9-Day Portugal Road Trip from Porto to Coimbra, Lisbon, and Caldas da Rainha
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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, Vila Nova De Gaia, Coimbra, Nossa Senhora da Piedade, Lisbon, Sintra, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré, and Óbidos.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Portugal takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Porto, 1 night in Coimbra, 3 nights in Lisbon, and 1 night in Caldas da Rainha. 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. Sanctuary Of Fátima and Praça Do Comércio are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Porto, Vila Nova De Gaia, Coimbra, Nossa Senhora da Piedade, Lisbon, Sintra, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré, and Óbidos, 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
- Porto - Arrival day
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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 2 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 Miradouro Da Vitória or 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 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.
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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Fé Wine & Club. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Tapas Bar 24, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Royal Cocktail Club provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Portugal!
Day 2 – Porto
- Porto
- More
Drive 31 km, 1 hour 35 min
- Parque da Cidade do Porto
- She Changes
- Gardens of the Crystal Palace
- Casa da Música
- Parque de Serralves
- More
Day 2 of your road trip across Portugal promises a magnificent time exploring Porto. You have 1 night left in Porto. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parque Da Cidade Do Porto. This extraordinary urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,319 visitors.
Next, make your way to She Changes. This top attraction is a sculpture with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,153 visitors.
We also recommend a visit to Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal. This garden is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 39,364 travelers.
If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Casa Da Música. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,098 travelers.
Today is also your chance to spend some time at Parque De Serralves. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,971 travelers.
Your discoveries in Porto do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Porto on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Porto's best restaurants.
Make sure to book a table at Restaurante Cana Verde, a popular restaurant in Porto. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Porto at Bulha Sá da Bandeira, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is KOB by Olivier, Porto. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Porto tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bali-hai Polynesian Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Aduela for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Adega Sports Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!
Day 3 – Porto, Vila Nova De Gaia, and Coimbra
- Coimbra
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- More
Drive 127 km, 1 hour 59 min
- Jardim Botânico do Porto | Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da U Porto
- Torre dos Clérigos
- Porto Cathedral
- Luís I Bridge
- Jardim do Morro
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Portugal. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Porto, and Vila Nova De Gaia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Coimbra, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Make Jardim Botânico Do Porto | Museu De História Natural E Da Ciência Da U. Porto your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,273 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Clerigos Tower. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,727 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this bell tower every year.
Porto Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 28,944 visitors.
When you’re finished at Porto Cathedral, the perfect next stop is Luís I Bridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 79,912 reviews.
Coimbra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vila Nova De Gaia behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. Coimbra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make Jardim Do Morro your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,309 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Coimbra, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As you explore more of Coimbra, 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.
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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tintos & Tantos, known for its inviting atmosphere. Pinga Amor is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Rs Coffee Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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 4 – Coimbra, Nossa Senhora da Piedade, and Lisbon
- Lisbon
- Coimbra
- Ourém
- More
Drive 221 km, 3 hours 11 min
- Paço das Escolas
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima
- Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity
- More
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 Coimbra, and Nossa Senhora da Piedade. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lisbon, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Drop by the renowned Paços Da Universidade Ou Paços Das Escolas. This popular palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,616 visitors.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Coimbra and set your GPS to Nossa Senhora da Piedade. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Nossa Senhora da Piedade, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Kick off the day at Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary Of Fatima, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,219 reviews.
Today is also your chance to visit Sanctuary Of Fátima. Sanctuary Of Fátima is a shrine to the virgin mary with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 107,827 reviews.
Basilica Of The Most Holy Trinity is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,906 visitors.
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.
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 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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cockpit Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Lisboa Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Cave Rock Bar, 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!
Day 5 – Lisbon
- Lisbon
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Belém Tower
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos
- Jerónimos Monastery
- LX Factory
- Castelo de S Jorge
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lisbon. You’ll stay in Lisbon for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Take the opportunity to see Belém Tower. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 91,872 visitors.
Padrão Dos Descobrimentos is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This monument has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 55,676 travelers.
Lisbon is also the home of Jerónimos Monastery. Around 48,349 people have rated this monastery an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Lx Factory. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 52,117 reviews, a visit to this point of interest is a great idea.
This day of your vacation in Lisbon is also your chance to admire Castelo De S. Jorge. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 86,378 reviews.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Lídia Restaurante & Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Adega da Tia Matilde, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at A Provinciana. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Toca Da Raposa, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Janela Da Atalaia Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pub Português ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!
Day 6 – Lisbon
- Lisbon
- More
Drive 23 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Oceanário de Lisboa
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Arco da Rua Augusta
- Praça do Comércio
- Time Out Market Lisboa
- More
Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Lisbon has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Lisbon by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Make Lisbon Oceanarium one of your first sightseeing stops in Lisbon. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 86,301 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This public aquarium attracts 1,000,000 visitors every year.
Miradouro De Santa Luzia is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This scenic viewpoint is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,846 reviews.
Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Rua Augusta Arch. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,187 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore more, head to Praça Do Comércio. A trip to this popular square is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 108,290 previous visitors.
Another top place to visit is Time Out Market Lisboa. This food court enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 59,217 local and international travelers.
To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Lisbon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Procópio bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Trindade. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Lisbon tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Pub Lisboeta, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Desordem Bar & Lounge is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Tr3s Lisboa also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7 – Lisbon, Sintra, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, and Caldas da Rainha
- Caldas da Rainha
- Sintra
- Agualva-Cacém
- More
Drive 171 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Cabo da Roca
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Sintra National Palace
- Park and National Palace of Pena
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Sintra, and Agualva e Mira-Sintra, 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 Caldas da Rainha. 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 Sintra. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Sintra, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cabo Da Roca. This extraordinary cape is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 55,143 visitors.
After soaking in Sintra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Agualva e Mira-Sintra. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Agualva e Mira-Sintra, it's time to take a break from the road.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Quinta Da Regaleira. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 54,624 visitors.
Sintra National Palace is another popular attraction you could visit today. This palace has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 48,888 visitors.
National Palace Of Pena is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 86,631 visitors.
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 Caldas da Rainha. Caldas da Rainha 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 Caldas da Rainha's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Sabores d'Itália, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, A Ribatejana offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tacho is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Caldas da Rainha.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Central Silos after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Daiquiri Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Marula is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Portugal.
Day 8 – Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré, Óbidos, and Porto
- Porto
- Nazaré
- Óbidos
- More
Drive 324 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Praia da Nazaré
- Farol da Nazaré
- Miradouro do Suberco
- Castelo de Óbidos
- More
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 2 vibrant destinations - Nazaré, and Óbidos. 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.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nazaré. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take the opportunity to see Nazaré Beach. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,563 visitors.
Nazaré Lighthouse is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This lighthouse has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,888 travelers.
Nazaré is also the home of Miradouro Do Suberco. Around 22,760 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Another place you’ll want to visit is Vista Panorâmica Sobre A Nazaré. With an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from a total of 14 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Óbidos, 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 Nazaré to Óbidos may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Óbidos, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Journey into the unknown at Castle Of Óbidos, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,915 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Porto, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at TerraPlana Café, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ZA IN PORTO, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mundo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Graça Rooftop Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Base Porto is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Embaixada Do Porto is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!
Day 9 – Porto - departure day
- Porto - Departure day
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- São Bento Station
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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.
Make the most of your final day in Portugal by visiting Porto’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Portugal.
Drop by the renowned Porto São Bento. This popular train station has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,080 visitors.
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 for something new, try Flor de Bragança, another premier location with a delectable 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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