9-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto traveling south to Coimbra and Lisbon
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Explore the best of Portugal on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Porto, Peso Da Regua, Loureiro, Coimbra, Lisbon, Penha de França, Madalena, Misericórdia, Sintra, and Aveiro. This road trip itinerary in Portugal seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Portugal takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Porto, 1 night in Coimbra, and 3 nights in Lisbon. 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. Praça Do Comércio and Belém Tower are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lisbon Oceanarium, learn more about the unique Luís I Bridge, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Palace Of Pena.
As you hit the open road and drive through Porto, Peso Da Regua, Loureiro, Coimbra, Lisbon, Penha de França, Madalena, Misericórdia, Sintra, and Aveiro, 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
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- Avenida dos Aliados
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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 3 nights immersing yourself in Porto's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Porto is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Avenida dos Aliados, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Porto. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Brasão Aliados, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Em Canto, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Nata Lisboa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Fé Wine & Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Tapas Bar 24 offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Royal Cocktail Club provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Portugal!
Day 2
- Porto
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 17 min
- Luís I Bridge
- Porto Cathedral
- Clérigos Church
- Gardens of the Crystal Palace
- Parque de Serralves
- Ribeira
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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 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
A top thing to do today is to explore Ribeira, a must-see neighborhood in Porto. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Porto. Begin your sightseeing with Luís I Bridge. This top-rated monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Porto Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Porto, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Clerigos Tower. This locally renowned monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Parque De Serralves is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurante Cana Verde, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bulha Sá da Bandeira, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at KOB by Olivier, Porto. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bali-hai Polynesian Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Aduela is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Adega Sports Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!
Day 3
- Porto
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Igreja Matriz de Peso da Régua / Igreja de São Faustino
- Douro Museum
- St. Anthony's viewpoint
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Greet day 3 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 Peso Da Regua and Loureiro.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the underrated Igreja Matriz De Peso Da Régua / Igreja De São Faustino, a respected church in Porto. Next, go to Douro Museum.
After visiting Igreja Matriz De Peso Da Régua / Igreja De São Faustino and Douro Museum, have a stroll along Porto's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Anthony's Viewpoint. This romantic observation deck offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Porto.
As you explore more of Porto, 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 TerraPlana Café, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ZA IN PORTO beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mundo. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Porto tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Graça Rooftop Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Base Porto is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Embaixada Do Porto 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 4
- Porto
- Coimbra
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Drive 124 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Portugal dos Pequenitos
- Turismo da Universidade de Coimbra
- Paços da Universidade ou Paços das Escolas
- Sé Velha - Coimbra
- Santa Cruz Church
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Portugal. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Coimbra. 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Porto. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Portugal Dos Pequenitos is the perfect place to start. This amusement park is one of the most captivating places to visit in Porto. Next, head to Tower Of University Of Coimbra, an underrated observation deck, known for its awe-inspiring features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Paços Da Universidade Ou Paços Das Escolas. This historic university is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Old Cathedral Of Coimbra and Monastery Of Santa Cruz. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Coimbra. Coimbra offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Coimbra's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Restaurante O Pátio, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, No Tacho cozinha portuguesa boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Jardim da Manga. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Coimbra.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Pinga Amor, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Rs Coffee Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, O Reitor is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Portugal!
Day 5
- Coimbra
- Lisbon
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Drive 213 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Lisbon Oceanarium
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Castelo de S Jorge
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lisbon, Penha de França, and Madalena. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lisbon, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Coimbra is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an aquarium, an observation deck, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Lisbon Oceanarium and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Miradouro Da Senhora Do Monte, an enchanting observation deck that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Miradouro De Santa Luzia, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the astonishing Castelo De S. Jorge.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Lisbon's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Delirium Café Lisboa, a highly-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're eager to try something different, consider daPrata52 - Petiscos ¦ Tapas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at A Provinciana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lisboa Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toca Da Raposa is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, O Bom O Mau E O Vilão offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Lisbon
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Belém Tower
- Luís de Camões Square
- Time Out Market Lisboa
- Rua Augusta Arch
- Praça do Comércio
- Avenida da Liberdade
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Lisbon, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Set aside time today to explore Avenida da Liberdade, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Lisbon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Belém Tower is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting monument before continuing your journey. Luís De Camões Square is your next stop. This popular public square is one of the best-rated sights in Lisbon.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Time Out Market Lisboa. This romantic food market is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rua Augusta Arch and Praça Do Comércio.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lisbon. 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 Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, a top-rated dining destination in Lisbon. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gambrinus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Duque. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Lisbon this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at 4 Caravelas. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to British Bar Lisboa, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Portugal and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Lisbon
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Drive 63 km, 3 hours 7 min
- Initiation Well
- Quinta da Regaleira
- Sintra Natural History Museum
- Castle of the Moors
- Park and National Palace of Pena
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Portugal. With 1 night left in Lisbon, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Lisbon is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Initiation Well, a captivating monument that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Quinta Da Regaleira, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Sintra Natural History Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Lisbon at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Castle Of The Moors. After exploring the castle, head to the widely recognized National Palace Of Pena.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Lisbon.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Lisbon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at The George, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Belcanto boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Brown's Central Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Lisbon.
Say good night to Lisbon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Portugal!
Day 8
- Lisbon
- Porto
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Drive 334 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park
- Aveiro Museum
- Moliceiros Pier
- Ponte Laços de Amizade
- Escadaria "I Love Aveiro"
- Antiga Fábrica Jerónimo Pereira Campos
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you will explore Aveiro, 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 Porto. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Lisbon on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile park, Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park. Afterward, continue to Aveiro Railway Station, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Lisbon’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Moliceiros Pier. This frequently visited pier is an essential stop. Following that, head to Ponte Dos Laços De Amizade, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Escadaria "i Love Aveiro", a worthwhile art installation in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Antiga Fábrica Jerónimo Pereira Campos, an eye-catching museum that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Porto. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Sai Cão, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Flor de Bragança offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!
Day 9
- Porto - Departure day
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- Rua de Santa Catarina
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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.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Rua de Santa Catarina, a street that captures the true essence of Porto. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Portugal, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Porto.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Pub Bonaparte Foz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, A Cozinha do Manel is another top choice with a popular 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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