Exploring Portugal’s two most iconic cities in one week is the perfect way to experience the country’s rich history, flavorful cuisine, and warm hospitality. This relaxed 7-day itinerary is packed with memorable experiences yet paced comfortably – ideal for families with kids and senior travelers (reformados) who want to savor every moment. From the sunny hills of Lisbon to the picturesque banks of the Douro in Porto, get ready for an unforgettable adventure through Portugal’s dreamiest destinations.
Why this itinerary? Lisbon and Porto offer a delightful contrast: Lisbon enchants with its vintage trams, Fado music, and pastel-colored neighborhoods, while Porto captivates with its medieval riverside, port wine cellars, and charming cobbled streets. Over one week, you’ll soak up culture and scenery, taste authentic Portuguese dishes, and create lifelong memories. Vamos! 🇵🇹
Itinerary Overview
- Days 1–3: Lisbon – Wander historic neighborhoods (Baixa, Alfama, Chiado), enjoy traditional fado music, and take a magical day trip to Sintra’s palaces.
- Day 4: Lisbon to Porto – Morning in Belém for pastries & monuments, then a scenic ~3-hour train ride north to Porto.
- Days 5–6: Porto – Discover Porto’s Old Town (Ribeira), cross the Douro River to Gaia for port wine tastings, and dine on local specialties like the francesinha.
- Day 7: Douro Valley – Take a day trip through vineyard-covered hills with a river cruise OR spend a relaxed extra day in Porto (perfect for families).
Total travel: 7 days, with 4 nights based in Lisbon and 3 nights in Porto. Getting around: Both cities are walkable (though hilly) with good public transport. The comfortable Alfa Pendular train connects Lisbon and Porto in under 3 hours. Taxis and ride-hailing (Uber/Bolt) are abundant for airport transfers or when feet get tired.
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon – Old-World Charm in Alfama and Baixa
Morning/Afternoon: Land in Lisbon (Lisboa)! After clearing customs at Humberto Delgado Airport, it’s an easy 20-30 minute ride by taxi or Uber to the city center (around €15–20). Tip: To save money, you can also take the Metro’s Red Line from the airport – it’s clean, safe, and brings you downtown in about 35 minutes (with connections). Once you settle into your hotel (see “Where to Stay” below), it’s time to start exploring.
Begin with a leisurely stroll through Baixa (the downtown). This flat, grid-patterned neighborhood is very walkable – great for seniors and kids to stretch their legs after the flight. Walk down the elegant Avenida da Liberdade or explore Rossio Square with its wave-patterned cobblestones and fountains. Make your way to the Praça do Comércio, the grand waterfront plaza flanked by a sunny yellow arcade. Take in your first views of the Tagus River and maybe snap a family photo under the Arco da Rua Augusta arch.
Evening: As golden hour hits, head into Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest bairro (quarter). Alfama’s maze of narrow lanes and stairways is full of character – azulejo-tiled houses, colorful laundry lines, and tiny taverns. Climb (or take a tuk-tuk or tram) up to Castelo de São Jorge for a stunning panoramic sunset view over the city’s rooftops. The castle grounds are fun for kids to roam (there are peacocks!), and seniors will appreciate the panoramic terraces with benches to rest.
After sunset, dive into Alfama’s soulful atmosphere with a fado dinner. Fado is the haunting traditional Portuguese music born in these streets. Many restaurants host live fado performances nightly – imagine heartfelt melodies drifting through candlelight as you dine on classic Portuguese dishes. Consider Clube de Fado or Parreirinha de Alfama – both offer authentic fado along with delicious codfish, grilled meats, and local wines. It’s the perfect welcome to Lisbon, wrapping you in the city’s old-world charm.
Where to Stay in Lisbon: For convenience, stay in central areas like Baixa/Chiado or Avenida da Liberdade – you’ll be close to sights and on relatively flat terrain. For example, Hotel Mundial (Baixa) offers classic comfort steps from Rossio, while Heritage Avenida Liberdade Hotel provides boutique charm with easy access to the Metro. If you prefer apartment-style (great for families), look for options in the Chiado district. Wherever you stay, make sure there’s an elevator or lower-floor rooms if stairs are a concern – Lisbon’s historic buildings sometimes lack elevators.
