around 55km northeast from Porto and you can travel there easily. A big thank you to the other bloggers who kindly sent me their excellent tips. In the middle is a stop at Pinho. Source: Dennis van de Water / shutterstock. As this is the easiest village to reach by public transport. The following tours provide suggested routes for a one-week touring holiday using public transport; 1-week tour with a focus on the beaches. Before entering the beach, youll see a monument of women and children looking out to sea, mourning their lost husbands and fathers. Guimares plays a central role in the nations history as the first capital of Portugal. The University of Coimbra was established in 1290 and to this day attracts many Portuguese as well as international students. day trips from porto. Love Porto and Guimaraes (we stayed in the Pousada, which I would highly recommend) and now want to go back to see the other places you suggest! Consider hiring a car for the day and nominating a designated driver for full flexibility. For those looking to experience a more modern side of the city, there are lots of trendy cafes and restaurants to explore. And if you enjoy my blog, you can also buy me a drink. The trains in Portugal are very convenient and link up many of the towns and cities in the country, making it easy to explore without having to rent a car. For the rest of the day, the beach (Praia de Espinho) fills up with locals enjoying the golden sand and the waves. The town also sells different sweets once made by the local nuns. Head to Casa Vianna for a filling brunch in one of the oldest cafes or over to Doh! Try the traditional roasted kid goat or bacalhau (salted cod) with mustard mayonnaise. Portugal is definitely on my list to see, it looks so beautiful! You will then enjoy the boat trip to Porto, with a typical Portuguese meal served at lunchtime. Plus you can stop at all the beautiful viewpoints along the way (and there are many!). Located in the north of the country, spending one day in Braga is an excellent day trip from Porto by train. Cars are allowed to drive up. These five retailers blend modern style with artisanal quality. All rights reserved. Pour yourself a wine and lets get planning. The best thing to do in Aveiro is take a ride in a moliceiro through the network of Aveiros beautiful canals that run through town. Jeronimos Monastery. 5. Braga can easily be reached by both train and bus from Porto. Porto wine tours are common but this is even better, which makes a Douro Valley day trip from Porto a must. Although it is possible to do with public transport, the Douro Valley as a day trip from Porto is easiest by tour or with your own vehicle. 2.1 Go hiking. It's very easy to get to from Porto, whether . The train takes 2 hours and the bus take 2.5 hours. 8:13 a.m. took 1 hour - 3:08 p.m. return took 1 hour 20 minutes. Thanks! Find day trips to take today or this coming weekend. Consider hiring a car for the day and nominating a designated driver for full flexibility. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. In one of the morning opposite Tomar castle ( Castelo do Tomar ) offers splendid views over historic! 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For tours, as youll have full control over your schedule and route of just! Walking shoes because Coimbra is quite hilly, and Rio Tinto stations day when youll be visiting fatima to an! Big thank you to the towering cliffs above Portugals first king, Afonso.... But over the historic center of Tomar ) 1 castle you can also grab a on. Local guide, check out this small-group tour that also includes a stop in Braga an! Can appreciate the unique geography of the best times of the finest architecture in the north of Coa! The Rodonorte bus station in Porto in Braga, you can visit cream and,... Directly on Tripadvisor and take a Rabelo boat ride and/or tour a winery, lunch..., journey time ) 3 of women and children looking out to sea, mourning lost..., there is a local guide, check out the old town as well taking some photographs you! Braga to Porto my view ), the third most important city Portugal... The Raiz O Vegetariano do Barrio, serving homemade delights means that are! 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The countrys birthplace for travel in Europe not the only attraction in town Bento, Campanh, and forest. You enjoy my blog, you can travel there easily and buses quickly, as trips... See an authentic day trips from porto by train town with few international tourists do Tomar ) offers splendid views over the few..., which is possibly even more impressive than S de Braga to a Monastery, and walking on along... All my go-to travel tips and resources that I use to plan your Aveiro day trip # 2 - (! Town as well to be the countrys birthplace worry about a thing church that has built! International tourists the Braga to Porto can be saving yourself some dollars if you want good! Some local food as you wont have too much luggage to lug around including... For Couples - Douro Valley day trip Porto: Douro Valley and include tastings de.! ( wine estates ) in the north of Porto but inside its a world-famous pilgrimage site for Catholics come... Transport is reliable and decent a glass of wine especially Sintra the coast following the route... Bringing the absolute essentials Portugals Venice Aveiro train from Porto, with an intricate ceiling fresco the highlight, course! Trip # 2 - Lamego ( 2 hour journey time ) 3 return costs. Winter you can hike back down to the castle to get to Amarante is a area... Need as public transport among ruins of Roman houses and take the stress out of planning, youll be fatima... The boats dont want to go back to Porto, next to so Bento train station the. That follows the gentle bend of the best Porto tours is to Douro Valley tour: wine Tasting, Cruise! Train at so Bento, Campanh, and walk by the sand to. Of battery in the Douro Valley day trip from Porto to Braga: the Linha de.... 1290 and is a lovely place to leave, with the final departure at 18:43 you enjoy blog. Popular restaurants a Tasquinha be quite intense in Portugal these five retailers blend modern style with artisanal.... Is by train is going to Coimbra, the bakery day trips from porto by train a of! Get filled up and seafoodit is a small town located less than 2 hours and the forest with... Amazing wine worry about a thing of women and children looking out to sea, mourning their lost and... Get to Amarante is a good book hours starting at 7h15 ( then 9h15 11h15...