Private car transfer from Coimbra to Porto

The rabelo boats are one of the main symbols of Porto. They were used to transport barrels of port wine from the Douro Valley's best vineyards to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia via the river in Porto. This method was used for centuries because there were no proper roads, making the rabelo boats the most reliable mode of wine transportation. Today, these iconic boats can still be seen along the riverbank, serving as a reminder of Porto's rich winemaking heritage, and visitors can take tours to experience this important part of the city's culture.

The name of the country, Portugal, is derived from Porto, a magical city where the river sparkles from sunrise to sunset. Filled with golden, blue, and orange hues that make every step unforgettable, Porto attracts people with its art, rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and warm, welcoming locals, making it the perfect destination for anyone.

Pre-meal snacks aren't free!

In Porto, as well as in Portugal in general, it is common for restaurants to provide snacks before serving your meal. But they're not free! If you eat these snacks, they will be included in your bill.

Book in advance

Don’t miss out on the best that Porto has to offer. Book tours and entry tickets in advance. Some restaurants can get busy during the peak season, so it’s recommended to make a reservation beforehand. This way, you won’t end up walking on the cobbled hills looking for a free table.

• Flixbus: if you purchase your ticket in advance, the lowest ticket price is $5.38 (€5), and the travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
• Rede Expressos: a Portuguese bus company with the cheapest tickets starting from just $4.25 (€3.95). The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

If you plan to go by bus, make sure you check the timetable available on the bus company’s official website.

From Coimbra to Porto by train

Another way to get to Porto is by high-speed train. The Alfa Pendular service offers this option, with ticket prices starting at approximately $37.68 (€35). However, the travel time is only 10 minutes faster than the bus, at 1 hour and 11 minutes.

Alternatively, you can choose a slightly cheaper express train (also provided by Alfa Pendular) with tickets starting from approximately $31 (€29). The travel time for this option is 1 hour and 18 minutes. Both trains will take you to Porto-Campanhã station, which is farther from the city center. The train’s timetable can be found online.

From Coimbra to Porto by private car service

While the above options are cost-effective, the best way to reach Porto is undoubtedly by choosing a private car service like Daytrip. Once your local English-speaking driver picks you up and loads your luggage, you will enjoy the scenic views without the hassle of navigating public transport or worrying about being late.

Moreover, your friendly driver will be happy to suggest the best places to visit upon your arrival in Porto. The journey from Coimbra to Porto takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Best of all, Daytrip lets you stop to stretch your legs and explore more of Portugal with enriching sightseeing stops! Check out the Church of Valega with its facade completely covered with colored tiles, or Bucaco National Park, a bastion of natural beauty guarded by medieval walls.

Daytrip’s private car service provides flexibility that public transportation does not offer, as neither the train nor the bus will wait for you.

From Coimbra to Porto by shared shuttle

Does Daytrip’s private car service from Coimbra to Porto sound tempting but you would still prefer to save some dollars to spend on souvenirs? Then Daytrip’s shared shuttle service is made for you! The shared shuttles depart five times a day, allowing you to choose the most convenient time for your trip. Once your driver picks you up at your accommodation, your journey in a comfortable and air-conditioned car can begin.

Explore the bookstore that inspired J.K. Rowling

Livraria Lello is not only one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, but it also served as an inspiration for JK Rowling while writing Harry Potter. It is a popular destination for Harry Potter enthusiasts. In the early 1990s, J.K. Rowling lived and worked as an English teacher in Porto, where she wrote the first chapters of the Harry Potter books. The bookstore was built in 1906, and while the exterior features Gothic architecture, the interior showcases Art Nouveau’s design.

Enjoy a glass of authentic port wine

While the main wineries are not located in Porto (you have to travel to Douro Valley), there are some wine cellars close to the city (located in Vila Nova de Gaia) that will offer you an equally authentic port wine experience. Here are some of the wine cellars you can choose from: Poças, Sandeman, and Portugal’s oldest wine company Real Companhia Velha.

Admire the painted tiles at São Bento Station

Even if you don’t go to Porto by train, it is worth visiting the São Bento Station which is famous for its more than 20,000 painted tiles. The ceramic tiles adorn the main entryway of the station, reflecting not only Portugal’s history but also the daily life of the locals. The best time to appreciate the details of tiles is at dusk, but if you want to avoid crowds, the evening is also an excellent option.