Day 2: Historic Lisbon – Castles, Views and Traditional Flavors
After a good night’s rest, Day 2 is all about diving deeper into Lisbon’s history and flavors. Start in Alfama again, but by daylight it has a completely different vibe. Early morning is lovely: you’ll see locals shopping at small markets and hear church bells echoing. Stop by a neighborhood bakery for a warm pastel de nata (Lisbon’s famous custard tart) and a bica (espresso). A beloved spot is Manteigaria in Chiado or Pastelaria Alfama Doce in Alfama – nothing beats a fresh-from-the-oven tart sprinkled with cinnamon!
Spend the morning visiting the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) at the foot of Alfama – this 12th-century Romanesque cathedral is the city’s oldest church. Its cool, dim interior is a nice respite on a hot day. From the Sé, hop on the iconic Tram 28 which clatters up through Alfama’s steep streets. This vintage yellow tram is not only transport but a tourist attraction in itself, winding past tiled houses and miradouros (viewpoints). (Keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpockets can be an issue on crowded trams.) Ride Tram 28 up to the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, a postcard-perfect terrace with bougainvillea and panoramic views over Alfama’s rooftops and the river – a great photo spot!
By late morning, make your way to Castelo de São Jorge if you didn’t visit inside it yesterday. Exploring the castle’s ramparts in daylight offers a fantastic perspective of the cityscape. Kids will enjoy imagining knights and conquerors here, and seniors can appreciate the gardens and history (there are benches and a small café up top for a coffee break with a view).
Lunch time: Head downhill toward Baixa and Chiado for a bite. For a casual local experience, try a “tasca” (a small family-run eatery). A few favorites: Zé da Mouraria (known for its hearty portions of bacalhau – salt cod – and cozy vibe) or Casa do Alentejo, hidden in a former palace with a stunning Moorish courtyard interior, serving Alentejan regional dishes. If you’re near Praça dos Restauradores, Pinoquio is a classic spot for fresh clams and steaks. Don’t forget to try a bifana – a garlic-marinated pork sandwich – at Café Beira Gare or O Trevo in Chiado. It’s a quick, tasty Lisbon staple that kids often love too!
Afternoon: Take it easy with a gentle walk through Chiado and Bairro Alto. Chiado is an artsy, upscale district – peek into the historic Livraria Bertrand (the world’s oldest operating bookstore, since 1732!) or have an afternoon coffee at A Brasileira, a famous café once frequented by poet Fernando Pessoa (his bronze statue sits outside). If anyone in the family has a sweet tooth, pop into Confeitaria Nacional near Rossio for traditional sweets or a refreshing scoop of gelato at Gelados Santini in Chiado.
As the sun lowers, consider taking in a panoramic view from a miradouro (viewpoint) in Bairro Alto. Two of the best: Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara (overlooking downtown and the castle) or Miradouro da Graça (which you can reach by a short tuk-tuk ride or steep walk, but offers a fabulous twilight view). This is a perfect moment to rest your feet and maybe enjoy a glass of vinho verde (young “green” wine) from a kiosk as the city lights begin to twinkle.
Evening: Tonight, treat yourself to a traditional Portuguese dinner. For seafood lovers, Cervejaria Ramiro is legendary (Anthony Bourdain raved about it) – feast on garlic shrimp, goose barnacles, and grilled tiger prawns, capped off with a steak sandwich “dessert” (an odd Ramiro tradition!). It’s lively and authentic, though there may be a wait. If you prefer something quieter, Adega da Maria or Taberna da Rua das Flores (in Chiado) offer classic dishes in a charming atmosphere.
After dinner, you might stroll through the Bairro Alto district – by night its streets come alive with music and laughter, as tiny bars and eateries host patrons spilling into the streets. Even with family or as older travelers, an early-evening walk here is fun to witness Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife energy (before it gets too rowdy later at night). For a more mellow nightcap, head to the waterfront at Cais do Sodré – the Ribeira das Naus promenade is lovely for an evening riverside walk. Enjoy the cool breeze off the Tagus and reflect on a full day of Lisbon magic.
