My road trip from Lisbon to Porto will always be one of my most memorable journeys. It was spontaneous, I had the best company, and I discovered a destination full of magic. Each stop was special and had its own charm, and together they formed a perfect route.
If you want to enjoy the most scenic drive, here are ten amazing places you should visit along the way.
*This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may show pop-ups.
*I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.
Lisbon to Porto Road Trip Itinerary Summary and Map
Is it worth driving from Lisbon to Porto? YES! This route is scenic and full of fun surprises, so here’s a quick summary that will help you understand what to expect.
First things first, click here to access the My Maps interactive map of this road trip.
Tip: After accessing the map, you can also open it on your Google Maps app. Simply open your app, tap the ‘saved’ icon at the bottom, scroll down and tap the ‘maps’ icon, and choose the MyMaps map you want to see (you can do the same on your computer).
Days 1 + 2: Lisbon (suggested accommodation: Ibis Styles Lisboa Centro Liberdade NE in Lisbon – not the most central but has private parking – or Be Poet Baixa Hotel if you’re only renting the car when leaving the city).
To make the most of your time in Lisbon, consider getting this Lisbon map with 150+ points of interest!
Day 3: Cabo da Roca + Sintra (suggested accommodation: Hotel Nova Sintra in Sintra. Note that you can also book a stay at the UNESCO-listed Seteais Palace in Sintra).
Alternatively, visit Sintra with a guided day tour from Lisbon (my parents loved it!), in which you’ll visit 3 of its palaces.
Day 4: Cabo Carvoeiro + Obidos + Mira de Aire Caves (suggested accommodation: Thomar Boutique Hotel in Tomar. Note that it is also possible to book a stay at the medieval Castle of Obidos).
Day 5: Tomar + Coimbra (suggested accommodation: República Guest House in Coimbra).
Day 6: Coimbra + Buçaco Forest & Palace + Espinho (suggested accommodation: Guest House A&z in Espinho. Note that you can also book a stay at the Buçaco Palace).
Day 7: A Port wine tour & tastings in Vila Nova de Gaia + Porto (suggested accommodation: Gardenia Aparthôtel or Gallery Townhouse & Home in Porto).
Day 8: Porto + driving back to Lisbon.
Adjusting and Changing This Itinerary
As you can see, this road trip took us about 5 days to complete, not including 2 days in Lisbon at the beginning and about one day in Porto at the end. Without any stops, it’ll only take you a few hours.
You can add 1-3 days to visit more places (see my suggestions in the fourth section of the post) or to explore some of these cities (like Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto) more slowly.
If you want to spend one more day in Porto, consider taking a day tour to the scenic Douro Valley, known for its UNESCO-listed wine region and the beauty of the Douro River and surrounding vineyards (the tour includes wine tastings, lunch, and a boat tour).
Alternatively, check out this highly-rated tour from Porto to the historic cities of Guimarães & Braga (you can also drive to Braga or take the train from the Sao Bento train station) or this tour from Porto to the Peneda Gerês National Park.
It’s home to beautiful natural scenery as well as quaint villages, so you’ll find plenty of things to do in Peneda Geres National Park.
Awesome Stops on a Road Trip From Lisbon to Porto
Lisbon
This vibrant capital city boasts a tempting combo of must-wander traditional neighborhoods, UNESCO-listed landmarks, fascinating museums, colorful street art, trendy cafes, scenic lookout points, and much more.
Even with just 48 hours, you can’t miss out on roaming the cozy Alfama neighborhood, taking in the views at Miradouro das Portas do Sol, visiting the São Jorge Castle, and heading to the Belem district to admire the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery.
To make the most of your time, see my 2-day Lisbon itinerary and get this Lisbon map with 150+ points of interest! If you want to explore the city with a guide, check out these themed FREE walking tours you can take in Lisbon.
Cabo Da Roca
Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point of mainland Europe, so you can understand why it’s a must-have stop on your Central Portugal road trip.
The scenery in this unique spot in Portugal is unbelievable. The panoramic views of the Atlantic coast and the jagged cliffs are something I’ll never forget.
