Best Daytrips from Porto, Portugal

The port city of Porto lies on the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula, just 150 miles from the border with Spain. The city is known for its rolling hills, bright buildings and world-renowned port wine, but just as much enchantment lies outside the city limits. Here are a few suggestions for some of the best daytrips from Porto.

Douro Valley

The stunning tiered hills are home to more than 200 port wineries where the city’s signature libation is produced. Rent a car or take one of the oft-departing trains from the city into the lush green landscapes, and top off the day with a visit to a wine cellar for a tour and tasting.

Pinhão

Nestled in the Douro Valley is a tiny town known for its blue tile-adorned train station. The tiles combine and depict scenes of the region’s history, when local growers use to sail produced beverages down the Douro River to the bustling port city of Porto.

Guimarães

Hop on a train from São Bento station to travel slightly more than one hour to the medieval town of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, according to legend. Cobblestoned streets lead to quaint open squares and a hilltop castle that offers views of the surrounding hills.

Braga

Often combined with a daytrip to Guimarães, Braga is just an hour northwest of the sister town and an hour north of Porto. Visit the city’s gems like Braga Cathedral, Archbishop’s Palace and Bom Jesus do Monte, a hilltop castle with pristine gardens.