Eight to nine days is a great length for a Portugal trip, with stops in Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley. It’s also possible to hit the highlights in six or seven days if you don’t mind a fast-paced journey. Though with more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like the Algarve or Alentejo. Keep reading for more inspiring Lisbon, Porto, and Douro Valley itineraries.
How many days do you need in Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley?
It’s a question that many travelers ponder when planning a trip to Portugal: How much time should I dedicate to exploring the captivating cities of Lisbon and Porto, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley? The answer, of course, depends on your individual travel style and the depth of experience you seek. However, we can provide some general guidelines to help you craft the perfect itinerary.
- Most travelers find that spending 8-9 days in Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley combined allows for a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. This timeframe provides ample opportunity to explore the highlights of each destination without feeling overly rushed.
- Visiting Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley in 6 or 7 days is certainly possible, but be prepared for a faster pace. You’ll likely need to prioritize certain attractions and activities, and you may not have as much time for leisurely exploration or spontaneous detours. This compressed timeframe can feel rushed, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed travel style.
- With 10 or more days at your disposal, most travelers choose to expand their Portuguese adventure by adding additional stops to their trip. This allows for a deeper immersion into the country’s rich culture and diverse landscapes.
- The most common extensions to a Lisbon, Porto, and Douro Valley itinerary are the alluring regions of Algarve and Alentejo. These regions offer distinct experiences, from the sun-kissed beaches and dramatic coastlines of the Algarve to the rolling plains and historic towns of Alentejo.
Recommended Itineraries for Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
Choosing the right itinerary length can be the difference between a fantastic trip and a travel experience that feels unfulfilling. Let’s explore some options.
Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Lisbon, Pick Up Rental Car, Explore | Lisbon |
| Day 2 | Guided Walking Tour of Lisbon | Lisbon |
| Day 3 | Explore the Seaside Resort of Cascais & Castles of Sintra | Lisbon |
| Day 4 | Visit the Ancient Roman City of Évora | Lisbon |
| Day 5 | Drive to Porto via Óbidos, Nazaré, Batalha, Coimbra or Aveiro | Porto |
| Day 6 | Porto Walking Tour & Wine Tasting | Porto |
| Day 7 | Discover the Wine Country of the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 8 | Drive to Lisbon, Depart |
Embark on a captivating journey through Portugal’s culinary and cultural heartland with this thoughtfully designed road trip encompassing Lisbon, Porto, and the breathtaking Douro Valley. Your adventure begins in Lisbon, a city steeped in history and charm, boasting a heritage spanning over 2,000 years. Wander through its antique buildings, each whispering tales of bygone eras, and indulge in the local delights, such as the iconic pastéis de Belém, a true testament to the city’s culinary prowess.
From Lisbon, venture north to the vibrant city of Porto, renowned as the birthplace of port wine. Immerse yourself in its colorful streets, sample the world-famous port, and savor the local pastries, each bite a celebration of the region’s rich culinary heritage. The origins of these delectable treats are as captivating as their flavors, adding another layer of depth to your gastronomic exploration.
Finally, prepare to be mesmerized by the Douro Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Here, you’ll discover a landscape of unparalleled beauty, where rolling hills are adorned with terraced vineyards, producing some of the finest table wines in Portugal. Indulge in wine tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and soak in the breathtaking views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Extended Itineraries
For those with a little more time, Portugal has even more to offer. These longer itineraries offer something different.
2-Week Itinerary Including the Algarve & Alentejo (Évora & Estremoz)
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Lisbon, Explore | Lisbon |
| Day 2 | Guided Walking Tour of Lisbon | Lisbon |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Sintra | Lisbon |
| Day 4 | Pick Up Rental Car, Drive to Óbidos | Óbidos |
| Day 5 | Drive to Porto, Free Afternoon | Porto |
| Day 6 | Drive to the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 7 | Drive to Évora via Tomar | Évora |
| Day 8 | Explore Évora | Évora |
| Day 9 | Drive to Estremoz via Arraiolos | Estremoz |
| Days 10-11 | Drive to Portimão, Explore the Alagarve | Portimão |
| Day 12 | Drive to Lagos, Beach Day | Lagos |
| Day 13 | Return to Lisbon via Comporta | Lisbon |
| Day 14 | Depart Lisbon |
Immerse yourself in the beauty and romantic allure of Portugal with this meticulously crafted two-week road trip, designed to showcase the incredible diversity of the Portuguese landscape, from bustling cities to quaint villages and pristine beaches. This itinerary takes you on a journey through some of Portugal’s most iconic destinations.
You’ll begin by experiencing the vibrant art and culture of Lisbon, a city that seamlessly blends its historical heritage with a modern and dynamic atmosphere. Next, you’ll venture to the enchanting fairy-tale town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its opulent palaces, lush gardens, and breathtaking views.