Day 3: Sintra Day Trip – Fairy-Tale Palaces and Lush Gardens
Time to escape the city buzz for a day and venture to the romantic hills of Sintra. This is often a highlight of any trip to Portugal – Sintra is a UNESCO-listed town famed for its storybook palaces, exotic gardens, and misty mountain atmosphere. It’s an easy trip from Lisbon and great for all ages, though expect a full day of sightseeing.
Morning: Get an early start to beat the crowds. From Lisbon, take the train from Rossio Station to Sintra – it’s a direct 40-minute ride (tickets are inexpensive, around €2.30 one-way, and trains depart frequently). Try to catch a train by 8:00–8:30 AM. The ride itself is comfortable and offers a glimpse of suburban life as you leave the city. Arriving in Sintra, you’ll find buses and tuk-tuks outside the station ready to take visitors up the mountain to the main sites. Tip: The 434 tourist bus loops through the key attractions (Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, historic center). It’s a hop-on-hop-off style and a convenient option if you prefer not to hike steep hills.
Make Palácio Nacional da Pena (Pena Palace) your first stop. This wildly colorful palace sitting atop Sintra’s highest peak resembles a fantasy movie set. Painted in yellows and reds, with quirky architectural details (onion domes, castle ramparts, tiles), Pena will delight the kids and intrigue adults alike. Inside, tour the restored rooms of the royal family who summered here, and outside, wander the terraces for jaw-dropping views all the way to the Atlantic Ocean on a clear day. The surrounding Pena Park is a wooded wonderland of fern gardens, hidden pathways, and even a small farm – lovely for a shaded walk if time allows.
Next, just downhill from Pena, history buffs can explore the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle) – an earlier medieval fortress with stone walls snaking along the ridgeline. You can walk along its ramparts for panoramic vistas; however, note it involves many steps, which could be challenging for some seniors or little ones. If mobility is an issue, you might skip the climb and instead head back down after Pena.
Lunch: Take a break in Sintra’s old town. The village center is postcard-pretty, with narrow lanes lined by cafes, shops, and the whimsical Sintra National Palace (the one with two big conical chimneys). Grab lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant like Tascantiga (tapas and petiscos in a cozy spot) or Piriquita, which is actually a famous bakery – you must try their travesseiros, soft almond-and-egg cream pastries that Sintra is known for, and queijadas, yummy cheese tarts. Enjoy your treats with a coffee while taking in the quaint atmosphere.
Afternoon: You have a few options this afternoon depending on interest and energy:
- Visit Quinta da Regaleira, an estate with the most intriguing gardens filled with secret tunnels, grottoes, and the famous Initiation Well (a spiral staircase well that feels straight out of an adventure novel!). Kids and adults alike love exploring here – it’s like a giant mystical playground.
- Or head to Palácio de Monserrate, a bit further out but a hidden gem – a palace blending Islamic, Gothic and Indian styles, set in serene botanical gardens. This is a good option if you prefer somewhere less crowded.
- If everyone is a bit tired, simply enjoy wandering Sintra town, do some souvenir shopping (cork products, tiles, local handicrafts), or relax in a café with a view of the valley.
By mid-afternoon, begin making your way back. Catch the train from Sintra back to Lisbon (if it’s rush hour, you might have standing room only for part of the ride, but usually by Sintra station you’ll get seats). Arrive back in Lisbon in the early evening.
Evening: After a full day out, keep tonight low-key. Perhaps dine near your hotel in Lisbon. If you’re staying in Baixa/Chiado, there are plenty of options. For something casual and extremely local, you could seek out a Churrascaria for roast chicken (like the famous Bonjardim near Restauradores, known as “Rei dos Frangos” or King of Chickens). Or enjoy a nice sit-down meal at Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira) in Cais do Sodré, which has dozens of food stalls featuring top chefs and traditional eats – everyone can grab whatever they like, from grilled octopus to burgers, making it great for families with varied tastes.
Wrap up the night with a sweet note: if you haven’t had enough pastéis de nata, get one last fix at Manteigaria’s Time Out Market booth (they bake them fresh until late!). Or try ginginha, the local cherry liqueur, at A Ginjinha bar near Rossio – yes, even Grandma might enjoy a little cordial to toast a beautiful day. 😉 Cheers!