It’s one of those moments when traveling can literally make you cry.
Cabo da Roca is also a part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. So if you’re in for something active, the walking trails in Cabo da Roca lead to beaches, villages, and viewpoints in the area. Those, of course, will take a few more hours of your time.
Heading north, you can walk along the coastline to small villages like Azenhas do Mar or to Praia da Aroeira, Praia da Ursa, Praia da Adraga, and Praia Grande, which are some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
On the southern cliffs of Praia Grande, you can even see fossilized dinosaur footprints.
Tip: After soaking it all in, head to the gift shop to purchase your personalized certificate confirming you have visited Cabo da Roca. I know it’s super cheesy, but it’s the type of souvenir you just got to have.
How much time to spend there: A couple of hours to half a day, depending on whether you’ll take hikes.
Sintra
With countless photos and videos of Sintra’s most iconic landmark, the Pena Palace, Instagram has definitely put this charming city in Portugal on the map.
You’ll need at least one full day to experience the best of it, but I have a feeling you’ll want to stay there a little longer. To explore some parts of it with a guide, you can take a FREE tour of Sintra.
Important tip: There are many ways to get around the city (don’t count on parking near every landmark). To learn about your options, read this full guide about transport in Sintra.
Where to stay in Sintra: With a great location, a lovely terrace, beautiful views from the rooms, and a wonderful breakfast, Hotel Nova Sintra ticks all the boxes. Read more and book it here. Note that you can also book a stay at the UNESCO-listed Seteais Palace.
How much time to spend in Sintra: 1-2 days.
Here are some of the best things to see in Sintra.
Sintra’s Historic Center
Pastel-colored houses, orange roofs, and winding streets? Sounds pretty perfect to me.
I love historic city centers, and there’s no better way to explore them than strolling around without any specific destination.
Palacio Nacional de Sintra
Don’t let the modest (well, relatively modest) facade of Sintra’s National Palace fool you. You might think it’s just another historical building, but it is the best-preserved medieval royal palace in Portugal.
This little beauty was continuously inhabited from the 15th century to the late 19th century by the Portuguese monarchs (though its history traces back to the 10th century), and today, it’s a museum that allows you to visit some of its most impressive rooms (including the Swan Room and Coat of Arms Room).
To skip the lines, get your ticket to the National Palace of Sintra in advance.
Castelo Dos Mouros
Ancient castles are always fun to visit, but with unforgettable panoramic views, the Castelo dos Mouros has to be one of my favorites.
It was built in the 8th and 9th centuries by the Moors, but later on, the Christians conquered and remodeled it several times.
The famous Lisbon earthquake in 1755 severely damaged it, but King Ferdinand II restored it and turned it into the Romantic-style ruinous castle that it is today.
To skip the lines, get your ticket to the Castelo dos Mouros in advance.
Palacio Nacional Da Pena
Although it has become a major tourist attraction (which means it can get annoyingly crowded sometimes), the Pena Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has to be a part of your road trip through Central Portugal.
It was built in the 19th century when King Ferdinand II decided to transform the remains of an old monastery into a Romantic-style palace.
As a person who loves visiting fairytale-like places, I want to thank him for this decision. The architecture, the colors, and the views have completely won me over, and I would gladly live there. I mean it.
I also have to admit that the palace’s exteriors are a lot more beautiful and impressive than the interiors, but that doesn’t take away from the experience
Since the palace has become a super popular site and because you must pick a specific date and time slot for your visit, be sure to book your ticket in advance.
The ticket includes access to the palace’s park, and you can also buy a park-only ticket.
If you want to spend more than one day in Sintra, there are a few other famous landmarks you should visit.
Quinta Da Regaleira
I had only seen this 20th-century Gothic-style estate on the outside and thought it was absolutely magnificent.
This UNESCO site is also known for the vast park surrounding the palace, where you’ll find lakes, fountains, decorative benches, and even tunnels and caves, all meant to create an enchanted world for the Brazilian-Portuguese millionaire who commissioned it.
You can book your tickets in advance here.
