Porto’s charm is undeniable, but sometimes a little escape from the city makes the weekend feel even more special. Luckily, northern Portugal is packed with incredible spots — from coastal villages to wine regions and mountain escapes — all within a short drive from Porto. Check out 7 best weekend trips from Porto!
Douro Valley – Wine, Views & River Magic
The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most iconic regions, famous for its terraced vineyards, scenic river cruises, and world-class wines. It’s only about 1.5 hours from Porto, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend surrounded by nature and history. Visitors can tour traditional wine estates (quintas), enjoy wine tastings, and stay in charming rural hotels with unforgettable views over the river.
But the Douro Valley isn’t just for wine lovers. There are hiking trails winding through vineyards, picturesque villages like Peso da Régua or Pinhão, and even boat trips along the Douro River. Autumn is especially magical here when the vines turn golden and the harvest vibes take over.
Guimarães – The Birthplace of Portugal
Often called the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães is a small city packed with medieval charm and history, only 50 minutes from Porto. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre feels like walking through a fairytale, with narrow cobbled streets, ancient houses, and the striking Guimarães Castle watching over the city.
Beyond its historical appeal, Guimarães has a lively cultural scene, trendy cafés, and creative spaces. It’s a great place to spend a slow weekend exploring museums, enjoying local food, and relaxing in atmospheric squares like Largo da Oliveira.
Braga – Spiritual & Elegant
Just 40 minutes from Porto, Braga is one of Portugal’s oldest cities, famous for its religious heritage and baroque architecture. The stunning Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, with its grand staircase and forested park, is a must-see.
But Braga isn’t just about churches. The city has a youthful energy, thanks to its university population, with lots of cool cafés, independent shops, and a lively food scene. It’s a balanced mix of history and modern vibes — ideal for a culture-rich weekend trip.
Aveiro – Portugal’s Little Venice
Known for its colourful canals and Art Nouveau buildings, Aveiro is a lovely coastal city about an hour south of Porto. The iconic moliceiro boats cruising the canals give the town a playful, romantic feel.
Aveiro is also famous for its beaches, like Costa Nova with its striped houses, and its unique local sweets, ovos moles. It’s a perfect weekend getaway for those looking to combine culture, seaside walks, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere.
Peneda-Gerês National Park – Wild Nature Escape
Around 1.5 hours from Porto, Peneda-Gerês is Portugal’s only national park — a dream destination for hikers, nature lovers, and those looking for real wilderness. The landscape here is dramatic: forested valleys, granite peaks, waterfalls, and crystal-clear lagoons.
Villages like Soajo or Lindoso preserve traditional mountain life, while the park offers amazing hiking trails and wild swimming spots. It’s a peaceful, slow-travel escape far from the tourist crowds.
Viana do Castelo – Coastal Beauty
Viana do Castelo sits about an hour north of Porto, where the river Lima meets the Atlantic Ocean. The town is famous for its maritime heritage, beautiful beaches, and the stunning Santa Luzia Sanctuary overlooking the coast.
It’s a great weekend option if you want a mix of beach walks, seafood, and exploring a charming historic centre. Nearby beaches like Praia do Cabedelo are popular for surfing and wind sports.
Ponte de Lima – Timeless Riverside Village
Ponte de Lima is often called Portugal’s oldest village, located about an hour from Porto. Its name comes from the medieval bridge crossing the Lima River, creating a postcard-perfect setting.
This peaceful riverside town is ideal for a slow-paced weekend. Stroll through the old centre, visit local markets, walk along the river paths, or enjoy the green vinho verde wine produced in the area. It’s a perfect spot to disconnect and recharge.
Plan your next adventure
Whether you’re craving seaside relaxation, mountain adventures, or charming historic towns, there’s no shortage of unforgettable weekend trips from Porto. Thanks to its perfect location in northern Portugal, Porto is the ideal starting point for exploring some of the country’s most beautiful and diverse regions. So next time you feel like escaping the city, pack your bags and let one of these weekend trips from Porto inspire your next adventure!
Photo by Sonny Vermeer