Day 4: Belém & Beyond – Monuments, Museums, and Northbound to Porto
It’s your final day in Lisbon, and there’s one iconic area you can’t miss: Belém. This waterfront district west of the city center is steeped in history from Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Today you’ll explore Belém’s grand sights, then travel to Porto in the late afternoon.
Morning in Belém: Take a taxi or the historic Tram 15 from central Lisbon to Belém (about 20-25 minutes along the riverfront). Arrive early to beat tour groups. Start at the Jerónimos Monastery, a 16th-century masterpiece of Manueline architecture (intricate stone carvings of ropes, coral, and sea motifs). The monastery’s cloisters are breathtaking – even kids might be wowed by the details, and history enthusiasts will appreciate that Vasco da Gama’s tomb lies here. (Entry lines can get long, but mornings are better; seniors 65+ get discounts on tickets, and kids under 14 often free.)
Right nearby is the Coach Museum (Museu dos Coches), which surprisingly delights many visitors with its collection of opulent royal carriages – imagine Cinderella-style coaches all in a row. It’s an optional stop if you have interest and time. Otherwise, stroll through the Praça do Império gardens full of fountains and palm trees, heading toward the river.
Along the Tagus waterfront stands the Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos) – a huge sculpted prow of a ship with figures of famous explorers. It’s impressive to see up close; you can take an elevator to the top for views (quick visit). A short walk further, you’ll find Belém Tower, the sturdy fortress in the water that once guarded Lisbon’s harbor. Kids will enjoy imagining it as a mini castle to explore. Note there’s a narrow spiral staircase inside if you climb to the top – fine for most, but could be a bit tight for some; the views from the outside are lovely enough if you skip interior.
By late morning, you’re surely ready for a snack – and you’re in the birthplace of the Pastel de Belém! Pastéis de Belém bakery (since 1837) is just across from the monastery. Yes, the line can be long, but it moves fast and the reward is the original custard tart recipe. Enjoy a couple of warm tarts with powdered sugar and cinnamon, paired with a galão (milky coffee). It’s a must-do culinary pilgrimage in Lisbon.
Lunch: If tarts didn’t fill you up, Belém has a few cafes and restaurants. For a light lunch, try Por Açúcar Café or Enoteca de Belém (a wine bar with good petiscos). Alternatively, hold out for a hearty meal before your train ride once back in central Lisbon – for example, Cervejaria Trindade in Chiado (set in a former monastery with beautiful tiles) serves great steaks and seafood.
Afternoon – Travel to Porto: Aim for an afternoon departure to Porto. The best way is by train – comfortable, affordable, and city-center to city-center. Trains leave Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente station roughly every hour. The fastest Alfa Pendular train takes about 2h50m to reach Porto’s Campanhã Station (one-way fares ~€25-30, bookable online or at station). Try to catch a train around 3–4 PM so you arrive by early evening. (If you have a rental car instead, the drive via A1 highway is ~3 hours with tolls – consider stopping in Coimbra or Óbidos to break up the drive. But keep in mind parking in Porto city can be tricky, so train is usually preferred.)
Before you board, grab some water and snacks for the journey. Settle into your reserved seats and enjoy the ride north – the scenery starts flat and ribbony with rivers and farms, and later you’ll see green hills as you approach Porto. It’s a great time for a nap or journaling about your Lisbon adventures.
You’ll arrive at Porto Campanhã. From there, transfer to the local train or metro one stop to São Bento Station in the city center (your long-distance ticket often covers this connection – ask if unsure). Stepping out at São Bento, you’re greeted by the stunning azulejo tile murals in the station’s foyer, depicting scenes of Portuguese history – welcome to Porto!
Evening in Porto: Check in at your Porto accommodation (see “Where to Stay” below). This evening, stretch your legs with a first look at Porto’s ambiance. Wander down to the Ribeira, Porto’s riverfront quay. The sight is truly magical: a tumble of colorful old houses stacked on the hill, lights reflecting in the Douro River, and the impressive Dom Luís I Bridge arching over the water. Street performers often entertain here and there’s a lively buzz in the air.
