Itinerary for 5 day trip to Portugal

Portugal is a fantastic destination, and I’m excited to help you plan a memorable 5-day itinerary for your family. Let’s dive right in!

Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon (October 1, 2026)

Morning:

Flight from Madrid to Lisbon: Book a morning flight (around 1 hour) to maximize your day. Airlines like Iberia and TAP Air Portugal offer frequent flights.
Check-in: Once you arrive in Lisbon, check into a family-friendly hotel. Consider the or for comfort and convenience.

Afternoon:

Explore Belém: Head to the Belém district. Visit the iconic and the . Don’t forget to stop by for their famous custard tarts!

Evening:

Dinner at Time Out Market: Enjoy a variety of local dishes at this vibrant food market. There’s something for everyone, from seafood to vegetarian options.

Day 2: Lisbon to Sintra (October 2, 2026)

Morning:

Day Trip to Sintra: Take a short train ride (about 40 minutes) to Sintra. Start your day at the , a colorful and whimsical castle that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.

Afternoon:

Lunch in Sintra: Try for some delicious tapas.
Visit : Explore the enchanting gardens and the Initiation Well, a magical spot that kids will love!

Evening:

Return to Lisbon: Head back to Lisbon and freshen up.
Dinner at : Enjoy a delightful dinner at this trendy spot known for its ceviche and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3: Lisbon to Porto (October 3, 2026)

Morning:

Train to Porto: After breakfast, take a scenic train ride to Porto (about 3 hours). The views along the Douro River are stunning!
Check-in: Settle into a family-friendly hotel like or .

Afternoon:

Explore : Stroll along the picturesque riverfront, and take in the colorful buildings and lively atmosphere.
Lunch at : Sample local delicacies at this traditional market.

Evening:

Dinner at : Enjoy a cozy dinner with traditional Portuguese dishes. The ambiance is perfect for families!

Day 4: Porto (October 4, 2026)

Morning:

Visit : Start your day at one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It’s a must-see for book lovers!
: Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon:

Lunch at : Indulge in a meal at this historic café, known for its stunning decor.
: Take a family-friendly tour of one of the port wine cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. Many offer tastings and non-alcoholic options for kids.

Evening:

Dinner at : Enjoy a delightful meal at this restaurant by renowned chef José Avillez, offering a modern twist on traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Day 5: Porto to Lisbon (October 5, 2026)

Morning:

Return to Lisbon: Take a morning train back to Lisbon.
Explore : Wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. Visit the and enjoy the views from .

Afternoon:

Lunch at a Local Tasca: Try a local eatery for some authentic Portuguese fare.
Visit the : This is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and a hit with families!

Evening:

Dinner at : End your trip with a fantastic dinner at this vibrant restaurant complex featuring various dining options.

Day 6: Departure (October 6, 2026)

Morning:

Last-minute Shopping: If time allows, do some last-minute shopping in the .
Flight back to Madrid: Head to the airport for your flight back home, filled with wonderful memories!

Tips:

Transportation: Consider getting a Lisbon Card for public transport and discounts on attractions.
Dining Reservations: Make dinner reservations in advance, especially for popular spots.
Pack for the Weather: October can be mild, but it’s good to have layers and a light jacket for the evenings.

I hope this itinerary helps you create an unforgettable family adventure in Portugal! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor it even more! Safe travels! 🌍✈️