As international travel restrictions lifted post pandemic, I never felt so excited. After years of not being able to travel outside the UK, I jumped at the opportunity to explore a new city. A weekend in Porto, with a day trip to Braga and Guimaraes, was spot on for the next adventure.

The coastal city of Porto, known for its stately bridges and port production was my base for the weekend. With the sun blazing, I wasted no time after checking into my hotel before heading out to explore.

Chapel of Souls
The first port of call was the Chapel of Souls. Known as Capela das Almas, is a small church most famously known for its exterior of blue and white tiles painted from lives of saints and arguably on of the most instagrammed spots in the city.

River Douro, Riberia Square and Luis Bridge
When visiting Porto area around Riberia Square by the River Douro and Luis bridge is a must. Whilst it is most likely to be swarming with tourists (myself included), the atmosphere and views are outstanding.

Here you can stroll along the river, take in the views and enjoy a nice glass of port in the sun!

Porto São Bento
A trip to Porto is not complete without visiting the UNESCO world heritage site, that is Porto São Bento.

Known for being the most beautiful station in the world, the interior is covered the azulejos Portuguese tiles, even if you are not planning to hop on a train out of the city, it is worth visiting the station regardless.

Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral (‘Sé’) is the most important church in the city. The national monument was built in the 12th and 13th centuries.

The ‘Sé’ not only relates to the cathedral but the immediate historic district in the surrounds. It is recommended to spend some time wandering the quiet streets, especially early in the morning as I did.

Serra do Pilar
On the opposite side of the Douro river is Serra do Pilar, the former monastery. Here you will have fantastic views over the Luis Bridge and the city.

For those that like a climb, you can access the view point by following the steep hills and staircases from the banks of the river. However, if the climb is not for you, then you can jump on the Metro to Jardmin do Morro station.

Igreja Paroquial de Santo Ildefonso
Igreja Paroquial de Santo Ildefonso located close to Batalha square dates back to the 18th century. Like much of the architecture in Porto, here you will find the exterior covered in over 11,000 blue and white tiles – striking in the early morning and evening light.

Port Tasting
No trip to Porto would be complete without a spot of port tasting. Personally, prior to this trip, Port was not a drink I would select. However, after taking a tour and tasting with Burmester cellars I had a taste of Port and took home a selection of bottles.

If time is on your side, and you want to see more of the surrounding areas, consider a tour of Braga and Guimaraes.

Bom Jesus Funicular
The first stop on the day trip was a visit to Bom Jesus Funicular. Famous for its architecture, staircase and vertical tram. The first of its kind, was installed in 1882 and still uses its water powered system to power the ramp today.

The staircase leading to the church, contains 17 landings with symbolic fountains, statues and Baroque style decorations.

Santuário de Nossa Senhora do Sameiro
Sitting a top of the hill of the same name the Shrine of our Lady Sameiro is one of the most visited places with a great view of Braga. Every year it attracts many devotees, especially during pilgrimages.

Se de Braga
In the city of Braga you will find the Roman Catholic church. With its long history (the first cathedral and older that Portugal itself) it is one of the most important buildings in the country.

Braga Centre
Take some time in the area to stroll around the picturesque old city centre of Braga. With plenty of restaurants and bars, it makes for the perfect location for a spot of lunch.

Guimaraes
Just a short drive from Braga you will find the town of Guimaraes – considered to be the birth place of of Portugal. Afonso Henriques, who went on to be the first king of Portugal was born here.

Within the city you can visit the Guimaraes castle, the small church of S. Miguel do Castelo and historic centre within the city walls. Here you can explore the well-preserved heritage with porticos, mansions, arches connecting narrow streets, towers and cloisters.

Porto and the nearby cities are without a doubt, worth a visit. It you are visiting Porto it would be recommended to extend your trip to explore the city centre, Braga and other areas of the Douro Valley.