One-Week Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto traveling east to Peso Da Regua and Braga
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Portugal. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Portugal takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Porto, 1 night in Peso Da Regua, and 1 night in Braga. 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. Luís I Bridge and Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Bom Jesus Do Monte, learn more about the unique Castle Of Guimarães, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Porto Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Porto, Viana Do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Ponte da Barca, Avintes, Vila Nova De Gaia, Madalena, Arcozelo, Peso Da Regua, Guimaraes, Rio Caldo, Braga, Tenões, and Espinho, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Porto - Arrival day
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- São Bento Station
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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 4 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 Porto São Bento 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Porto, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Brasão Aliados, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Em Canto is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Nata Lisboa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Porto tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Fé Wine & Club stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Tapas Bar 24 offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Royal Cocktail Club is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Portugal!
Day 2
- Porto
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Casa da Música
- Gardens of the Crystal Palace
- Clérigos Church
- Ageas Porto Coliseum
- Jardim Botânico do Porto | Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da U Porto
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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 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Porto is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Casa Da Música, a notable concert hall that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at Clerigos Tower. This monument is one of the city’s most well-known spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Porto at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ageas Porto Coliseum. After exploring the concert hall, head to the locally appreciated Jardim Botânico Do Porto | Museu De História Natural E Da Ciência Da U. Porto. This botanical garden will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Porto. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurante Cana Verde, a popular restaurant in Porto. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Porto at Concept 31, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurante Girassol, PORTO. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Porto tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bali-hai Polynesian Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Aduela offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Adega Sports Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Porto
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 17 min
- Porto Cathedral
- Bolsa Palace
- Parque de Serralves
- She Changes
- Parque da Cidade do Porto
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Day 3 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.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Porto, including a church, a palace, a park, an art installation and much more! Start your day with a visit to Porto Cathedral. This interesting church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bolsa Palace, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Porto on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Parque De Serralves, one of the city’s most underrated park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for She Changes and Parque Da Cidade Do Porto.
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 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 Bulha Sá da Bandeira, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, KOB by Olivier, Porto beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider TerraPlana Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Porto tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Graça Rooftop Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Base Porto. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Embaixada Do Porto, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Portugal!
Day 4
- Porto
- Viana do Castelo
- Ponte de Lima
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus / Mount of Santa Luzia
- Gil Eannes Foundation
- Ponte Romana e Medieval
- Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês
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Greet day 4 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 Viana Do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, and Ponte da Barca.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Viana Do Castelo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Santa Luzia Sanctuary, a well-known church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Gil Eannes and admire its breathtaking features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ponte de Lima. This car ride takes around 26 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Ponte Romana E Medieval, an often recommended historical landmark known for its visually striking features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ponte de Lima, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ponte da Barca. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make your way to Peneda-gerês National Park, a captivating national park that draws attention for its majestic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Porto and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Porto's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at ZA IN PORTO, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mundo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sai Cão. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Porto.
Continue your lively evening at Pinguim Café - Bar/pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Ferro Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Portugal!
Day 5
- Porto
- Avintes
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- Madalena, Vila Nova de Gaia
- Peso da Régua
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Drive 180 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Zoo Santo Inácio
- Jardim do Morro
- Praia das Pedras Amarelas
- Praia de Lavadores
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On day 5 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 Avintes, Vila Nova De Gaia, Madalena, and Arcozelo. In the evening, you’ll end up in Peso Da Regua, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avintes. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Zoo Santo Inácio and explore the awe-inspiring features.
When you’ve had your share of Avintes, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Vila Nova De Gaia. Your travel time is around 16 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Jardim Do Morro, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Madalena, 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 Vila Nova De Gaia to Madalena may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Madalena, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Praia Das Pedras Amarelas. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the beach before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Praia De Lavadores. This worthwhile beach is a traveler-favorite in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Peso Da Regua. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Peso Da Regua. 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Portugal.
Day 6
- Peso da Régua
- Guimarães
- Rio Caldo
- Braga
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Drive 188 km, 3 hours 20 min
- Largo do Toural
- Aqui Nasceu Portugal
- Palace Duques de Bragança
- Castle of Guimarães
- Church São Bento da Porta Aberta
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Guimaraes and Rio Caldo, 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 Braga. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Peso Da Regua, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Guimaraes may take around 1 hour 11 min. Upon your arrival in Guimaraes, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Largo Do Toural. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Aqui Nasceu Portugal. This beloved historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Palace Duques De Bragança. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the palace. Next, continue your journey to Castle Of Guimarães, a locally renowned castle.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Rio Caldo. This drive usually takes around 58 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Church São Bento Da Porta Aberta, a locally appreciated church in Rio Caldo. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Pecado da Sé, a top-rated dining destination in Braga. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Retrokitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Casa de Pasto das Carvalheiras. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Braga this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tosga. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sé La Vie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café-concerto Rum By Mavy provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Portugal.
Day 7
- Braga
- Tenões
- Espinho
- Porto
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Drive 75 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Braga Cathedral
- Arco da Porta Nova
- Bom Jesus do Monte
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Braga, Tenões, and Espinho. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Porto, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Braga today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Braga Cathedral. This culturally significant church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Arco Da Porta Nova and learn what makes this stunning monument unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tenões, 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 Braga to Tenões may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tenões, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Bom Jesus Do Monte is a well-known church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Espinho. This car ride takes around 8 min.
Begin your journey at Sameiro Sanctuary and explore the visually striking features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Porto. Porto offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Porto's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Flor de Bragança, a popular restaurant in Porto. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Porto at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Pub Bonaparte Foz. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Porto tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!
Day 8
- Porto - Departure day
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- Luís I Bridge
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Day 8 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.
On your last day in Portugal, take time to indulge in shopping at Porto’s popular marketplace, Rua das Galerias de Paris. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Luís I Bridge. This impressive monument is a romantic place to see in Porto.
Before you conclude your road trip in Portugal, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Porto.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at A Cozinha do Manel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? A Tasquinha offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss tascö.
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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