Indulge in the world-renowned port wine in Porto, a city that exudes character and charm, and explore the wonders of Évora, a historic city boasting well-preserved Roman ruins and a captivating atmosphere. Finally, relax and soak up the sun on the stunning beaches of the Algarve, a region known for its dramatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque fishing villages.
15-Day Itinerary Including the Algarve
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Lisbon, Pick Up Rental Car, Drive to Porto | Porto |
| Day 2 | Guided Walking Tour of Porto | Porto |
| Day 3 | Hiking in Peneda-Gerês National Park | Porto |
| Day 4 | Free Morning in Porto & Drive to the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 5 | Explore the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 6 | Drive to Lisbon via Coimbra | Lisbon |
| Day 7 | Guided Walking Tour of Lisbon | Lisbon |
| Day 8 | Day Trip to Sintra | Lisbon |
| Day 9 | Day Trip to Mafra & Ericeira | Lisbon |
| Day 10 | Drive to the Algarve via Setúbal | Lagos |
| Day 11 | Sea Cliffs & Caves Boat Tour | Lagos |
| Day 12 | Drive to Faro in the Algarve | Faro |
| Day 13 | Free Day | Faro |
| Day 14 | Drive to Lisbon via Évora | Lisbon |
| Day 15 | Depart Lisbon |
Embark on an unforgettable road trip through some of the most stunning destinations in Portugal with this exciting 15-day tour. Your adventure begins as you land in Lisbon, where you’ll pick up your rental car and head north to Porto and the enchanting Douro Valley.
Spend several days immersed in the world of wine, savoring the flavors of the region and taking in the breathtaking riverside views that define this picturesque landscape. Then, return to the vibrant capital city of Lisbon for guided tours that will unveil the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Venture on exciting side trips to explore magnificent castles and relax on beautiful beaches, each offering a unique glimpse into the diverse beauty of Portugal. Finally, conclude your journey in the wild and captivating Algarve, a region renowned for its dramatic coastline, characterized by towering sea cliffs and impressive caves.
15-Day Itinerary Including Alentejo (Évora)
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Lisbon, Food Tour | Lisbon |
| Day 2 | Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Lisbon | Lisbon |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Azeitao & Palmela | Lisbon |
| Day 4 | Free Day in Lisbon | Lisbon |
| Day 5 | Drive to Évora & Culinary Experience | Évora |
| Day 6 | Cork Forest Jeep Safari & Olive Oil Estate Visit | Évora |
| Day 7 | Winery Tour & Hot-Air Balloon Ride | Évora |
| Day 8 | Drive to the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 9 | Douro Valley Winery & Riverboat Ride | Douro Valley |
| Day 10 | Bike Through the Douro Valley | Douro Valley |
| Day 11 | Drive to Porto, Vintage Car Tour of Porto | Porto |
| Day 12 | Private Porto Market Visit & Cooking Class | Porto |
| Day 13 | Adventure in Peneda-Gerês National Park | Porto |
| Day 14 | Drive to Lisbon via Óbidos | Lisbon |
| Day 15 | Depart Lisbon |
Indulge your senses on this gastronomic 15-day tour of Portugal, where you’ll savor the flavors of Lisbon, Évora, the Douro Valley, and Porto. This itinerary goes beyond the typical landmarks, inviting you to immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.
Explore Lisbon’s vibrant markets, where you’ll discover an array of fresh produce, regional specialties, and national delicacies. Experience the wonders of agritourism in the Alentejo region, as you visit esteemed wineries, fascinating cork farms, and captivating olive oil estates.
Embark on a scenic bike ride through the vineyards of the Douro Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes and learn about the winemaking process. Finally, head to Porto for a private cooking class, where you’ll master the art of preparing traditional Portuguese dishes, and indulge in even more wine tasting experiences.
How to travel between Lisbon, Porto & the Douro Valley
Navigating the distance between these key locations requires some planning. Let’s consider options.
How to get to the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to its exceptional beauty and cultural significance. The grapevines that cascade down the region’s idyllic hillsides produce world-renowned table wine and port, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. The Douro River, meandering along the valley floor, adds another layer of charm to this breathtaking landscape.
Porto serves as the closest major transportation hub to the Douro Valley, located approximately one hour away by car. Alternatively, you can reach the valley in about two hours by train or bus. The journey from Lisbon to the Douro Valley takes approximately 3.5 hours by car, while bus or train travel typically requires around five hours.
How to get from Lisbon to Porto
The distance separating Lisbon and Porto is approximately 195 miles (314 km), with an average travel time of 2.5 to 3.5 hours. While several transportation options are available, the train offers the most convenient and comfortable way to traverse between these two major cities.
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