Discover Northern Portugal: Top Day Trips from Porto
Porto may be one of Europe’s most captivating cities, but beyond its cobblestone streets you’ll find a treasure trove of day-trip opportunities. Northern Portugal is somewhat of a hidden gem and well worth exploring.
Our Portugal kayaking adventure begins and ends in Porto, making these destinations ideal additions to your itinerary. Whether you're drawn to historic towns, coastal escapes, or scenic nature spots, northern Portugal offers something for every kind of traveler. Here are a few of our top day trip recommendations.
Spend a Day in the Douro Valley
Travel time: 1.5 - 2 hours by car or train
The Douro Valley should be at the top of every wine lover’s itinerary, but it’s equally as rewarding for those in search of beautiful landscapes. Located only a few hours from Porto, it’s a popular and easily accessible destination. If you’re joining us on our Rio Douro Kayaking tour, you’ll get an intimate feel for the valley as we stop in multiple riverside villages to enjoy regional wines and delicious Portuguese cuisine.
As the birthplace of Port wine and one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions, the Douro Valley proudly holds UNESCO World Heritage status. This region is known for its terraced vineyards carved into dramatic hillsides, winding roads, and the Douro River that cuts through it all.
Explore Guimarães: Portugal’s Historic Cradle
Travel time: 1 hour by car or direct train
Guimarães is a great spot for history buffs and one of our favorite picks if you’re hoping to tap into Portugal’s cultural roots. Known as the birthplace of the nation, this charming medieval town feels like stepping back in time. Cobblestone streets, old stone archways, and ivy-covered buildings give it a laid-back, storybook vibe that’s easy to fall in love with.
At the heart of the city is its iconic hilltop castle, a symbol of Portugal’s early independence and an example of the medieval architecture this area is known for. The surrounding historic center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of the best-preserved in the country. As you explore the plazas and ancient buildings, you’ll feel transported to another era.
Experience Braga’s Youthful Energy and Culture
Travel time: 45 minutes by car or 1 hour by direct trail
Just a short journey from Porto, Braga sets itself apart with its unique vibe. Known as the “Rome of Portugal,” Braga is one of the country’s oldest cities and a hub of religious and architectural history.
The Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary is a highlight, with its intricate baroque stairway zigzagging up a wooden hillside. In the city center, you’ll find plazas, historic churches, and a growing food and cafe scene that blends tradition with the new age. Braga’s energy is youthful while maintaining its roots in centuries of cultural significance.
Discover Portugal’s Whimsical Canal Town - Aveiro
Travel time: 1 hour by car or direct train
Aveiro is known for its charm. It’s a picture-perfect canal town referred to as the “Venice of Portugal.” Colorful moliceiro boats glide through narrow waterways, while streets are lined with pastel-colored houses and Art Nouveau architecture that adds to the town’s fairytale feel.
It’s a relaxed and walkable destination ideal for slow travel. Spend the day wandering on foot, sampling ovos moles (the town’s beloved egg-yolk sweets), browsing local galleries, or watching boats drift by from a riverside café. With its mix of history, creativity, and coastal charm, Aveiro is the perfect escape from the bustle of city life.
Adventure Awaits in Peneda-Gerês National Park
Travel time: 2 hours by car
If you're a nature lover visiting Porto, don’t miss the chance to explore Peneda-Gerês National Park—Portugal’s only national park. It’s located about two hours from the city, and the park is packed with waterfalls, ancient forests, and granite peaks.
Hikers will love the variety of trails that crisscross the landscape, ranging from peaceful walks to more rugged mountain routes. One of the most popular is the Trilho da Cidade da Calcedónia, a scenic hike that offers sweeping views and the chance to spot wild Garrano horses roaming freely in the hills.
If hiking’s not your thing, the park is still well worth the visit. You can explore most of it by car, with winding roads that pass by scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and quiet corners perfect for soaking in the park. You can also rent a bike and explore the many scenic trails throughout the park. Several rental shops are located just outside the park, with one conveniently situated near the Carvalheira entrance.
Whether you're up for an adventure or just a peaceful day outdoors, Peneda-Gerês has something for every kind of traveler.
Viana do Castelo: Coastal Beauty Meets Culture
Travel time: 1 hour by car or 1.5 hours by trail
Viana do Castelo combines coastal beauty with historical charm. The town’s historic center is filled with elegant architecture, cobbled streets, and a vibrant cultural scene. Towering above it all is the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Lima River. Viana do Castelo is also known for its surfing beaches and relaxed maritime vibe, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to balance sightseeing with seaside leisure.
Surf, Eat, and Relax in Matosinhos
Travel time: 25 minutes by metro or car
For an easy half-day escape from Porto, Matosinhos is one of our top picks. Just a quick Metro ride away, this coastal town is known for its wide sandy beaches, welcoming surf culture, and some of the freshest seafood in northern Portugal. Whether you're looking to catch a few waves or soak up the sun, the relaxed vibe here offers a refreshing contrast to the city.
The real highlight, though, is the food. Matosinhos is a seafood lover’s paradise, with Rua Heróis de França lined with traditional restaurants grilling fish right on the sidewalk. Whether you're here for a surf lesson or a leisurely seaside lunch, Matosinhos is the perfect place to recharge.
Riverside Adventures in Amarante
Travel time: 1 hour by car or 1.5 hours by bus
The riverside town of Amarante offers tranquility and charm in equal measure, making it a perfect retreat from the busier pace of city travel. Nestled along the banks of the Tâmega River, Amarante is known for its iconic stone bridge and the nearby São Gonçalo Church, both of which serve as striking focal points in the heart of town.
Beyond its historic appeal, Amarante invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the moment. Stroll along the scenic riverwalk, rent a kayak to paddle beneath the arches of the bridge, or settle into a local café to savor one of the town’s famous sweets.
Escape the City for a Multi-Day Douro Kayak Trip
Kayaking the Douro River is one of the most unique ways to experience northern Portugal. Instead of exploring by train or car, you’re right in the heart of nature paddling through vineyard-covered valleys, past hillside villages, and along the region’s iconic terraced slopes. It’s a peaceful yet adventurous way to explore the countryside. It also offers a slower, more intimate connection to the Douro’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. For travelers based in Porto, it’s the perfect way to add an outdoor experience to your trip while seeing a side of Portugal that not many people get to see.
Our Douro River kayaking adventure makes it easy to experience this side of Portugal. Starting and ending in Porto, the trip takes you on a curated journey through the valley’s highlights — from visiting the Rock Art Museum at Coa Valley to paddling past famous wine estates like Quinta da Vesúvio. You'll navigate the impressive Valeira Lock and enjoy authentic local cuisine, wine tastings, and quiet evenings in charming riverside towns like Murça, Tua, and Pinhão. It’s the perfect extension to your Porto adventure, blending outdoor exploration, culture, and relaxation into one unforgettable trip.
Extend Your Adventure Beyond Porto
Porto has plenty to offer, but it’s also an ideal starting point for exploring more of what Portugal has in store. From multi-day adventures through the scenic Douro Valley to island-hopping and hiking in the Azores, we offer trips that take you beyond the city and into some of the country’s most breathtaking regions. Whether you have a few hours or several days to spare, exploring beyond Porto is a must—and we’re here to help you plan the perfect getaway. Let your time in Porto be just the beginning of your Portugal adventure.