For dinner, indulge in Porto’s most famous dish: the Francesinha. This “little Frenchie” is actually a big, decadent sandwich – layers of bread, ham, sausage, steak, and melted cheese, drowned in a spicy beer-tomato gravy. It’s a comfort food experience! One of the best spots to try it is Café Santiago, a no-frills local favorite. (They also have kids’ options if the sandwich is too intense for young taste buds.) If that sounds too heavy, Cervejaria Brasão does a slightly more refined francesinha and other Portuguese plates in a nice pub atmosphere. Either way, you won’t go hungry.
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll across the lower deck of the Dom Luís I Bridge. The view back towards the illuminated Ribeira is breathtaking. On the far side of the river is Vila Nova de Gaia (we’ll explore it more tomorrow), but you could walk just far enough to the middle of the bridge for photos. The bridge has pedestrian walkways on both lower and upper levels – the lower is at riverbank level with easy access from Ribeira, while the upper connects to higher ground (and is used by the metro). If everyone’s still energetic, you can even ride the hillside Guindais Funicular up from Ribeira to Batalha for a night panoramic, then walk back to your hotel. But no shame in calling it an early night – you’ve relocated cities and tomorrow a new adventure begins in Porto!
Where to Stay in Porto: Porto’s city center is compact, but it does have hills. For convenience, stay around Avenida dos Aliados (the main avenue) or Ribeira by the river. Aliados has many hotels and is fairly flat on top of the hill, while Ribeira offers charming riverside views (but involves uphill walks or taxi rides to go into town). A few ideas: Hotel Teatro (a stylish option near Aliados), NH Collection Porto (modern comfort, central), or Pestana Vintage Porto (beautiful historic hotel right on Ribeira waterfront). For families, apartments like Spot Family Suites near Bolhão or Ribeira do Porto apartments can provide extra space. Porto’s hospitality is warm, so wherever you choose, you’ll feel welcome.
Day 5: Discovering Porto’s Old Town – History and River Views
Bom dia! Wake up in Porto and get ready to immerse yourself in this fascinating city of baroque churches, medieval alleys, and of course, port wine. Day 5 is dedicated to exploring Porto’s historic center, mostly on foot.
Morning: Start at São Bento Railway Station, if you haven’t already admired it. The station’s lobby is essentially an art gallery, covered in 20,000 blue-and-white azulejo tiles. Take a moment to appreciate the detailed panels depicting battles, royal events, and country life – it’s one of the most stunning railway stations in the world and completely free to enjoy.
From São Bento, walk up to the nearby Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto). This Romanesque cathedral sits on a hilltop plaza with commanding views of the city and river. The cathedral’s interior is austere but its rosary cloister (small fee) has beautiful tiles. Out front, the terrace offers a great panorama over Porto’s orange rooftops – you can spot the Douro and the Port wine lodges across the water in Gaia.
Next, wander down through the old lanes of the Ribeira district. Getting lost is half the fun – you’ll find medieval arches, little squares, and drying laundry overhead. Make your way to the Ribeira riverfront promenade. In the morning, this area is calm and perfect for a stroll. Kids might enjoy spotting the traditional rabelo boats moored along the quay (these flat-bottomed boats once carried barrels of port wine from the Douro Valley). Street vendors sell crafts and souvenirs here – perhaps pick up a painted tile or cork item as a keepsake.
If you didn’t cross the Dom Luís I Bridge last night, do it now – at least the lower level. The perspective from the middle of the bridge, with Porto on one side climbing the hill and Gaia’s wine lodges on the other, is a must-see. (For those not afraid of heights and looking for a wow view, you can also venture to the top deck via stairs or by walking up through the city later – that’s where the metro runs and pedestrians can cross with an eagle-eye vantage.)
Midday: Time for a lunch break. For a quick authentic bite, seek out Casa Guedes near Praça dos Poveiros, famous for its roast pork sandwiches with Serra cheese – messy, juicy and delicious (easy for kids to handle too!). Or if you’re near Bolhão, try Café Santiago (if you skipped francesinha last night, now’s your chance!). Another idea is Mercado do Bolhão, the historic market which was recently renovated – it has vendors selling fresh fruits, cheeses, and prepared foods; even if you don’t eat here, it’s worth a wander to experience local market life.
