11-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto to Braga, Chaves, Viseu, and Lisbon and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Porto. You’ll stay in Porto for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Porto is brimming with adventures.

Experience Parque Da Cidade Do Porto, an interesting park in the city. Then, head to Parque De Serralves and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching park.

There are many interesting places to see in Porto, and when you are ready for more, go to Casa Da Música. This is one of the city’s most popular picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the concert hall, visit the captivating Clerigos Tower. Not far away, you'll also find Porto Cathedral. This church is a grand highlight in Porto.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Portugal. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gruta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Monument is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Porto. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Pátio 44. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for traditional cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bali-hai Polynesian Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Aduela is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Adega Sports Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!

On day 3 of your road trip in Portugal, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Guimaraes are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Braga, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Guimaraes. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Guimaraes is Sanctuary Of Penha, an often recommended church that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Palace Duques De Bragança, a history-steeped palace that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Castle Of Guimarães, a popular castle that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Aqui Nasceu Portugal, a nearby historical landmark, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Largo Do Toural, a visually striking public square and the perfect final attraction in Guimaraes.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Braga, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Braga is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Braga.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Braga by booking a table at Inato Bistrô, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Retrokitchen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Continue your lively evening at Tosga, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sé La Vie is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café-concerto Rum By Mavy ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Portugal.

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Braga, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Braga, Tenões, and Espinho.

Braga is brimming with adventures.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming Arco Da Porta Nova and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Braga Cathedral, a culturally significant church that draws visitors from far and near.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Tenões, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Braga to Tenões may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tenões, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bom Jesus Do Monte, a notable church that everyone visiting Tenões should see.

After soaking in Tenões’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Espinho. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Espinho, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Sameiro Sanctuary, an often recommended church known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Braga and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Braga's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taberna Londrina Braga, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Méze is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bira dos Namorados. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Braga tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pelle, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Do Lipe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Barhaus provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!

On day 5 of your road trip in Portugal, you’ll start and end your day in Braga, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Braga, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ponte da Barca and Viana Do Castelo to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Ponte da Barca on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Braga and set your GPS to Ponte da Barca. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour. Upon reaching Ponte da Barca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Peneda-gerês National Park is a notable national park we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Viana Do Castelo may take around 1 hour 50 min. Upon your arrival in Viana Do Castelo, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Gil Eannes, a beloved historic ship in Viana Do Castelo. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Cultural Center Of Viana Do Castelo. This worthwhile cultural center is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Elevador De Santa Luzia is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking tramway in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the notable Santa Luzia Sanctuary and discover what makes this church unique.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Braga.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Braga. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Bem-me-quer, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Porta Nova? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante E Churrasqueira Angolana, Lda. - Prato do dia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Braga.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Rossio Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Liffey Irish Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Engenho No Copo likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Braga and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Portugal.

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Portugal includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Rio Caldo, Gerês, and Chaves. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chaves, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Braga, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rio Caldo. Your travel time is around 50 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Church São Bento Da Porta Aberta, an up-and-coming church that everyone visiting Rio Caldo should see.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Gerês, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rio Caldo to Gerês may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gerês, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Parque Das Termas (gerês), a frequently visited hot spring that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Miradouro Da Pedra Bela and admire its mesmerizing features.

When you’re ready, continue to Arado Waterfall, an intriguing waterfall beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chaves. This car ride takes around 2 hours 4 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Trajano Bridge and explore the culturally significant features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Chaves. Chaves offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chaves. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a memorable dining experience in Chaves by booking a table at Carvalho, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional traditional menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of O Manco, a popular restaurant in Chaves. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Round off your dining experience by visiting D'el Rei Rooftop Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Chillout Café, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gold Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Portugal!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Santa Combinha, Braganca, and Samões. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Viseu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Santa Combinha, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Chaves to Santa Combinha may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Santa Combinha, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape, an increasingly popular lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Beach Azibo and admire its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Santa Combinha and set your GPS to Braganca. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 25 min. Upon reaching Braganca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Castle Bragança and explore the romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Braganca and set your GPS to Samões. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 59 min. Upon reaching Samões, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Barragem Do Peneireiro. Spend some time admiring the idyllic features of the lake before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Viseu. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Viseu's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Flora, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Palace Viseu is another top choice with a popular menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Thet. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Level - Cocktail's & Wine, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Old Skull Inn - Rottenroll Tavern provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Fátima. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Lisbon, where will spend 2 nights.

Fátima’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Viseu behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. Fátima welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sanctuary Of Fátima, a globally renowned church in Fátima. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary Of Fatima. This captivating church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Basilica Of The Most Holy Trinity is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant church in the region.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lisbon, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Lisbon, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Encanto, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional vegetarian menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Alma, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Lisbon is Belcanto, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and portuguese menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lisboa Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toca Da Raposa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, O Bom O Mau E O Vilão offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Portugal!

On day 9 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Misericórdia and Lisbon. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lisbon, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Praça Do Comércio brings Lisbon's character to life. This visually striking public square is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Lisbon Oceanarium, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Misericórdia, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Misericórdia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Misericórdia is Time Out Market Lisboa, a widely recognized food market that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, an iconic dining spot in Lisbon. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Gambrinus, a popular restaurant in Lisbon. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Duque, a hidden gem nestled in Lisbon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at 4 Caravelas, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. British Bar Lisboa is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Portugal.

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Sintra. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Porto, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Sintra and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sintra beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Quinta Da Regaleira, a top-rated palace known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at National Palace Of Pena, a widely recognized palace.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lisbon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sintra. This drive usually takes around 36 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cabo Da Roca, a widely recognized cliff that everyone visiting Sintra should see.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Porto's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TerraPlana Café, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ZA IN PORTO offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mundo. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Porto.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Graça Rooftop Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Base Porto provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Embaixada Do Porto offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!