Convent of the Capuchos
Dating back to the 16th century, this unusual place is also known as the ‘Cork Convent’ because most of it is covered and decorated with cork.
This convent is notable for being extremely small and simple, and it’ll give a glimpse into the poor and isolated life of the monks who used to live there.
Seteais Palace
A palace from the 18th century turned into a luxury hotel, this place is a national landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can book a stay in the palace.
Palacio de Monserrate
This 19th-century palatial villa showcases an intriguing mix of Moorish, Gothic, and Indian architectural styles, and it’s surrounded by beautiful gardens. Skip the lines and get your ticket in advance.
Important Tip
If you’re planning to visit multiple sites, you can get a discount on the official website.
Simply add your tickets to the cart, and you’ll automatically see a discount of 5% or more at checkout, depending on which and how many places you’re visiting. This does not include the Quinta da Regaleira, so you need to get your tickets separately.
You can also explore Sintra with a guided day trip from Lisbon, in which you’ll visit 3 of its palaces (their admission is not included in the price).
Cabo Carvoeiro
If Cabo da Roca is not enough for you and you need more scenic cliff views in your life, visit Cabo Carvoeiro, the westernmost point of the Peniche peninsula.
With views over the Atlantic coast, the Berlengas archipelago, and a unique limestone formation called Nau dos Corvos (Carrack of Crows), I can safely say that Cabo Carvoeiro is the ideal spot to start your morning.
Another incredible thing to appreciate in this place is the Lighthouse of Cabo Carvoeiro. Believe it or not, it was built in 1758, remodeled at the end of the 19th century, and it’s still active today!
How much time to spend there: A couple of hours.
Obidos
There’s no other way to describe the town of Obidos than picture-perfect. I instantly fell in love with its cobbled streets and white houses with pops of color, and its medieval castle and walls were a huge bonus.
In fact, if you love to find castles you can stay in, don’t miss out on booking a night at the medieval Castle of Obidos.
Other landmarks in Obidos include the Porta de Vila (the main gateway into Obidos) and the Santa Maria church.
It’s definitely one of the one the prettiest medieval towns in Europe, and what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty.
Tip #1: An experience still on my bucket list is the medieval market that takes place every summer in Obidos. Essentially, it’s one massive party that includes medieval costumes, taverns, music, and a lot more.
Tip #2: As a huge chocoholic, another festival that I’m eager to attend is the International Chocolate Festival in Obidos. I don’t know about you, but chocolate sculptures, live chocolate-making demonstrations, and chocolate workshops sound like paradise to me. The festival takes place around April, but dates vary from year to year.
How much time to spend there: Half a day.
Mira de Aire Caves
When you’re traveling by car, you’re not limited to the usual touristy spots.
If you love offbeat experiences (as I do), then the caves of Mira de Aire are a Portuguese hidden gem that should definitely be on your itinerary.
Dating back 150 million years ago (AMAZING!), they are the largest caves in the country and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. Funny enough, the locals only discovered them in 1947.
The site is open EVERY DAY (only closed on December 25th), and all visits to the caves are guided and scheduled as visitors arrive.
Opening hours and prices: See here.
How much time to spend there: A couple of hours.
Tomar
I genuinely enjoyed visiting the historic Portuguese city of Tomar, and you’re about to find out why it was such a highlight for me.
Where to stay in Tomar: Check out the highly-rated Thomar Boutique Hotel (suitable for traveling by car).
How much time to spend there: 1 day.
Dating back to the 12th century, Tomar’s crowning glory is the impressive Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as the seat of the Knights Templar, and later on, the Knights of the Order of Christ.
The convent’s complex also includes the Templar castle of Tomar and its walls, which, at the time, were more resistant and advanced than other military set-ups.
Its wealth in the 15th century was also used for Prince Henry the Navigator’s journeys during Portugal’s Age of Discovery.
From its rich history to the extremely intricate architectural details to the views over Tomar, this Portuguese landmark is one of the best places to visit between Lisbon and Porto.
Opening hours of the convent: October to May from 9 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5 PM). June to September from 9 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 6 PM).
Price: €10.