Afternoon: Dive into some cultural landmarks. One unmissable sight is the Livraria Lello, often dubbed the “most beautiful bookstore in the world.” It features a whimsical Art Nouveau interior with a swirling red staircase that reportedly inspired J.K. Rowling during her Porto days. Note: There’s usually a line and an entry voucher (around €5) that can be used toward a book purchase. It can get crowded, but book-lovers and photographers adore it.
Just around the corner is the Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos) – Porto’s iconic bell tower. Climb the 225 steps to the top if you’re up for it; you’ll be rewarded with a 360º view of Porto’s skyline (the stairway is narrow, but manageable if you take your time). Hearing the bells chime up close is an experience! Those who prefer not to climb can relax at the base in Cordoaria Garden or visit the adjacent Clérigos Church, which is lovely and free to enter.
If you enjoy churches and azulejos, don’t miss the Igreja do Carmo and Igreja dos Carmelitas – two churches side by side, separated by one of the world’s narrowest houses! The exterior of Igreja do Carmo boasts a breathtaking blue tile mural covering its entire side. It’s a great photo spot and just a 5-minute walk from Lello.
By now, a treat might be in order: seek out the Majestic Café on Rua Santa Catarina. This Belle Époque café from 1921 exudes old-fashioned charm with its mirrored walls and leather seats. Stop for a coffee, tea, or an ice-cream for the kids. It is a bit pricey (you’re paying for the ambiance), but it’s like stepping back in time. Santa Catarina street itself is a lively pedestrian shopping street worth a stroll, with street performers and shops – a good place to pick up any souvenirs.
Evening: Tonight, explore the culinary side of Porto. How about some fresh seafood? Porto is near the Atlantic, and locals love their fish. For a traditional meal, you might take a short taxi (15 minutes) to Matosinhos, a coastal area packed with seafood restaurants. Places like Brasão de Matosinhos or O Gaveto grill fish to perfection – you can select your fish and have it simply grilled with olive oil. If staying in the city, Ribeira has many restaurants with a view; while some are touristy, the atmosphere is unbeatable. Chez Lapin is an option right by the river known for Porto classics (like tripe stew and grilled octopus) served in a rustic setting.
After dinner, enjoy Porto’s evening charm. Perhaps take a short six bridges cruise on the Douro – these 50-minute boat rides run until early evening and give you a tranquil view of Porto and Gaia from the water. Or, if you fancy some music, check if there’s live fado in town (Porto has fewer fado houses than Lisbon, but Casa da Mariquinhas offers a traditional show). Another fun option for families is the Porto Legends show (in an immersive theatre in Alfândega) which uses digital projections to tell local legends – entertaining and educational.
Day 6: Wine & Culture in Porto – Cellars of Gaia, Art & Leisure
After getting familiar with Porto’s layout, Day 6 lets you dig into what makes Porto special – its port wine heritage, plus some cultural highlights and relaxed enjoyment of the city.
Morning – Gaia & Port Wine: Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia, the sister city facing Porto. Gaia is home to the historic port wine cellars. In the 18th and 19th centuries, barrels of wine from the Douro Valley would end up here to age in vast cellars (called “caves”) – today, many famous port brands offer tours and tastings. Even if you’re not a big drinker, the tours are fascinating and give a glimpse into this sweet fortified wine that put Porto on the map.
Walk or take the Gaia cable car (Teleférico de Gaia) that runs from the upper bridge level down to the riverside – it’s short but fun, offering a fantastic panorama of Porto’s skyline. Along Gaia’s riverfront strip, you’ll see big names like Taylor’s, Graham’s, Sandeman, Ferreira, Cálem, Offley, and more. Pick one or two cellars to visit. Graham’s Lodge is a bit uphill but has a beautiful tasting room terrace with city views. Taylor’s is also excellent, with peacocks in the garden and an informative self-guided tour (audio guides available, and they have grape juice for kids so they feel included). Ferreira offers tours in Portuguese and English highlighting the legacy of Dona Antónia Ferreira, a famous woman in port wine history. Most tours last about an hour and end with a tasting of a couple different port styles (white, tawny, ruby – they’ll explain what that means!). Seniors might particularly enjoy the slower pace of a tasting, and kids often get juice or cookies so they don’t feel left out. Be sure to reserve ahead if visiting in peak season.
