Day Trip From Porto to Foz do Douro

Escape the hustle and bustle of Porto with a rejuvenating day trip to Foz do Douro, where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. This quaint seaside district is not only a breath of fresh air but offers scenic views, beautiful beaches, charming restaurants, and historic landmarks. Foz do Douro reminds us a bit of Cascais in terms of its location where a river meets the Atlantic, and its proximity to a large city (in that case, Lisbon). Here’s how to make the most of your day trip from Porto to Foz do Douro.

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How to Get from Porto to Foz do Douro

Getting to Foz do Douro from Porto is quick and straight forward. It is one of our favorite beach towns near Porto easily accessible by public transport.

Morning: Scenic Walk or Bike

Upon arriving in Foz, head to the Felgueiras Lighthouse. The lighthouse stands at the edge of the Douro River’s entry into the ocean. The area around it is ideal for a peaceful morning stroll. The nearby Pergola da Foz, with its iconic golden frame, is another perfect spot for taking memorable photos against the backdrop of the sea. If you’re looking for a coffee break with a seaside view, try Tavi – Confeitaria da Foz.

If you prefer to bike, pick up a bike rental in Porto and bike out to Foz do Douro. Be aware that biking out to Porto means biking on the same path that the tram takes. If you’d like to bike, but avoid this stretch of biking, pick up your bike in Foz de Douro and bike north towards Matosinhos. Bikebooking.com is a great resource for scheduling your bike rental in the Porto and Foz de Douro area.

Midday: Enjoy the Local Cuisine

By lunchtime, you’ll want to explore local restaurants. Casa de Pasto da Palmeira is an excellent choice for a taste of local flavor with a modern twist. Try the octopus salad or the francesinha, a Porto specialty sandwich, while enjoying the views of the river.

Another great option is the traditional Mercado da Foz do Douro, which has fresh produce and foods, as well as casual eateries. If you’d like a lighter bite to eat sitting at shady picnic tables, this is a great choice. Note that the Mercado is closed on Sundays.

After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the beach promenade, stretching your legs with the sounds of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a swim at the beach or stop at one of the many cafes and gelaterias to grab a gelato and continue your exploration.

Late Afternoon: Cultural Exploration

In the afternoon, dive into the culture and history of Foz. Visit the Fortaleza de San Juan de la Hoz, a 16th-century fortress at the mouth of the Douro. The fort is not only a historical monument but also offers panoramic views of the ocean and is a great vantage point for photos.

Next, wander through the beautiful Jardim do Passeio Alegre, near the lighthouse and running along the Douro River. Don’t miss Chalé Suisso, one of the oldest cafés in Porto, also a national monument.

Consider also a visit to either the Parque da Cidade or Forte de São Francisco Xavier. Parque da Cidade is Porto’s largest park. It is a lush escape with lakes, walking paths, and diverse fauna. It’s the perfect spot to relax under the shade of trees or enjoy a paddleboat ride on the lake.

Alternatively, visit the Forte de São Francisco Xavier, also known as the Castelo do Queijo (cheese castle).

Evening: Sunset Dining

As the day winds down, settle in at one of the seaside restaurants like Habitat Terra e Fogo to watch the sunset. These spots offer stunning views and a range of fresh seafood dishes, such as fresh sardines or bacalhau, paired with a glass of vinho verde.

Return to Porto

As night falls, you can either choose to linger by the seaside or head back to Porto by tram or bus. If you prefer, stay a night or two in Foz do Douro, exploring neighboring Matosinhos as well.

Is it worth visiting Foz do Douro?

Foz do Douro offers a peaceful blend of natural beauty, beaches, great restaurants, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal getaway from the city life of Porto. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat or a picturesque adventure, Foz do Douro is a delightful escape. This is one of our favorite beach towns north of Porto (along with Matosinhos and Viana do Castelo).

Where to Stay

Staying on the coast in Foz do Douro while visiting Porto is a great option for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle. Enjoy time on the beach, sunrise or sunset walks along the coast, and an easy, 20 minute tram or bus ride into the center of Porto. These are some great options if you decide to stay in Foz do Douro.

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