While the Convent of Christ is Tomar’s most iconic monument, the highlight for me was the city itself.
Yes, it’s full of charming streets, but to me, it’s the relaxed and cozy atmosphere that makes Tomar such a memorable place.
Besides strolling around the city, you should visit Tomar’s old synagogue (which dates back to the 15th century), Mouchão Park, and the Church of São João Baptista.
For an ‘out of the box’ activity (because that’s what I live for), visit the unusual and quirky matchbox museum (Museu Dos Fosforos).
Bonus tip: One of Tomar’s traditional local sweets is called Beija-me Depressa (“kiss me quick”), and the only shop that makes these treats is Estrelas de Tomar (Serpa Pinto, 12). Just for the name of this dessert, you know you have to try it.
Coimbra
Sitting on the Mondego River, Coimbra is mostly known for being home to one of the oldest and most beautiful universities in Europe (which you can visit with a guide), but there’s so much more to do and see in this gorgeous city:
- Take this free walking tour
- Admire the 13th-century Se Velha cathedral
- Visit the botanical gardens
- Enjoy a Fado de Coimbra concert
On the other side of the river, you can also visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha.
Where to stay in Coimbra: For one night, you’ll enjoy staying at the cozy República Guest House, which has an amazing location near the university. Browse its latest prices here.
How much time to spend there: Half a day – a day.
Buçaco Forest
To me, a road trip has to include some natural landscapes, so the Buçaco Forest had to be on my Lisbon to Porto itinerary.
This incredible place is home to more than 250 species of trees and shrubs (some are hundreds of years old), and six walking trails allow you to explore its unique beauty.
Apart from the green scenery, you’ll also find lakes, fountains, and small chapels built by the monks of the Order of Discalced Carmelites centuries ago.
Some of the forest’s highlights are the fountain of Fonte Fria, the Convent of Santa Cruz, and the Buçaco Palace.
I find the palace particularly visit-worthy, thanks to its exquisite architecture and gorgeous gardens.
It was built in the late 19th century as a royal residence, and today, it functions as a luxury hotel.
Want to stay in this stunning hotel? Book a night at the Buçaco Palace!
How much time to spend there: Half a day.
Espinho
Don’t forget that Portugal is also home to amazing beaches, so before arriving in Porto, stop for some time in the sun in the resort town of Espinho.
The town’s main beach, Praia Baia, is a paradise for those who are searching for serenity as well as for surfers. It’s also an incredible spot to watch the sunset or take a quiet walk.
If you’re there on a Monday, check out Espinho’s 120-year-old outdoor market (on Avenida 24). It’s one of the largest weekly markets in Portugal, selling everything from fruit to clothing to ceramics.
Where to stay in Espinho: Guest House A&z is located right in front of the beach (some of its rooms offer sea views) and has an on-site restaurant. Check its latest prices and read reviews here.
How much time to spend there: As much as you want to enjoy your time relaxing.
Vila Nova de Gaia
Many people think it’s a part of Porto, but Vila Nova de Gaia is the city sitting on the other side of the Douro River (and providing picture-perfect vistas of Porto).
Apart from wineries in the Douro Valley itself (the birthplace of Port wine), this town is THE place for Port wine tasting, and the cellar I decided to visit was Graham’s Lodge. From the views to the informative tour to the wine itself, it was an amazing experience and I 100% recommend it.
To visit Graham’s Lodge, you need to make a reservation in advance.
You can also book individual tours in other wine cellars like Calem cellar, Pocas cellar, Burmester cellar, and many others.
If you want to visit several lodges with a local guide, you can also take a guided Port wine walking tour. Alternatively, book a day tour to taste wines in the Douro Valley.
How much time to spend there: Half a day to a day.
Porto
Porto has a very different vibe from Lisbon and an intriguing heritage connected to the birth of Portugal.
The best way to soak in its atmosphere is by wandering around the riverside neighborhood of Ribeira and the historic center, home to centuries-old churches and cathedrals (some of which are adorned with typical stunning azulejo tiles), lovely streets, and landmarks like the Bolsa Palace and São Bento train station.
