9-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto traveling south to Coimbra and Lisbon
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Portugal as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Porto, Peso Da Regua, Loureiro, Coimbra, Lisbon, Penha de França, Madalena, Misericórdia, Sintra, and Aveiro.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Portugal takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Porto, 1 night in Coimbra, and 3 nights in Lisbon. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Portugal. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Porto, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Portugal on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Portugal. Praça Do Comércio and Belém Tower are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lisbon Oceanarium, learn more about the unique Luís I Bridge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Palace Of Pena.
As you hit the open road and drive through Porto, Peso Da Regua, Loureiro, Coimbra, Lisbon, Penha de França, Madalena, Misericórdia, Sintra, and Aveiro, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Portugal. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Portugal.
Throughout your road trip in Portugal, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Portugal.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Portugal fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Portugal today!
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Day 1
- Porto - Arrival day
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- Avenida dos Aliados
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Say hello to Porto! Your exciting road trip through Portugal is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Porto for 3 nights before you continue your adventure!
Porto is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Avenida dos Aliados, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Porto. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Portugal. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Porto, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Brasão Aliados, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Em Canto boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Nata Lisboa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Porto.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Fé Wine & Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tapas Bar 24 provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Royal Cocktail Club offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Portugal!
Day 2
- Porto
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 17 min
- Luís I Bridge
- Porto Cathedral
- Clérigos Church
- Gardens of the Crystal Palace
- Parque de Serralves
- Ribeira
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Porto. You’ll stay in Porto for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Porto is Ribeira. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Porto is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a church, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Luís I Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Porto Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-listed church that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Clerigos Tower, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal. When you're finished at the park, Parque De Serralves awaits your visit. This park is a remarkable highlight on today's itinerary.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Portugal is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Porto, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurante Cana Verde, an iconic dining spot in Porto. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bulha Sá da Bandeira, a popular restaurant in Porto. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of KOB by Olivier, Porto, a hidden gem nestled in Porto. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bali-hai Polynesian Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Aduela, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Adega Sports Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Say good night to Porto and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Portugal!
Day 3
- Porto
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Igreja Matriz de Peso da Régua / Igreja de São Faustino
- Douro Museum
- St. Anthony's viewpoint
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Portugal with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Porto for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Peso Da Regua and Loureiro.
Immerse yourself in Porto’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Igreja Matriz De Peso Da Régua / Igreja De São Faustino. This respected church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Douro Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to St. Anthony's Viewpoint, an underrated observation deck.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Porto.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Porto's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at TerraPlana Café, an iconic dining spot in Porto. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ZA IN PORTO, a popular restaurant in Porto. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Mundo, a hidden gem nestled in Porto. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Graça Rooftop Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Base Porto, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Embaixada Do Porto. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Portugal!
Day 4
- Porto
- Coimbra
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Drive 124 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Portugal dos Pequenitos
- Turismo da Universidade de Coimbra
- Paços da Universidade ou Paços das Escolas
- Sé Velha - Coimbra
- Santa Cruz Church
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Coimbra. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Coimbra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Porto, including an amusement park, an observation deck, a university, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Portugal Dos Pequenitos. This captivating amusement park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tower Of University Of Coimbra located in Porto for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Paços Da Universidade Ou Paços Das Escolas. Its historic features will captivate you. After the university, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Old Cathedral Of Coimbra. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this church. Next up is Monastery Of Santa Cruz, a highly recommended church.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Coimbra, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Coimbra. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Restaurante O Pátio, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, No Tacho cozinha portuguesa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Jardim da Manga. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Coimbra tonight.
Keep the evening going at Pinga Amor, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rs Coffee Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is O Reitor, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!
Day 5
- Coimbra
- Lisbon
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Drive 213 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Lisbon Oceanarium
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Castelo de S Jorge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Lisbon, Penha de França, and Madalena, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Lisbon. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Coimbra. Your adventure starts at Lisbon Oceanarium, a spectacular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte. This locally renowned observation deck is known for its stunning appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Coimbra's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Miradouro De Santa Luzia. This romantic observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Castelo De S. Jorge is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Lisbon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Lisbon. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at A Provinciana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lisboa Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toca Da Raposa is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. O Bom O Mau E O Vilão is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!
Day 6
- Lisbon
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Belém Tower
- Luís de Camões Square
- Time Out Market Lisboa
- Rua Augusta Arch
- Praça do Comércio
- Avenida da Liberdade
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lisbon, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Don’t miss Avenida da Liberdade in Misericórdia today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the village’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming village of Lisbon. Your adventure starts at Belém Tower, an astonishing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Luís De Camões Square. This popular public square is known for its history-steeped appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Lisbon's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Time Out Market Lisboa. This picture-perfect food market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Rua Augusta Arch is also worth visiting, along with Praça Do Comércio. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lisbon's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gambrinus, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Duque. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
Keep the evening going at 4 Caravelas, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to British Bar Lisboa, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Portugal.
Day 7
- Lisbon
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Drive 63 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Initiation Well
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Sintra Natural History Museum
- Castle of the Moors
- Park and National Palace of Pena
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lisbon, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sintra. You still have 1 night left in Lisbon.
Lisbon is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Initiation Well, a popular monument that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Quinta Da Regaleira, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Sintra Natural History Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lisbon at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Castle Of The Moors. After exploring the castle, head to the top-rated National Palace Of Pena.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lisbon.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lisbon. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at The George, a top-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Belcanto, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Brown's Central Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!
Day 8
- Lisbon
- Porto
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Drive 334 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park
- Aveiro Museum
- Moliceiros Pier
- Ponte Laços de Amizade
- Escadaria "I Love Aveiro"
- Antiga Fábrica Jerónimo Pereira Campos
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Portugal. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Aveiro. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Porto, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park. This worthwhile park is a majestic place to see in Lisbon. Continue your discovery at Aveiro Railway Station, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Lisbon, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Moliceiros Pier. This up-and-coming pier offers a stunning encounter with Lisbon. Next, make your way to Ponte Dos Laços De Amizade to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Escadaria "i Love Aveiro", an often recommended art installation that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Antiga Fábrica Jerónimo Pereira Campos, a beloved museum in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Lisbon.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Porto. Porto offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Porto's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Sai Cão, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Flor de Bragança boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Porto.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pinguim Café - Bar/pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Ferro Bar is another popular option for a drink or two.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Portugal.
Day 9
- Porto - Departure day
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- Rua de Santa Catarina
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Day 9 of your road trip in Portugal is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Porto before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Rua de Santa Catarina, a street that captures the true essence of Porto. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Portugal, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Porto.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A Cozinha do Manel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Porto. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Portugal!
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