Day 1 · Historic Porto
Start at São Bento to see the station hall, respecting passengers and railway operations. Walk towards Clérigos and choose a timed Livraria Lello visit if the bookshop interests you. Budget €10 for daytime Clérigos Tower + Museum and €10 for the Lello Silver ticket-voucher. These are separate tickets; Lello book-redemption terms apply.
Continue downhill towards Ribeira. Fit in a guided Palácio da Bolsa visit only if an available slot works with your day. Finish with dinner in the centre; francesinha is a substantial dish, so a lighter lunch is sensible. Allow for hills on the return to your accommodation.
Day 2 · The river and Gaia
Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge using the appropriate pedestrian walkway. The upper deck has metro services and a high viewpoint; keep clear of the tracks. Spend time on the Gaia waterfront and book a cellar visit with a tasting format and language that suit your group.
A river cruise is optional, not essential to enjoying the river. Compare departure point, duration and cancellation conditions before buying. Return to Porto for dinner or stay in Gaia; the final bill depends on your venue, wine choices and any tasting supplements.
Day 3 · Serralves or Foz
Choose Serralves for art, architecture and gardens, allowing several hours. General and park-only tickets have different inclusions. Alternatively, go to Foz for an Atlantic walk and a neighbourhood lunch.
Keep the final afternoon flexible rather than adding a distant day trip. Check your airport or onward train route and leave a margin for baggage and transfers. If you add the Douro Valley, give it a separate day and check the actual train destination or tour itinerary.
Budget and booking
Use €110–190 per person per day as an illustrative mid-range city allowance when sharing a room, not as a guaranteed trip price. Intercity journeys, flights, local accommodation taxes and special meals are extra. Your travel dates and selected attractions can change the total substantially.
Compare the checked transport and admission prices before choosing passes. Pay only through your chosen operator's official booking channel and check cancellation conditions.