12-Day Portugal Road Trip from Porto to Lisbon, Viseu, Chaves, and Braga and surrounding area

Welcome to Porto, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Portugal! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Porto's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Luís I Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Porto. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Portugal. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Porto. 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 Brasão Aliados, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Em Canto beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Nata Lisboa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Porto tonight.

Continue your lively evening at FÉ Wine & Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Tapas Bar 24 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, THE ROYAL COCKTAIL CLUB ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Portugal!

Day 2 of your road trip across Portugal promises a magnificent time exploring Porto. You have 2 nights left in Porto. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Ageas Porto Coliseum one of your first sightseeing stops in Porto. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,636 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Casa da Música is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This concert hall is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,098 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Porto, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Porto below.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bali-Hai Polynesian Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Aduela, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Adega Sports Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Porto has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Porto by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Clerigos tower. This extraordinary bell tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,727 visitors.

Next, make your way to Porto Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 28,944 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Porto has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Porto offers and add your favorites to your Portugal travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at TerraPlana Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're eager to try something different, consider ZA IN PORTO, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mundo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Graça Rooftop Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Base Porto is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Embaixada do Porto offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Say good night to Porto and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Portugal!

On day 4 of your road trip in Portugal, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in São Pedro de Penaferrim, Sintra, and Colares. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lisbon, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of São Pedro de Penaferrim. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Palace of Pena. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in São Pedro de Penaferrim, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 86,631 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sintra. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Quinta da Regaleira, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 54,624 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lisbon, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Delirium Café Lisboa, 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 Via Graça, 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 daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, a hidden gem nestled in Lisbon. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cockpit bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Lisboa Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cave Rock Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Portugal.

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lisbon. You’ll stay in Lisbon for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Praça do Comércio, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 108,290 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Portugal that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Lisbon has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As you explore more of Lisbon, 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Lídia Restaurante & Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Adega da Tia Matilde is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at A Provinciana. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lisbon tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Toca da Raposa. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Janela Da Atalaia Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Pub Português, another top-rated bar in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Fátima, 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 Viseu. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lisbon and set your GPS to Fátima. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Fátima, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Sanctuary of Fátima. Previous visitors have rated this shrine to the virgin mary an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 107,827 reviews.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,219 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,906 reviews.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Viseu. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Zé do Pernil, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Palace Viseu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Lanxeirão. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Viseu.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar TheT. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Level - Cocktail's & Wine offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Old Skull Inn - Rottenroll Tavern, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Santa Combinha, and Braganca. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chaves, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santa Combinha. This car ride takes around 1 hour 40 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Beach Azibo. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,662 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,551 reviews.

Set your GPS to Braganca and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Braganca beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Military Museum of Bragança. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,991 visitors.

Next, make your way to Castle Bragança. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,601 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Chaves. Chaves offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Chaves. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at 3 Cozinhas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurante Escoval offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O Galo d'Ouro. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Chaves.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at D'el Rei Rooftop Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Chillout Café, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gold Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Chaves and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Portugal!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Portugal. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Chaves, Pedras Salgadas, Mateus, Vila Real, and Lamas de Olo. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Braga, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Trajano Bridge, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,316 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Chaves, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pedras Salgadas. Your travel time is around 28 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park. This hotel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,428 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Braga, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Braga's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurante Pecado da Sé, a highly-rated dining destination in Braga. If you're eager to try something different, consider Retrokitchen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa de Pasto das Carvalheiras. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Braga this evening.

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, Pelle ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Braga, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arco da Porta Nova. This extraordinary triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,217 visitors.

Next, make your way to Braga Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,124 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Braga and set your GPS to Tenões. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Tenões, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Bom Jesus do Monte. This minor basilica is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,953 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Espinho. This car ride takes around 8 min.

Take the opportunity to see Sameiro Sanctuary. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,722 visitors.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taberna Londrina Braga, a highly-rated dining destination in Braga. If you're eager to try something different, consider Méze, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bira dos Namorados. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Braga this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar do Lipe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Barhaus is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Rossio Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Braga, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lindoso.

Take the opportunity to see Peneda-Gerês National Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 23,607 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Viana Do Castelo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Braga. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cultural Center of Viana do Castelo. This cultural center is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,241 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Gil Eannes. This hospital ship has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,916 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Elevador de Santa Luzia. This funicular has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,318 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Santa Luzia Sanctuary. This church building is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,511 visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Braga. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Bem-me-quer, a top-rated dining destination in Braga. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Porta Nova, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante E Churrasqueira Angolana, Lda. - Prato do dia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Braga this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Liffey Irish Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Engenho no Copo provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Portugal!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Rio Caldo, Gerês, and Guimaraes. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Porto. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Braga’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rio Caldo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Rio Caldo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Church São Bento da Porta Aberta your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,627 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rio Caldo, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gerês. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Miradouro da Pedra Bela. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,386 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Porto, 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 Porto. 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Sai Cão, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Flor de Bragança is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Porto tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pinguim Café - Bar/Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of FERRO BAR, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 12 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.

Maximize your last day in Portugal and go on a shopping spree in Porto’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Portugal.

Before you conclude your road trip in Portugal, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Porto.

Savor the flavors at A Cozinha do Manel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, A Tasquinha beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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!