Porto Top 3 Day Trips by Train: Guimarães, Aveiro, and Braga:
I fell head over heels for Porto, with its vibrant history, culture, and delicious food scene. But did you know it’s the perfect base to explore the magic of Northern Portugal? You can hop on a scenic train from the magnificent São Bento station and be whisked away into the picturesque Portuguese countryside in under an hour!
I decided to ditch the rental car hassle and embrace the ease of trains in Portugal. It was the best decision I made!
Embrace the Scenic Train Trips: Your Portugal Rail Adventure Begins!
This blog unveils the magic of three unforgettable day trips from Porto: Guimarães, Aveiro, and Braga. Each destination has its own unique charm, from historic castles and captivating coastal vistas to the youthful energy of a university town.
Train travel in Portugal is the way to go! You can explore these hidden gems and avoid the crowds. Imagine exploring majestic Guimarães Castle or indulging in Aveiro’s colorful canals, all in a single day!
I’ll guide you through everything you need to know for a seamless adventure:
- Effortless Train Travel from Porto: Discover easy-to-follow instructions on reaching Guimarães, Aveiro, and Braga by train, including information on finding the best Portugal train tickets.
- Top Sights & Activities: Dive into must-see attractions and immersive experiences that make each town special.
- Unlocking a Day Trip Adventure: We’ll share tips on maximizing your time and creating unforgettable memories in each destination.
Train Travel from Porto Sao Bento Station
Planning your Porto day trips? Acquiring train tickets to Guimarães, Aveiro, and Braga is as easy as a pastel de nata is delicious! São Bento Station boasts a user-friendly layout, making the process a breeze.
Your Ticketing Options at São Bento:
- Manned Booths: Friendly staff are readily available to answer any questions about routes or assist you with operating the ticketing machines.
- Automated Ticketing Machines: Multi-lingual interfaces on these machines make purchasing tickets simple and efficient.
Good news! Trains here are incredibly affordable, with tickets ranging between €3 and €10 each way.
Simple & Stress-Free:
One of the best things about these day trips is that there’s no complicated route planning involved. Each destination is the terminus of its line, so you can just purchase a general ticket for your chosen city and hop on any train heading there that day. The departure boards in the station show real-time information, so you can easily choose the most convenient departure time.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding! Missing this step could result in hefty fines from the conductors.
Check out the official website for train times and prices
Train to Guimaraes from Porto
I took a scenic 50-minute train ride northeast of Porto to reach Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with Portuguese history. The moment I arrived, I was captivated by the 10th-century Guimarães Castle, with its sprawling ramparts and well-preserved towers.
I spent hours wandering through the atmospheric alleyways and exploring the lively Largo da Oliveira, the main square. The medieval architecture is stunning, and there are plenty of vibrant cafes, charming boutiques showcasing rooster-themed ceramics, and a sense of timeless beauty.
I even climbed the twin bell towers of the sandstone Gothic Nossa Senhora da Oliveira Church for panoramic city views. It was totally worth it!
Planning Your Easy Guimarães Escape from Porto:
Getting to Guimarães from Porto is super easy! There’s a direct train that departs from São Bento train station every hour, and the journey takes just under an hour. Tickets are budget-friendly, costing around €5-10 each way.
Guimarães is a compact historic gem, perfect for exploring on foot. Don’t miss these must-see sights:
- Castle of Guimarães: A 10th-century marvel offering breathtaking panoramic views.
- Palace of the Dukes of Bragança: Immerse yourself in the opulence of a 15th-century palace with elaborately decorated rooms.
- Largo da Oliveira Square: The heart of the city, buzzing with cafes nestled within picturesque buildings.
- Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira: A stunning 14th-century Gothic church with architectural grandeur.
- Museum Alberto Sampaio: Housed in a former monastery, this museum showcases religious art and artifacts.
- Miradouro Penha: Hike for breathtaking panoramic views and visit the old church atop the hill just outside the city.
Allow 4-5 hours to wander Portugal Guimaraes charming streets, pop into inviting shops and cafes, and explore the main sights. Top off your adventure with a delicious traditional lunch at one of the many restaurants surrounding Largo da Oliveira!
Porto to Aveiro Train Day Trip:
Trade bustling trams for a scenic train ride south from Porto. Your destination: Aveiro Portugal, the captivating “Venice of Portugal.” A network of vibrant canals lined with pastel buildings, flowering bridges, and traditional moliceiro boats creates an atmosphere of pure enchantment.
I strolled along the Ria de Aveiro boardwalk, taking in the architectural tapestry spanning Art Nouveau to Baroque styles. I weaved through lively outdoor cafes and seafood eateries showcasing the day’s fresh catch. I couldn’t resist peeking inside the resplendent Convento do Jesus. This opulent masterpiece boasts an interior dripping with gold accents – a true feast for the eyes!
Getting to Aveiro from Porto is a breeze! Direct trains depart hourly, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Tickets are budget-friendly, costing between €5-€10 each way.
Top sights and activities for your Aveiro day trip include:
- Moliceiro Boat Tours: Glide down the main canal aboard a traditional moliceiro boat, soaking in the sights from a unique perspective.
- Art Nouveau Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in the elegance of 19th-century architecture with a guided walk.
- Aveiro Museum: Delve into the city’s rich history and explore the captivating convent space.
