Porto Coastal Walk Itinerary: From Matosinhos to Foz do Douro

Planning a refreshing day trip from Porto? A coastal walk from Matosinhos to Foz do Douro is one of the most scenic and culturally rich experiences you can have in the region. These two well-connected destinations offer abundant tourist and cultural attractions, from fascinating museums to captivating cuisine and unforgettable views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Douro River. In this article, we’ll guide you through a perfect itinerary to explore Matosinhos and beyond. You'll get to know its history, culture, beaches, and the people who make this seaside city so special.

Start at the Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos

Let’s start at the famous Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos, the city’s iconic market. You can easily reach it by bus from Porto (lines 505, 506, and 507) or by Metro do Porto, stopping at the Mercado de Matosinhos station.

The market opened on May 27, 1952, and combines the charm of traditional markets with striking architecture. As you walk through the multicolored stalls, you’ll discover a wide variety of fresh local produce and regional delicacies.

If you're starting your itinerary around lunchtime, Mercado Food & Drinks is the perfect lunch choice. Here, you can select fresh fish or seafood directly from the market stalls, and the restaurant will prepare it for you — a truly local experience.

Not quite hungry yet? No problem — we’ve got more lunch options waiting for you later.

Visit Igreja do Senhor Bom Jesus de Matosinhos

From the market, take a short walk (or the next metro stop) to Senhor de Matosinhos, where you’ll find the beautiful Igreja do Senhor Bom Jesus — also known as Igreja Matriz or Igreja do Salvador.

Its horizontal façade is defined by pilasters and twin bell towers, with a Latin cross layout and three naves. This historic church is a key pilgrimage site, especially during the annual celebrations in honor of the Lord of Matosinhos (Senhor de Matosinhos).

Discover Pinhais & Cia: A Canning Shop, Museum and Factory

Continuing along Avenida Dom Afonso Henriques, you can pass by landmarks like the Town Hall and Basílio Teles Garden. A must-visit stop here is Pinhais & Cia, Lda, a fish canning factory and museum open to the public.

Founded in 1920, this family-run business still uses traditional fish processing techniques. You can tour the factory and visit the store to experience authentic flavors that have stood the test of time. For more information and tickets: Visit Pinhais & Cia

Lunch on Rua Heróis de França

End your morning on Rua Heróis de França, a street known for some of the best seafood restaurants in Matosinhos. This is where all local people eat the best fish in Porto. Popular spots like Senhor do Padrão, Tito 2, São Valentim, and Meia-Nau offer menus filled with fresh, locally sourced fish and unforgettable Portuguese flavors.

Coastal Art, Forts, and Ocean Views

After lunch, it’s time to head toward Foz do Douro, and prepare for the beautiful coastal path with panoramic views of the Atlantic. But first, you’ll pass by Senhor do Padrão, an 18th-century National Monument, and the Terminal de Cruzeiros de Leixões (Porto’s Cruise Terminal), which offers guided tours on Sunday mornings. Check the schedule here: Porto Cruise Terminal Visit Info. The tour, the views and the building architecture are worth a visit.

And before the coastal walk, take a coffee break at Bar do Titan, near the Tragédia do Mar monument — a peaceful seaside spot ideal for relaxing while soaking in the ocean breeze.

While walking through Matosinhos Beach, you’ll encounter striking public art and architecture. Don’t miss the Anémona, a large-scale sculpture by American artist Janet Echelman, or the transparent modern building nearby, home to lively cafés and connecting Porto City Park to the sea.

Continue to the Fort of São Francisco Xavier, commonly known as Castelo do Queijo or Cheese Castle, because of its “cheese” shape. Built in the mid-17th century, this compact seaside fortress has been beautifully restored and now houses a military history museum. It also hosts cultural and entertainment events organized by the Commandos Association of Northern Portugal.

From Matosinhos Beach to the last beach in Foz do Douro, Praia das Pastoras, it takes around one hour to walk. Prepare yourself to take slower and make a few stops for the views and take much longer than one hour. Here is the Google Maps path:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/RwnegfkZLTdeg9wq9

Plus, from Matosinhos to Foz do Douro, you have two scenic walking options:

Option 1: Seaside Wooden Walkway

Take the wooden walkway along the shore, where you’ll pass by several unique geological formations and beaches, including:

    • Praia de Matosinhos 

    • Praia do Homem do Leme

    • Praia do Molhe

    • Praia de Gondarém

    • Praia da Luz

    • Praia dos Ingleses

    • Praia do Carneiro

    • Praia das Pastoras (in Foz do Douro)

Option 2: Upper Route with Ocean Views

Alternatively, walk along the upper coastal avenue to enjoy elevated views and iconic architectural spots, such as the Homem do Leme Statue and the elegant Pérgola da Foz, located just past Praia do Molhe.

Praia da Luz and Farolim de Felgueiras

To end your day on a high note, stop at Praia da Luz for a sunset drink with an unbeatable view of the Atlantic Ocean. This beachside spot is ideal for unwinding after a scenic walk, especially as the golden hour sets over the sea.

From there, enjoy a leisurely stroll toward the Farolim de Felgueiras, a striking hexagonal lighthouse made of granite and built in the 19th century. It stands proudly at the mouth of the Douro River, offering one of the best sunset viewpoints in Porto.

Just a short walk away, visit the Jardim do Passeio Alegre, a charming 19th-century park. It features a former Franciscan convent, an ornate fountain, and rare Art Nouveau-style public restrooms, making it a unique and elegant spot to pause before your journey back.

To return to downtown Porto, we recommend taking the iconic Tram Line 1 (Elétrico nº 1) to Ribeira. This vintage tram offers a scenic and nostalgic ride along the Douro River, passing through some of Porto’s most emblematic riverside neighborhoods — the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable coastal day walk. Another alternative will be the bus 500, which ends in São Bento Station, Porto City Centre.

Is the walk from Matosinhos to Foz do Douro easy?

Yes — it’s mostly flat and well-paved, making it perfect for beginners or casual walkers. Just wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen!

How long does the coastal walk take?

The full route is around 7 km and takes about 1.5 hours if you walk non-stop. But trust us — you’ll want to slow down, enjoy the views, and maybe grab a coffee or take photos, so plan for 3-4 hours.

What’s the best way to get from Porto to Matosinhos?

Hop on the Metro (Blue Line A) to Mercado de Matosinhos, or take buses 505, 506, or 507. It’s fast and easy.

Where’s the best place for lunch in Matosinhos?

Locals head straight to Rua Heróis de França for the freshest fish and seafood. Try places like Tito 2, Senhor do Padrão, or Meia-Nau — you can’t go wrong.

Should I walk the beachside route or the upper path?

Why not a little bit of both? The wooden walkway by the sea is peaceful and close to the beach, while the upper avenue gives you sweeping views and cool photo spots like the Pérgola da Foz.

How do I get back to Porto afterwards?

Catch Tram Line 1 for a scenic riverside ride back to Ribeira, or take Bus 500 straight to São Bento Station. Both are easy and picturesque ways to wrap up your day.

 Keep exploring Porto & beyond — here are some other guides we think you'll enjoy:

    • Explore the Best Beaches in Northern Portugal

    • Discover the Best Viewpoints in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

    • 15 Unmissable Places to Visit in Porto

    • Things To Do in Porto & Northern Portugal