Relaxed 9-Day Portugal Road Trip Starting from Porto to Lisbon
Description
Included
Description
Discover Portugal stress-free with this 9-day relaxed road trip, winding through Porto, Espinho, Tenões, Braga, Vila Nova De Gaia, Nazaré, Óbidos, Lisbon, Sintra, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Almada, and Nossa Senhora da Piedade. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Portugal at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Porto, Espinho, Tenões, Braga, Vila Nova De Gaia, Nazaré, Óbidos, Lisbon, Sintra, Agualva e Mira-Sintra, Almada, and Nossa Senhora da Piedade. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Porto, and 4 nights in Lisbon. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Portugal.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Portugal. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Porto, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Portugal and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Portugal with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Portugal.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Portugal. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Sanctuary Of Fátima. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Praça Do Comércio.
Traveling leisurely through Portugal means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Belém Tower. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Portugal's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Portugal.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Portugal. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Portugal's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Portugal.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Portugal. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Portugal. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Portugal and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Portugal today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Porto - Arrival day
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- Luís I Bridge
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Your relaxed road trip through Portugal starts when you reach the incredible city of Porto, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Porto and begin your adventure in Portugal.
Take the opportunity to see Luís I Bridge. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 79,912 visitors.
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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Porto.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasão Aliados, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Em Canto? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Nata Lisboa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Porto.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Porto.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Fé Wine & Club, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Tapas Bar 24 offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Porto. The Royal Cocktail Club is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Portugal. Enjoy your first taste of Porto as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Porto
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Clérigos Church
- Porto Cathedral
- Ageas Porto Coliseum
- Casa da Música
- Parque da Cidade do Porto
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Porto, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Portugal are extraordinary.
When you're ready to see some sights, Clerigos Tower is a great place to start. This bell tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,727 visitors.
Another popular attraction you can visit today is Porto Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,944 travelers.
We also recommend a stop at Ageas Porto Coliseum. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,636 visitors.
If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Casa Da Música. This concert hall is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,098 reviews.
Parque Da Cidade Do Porto is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this urban park, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,319 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Portugal more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Porto offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Portugal. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Porto, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante Cana Verde, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bulha Sá da Bandeira is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at KOB by Olivier, Porto. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Porto tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Porto. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bali-hai Polynesian Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Aduela, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Adega Sports Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Portugal!
Day 3
- Porto
- Espinho
- Tenões
- Braga
- Vila Nova de Gaia
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Drive 138 km, 2 hours 17 min
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro
- Bom Jesus do Monte
- Park Avenida Central
- Arco da Porta Nova
- Jardim do Morro
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Portugal continues on day 3, 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 Espinho and beyond. With 1 night left in Porto, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Espinho. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make Sameiro Sanctuary one of your first sightseeing stops in Espinho. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,722 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Espinho, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tenões. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make Bom Jesus Do Monte one of your first sightseeing stops in Tenões. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 28,953 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Set your GPS to Braga and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Braga beckons with new experiences!
Make Park Avenida Central one of your first sightseeing stops in Braga. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,097 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Arco Da Porta Nova is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This triumphal arch is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,217 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Porto.
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.
Make sure to book a table at TerraPlana Café, 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 ZA IN PORTO, 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 Mundo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Porto tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Porto. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Graça Rooftop Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Base Porto is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Embaixada Do Porto provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Portugal!
Day 4
- Lisbon
- Nazaré
- Óbidos
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Drive 355 km, 4 hours 19 min
- Nazaré beach
- Nazaré Lighthouse
- Miradouro do Suberco
- Castle of Óbidos
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Portugal will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Portugal, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Nazaré. This car ride takes around 2 hours 7 min.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Nazaré Beach. This beach is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,563 visitors.
When you’re finished at Nazaré Beach, head to Nazaré Lighthouse. This one-of-a-kind lighthouse is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,888 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Miradouro Do Suberco. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,760 visitors.
