Relaxed 12-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Lisbon to Leiria and Porto

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Portugal continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Portugal and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Lisbon and beyond. With 1 night left in Lisbon, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Cascais Historic Center, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lisbon, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sintra may take around 47 min. Upon your arrival in Sintra, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering National Palace Of Pena, a widely recognized palace known for its enchanting features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Quinta Da Regaleira, a top-rated palace that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Upon reaching Colares, 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 Sintra-cascais Natural Park. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Sintra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lisbon behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Sintra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Cabo Da Roca and explore the mesmerizing features.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Lisbon, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alma, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Nicolau Lisboa, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ibo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Lisbon.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Portugal.

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Leiria and visit amazing attractions in Alcobaça, Sao Martinho do Porto, and Nazaré destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Leiria. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Alcobaça. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Alcobaça Monastery, a notable monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sao Martinho do Porto, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Alcobaça to Sao Martinho do Porto may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sao Martinho do Porto, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Praia De São Martinho Do Porto, an interesting beach known for its romantic features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Sao Martinho do Porto, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nazaré may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Nazaré, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Nazaré Beach is a locally renowned beach we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour to Miradouro Do Suberco, a mesmerizing observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Nazaré Lighthouse, a respected lighthouse.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dine in style at Atlas Leiria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Aldeia Café boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Habitat. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Leiria.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to O'sullivan Tavern Pool Club, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Portugal.

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Portugal is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Gafanha da Encarnação and end it in the city of Porto. You’ll stay in Porto for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Portugal.

After soaking in Leiria’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gafanha da Encarnação. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Gafanha da Encarnação, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Casas Típicas Da Costa Nova, a locally renowned street in Gafanha da Encarnação. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Gafanha da Encarnação, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aveiro. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park, a curiosity-inducing park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Aveiro Railway Station and admire its instagrammable features. When you’re ready, continue to Ponte Dos Laços De Amizade, an underrated art installation beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Set your GPS to Ovar and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ovar beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Furadouro Beach, a notable beach that everyone visiting Ovar should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Porto. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Portugal by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Porto has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Start your culinary exploration in Porto by securing a reservation at Gruta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Le Monument, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Pátio 44, a top local spot known for its tantalizing traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Porto.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Fé Wine & Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tapas Bar 24 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Royal Cocktail Club provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Porto as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Portugal with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Portugal!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Portugal, you’ll explore the area around Porto, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Porto will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Portugal.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tenões. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Bom Jesus Do Monte, an interesting church in Tenões. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Braga. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Arco Da Porta Nova, an intriguing monument that everyone visiting Braga should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Guimaraes. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Make your way to Aqui Nasceu Portugal, an up-and-coming historical landmark that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Palace Duques De Bragança, a romantic palace that stands out in the village. Next, visit Castle Of Guimarães, a captivating castle that offers a unique experience.

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

Exploring the food culture in Porto offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Cana Verde, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bulha Sá da Bandeira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KOB by Olivier, Porto. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bali-hai Polynesian Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Aduela is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Adega Sports Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Portugal!

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Porto, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Portugal are extraordinary.

Make sure to visit Rua de Santa Catarina, a popular street in Porto. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Start your adventure at Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal. This interesting park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Parque Da Cidade Do Porto located in Porto for an enchanting atmosphere.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Portugal by joining a traveler-approved tour in Porto. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Porto that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Portugal more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Porto to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Porto, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sai Cão, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Flor de Bragança, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Porto. The bars in Porto make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pinguim Café - Bar/pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Ferro Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Portugal. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Portugal tomorrow with new energy.

Day 11 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Portugal gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Fátima. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Lisbon, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Fátima. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Fátima. This car ride takes around 1 hour 54 min.

Make your way to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary Of Fatima, a notable church that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Sanctuary Of Fátima, a picture-perfect church that stands out in the city. Next, visit Basilica Of The Most Holy Trinity, a captivating church that offers a unique experience.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Portugal at Lisbon. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Lisbon offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Baía do Peixe - Terreiro do Paço, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try O Arco, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at O Trevo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Lisbon.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Portugal!