After a pleasant morning sipping port and learning history, you might enjoy lunch in Gaia. There are several restaurants with great views over Porto – Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau offers the famous codfish fritter stuffed with cheese (it’s a quick snacky option with a view, albeit a bit touristy). For a sit-down lunch, Taylor’s own restaurant Barao Fladgate is fantastic (Portuguese cuisine in an elegant setting) or Sandeman’s food + wine bar by the river for lighter fare. Alternatively, cross back to Porto for lunch if you prefer.
Afternoon – Arts & Shopping: Spend a relaxed afternoon as you like:
- Art lovers can visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, a short taxi ride from the center. It’s set in a gorgeous park (Parque de Serralves) with gardens that are lovely to stroll. There’s a treetop walk and farmland area which can be fun for kids, and the art exhibits are world-class.
- History buffs might explore the Palácio da Bolsa in Porto – the old Stock Exchange Palace. Its highlight is the extravagant Arabian Hall, a gilded masterpiece. Guided tours (~30 min) are required to see it, available in multiple languages.
- If you’re craving something low-key, you could take a Douro River cruise if not done yet, or simply wander the downtown shopping streets. Rua de Santa Catarina (mentioned earlier) is great for browsing. There’s also Via Catarina mall disguised behind a historic façade if you need any amenities.
- With kids, consider a visit to the World of Discoveries museum – an interactive museum about Portugal’s Age of Exploration. It has replica ships and multimedia exhibits; educational and fun, especially for school-age children learning about explorers like Vasco da Gama.
By late afternoon, as this is your last full day, take some time to just relax and absorb the atmosphere. Maybe sit at a café at Praça da Liberdade or by the river, and savor a final pastel de nata or a cup of port tonic (a refreshing cocktail of white port and tonic water).
Evening – Last Night Feast: For your farewell to Porto (and Portugal), enjoy a memorable meal. If you haven’t tried tripas à moda do Porto (tripe stew) and are feeling adventurous, this is the city’s namesake dish (Porto residents proudly call themselves “tripeiros” for eating tripe when they donated all good meat to 15th-century ships). You can find well-cooked versions at spots like Restaurant Tripeiro. If tripe’s not your thing (totally fine!), seafood or petiscos are a great choice. How about Polvo à lagareiro (roasted octopus with potatoes) or Arroz de Tamboril (monkfish rice stew)? Many traditional restaurants in the Ribeira or Baixa will have these. Taberna dos Mercadores in Ribeira is a tiny, reputed place for such dishes (reservation needed due to size). Or treat yourselves to a riverside dinner on Gaia’s side at Rabelos or Vinologia, enjoying the twinkling lights of Porto as a backdrop.
After dinner, take one last evening walk. The top deck of Dom Luís I Bridge is fantastic at night – you can reach it via the hill or by the Guindais Funicular to the Batalha area and then walking over. From up high, the city looks like a presepio (nativity scene), all lit up. It’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to conclude your stay.
Day 7: Douro Valley Day Trip – Vineyards, Views and a Relaxed Finale
Your final day is a cherry on top of the itinerary. For Day 7, you have two excellent options: venture out on a day trip to the Douro Valley for stunning landscapes and wine culture, or enjoy a free day in Porto for any sights you missed or just some R&R. We’ll outline the Douro adventure first, as it’s truly dreamy, and then suggest a relaxed Porto alternative.
Option 1 – Douro Valley Tour: The Douro Valley, birthplace of port wine, is an idyllic region of rolling hills sculpted by vineyard terraces. Even if you’re not a wine aficionado, the beauty of this valley is unforgettable. The simplest way to do this in a day is to join an organized tour from Porto. Many tours (small-group or private) will pick you up in the morning from your hotel, drive you about 1.5–2 hours into the heart of Douro, and include stops at one or two quintas (wine estates) for tours and tastings. Often a river cruise in a traditional boat is part of the package, plus a hearty lunch of regional cuisine.
