12-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto to Lisbon, Viseu, Chaves, and Braga and surrounding area

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Porto. You’ll stay in Porto for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

No visit to Porto is complete without F.c. Porto Museum. This beloved museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Ageas Porto Coliseum, 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 Casa Da Música. This interesting concert hall is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find She Changes, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Parque Da Cidade Do Porto 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 experiences you can add to your travel plans in Portugal. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Gruta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional international menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Le Monument, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Porto is Pátio 44, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious traditional menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bali-hai Polynesian Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Aduela, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Adega Sports Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Head back to your accommodation in Porto and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Portugal.

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Porto, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Make a stop at Parque De Serralves. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jardim Botânico Do Porto | Museu De História Natural E Da Ciência Da U.porto located in Porto for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Clerigos Tower. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Porto Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this church.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Porto, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vila Nova De Gaia. This drive usually takes around 7 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardim Do Morro and explore the visually striking features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at TerraPlana Café, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ZA IN PORTO is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mundo. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Porto tonight.

Keep the evening going at Graça Rooftop Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Base Porto, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Embaixada Do Porto, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Portugal includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Sintra. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lisbon, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Sintra, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Porto to Sintra may take around 3 hours 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sintra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit National Palace Of Pena, a widely recognized palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Quinta Da Regaleira and admire its romantic features.

Sintra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Porto behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 22 min. Sintra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cabo Da Roca and explore the serene features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Lisbon. Lisbon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Lisbon is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Lisbon.

Start your culinary exploration in Lisbon by securing a reservation at Encanto. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of vegetarian cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alma, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Belcanto, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and portuguese menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Lisboa Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toca Da Raposa offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. O Bom O Mau E O Vilão is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Portugal.

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Lisbon, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Misericórdia and Lisbon.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the iconic Praça Do Comércio and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lisbon Oceanarium, an awe-inspiring aquarium that draws visitors from far and near.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Misericórdia, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Misericórdia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Time Out Market Lisboa, an impressive food market in Misericórdia. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Lisbon and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Delfina-Cantina Portuguesa, a top-rated dining spot in Lisbon. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gambrinus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Duque. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Lisbon.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at 4 Caravelas, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, British Bar Lisboa offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Portugal.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Fátima. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Viseu, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Fátima. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sanctuary Of Fátima, an iconic church that everyone visiting Fátima should see. Next, head to Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Rosary Of Fatima. This photogenic church is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Basilica Of The Most Holy Trinity, a photogenic church popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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 Viseu, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Viseu by booking a table at Flora, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Palace Viseu, a popular restaurant in Viseu. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Keep the evening going at Bar Thet, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Level - Cocktail's & Wine, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Old Skull Inn - Rottenroll Tavern, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Santa Combinha and Braganca. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Chaves, where you'll spend 1 night.

As you explore Santa Combinha’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Santa Combinha’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Viseu behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Santa Combinha welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Beach Azibo, a curiosity-inducing beach in Santa Combinha. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape. This worthwhile lake is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Santa Combinha, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Braganca. Your travel time is around 25 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Military Museum Of Bragança, an intriguing military museum that everyone visiting Braganca should see. Next, head to Castle Bragança. This enchanting castle is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chaves. Check in and relax 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 Chaves. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Carvalho, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible traditional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, O Manco is another top choice with a popular menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at D'el Rei Rooftop Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Chillout Café. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gold Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Chaves and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Portugal.

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 5 places, which are Chaves, Pedras Salgadas, Mateus, Vila Real, and Lamas de Olo. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Braga, where will spend 3 nights.

Let Trajano Bridge set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant monument before continuing your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Pedras Salgadas. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park, an underrated spa known for its awe-inspiring features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Pedras Salgadas and set your GPS to Mateus. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Mateus, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Mateus is Fundação Da Casa De Mateus, an often recommended palace that draws attention for its visually striking features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Braga. Braga offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Braga. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Braga by securing a reservation at Inato Bistrô. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of creative and contemporary cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Retrokitchen boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Tosga, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sé La Vie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Braga. Café-concerto Rum By Mavy is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Portugal!

Wake up to day 9 of your road trip in Portugal. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Braga, Tenões, and Espinho. With 2 nights to stay in Braga, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Let Arco Da Porta Nova set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking monument before continuing your journey. Braga Cathedral is your next stop. This locally appreciated church is one of the best-rated sights in Braga.

After soaking in Braga’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tenões. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Tenões, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Tenões is Bom Jesus Do Monte, a notable church that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

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 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Sameiro Sanctuary, an up-and-coming church that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Dine in style at Taberna Londrina Braga, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Méze boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bira dos Namorados. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Braga.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pelle, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Do Lipe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Barhaus offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Portugal.

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Ponte da Barca and Viana Do Castelo. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Braga, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Braga’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ponte da Barca. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour. When you arrive in Ponte da Barca, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Peneda-gerês National Park, a locally renowned national park that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Viana Do Castelo. This car ride takes around 1 hour 50 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cultural Center Of Viana Do Castelo, an up-and-coming cultural center that everyone visiting Viana Do Castelo should see. Next, head to Gil Eannes. This historic historic ship is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Elevador De Santa Luzia, a stunning tramway popular among locals as well as travelers. Santa Luzia Sanctuary is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this captivating church before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Braga and your accommodation.

Braga is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Braga.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurante Bem-me-quer, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Porta Nova? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurante E Churrasqueira Angolana, Lda. - Prato do dia as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Braga.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rossio Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Liffey Irish Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Engenho No Copo provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!

On day 11 of your road trip in Portugal, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rio Caldo, Gerês, and Guimaraes are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Porto, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Braga, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rio Caldo. This drive usually takes around 50 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Church São Bento Da Porta Aberta. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gerês. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Miradouro Da Pedra Bela, an increasingly popular observation deck that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Guimaraes, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Gerês to Guimaraes may take around 1 hour 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Guimaraes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Castle Of Guimarães, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Aqui Nasceu Portugal and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Largo Do Toural, an increasingly popular public square beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Sai Cão, a top-rated dining destination in Porto. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Flor de Bragança, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Porto this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pinguim Café - Bar/pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ferro Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Say good night to Porto and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Portugal!