5 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan a romantic 5-day itinerary for you and your partner. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

Morning:

• Arrive in Lisbon and check into your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a charming boutique hotel in the Alfama district for a taste of local culture.
• Start your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast. Try a pastel de nata (custard tart) and a bica (espresso) at a local café.

Afternoon:

• Explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. Wander through the narrow streets, and don’t forget to visit the stunning Lisbon Cathedral.
• Have lunch at a local tasca (small restaurant) and try some bacalhau à brás (codfish dish).

Evening:

• Head to Miradouro de Santa Catarina for a breathtaking sunset view over the Tagus River.
• Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, like the one at Hotel do Chiado.

## Day 2: Sintra Day Trip

Morning:

• Take a short train ride to Sintra (about 40 minutes). This fairy-tale town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit the colorful Pena Palace, which looks like something out of a storybook. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch in the town center at a quaint café. Try the local specialty, travesseiros (puff pastry filled with almond cream).
• Explore the Moorish Castle for stunning views and a bit of history.

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon and enjoy a Fado dinner in Alfama. The soulful music will set a romantic mood for the evening.

## Day 3: Lisbon to Porto

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). The scenic ride along the coast is a treat!
• Check into your hotel in Porto, perhaps in the Ribeira district for a picturesque view of the Douro River.

Afternoon:

• Explore the historic Ribeira district. Stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the colorful buildings.
• Have lunch at a riverside café and try the famous Francesinha sandwich.

Evening:

• Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
• For dinner, head to a wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia for a Port wine tasting and a lovely dinner with views of the Porto skyline.

## Day 4: Porto Exploration

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. Walk across for stunning views of the city.
• Visit the São Bento Railway Station to admire its beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles).

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Mercado do Bolhão, where you can sample local delicacies and fresh produce.
• Spend the afternoon at the Serralves Museum and its beautiful gardens, perfect for a romantic stroll.

Evening:

• Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Douro River. It’s a magical way to see the city from a different perspective.
• For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant and indulge in some fresh catch of the day.

## Day 5: Douro Valley Day Trip

Morning:

• Take a guided tour or rent a car to explore the stunning Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards.
• Stop at a winery for a tour and tasting. The views are absolutely breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant, savoring local dishes paired with exquisite wines.
• Take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping at charming villages like Pinhão.

Evening:

• Return to Porto and enjoy a final dinner at a cozy restaurant. Reflect on your trip and toast to your adventures in Portugal!

Departure

• Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a leisurely breakfast or a last-minute stroll through Porto before heading to the airport.

I hope this itinerary gives you a wonderful mix of culture, romance, and delicious food! Enjoy your trip to Portugal! 🌍❤️