9-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto to Braga and Aveiro and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Porto has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Porto by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Parque Da Cidade Do Porto. This popular park is a serene place to see in Porto. Continue your discovery at She Changes, a detailed art installation with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Porto, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Castelo Do Queijo. This worthwhile castle offers an instagrammable encounter with Porto. Parque De Serralves is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Porto by reserving a table at Gruta. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Le Monument, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Pátio 44, a local favorite known for its delightful traditional cuisine in Porto. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bali-hai Polynesian Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Aduela is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Adega Sports Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Porto for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Porto, including a concert hall, an observation deck, a palace, a church, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Casa Da Música. This captivating concert hall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Miradouro Da Vitória located in Porto for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Bolsa Palace. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porto Cathedral. This church has an UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal. For a change of pace, head to Luís I Bridge. As one of the most impressive attractions in Porto, this monument is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Porto as you explore Rua Santa Catarina. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Rua Santa Catarina offers more options, including cafes, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

Dine in style at TerraPlana Café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ZA IN PORTO boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mundo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Porto.

Continue your lively evening at Graça Rooftop Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Base Porto is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Embaixada Do Porto ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Porto and Guimaraes. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Braga, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the popular Clerigos Tower, an enchanting monument in Porto. Next, go to Ageas Porto Coliseum.

After visiting Clerigos Tower and Ageas Porto Coliseum, take time to explore Porto's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Chapel Of Souls. This instagrammable church offers a unique experience.

Set your GPS to Guimaraes and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Guimaraes beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Castle Of Guimarães, a captivating castle known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Aqui Nasceu Portugal, an intriguing historical landmark that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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 Braga. Braga 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Braga. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Braga by booking a table at Inato Bistrô. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Retrokitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tosga, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sé La Vie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café-concerto Rum By Mavy provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Braga and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 will return to Braga for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Espinho, Tenões, and Braga to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Braga is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park and a beach. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Bridge Park. Just a short distance away is Parque Da Praia Fluvial De Adaúfe, an instagrammable beach that draws visitors from far and near.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Espinho. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Sameiro Sanctuary, a worthwhile church that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Tenões. This car ride takes around 9 min.

Make your way to Bom Jesus Do Monte, a well-known church that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Bom Jesus Staircases, a symbolic monument that stands out in the village.

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

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 gains consistently 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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip across Portugal promises a magnificent time exploring Braga. You have 1 night left in Braga. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Braga, including a monument, a church, a park, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at Arco Da Porta Nova. This breathtaking monument is a locally appreciated place to see in Braga. Then, wander over to Braga Cathedral. If photogenic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Chafariz Da Praça Da República. This respected monument is a favorite among visitors.

Braga offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Park Avenida Central is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the romantic Centro Histórico De Braga. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this intriguing historical landmark in Braga.

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 Braga. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurante Bem-me-quer, a top-rated dining spot in Braga. If you're in the mood for something new, try Porta Nova, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurante E Churrasqueira Angolana, Lda. - Prato do dia. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Braga.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rossio Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Liffey Irish Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Engenho No Copo is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Vilarinho, Santa Maria Da Feira, Ovar, Gafanha da Encarnação, and Aveiro. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aveiro. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Vilarinho promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vilarinho. This car ride takes around 1 hour 43 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Passadiços Do Paiva Trailhead (areinho), a well-known hiking area that everyone visiting Vilarinho should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Vilarinho, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Santa Maria Da Feira. This drive usually takes around 54 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Castle Of Santa Maria Da Feira and explore the awe-inspiring features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ovar. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Furadouro Beach, an interesting beach known for its eye-catching features.

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

As you explore more of Aveiro, 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 lovely meal at Zico, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tezero Tripas De Aveiro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bacalhau & Afins. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aveiro tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Toc'aqui Jazz Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Autocarro-bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Taberna Do Rockabilio also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Portugal. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aveiro, Oliveira de Azeméis, Avintes, and Vila Nova De Gaia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Porto, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aveiro, including an art installation and a park. Start your day at Ponte Dos Laços De Amizade. This romantic art installation is a locally appreciated place to see in Aveiro. Then, wander over to Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park. If romantic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oliveira de Azeméis. This car ride takes around 36 min.

Head to Parque De La Salette, a frequently visited park in Oliveira de Azeméis. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Avintes’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Oliveira de Azeméis behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Avintes welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to Zoo Santo Inácio, a notable zoo in Avintes. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Porto. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Sai Cão, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Flor de Bragança? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Porto.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Pinguim Café - Bar/pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Ferro Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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