7 Day Trips from Porto by Train: Find the Best One for You

Porto is an incredible city, but there’s so much more to explore just a short train ride away. Whether you’re interested in history, beaches, or small towns, there’s so many amazing day trips from Porto by train.

During my one-month stay in Porto, I took almost all of the top train trips to see what each destination had to offer. From the colorful houses of Costa Nova to the historic streets of Guimarães, there’s a perfect day trip waiting for you.

This guide will help you find the best option based on your interests, so you can make the most of your time in Portugal.

Day Trip to Guimarães
Train journey: 1 hour 20 minutes (from São Bento station in Porto)
Train ticket: 3.25€
Who it’s best for: Guimarães is ideal for history lovers and anyone who enjoys exploring charming, walkable towns with a touch of medieval flair.

Guimarães is often called the birthplace of Portugal because it’s where the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born. Its historic town center is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit for history lovers.

This was my favorite day trip from Porto, it’s the perfect mix of historic sights and a relaxed vibe in the charming town center. If you’re planning your trip, be sure to check out my full guide to Guimarães here.

Highlights of Guimarães:

• Guimarães Castle: Walk along the castle walls for stunning views of the old town and surrounding countryside.
• Ducal Palace: Explore this museum housing a fascinating collection of historic artifacts.
• Historic Town Center: Wander through narrow streets, enjoy a drink at a cozy café, and soak up the relaxing atmosphere.

2. Braga: The Religious Centre of Portugal

Day Trip to Braga
Train journey: 1 hour (from São Bento station in Porto)
Train ticket: 3.25€
Who it’s Best For: Braga is great for anyone interested in religious history, beautiful churches, and stunning views.

Braga is the third-largest city in Portugal. It’s known as the religious capital of Portugal thanks to its many historic churches and spiritual landmarks.

Highlights of Braga:

• Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary: This stunning pilgrimage site is perched on a hill just outside the city center but is easy to reach by public transport. For more details, check out my full blog post about my day trip to Braga!
• Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga): One of the oldest churches in Portugal, this architectural gem showcases a mix of styles and centuries of history. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Portugal’s religious heritage.
• Jardim de Santa Bárbara: This beautiful garden in the city center is the perfect spot for a relaxing break with a refreshing drink at one of the cafe’s nearby.

If you can’t decide between Braga and Guimarães, it’s possible to see both in one day with a guided tour. While it’s technically doable by train, you’d end up with too little time to truly enjoy each destination.

3. Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal

Day Trip to Aveiro
Train journey: 1 hour 20 minutes (from São Bento or Campanhã station in Porto)
Train ticket: 3.55€
Who it’s Best For: Aveiro is perfect for those looking for some beach time and scenic boat rides.

Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its picturesque canals and traditional Moliceiro boats. On a day trip you can combine culture, scenic views, and beach time.

Highlights of Aveiro:

• Moliceiro Boat Ride: Explore Aveiro’s canals on a traditional Moliceiro boat, similar to a gondola. These guided tours provide a unique perspective of the city and insight into its history and culture.
• Costa Nova: A short bus ride from Aveiro, this coastal town is famous for its vibrant, striped houses and peaceful beach. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a bit of seaside charm. Just make sure to return to Aveiro in time to catch your train back to Porto.
• Old Train Station: Admire the facade of Aveiro’s charming historic train station, decorated with traditional Portuguese blue tiles. It’s one of the best sights in Aveiro.

Aveiro is a wonderful choice if you’re looking to combine culture with relaxation, all within an easy and affordable journey from Porto.

4. Coimbra: The Oldest University City in Portugal

Day Trip to Coimbra
Train journey: 1 hour 15 minutes – 2 hours (from Campanhã station in Porto)
Train ticket: 8.80€ – 23€ (depends on the train, the bus is also a good option)
The train arrives at Coimbra-B, which is outside the city center. From there, you need to change to an urban train to the city center.
Who it’s Best For: Coimbra is perfect for anyone who loves beautiful libraries, history, and university campuses.

A day trip to Coimbra is perfect for history lovers. It’s home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the final resting place of Portugal’s first king, and it even served as the country’s capital in the past.

Highlights of Coimbra:

• University of Coimbra: Explore one of the oldest universities in the world, full of history and academic tradition.
• Joanina Library: This stunning baroque library at the University of Coimbra is a must-see. With its ornate interiors and centuries-old books, it’s one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, they sell out fast!
• Botanical Gardens: Take a relaxing stroll through the university’s beautiful botanical gardens.

The Joanina Library alone made the trip to Coimbra worth it for me, it’s truly a sight you won’t forget.

5. Matosinhos: The Beach Town Closest to Porto

Day Trip to Matosinhos
Train journey: 30 minutes
Train ticket: 2€
Who it’s Best For: Matosinhos is ideal for beach lovers and surfers.

Matosinhos isn’t technically a train trip, it’s just a tram ride from Porto. Still, as a great beach destination near Porto, it deserves a spot on this list as a top day trip option.

Matosinhos is perfect for a beach day, whether you’re soaking up the sun, strolling along the shore, or trying your hand at surfing. The town has plenty of seaside shops and restaurants to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable.

6. Douro Valley: Most Famous Wine Region of Portugal

Train journey: 2 hours 30 minutes (to Pinhão)
Train ticket: 11.20€
Who it’s Best For: The Douro Valley is a must-visit for wine lovers and anyone looking to experience Portugal’s breathtaking countryside.

A trip to the Douro Valley is one of the best day trips from Porto, but it’s also the trickiest to navigate by train. The best town to reach by train is Pinhão, located in the heart of the valley.

The Douro Valley is famous for its stunning landscapes along the Douro River and its rich tradition of Port wine production. This is where the wine is made before being shipped to the iconic cellars in Porto.

Once you arrive, the best way to enjoy the valley is by combining nature and wine. Go for a scenic hike through the vineyards, taking in the incredible views, and then reward yourself with a wine tasting of the region’s renowned local wines.

7. Viana do Castelo