After soaking in Nazaré’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Óbidos. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 37 min. When you arrive in Óbidos, it's time to take a break from the road.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Castle Of Óbidos. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,915 reviews.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Lisbon in this laid-back road trip in Portugal. You'll stay here for 4 nights.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Portugal. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Lisbon, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Delirium Café Lisboa, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Via Graça, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Lisbon. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cockpit Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Lisboa Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cave Rock Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Portugal.
Day 5
- Lisbon
- Sintra
- Agualva-Cacém
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Drive 110 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Cabo da Roca
- Sintra-Cascais Natural Park
- Park and National Palace of Pena
- Castle of the Moors
- Quinta da Regaleira
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Portugal, you’ll explore the area around Sintra, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Sintra will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Portugal.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sintra. This car ride takes around 46 min.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cabo Da Roca. Previous visitors have rated this cape an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,143 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Sintra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Agualva e Mira-Sintra. Your travel time is around 21 min.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Sintra-cascais Natural Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,716 reviews.
National Palace Of Pena is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 86,631 reviews.
Another attraction you won't want to miss is Castle Of The Moors. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,662 reviews.
Quinta Da Regaleira is another outstanding experience in Agualva e Mira-Sintra. Around 54,624 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Lídia Restaurante & Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Adega da Tia Matilde, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at A Provinciana. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Lisbon.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Toca Da Raposa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Janela Da Atalaia Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Pub Português also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Portugal.
Day 6
- Lisbon
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Drive 27 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Time Out Market Lisboa
- Praça do Comércio
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Lisbon Oceanarium
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Portugal means 24 hours of making the best memories in Lisbon. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Lisbon. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Lisbon!
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Time Out Market Lisboa. This much-appreciated food court is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 59,217 reviews.
Next up is Praça Do Comércio. This square has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 108,290 visitors.
Another top sightseeing recommendation is Miradouro De Santa Luzia. This scenic viewpoint has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,846 reviews.
Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This scenic viewpoint has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 24,155 reviews.
To continue your sightseeing, head over to Lisbon Oceanarium. This public aquarium is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 86,301 reviews. Approximately 1,000,000 people come to see this attraction every year.
Get a more in-depth understanding of Lisbon by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Procópio bar, a top-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trindade. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Lisbon and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Pub Lisboeta, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Desordem Bar & Lounge. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar Tr3s Lisboa, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Portugal!
Day 7
- Lisbon
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Castelo de S Jorge
- LX Factory
- Jerónimos Monastery
- Belém Tower
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos
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On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Portugal, you’ll go deep into Lisbon, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Lisbon, and meet locals along the way!
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Castelo De S. Jorge. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 86,378 reviews.
Continue your journey at Lx Factory. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 52,117 travelers from near and far.
Lisbon is also the home of Jerónimos Monastery. This monastery has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 48,349 visitors.
You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Belém Tower. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 91,872 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.
Lastly, don't miss out on Padrão Dos Descobrimentos. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 55,676 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this monument.
Portugal makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Portugal also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
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 Chic do Rêgo, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider Laurentina, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at A Nossa Casa. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon 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 Lisbon. The bars in Lisbon make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, 4 Caravelas offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Imprensa Cocktail And Oyster Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. A Tabacaria is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Portugal!
Day 8
- Porto
- Almada
- Ourém
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Drive 351 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Sanctuary of Christ the King
- Sculpture of Our Lady of Fátima
- Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity
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On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Portugal. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Portugal.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Almada, 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 Lisbon to Almada may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Almada, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make Sanctuary Of Christ The King your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this colossal statue of jesus an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,961 reviews.
Set your GPS to Nossa Senhora da Piedade and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nossa Senhora da Piedade beckons with new experiences!
Journey into the unknown at Sanctuary Of Fátima, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable shrine to the virgin mary has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 107,827 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Basilica Of The Most Holy Trinity is a recommended place to visit. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,906 reviews.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Portugal at Porto. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
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.
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.
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 Pinguim Café - Bar/pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Ferro Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
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!
Day 9
- Porto - Departure day
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- Gardens of the Crystal Palace
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Portugal is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Porto.
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.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Porto is the remarkable Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal. This garden and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 39,364 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Porto or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider A Tasquinha, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Porto and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Portugal is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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