Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal and the capital of the country’s northwest region, is a stunning destination filled with historic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. With its charming streets, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastline, it’s no wonder that Porto has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. But as with any trip, the budget can be a concern. Fortunately, it’s possible to have a fantastic time in Porto on a budget. In this blog post, I’ll share my top tips for spending three days in Porto without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for cheap accommodation, free things to do, or budget-friendly restaurants, we’ve got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful city of Porto without breaking the bank.
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Where To Stay
I traveled to Porto with 3 friends so we stayed in this amazing Airbnb right in the center of Porto. We were able to walk to all of the sights we wanted to visit, and then be able to come back and relax in this spacious apartment with bright windows.
*Note: This particular Airbnb was quite loud at night as it was located close to the party street of Lisbon. If you want a quieter, restful evening, book a different Airbnb
What To Do
In every city I travel to, I love joining the free walking tour. In Porto, we met the tour guide in the center of town and spent 2 hours learning about the history of Porto, which included seeing the famous blue tiles in the train station (my favourite spot!) and trying a pastel de nata (not pictured). Remember to always have cash on hand after the tours to tip the wonderful tour guides.
Port Wine Tour
Evan made a recommendation to go to the Ferreira Port Tour across the bridge in Gaia and I was happy to join him. Ferreira has been around since 1751 and remained in Portuguese heritage. The 1.5-hour tour allows you to learn about the history of the company, visit the cellar, and try four versions of their port.
Rumor has it that this bookstore inspired J.K. Rowling while she was acting as a professor in Portugal. Buy your tickets online and try going on off times to avoid long wait times. Your $5 entry can be used toward a book purchase.
Where to Eat
Enjoy a relaxed dinner experience at Puro 4050. Recommend ordering the burrata & ham appetizer, and the mushroom risotto.
Perfect for those who like to start their days with an egg & toast combination. I opted for the smoked salmon toast which was hardy and delicious.
Right across from the Selina hostel in Porto is Lazy Breakfast Club. Prepare to wait in line as this is a busy spot! I recommend the savory waffles with an egg (balanced!).
Lagostim
In order to try the famous dish from Porto, francesinha, we arrived at this local Portuguese restaurant. Francesinha is a heavier dish, made up of bread, various types of meat, cheese, more bread, various types of meat, and more cheese, and then smothered in gravy with a fried egg on top. This was an excellent one, and well-priced.
Other Places:
-Chocolataria das Flores (order the hot chocolate)
In conclusion, there are many ways to enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Porto. From finding affordable accommodation to exploring the city’s many free or low-cost attractions, there are plenty of options for travelers looking to stretch their money further. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the city’s rich history and culture, trying delicious local cuisine, or simply enjoying the stunning views, Porto has something for everyone. With a little careful planning and some insider knowledge, it’s easy to have an amazing time in Porto without breaking the bank. So why wait? Start planning your budget-friendly trip to this beautiful Portuguese city today!
