8 Days in Portugal: Porto to Lisbon
The classic route run in reverse, which works well for flights arriving in Porto. You finish in Lisbon with the coast and Sintra still ahead.
At a glance
- Length: 8 days
- Bases: Porto (3 nights), Coimbra area (1 night), Lisbon (3 nights)
- Best time: March to June, September to November
- Pace: Easy
- Good for: First-time visitors arriving in Porto
Day by day
Day 1
Arrive in Porto and take your time checking into your hotel. Stretch your legs with a gentle walk down Avenida dos Aliados to see the grand tiled facades and lively plazas. Head towards the riverfront in Ribeira to watch the rabelo boats bobbing along the water. Keep the late afternoon completely free to rest and ease into your holiday pace.
Day 2
Spend your morning wandering the winding streets of Porto old town, perhaps taking a look at the intricate blue tiles inside Sao Bento Station. Walk across the upper deck of the Dom Luis I Bridge into Gaia for sweeping views of the city skyline. You can sample some local port wine in one of the long-standing riverside cellars before lunchtime. Leave the late afternoon free to relax at an outdoor cafe with an espresso.
Day 3
Head inland for a scenic day trip into the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley. Make your way through sleepy river towns like Peso da Regua or Pinhao, soaking in the dramatic views of the rolling green hills. Enjoy a peaceful lunch overlooking the winding river and explore a traditional wine estate. You will have the late afternoon free back in Porto to unwind and reflect on the scenery.
Day 4
Drive south towards Aveiro, often celebrated for its charming canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Grab a sweet ovos moles pastry as you walk along the waterfront before heading inland to Coimbra. Once you arrive, take a quiet walk through the ancient university courtyards and the historic city center. Keep the late afternoon open to wander the cobblestone lanes at your own relaxed pace.
Getting around: Days like these are much easier with a private driver. Portugal Magik, the local partner we recommend, can handle luggage, timings and stops along the way, so you are not driving unfamiliar roads or chasing train connections.
Day 5
Leave Coimbra in the morning and stop by the striking Gothic monastery in Batalha. Continue your journey south to the walled town of Obidos, where you can stroll along whitewashed streets flanked by climbing bougainvillea. Arrive in Lisbon with plenty of time to unpack and settle into your neighborhood. Your late afternoon remains completely free to enjoy a cold drink on a sunny terrace.
Day 6
Start your exploration in the historic heart of Lisbon, wandering the cobbled alleys of Alfama and taking in the views from the Santa Luzia viewpoint. Walk downhill toward the grand Praca do Comercio and explore the bustling streets of Baixa and Chiado. Pick up a warm pastel de nata from a neighborhood bakery to enjoy along the way. Reserve the late afternoon for free time to browse local shops or relax by the Tagus river.
Day 7
Take an easy morning excursion to Sintra to see the colorful, fairytale towers of Pena Palace tucked into the misty forest. Afterwards, head out toward the coast and enjoy the sea breeze in the seaside resort town of Cascais. Stroll along the marina and sandy bay, perhaps stopping for fresh seafood by the ocean. Return with plenty of late afternoon free time to rest before your final evening.
Day 8
Savor your final morning in Lisbon with a calm breakfast and a quiet stroll through your neighborhood. Pick up any last souvenirs like tinned sardines or cork crafts before packing your bags. You can spend a relaxing midday walk along the waterfront near Cais do Sodre. Keep the late afternoon free to unwind before making your way to the airport.
Local tip
Day 5 has several stops. Choose two and leave the rest for next time.
Making it your own
Treat this as a starting point. Every day can be swapped, shortened or stretched. Most travellers keep the bases and change the day trips. Keep driving legs under about two and a half hours and leave the late afternoon free, and the trip will feel easy.
Plan this trip with a trusted local partner
We recommend Portugal Magik, a Lisbon based private tour operator, for tailor-made versions of routes like this one. They provide private drivers and guides, Mercedes-Benz vehicles and day by day planning, and will adjust the route to your dates, pace and interests.
Tailor-made
Request a tailored itinerary
Share your dates and interests. Portugal Magik will shape this route around you, with a private driver and guide.
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