Day trips from Porto

While ET 2025 will be filled with exciting scientific sessions and networking opportunities, Portugal’s rich cultural tapestry offers even more for those extending their stay. The Local Host Committee for ET 2025 has compiled their favourite destinations outside of Porto, ranging from scenic river valleys to historic cities and serene coastal escapes.

Discover the Douro Valley

The most common recommendation from the committee is the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its terraced vineyards and acclaimed wine production.

“Without a doubt, a visit to the Douro Valley is highly recommended,” says Dr. Pedro Marinho Lopes. “The region is known for its breathtaking landscapes, terraced vineyards, and its world-renowned port wine production. Exploring the Douro Valley, visiting the wine estates, and taking a boat trip along the Douro River can be a truly unforgettable experience.”

Dr. Tiago Bilhim adds that there are “daily boat travel excursions along the Douro River with wine tasting experiences,” making it an ideal day trip or weekend escape.

Douro Valley

Photos courtesy of the Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau

Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro in Braga

Charming historical cities

Several historic cities lie just a short drive or train/bus ride from Porto:

Braga, known as the “Portuguese Rome” for its rich religious heritage, is recommended by all the committee members. “Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is known for its beautiful churches, historic charm, and the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary,” says Dr. Manuela Certo.

Guimarães, often cited as the birthplace of Portugal, is also a top recommendation from the local host committee. “Its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and UNESCO World Heritage sites make it a fascinating day trip for history and culture enthusiasts,” says Dr. Pedro Marinho Lopes.

“Aveiro, with its network of canals and colourful moliceiro boats, is highly recommended,” says Dr. Ana Isabel Simoes Ferreira and Dr. Belarmino Gonçalves. “Known as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ it has beautiful art nouveau buildings, and delicious local sweets, called ovos moles,” adds Dr. Certo.

Dr. Certo also includes Coimbra in her list, “Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities and a vibrant student atmosphere.”

Dr. Bilhim suggests exploring lesser known but equally charming destinations. “ET attendees can visit nearby lovely cities such as Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Ponte da Barca, Óbidos, Nazaré, and Fátima,” he says.

Guimarães Castle

Photos courtesy of the Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau

Ponte de Lima

Hidden gems

For those craving nature, Dr. Bilhim recommends Peneda-Gerês National Park, which offers dramatic landscapes and hiking opportunities.

If you’re looking for something truly unique, Dr. Pereira suggests the Citânia de Sanfins, an ancient hillfort: “A city over 2000 years old, where more than 3000 people lived, in one of the capitals of the north-west of the peninsula, before the arrival of the Romans to the Iberian Peninsula. There is also an Archaeological Museum that showcases excavated pieces from the site.”

Seaside adventures

Porto’s coastline is dotted with beautiful beach towns. “For those who enjoy the sea, I suggest visiting the northern beaches of Portugal, such as Matosinhos and Vila do Conde, which are perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean, especially in the warmer months. These beaches offer beautiful views, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere,” says Dr. Marinho Lopes and Dr. Simoes Ferreira.

Peneda-Gerês National Park

Photo courtesy of the Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau

Citânia de Sanfins

Photo courtesy of Dr. Tiago Pereira

Religious history

For those interested in spiritual or religious tourism, Dr. Pereira highlights two significant pilgrimage sites. Santiago de Compostela, located north across the Spanish border, is known as the culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and the alleged burial site of the Biblical apostle St. James. The Sanctuary of Fátima, located less than two hours south of Porto, is one of the most visited Marian shrines in the world.