A typical day might look like: depart 8:00–8:30 AM, drive through scenic roads to a viewpoint like São Leonardo de Galafura (panorama over the river bends), visit a winery in Pinhão or Peso da Régua (learn about wine-making, stroll among the vines, taste some port or table wines), enjoy a Douro river boat cruise for about an hour (relax as you glide past vineyard-covered hills), have lunch at a local restaurant or winery (often including dishes like roasted goat, vegetable soup, and of course wine), then visit a second estate or a charming village for a final tasting or olive oil sampling. By early evening, you’ll be driven back to Porto, typically arriving around 6–7 PM.
For families, many tours are kid-friendly (guides will often give kids grape juice and there’s plenty of interesting scenery to keep them engaged). Seniors will appreciate that someone else handles the logistics and driving on winding roads, so you can just sit back and soak in the views. Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and perhaps bring a hat – it can be quite warm and sunny in the valley, especially in summer.
By the time you return to Porto, you’ll likely be pleasantly tired and filled with great food, wine, and memories of vineyard vistas. Grab a light dinner if you need (maybe just some petiscos or a comforting soup like caldo verde). Then enjoy a final evening stroll. Perhaps walk by the São Bento Station one more time or down to Ribeira to see the reflections on the Douro. Savor the fact that you’ve experienced Portugal from city streets to country hills.
Option 2 – Extra Day in Porto: If a long day trip doesn’t appeal, spend Day 7 at your own pace in Porto. This is your chance to sleep in a bit, enjoy a relaxed breakfast (try Cafe Guarany on Avenida dos Aliados for a classic Portuguese coffeehouse experience). You could take a short excursion to the coast: ride the historic tram #1 from Infante (near Ribeira) along the river to Foz do Douro, where the river meets the ocean. Foz has a lovely promenade and beaches – take a walk by the Felgueiras Lighthouse as waves crash, and have a seafood lunch with an Atlantic view at Restaurant Praia da Luz or one of the esplanade cafes. The sea air is refreshing and it’s a nice change of scenery.
In the afternoon, if you haven’t yet, consider visiting Museu do Carro Eléctrico (Tram Museum) which is along the tram route – kids often enjoy seeing vintage trams. Or spend time souvenir shopping for goodies to bring home: port wine bottles, local cork products (wallets, handbags – Portugal is the top cork producer), handmade ceramics, and delicious treats like Porto’s bolinhos de bacalhau (codfish fritters) or Dr. Bayard cough candies (a classic Porto mint candy).
For your last dinner, maybe you want to cap it with something truly special – Porto also has some modern culinary gems. If budget isn’t an issue and you’d like a fine dining experience, The Yeatman in Gaia is a 2-Michelin-star restaurant with unbelievable views (need reservation far ahead). Or Antiqvvm by the Crystal Palace gardens in Porto, also Michelin-starred and fabulous for a gastronomic treat. For something upscale but more casual, Cantinho do Avillez Porto (by celebrity Chef José Avillez) offers creative Portuguese dishes. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with one more francesinha or trying a francesinha no prato (served on a plate without bread) if you became a fan!
Clink glasses with your travel companions – be it wine, sangria, or iced tea – and celebrate the wonderful week you’ve had. Saúde!
As the night falls, you might feel a tinge of saudade (that famous Portuguese wistful emotion) already – but remember, you can always return. For now, you’ve truly experienced the best of Lisbon and Porto in 7 unforgettable days.
Capture Your Portugal Memories with a Photo Session
Travel is made of special moments – laughing at a street performance, marveling at a sunset over the Douro, or embracing in front of a castle. Why not capture those memories forever? I offer private photography sessions for travelers in Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais, and beyond. It’s a fun, relaxed experience where I guide you through scenic spots and candidly snap the magic of your journey. Families love having beautiful photos with everyone in the frame (no more missing the photographer-parent!), and senior travelers enjoy a stress-free shoot that doubles as a personal tour. You’ll walk away with stunning professional photos – the ultimate souvenirs of your Portugal adventure. If you’d like to make your trip truly unforgettable, get in touch to book a photo session with us. Let’s turn your cherished moments into art!
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Enjoy your Portuguese adventure, and boa viagem! 🎉🏰🍷🌊