You can also visit the Bolhão Market, admire the Crystal Palace Gardens, and take these themed FREE walking tours of Porto.
Other Places I Wish I Had Visited
As much as I dislike prioritizing some places over others when planning a road trip, it’s better to see less and enjoy more than to overload your itinerary with too many sights.
Apart from the fantastic stops between Lisbon and Porto that I’ve already mentioned, here are a few more I would have liked to add.
National Palace of Queluz
This little 18th-century Baroque beauty used to serve as a royal residence.
Known for its impressive gardens and luxurious rooms, it’s a palace near Lisbon I would have loved to visit.
If you’re adding it to your itinerary, get your ticket in advance.
Monasteries of Alcobaça and Batalha
The 12th-century Alcobaça Monastery and 14th-century Batalha Monastery are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that boast not only centuries of history but also exquisite Gothic architecture.
Located only a half-an-hour drive away from one another, it seems impossible to visit just one of them.
Bacalhôa Buddha Eden
While an oriental garden doesn’t sound like a place you’d be eager to visit in Portugal, this one is the largest in Europe, and a few photos of it are enough to understand that it is a unique spot.
With 35 hectares (86 acres) housing hundreds (if not more) of buddhas, pagodas, and terracotta statues, I really wish I could have seen this garden with my own eyes.
Piodão
Located about 90 km east of Coimbra, Piodão is one of the 12 Historical Villages of Portugal, which were founded way before the country was born. Steeped in history and culture, it seems right up my alley, with its unique layout, old stone houses, blue wooden doors, and mountainous location.
Aveiro
Known as the Venice of Portugal, I would have loved to spend a day in Aveiro, taking a boat tour through its canals, visiting its salt mines, and wandering through its streets. Not too far from this town, you’ll find the famous beach Praia da Costa Nova, which is also still on my bucket list.
Castle of Santa Maria Da Feira
Probably not as known to international travelers as it is to locals, the Castle of Santa Maria da Feira has won me over and I haven’t even seen it in real life.
Considering the fact that it dates back to the 9th century and that its architecture is so fairytale-like, I don’t know why it wasn’t on my agenda.
General Tips
When to Visit
I traveled to Portugal in early fall when the weather was pleasant. Portugal is extremely popular, not only in summer, so you wouldn’t necessarily avoid the crowds in September and October, though some spots are not as visited as others.
For these reasons, I believe spring would also be a great time to visit. It’s also considered a good winter destination in Europe.
Still not sure when to plan your trip? Here’s the best time to visit Portugal!
More About Lisbon
Want some more tips for Lisbon?
Here are 30 beautiful sunset spots in Lisbon you need to check out and the 27 free things to do in the city!
What to Pack
Wondering what to pack for your journey? Here’s the ultimate road trip packing list and a Lisbon packing list!
Driving Tips
Read this guide for all the info and travel tips about car rental and driving in Portugal.
Related Posts
Do you love European road trips? Check out:
- Best road trips in Portugal
- Northern Portugal road trip itinerary
- Best Spanish road trips
- Southern Spain road trip
- Northern Spain road trip
- Northern Italy road trip itinerary
- Northwest Italy road trip itinerary
- Best Italian road trips
- Road trips from Milan
- Kefalonia road trip
Do you love visiting places with knight history? Your next destination should be Malta or Romania!
I’m planning a trip to Portugal in October, this article has help me to schedule my trip and stops. It looks like I’m going to have a great time.
Thanks
Thank you so much, Henry!
Enjoy your trip 🙂
i am amazed by all the beautiful places that are on the way between Lisbon and Porto! Portugal is definitely full of gems!
Right? I can’t wait to go back to Portugal 🙂
Wow. Thank you for sharing this guide. I’ve never really researched this area but now holy cow it is definitely on my list.
You’re welcome! I’m glad I managed to inspire you 🙂
very useful. somr more pics and road information would be more useful
Thanks for the feedback 🙂 Can you be more specific about what road information you’d like to get? That’ll be very helpful.
Very useful toda!
Bevakasha, Peter! Glad it was helpful 🙂