- Praça do Peixe: Wander through the bustling downtown fish market and lively square.
- Beaches: Take a bus or ferry to Costa Nova’s iconic striped houses and pristine beaches.
- Salt Pans: Embark on an excursion to witness traditional salt-harvesting methods.
- Ovos Moles: Indulge in Aveiro’s signature sweet treat – decadent egg yolk candies.
No visit to Aveiro is complete without sampling ovos moles, a decadent egg yolk candy invented here, or taking a moliceiro cruise to admire the canal-side sights from water level.
I loved wandering around Aveiro’s charming streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere and enjoying the delicious food. The city has a great mix of traditional Portuguese charm and modern energy, thanks to the university.
With 4-5 hours, you can comfortably explore Aveiro’s highlights and hidden gems. Catch an early evening train back to Porto, taking with you unforgettable memories of this enchanting canal city. Aveiro awaits!
Porto to Braga Day Trip
I recently took a day trip to Braga from Porto, and it was a fantastic experience. This charming city is often called the “Rome of Portugal” due to its rich religious heritage and abundance of ancient churches.
Braga is not only a historical gem but also a vibrant university town with a youthful energy. It’s the perfect weekend escape, but even if you’re short on time, you can easily explore Braga on a day trip from Porto.
I had a blast exploring the city’s narrow streets, discovering hidden gems, and soaking up the local atmosphere. Braga is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Portugal!
Reaching Braga from Porto is a breeze! Direct trains depart hourly, whisking you away in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Tickets are budget-friendly, costing between €5-€12 each way.
Highlights for your day trip to Braga from Porto:
- Bom Jesus Sanctuary: Hike or take the funicular railway to the hilltop Bom Jesus do Monte complex. Be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and the iconic stairway, a visual masterpiece with cascading fountains and meticulous landscaping that seems to defy gravity as it leads to the ornate church.
- Sé Cathedral (Old Cathedral): This striking 12th-century cathedral with its twin towers holds the distinction of being the oldest in Portugal.
- Praça da República (Republic Square): This lively central square surrounded by cafes boasts an ornate 18th-century fountain. The perfect spot for people-watching and soaking up the atmosphere.
- Jardim de Santa Bárbara (Santa Barbara Garden): Escape the city bustle and find tranquility in this peaceful garden oasis. Stroll along the lake paths and relax amongst the gazebos.
- Traditional Shopping: Explore the shops lining Braga’s streets and discover a treasure trove of local crafts. From handmade shoes and woven baskets to ceramics and other unique items, unearth the perfect souvenir or gift.
I love how Braga seamlessly blends its historic architectural marvels with contemporary urban energy. And the best part? Nature escapes are just minutes away, offering a refreshing break from the city’s rich cultural tapestry. No wonder Braga is a rising star on the tourist map!
I was able to comfortably explore Braga’s old town, main churches, and top sights in just 4-5 hours before catching the evening train back to Porto. It’s a perfect day trip for anyone visiting Portugal!
Where to Stay in Porto
Soak Up the History: Loureiro Villas
For those seeking a stay steeped in Porto’s historic charm, Loureiro Villas offers a unique experience. Located in a renovated 18th-century building, these self-catering apartments boast a charming atmosphere and modern amenities. Imagine stepping back in time with traditional details, while enjoying the comfort of fully equipped kitchens and contemporary furnishings. (Bonus Tip): Loureiro Villas’ prime location near the São Bento Train Station provides excellent access to public transportation, allowing you to explore the city and surrounding areas with ease.
Prime Location & Social Vibes: The Passenger Hostel
Calling all social butterflies and budget-conscious travelers! The Passenger Hostel, housed within the iconic São Bento Train Station, is the perfect base for exploring Porto. I stayed here and loved its location!
Imagine waking up steps away from public transportation links, historical landmarks, and the charming Ribeira district. It’s the ultimate convenience and adventure combo!
How to Plan Your Day Trips
Optimizing Your Porto Train Day Trips:
- Snag the best fares: Check train schedules and book tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons. For off-season travel, purchasing tickets the morning of your trip might be feasible.
- Pack Smart: A small backpack is all you need for a light and easy day trip experience.
- Plan Your Route: Map out your sightseeing route to efficiently cover the main attractions in each town.
- Midday Magic: Allow time in the middle of the day to browse shops, relax at cafes, and savor a delicious lunch at local restaurants.
- Golden Hour Departures: Plan to leave in the late afternoon. This allows you to enjoy the charm of the towns as they come alive in the warm afternoon light, and witness the beauty of landmarks illuminated at dusk during your train ride back to Porto.
Porto serves as the perfect gateway city to explore the captivating towns of Northern Portugal. Guimarães, Aveiro, and Braga, each boasting unique charm, are all conveniently reachable by direct train within an hour.
Imagine this: with minimal effort, you can be whisked away to discover a charming new town steeped in history, architectural marvels, and vibrant culture. Embrace the train and embark on unforgettable day trips, exploring the region’s coastal landscapes, rich heritage, and authentic Portuguese charm.
Let this guide be your travel companion as you plan your perfect day trip adventure from Porto. Northern Portugal awaits!
From Porto, it’s also easy to train down to Lisbon and explore Southern Portugal destinations like Lagos and Faro! Check out my blog posts for more details on these cities and how to plan your trip!
