5 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is such a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Let’s create a relaxed 5-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

Morning:

• Arrive in Lisbon and check into your hotel or Airbnb. Take a moment to settle in and freshen up.
• Head out for a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Try a pastel de nata (custard tart) with your coffee!

Afternoon:

• Stroll through the charming streets of the Alfama district. This area is known for its narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings. Don’t forget to visit the Lisbon Cathedral!
• Stop for lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. Enjoy some bacalhau à brás (codfish) or a hearty caldo verde (green soup).

Evening:

• Take a tram ride on the iconic Tram 28, which winds through many of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods.
• For dinner, head to the Bairro Alto district. Enjoy some tapas and perhaps catch a live Fado performance to immerse yourself in the local culture.

## Day 2: Sintra Day Trip

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short train ride to Sintra (about 40 minutes). This fairy-tale town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit the stunning Pena Palace. The colorful architecture and breathtaking views are simply magical!

Afternoon:

• Explore the gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, where you can wander through enchanting paths and discover hidden wells.
• Grab lunch at a local café. Try the famous travesseiros (puff pastry filled with almond cream) for dessert!

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a riverside restaurant in the Cais do Sodré area. Savor some fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Tagus River.

## Day 3: Lisbon to Porto

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront before checking out of your accommodation.
• Catch a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel in Porto and have lunch at a local eatery. Don’t miss trying a francesinha, a hearty sandwich that’s a local specialty.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Ribeira district, with its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. Take a walk along the Douro River.

Evening:

• Visit one of the famous port wine cellars for a tasting. Learn about the history of port wine and enjoy the views from the cellars.
• For dinner, find a cozy restaurant in the area and indulge in some traditional Portuguese dishes.

## Day 4: Porto Exploration

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Try a pastel de nata from one of the best bakeries in town!
• Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The architecture is stunning!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city. Climb the stairs at your own pace!
• Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, then visit the São Bento Railway Station to admire its beautiful azulejos (ceramic tiles).

Evening:

• Take a leisurely walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Have dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the local cuisine and perhaps some live music.

## Day 5: Douro Valley Day Trip

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a day trip to the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and stunning landscapes. You can book a guided tour or rent a car for a more relaxed pace.
• Enjoy a scenic drive through the valley, stopping at viewpoints for photos.

Afternoon:

• Visit a vineyard for a tour and tasting. Learn about the winemaking process and enjoy a leisurely lunch with local specialties.
• Spend some time exploring the quaint villages in the valley, like Pinhão or Lamego.

Evening:

• Return to Porto and enjoy your last dinner in Portugal. Choose a restaurant with a view of the river to soak in the ambiance one last time.

Departure

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through Porto before heading to the airport.

And there you have it! A relaxed 5-day itinerary that allows you to experience the best of Portugal at a comfortable pace. Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️🍷