13-Day Portugal Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Porto to Chaves, Leiria, Lisbon, Coimbra, Braga, and Viana Do Castelo and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Portugal promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Porto. You have 3 nights left in Porto. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Visiting Casa Da Música is always a good idea. This locally renowned concert hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Gardens Of The Palácio De Cristal, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Clerigos Tower. This captivating monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Chapel Of Souls, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ageas Porto Coliseum These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Porto. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gruta, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Monument is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Porto. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Pátio 44. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for traditional cuisine in the city.

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.

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 still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Porto and Vila Nova De Gaia.

Porto is brimming with adventures.

She Changes is must-visit art installation and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Parque Da Cidade Do Porto, a locally renowned park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Parque De Serralves, an eye-catching park, also available for your discovery today.

Set your GPS to Vila Nova De Gaia and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vila Nova De Gaia beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Jardim Do Morro, a popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Graça Rooftop Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Base Porto provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Embaixada Do Porto offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 4 of your road trip in Portugal, you’ll start and end your day in Porto, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Porto, there’s no need to rush. Experience Samões and Santa Combinha to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to explore Samões on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Samões may take around 1 hour 42 min. Upon your arrival in Samões, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Barragem Do Peneireiro, a beloved lake in Samões. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Santa Combinha. This car ride takes around 36 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Praia Fluvial Da Fraga Da Pegada, a beloved beach in Santa Combinha. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape. This frequently visited lake is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Beach Azibo is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most majestic beach in the region.

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 Sai Cão, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Flor de Bragança is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Universal comida tradicional portuguesa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Porto tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pinguim Café - Bar/pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ferro Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Braganca and Parâmio. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chaves, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Porto and set your GPS to Braganca. 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 2 hours 11 min. Upon reaching Braganca, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Military Museum Of Bragança, a curiosity-inducing military museum 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 Castle Bragança and admire its visually striking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Parâmio, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Braganca to Parâmio may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Parâmio, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Parâmio is Montesinho Natural Park, a frequently visited national park that draws attention for its serene features.

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

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to D'el Rei Rooftop Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Chillout Café is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gold Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Portugal includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Mirandela. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leiria, where you'll spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mirandela may take around 52 min. Upon your arrival in Mirandela, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Empire Park, an up-and-coming park in Mirandela. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Museu Da Oliveira E Do Azeite. This increasingly popular museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Mirandela Leisure Park is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most instagrammable park in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leiria. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Leiria 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 Leiria.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rei Arthur Café Bistrô, a highly-rated dining destination in Leiria. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café 32, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mulligan's Irish Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leiria this evening.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Portugal!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Portugal, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Sintra and Colares. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Lisbon, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sintra. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Sintra is Quinta Da Regaleira, a spectacular palace that draws attention for its detailed features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Palace Of Pena, a respected palace that stands out in the town.

When you’ve had your share of Leiria, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sintra. Your travel time is around 1 hour 40 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cabo Da Roca, a famous cliff in Sintra. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Colares and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Colares beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sintra-cascais Natural Park, an interesting national park that everyone visiting Colares should see.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Encanto in Lisbon by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Encanto delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious vegetarian cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Alma, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Belcanto, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and portuguese cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Lisboa Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toca Da Raposa offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out O Bom O Mau E O Vilão. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Portugal. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Lisbon, Madalena, and Fátima. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Coimbra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the notable Santa Justa Lift, a history-steeped observation deck in Lisbon. Next, go to Praça Do Comércio.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Madalena.

Spend your afternoon discovering Castelo De S. Jorge, a widely recognized castle known for its enchanting features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Miradouro De Santa Luzia, a captivating observation deck.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lisbon, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Fátima. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sanctuary Of Fátima. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 a true cultural experience.

Discover the culinary delights of Coimbra by securing a reservation at Solar do Bacalhau. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of portuguese cuisine. Alternatively, No Tacho cozinha portuguesa beckons with its unique menu offerings.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pinga Amor, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rs Coffee Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, O Reitor provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Portugal!

On day 10 of your road trip in Portugal, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Candoso, Guimaraes, and Rio Caldo are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Braga, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Piscinas Scorpio.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Candoso and set your GPS to Guimaraes. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Guimaraes, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Aqui Nasceu Portugal and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Largo Do Toural, another highlight in Guimaraes. When you’re done exploring the public square, continue to Castle Of Guimarães, a picture-perfect castle.

After soaking in Guimaraes’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rio Caldo. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 58 min. When you arrive in Rio Caldo, it's time to take a break from the road.

Church São Bento Da Porta Aberta is an underrated church we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Braga. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Braga by booking a table at Inato Bistrô, a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and contemporary menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Retrokitchen, a popular restaurant in Braga. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tosga, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sé La Vie is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café-concerto Rum By Mavy is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Portugal. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Braga, Tenões, Soajo, and Ponte da Barca. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Viana Do Castelo, where will spend 1 night.

Braga Cathedral makes a great addition to your morning plans. This increasingly popular church is a culturally significant place to see in Braga. Continue your discovery at Park Avenida Central, an enchanting park with stories to tell.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Braga.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Braga, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tenões. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

Bom Jesus Do Monte is a locally renowned church we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Soajo. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Granaries Of Soajo, an increasingly popular monument known for its culturally significant features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Viana Do Castelo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Tasquinha da Linda, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurante Café Sport is another top choice with a popular menu.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Docas Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Café Paris for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Dcb - Double Bar Concept is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Portugal!

Your itinerary for day 12 of your road trip in Portugal includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Aveiro, Gafanha da Encarnação, and Ovar. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Porto, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Viana Do Castelo, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aveiro. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Ponte Dos Laços De Amizade, a worthwhile art installation that everyone visiting Aveiro should see. Next, head to Infante Dom Pedro Park - City Park. This eye-catching park is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Salinas De Aveiro, an eye-catching nature reserve popular among locals as well as travelers.

Set your GPS to Gafanha da Encarnação and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gafanha da Encarnação beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Casas Típicas Da Costa Nova, a locally renowned street that everyone visiting Gafanha da Encarnação should see.

When you’ve had your share of Gafanha da Encarnação, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ovar. Your travel time is around 45 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Furadouro Beach, a popular beach in Ovar. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pub Bonaparte Foz, a popular restaurant in Porto. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Porto at A Cozinha do Manel, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated A Tasquinha. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Porto tonight.

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