Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city, is a gem for exploring the country’s rich heritage, stunning architecture, and diverse gastronomy. But did you know that the city also boasts an excellent train network that enables easy and enjoyable day trips to nearby attractions? With various routes offering picturesque scenery and charming towns, you won’t have to venture far from Porto to immerse yourself in a new adventure.
Take a Journey to Aveiro by Train
Just a short 30-minute train ride from Porto, Aveiro is a picture-perfect coastal town. Often called “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is renowned for its molasses sugar, lagoons, and colorful boats called “barcos moleiras.” These boats are shaped like spoons and use their flat sides to clean the floors of boats. The town also features canals, candy floss, and local dishes like codfish with clams. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Moliceiro, the traditional boat used for cleaning the canals.
Explore the Douro Valley by Train
If you’re a wine lover, the Douro Valley is a must-visit destination near Porto. The valley boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its terraced vineyards and ancient stone houses, attracting thousands of visitors every year. While visiting the vineyards and tasting the local Port wine is a must, you can also opt for a scenic train ride from Porto’s Campanha Station to Peso da Régua, followed by a bus ride to the heart of the valley. The train journey takes around an hour and offers stunning views of the Douro River.
Unwind in Guimarães, Portugal’s Birthplace
Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Portugal’s birthplace and a gem for history buffs. The city has historic sites like the castle that houses the Portuguese National Museum of Ancient Art and the medieval center. To reach Guimarães, you can take a 45-minute train ride from Campanha Station. The journey showcases stunning landscapes, allowing you ample time to admire the views as you travel.
Discover the Portuguese Coastline at Matosinhos
A quick 10-minute train ride from Porto’s city center, Matosinhos is a popular coastal town with sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious seafood restaurants. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade, or take a boat ride to the nearby islands. The train ride from Campanha Station to Matosinhos is a relaxing and scenic experience, offering views of the Douro River and the Portuguese landscape.
Spend a Day in Montemor-o-Novo
For history and architecture enthusiasts, a trip to Montemor-o-Novo is a must. Located about a 2-hour train ride from Campanha Station, the city boasts a beautiful castle and a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of the city. The town also offers several churches and old squares to explore. The train ride offers beautiful scenery along the way, with rolling hills and lush landscapes.
In conclusion, Porto is not just a destination to explore; it’s a gateway to a world of experiences just waiting to be explored. So, the next time you’re planning a day out of Porto, remember that you have an array of picturesque locations at your fingertips.