Porto is a fantastic place to spend a day, and you can easily do so if you have a car and the time. In this article, I’ll show you some of the best day trips from Porto. You can explore the stunning beaches of Costa Nova, visit the UNESCO Heritage University of Coimbra, and even spend some time exploring the town on foot.
Coimbra
A day trip from Porto to Coimbra is a great way to see the city. You can easily drive to Coimbra from Porto in about an hour and a half, and the A1 highway connects the two. After driving through the city, you’ll find yourself at the university town of Coimbra.
Guimaraes
If you have time and want to go beyond Porto, try a day trip to Guimaraes. The town has a small train station, about fifteen minutes away, and you can explore the town’s historic center. You’ll find cobblestone streets and a historic castle. The town is also known for its pottery, textiles, and silver. You’ll also find the famous Cantinho dos Sabores, which offers authentic Portuguese food.
Braga
Visiting Braga by day is a great idea for a quick trip from Porto. This city is rich in Portuguese history, and is home to many baroque churches and ancient narrow lanes. It is also a popular religious center, and many religious festivals are held there throughout the year.
Nazare
If you’re in Porto and are looking for a great day trip, you should visit Nazare, a small town that is the base for UNESCO World Heritage sites in Central Portugal. In the town, you can explore the Convento de Cristo, which is said to have been the headquarters of the Knights Templar. You can also visit the Batalha and Alcobaca monasteries and the Portas de Rodao, a gorge and nature reserve.
Obidos
Day trips from Porto to Obidos are a fantastic way to explore the beautiful Portuguese coast. This ancient town is decorated in saffron yellow and ultramarine paint, and the streets are lined with bougainvilla-covered houses and cheery pots of geraniums. The town is also home to many shops and quirky bars. The town is also a great place to sample the local ginjinha, which is made from sour cherries. The ginjinha is renowned for its quality, and typically comes with a piece of chocolate.
Santiago de Compostela
If you are looking for a day trip, consider a day trip from Porto to Santiago de Compostelan. This city is home to a stunning cathedral and is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. There are many interesting things to do in this city, including shopping, eating, and sightseeing. You can book this trip with a reputable tour company, such as Get Your Guide.