Portugal 5 days itinerary

Visiting Portugal with just five days to spare? You’re in luck – this country delivers big. In less than a week, you’ll wander Lisbon’s soulful streets, sip port in Porto, and explore Coimbra’s historic university and Aveiro’s candy-colored canals.

Throw in azulejo-tiled facades, grilled sardines, and a quick bica (espresso), and you’ve got a trip worth bragging about. This five-day Portugal itinerary is all about high-impact experiences – no filler, just the good stuff.

5 days in Portugal overview

Before we dive into the day-by-day breakdown, here’s a quick snapshot of how to make the most of your Portugal itinerary for 5 days. Check out our guide to the best time to visit Portugal for seasonal highlights.

• Day 1: Lisbon
• Day 2: A day trip to Sintra and Cascais
• Day 3: Porto
• Day 4: A day trip to Douro Valley
• Day 5: Coimbra and Aveiro

Is 5 days enough in Portugal?

Five days might not seem like much, but it’s plenty of time to experience the best places to visit in Portugal. From Lisbon’s lively streets and historic neighborhoods to Porto’s riverside charm and famous port wine, you’ll get a real taste of what makes this country so special.

Head to Coimbra to explore its centuries-old university and library, then make your way to Aveiro, where colorful moliceiro boats glide through picturesque canals. Along the way, indulge in fresh seafood, sip strong coffee, and, of course, don’t miss the iconic pastéis de nata.

A 5-day Portugal itinerary isn’t enough to see everything, but it’s plenty of time to fall in love with the country’s history, culture, and cuisine. If you're planning a trip to Portugal, this short but satisfying journey will give you a taste of its best spots, leaving you already dreaming about your next visit.

Take a look at how different Portugal trip lengths stack up:

*Indicative price per person for a fully arranged tailor-made trip.

Day 1: Lisbon

Welcome to Lisbon! After landing at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), it’s easy to reach the city center. Hop on the metro’s red line for a budget-friendly ride, grab a taxi (confirm the fare first), or book an Uber for a smooth arrival. For a tourist-friendly option, the Aerobus stops at central spots like Avenida da Liberdade and Praça do Comércio.

What to do in Lisbon

Once you’ve settled in, start exploring in Belém, home to two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a breathtaking Manueline masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t rush — its cloisters deserve your full attention. Nearby, the Belém Tower stands proudly on the Tagus River, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime history and a prime spot for photos.

Don’t leave Belém without stopping at Pastéis de Belém. Since 1837, this legendary bakery has been serving the original pastel de nata, a flaky, custardy delight that’s worth every calorie.

In the afternoon, wander through Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. Its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and hidden courtyards make it feel like a living museum. Visit the Lisbon Cathedral, then climb to São Jorge Castle for sweeping views of the city and river.

End your day at the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, a peaceful spot for a sunset view. For dinner, head to Bairro Alto, where the vibrant nightlife pairs perfectly with classic dishes like bacalhau à brás and a glass of ginginha.

Where to stay in Lisbon

When it’s time to crash for the night, you’ll find plenty of great places to stay in Lisbon.

• Baixa or Chiado: Perfect for first-timers, these central neighborhoods put you close to the action with plenty of restaurants and attractions within walking distance.
• Alfama: If you prefer a more historic and atmospheric vibe, this is your spot. Just be ready for steep hills and cobblestone streets.
• Bairro Alto: Ideal if you’re into nightlife, but keep in mind it can get noisy late into the evening.

Day 2: A day trip to Sintra and Cascais

Travel time: 40 minutes by train from Lisbon to Sintra; 30 minutes by car or bus from Sintra to Cascais; 40 minutes by train back to Lisbon

Start your day with a short train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station to Sintra, a magical town straight out of a storybook. 

What to do in Sintra

Your first stop on day two of this Portugal itinerary is the vibrant Pena Palace, perched high on a hill and painted in bold reds and yellows. Next, head to Quinta da Regaleira, a whimsical estate known for its gardens, secret tunnels, and the mysterious Initiation Well.

In the afternoon, visit the Sintra National Palace, easily recognized by its distinctive twin chimneys. The palace’s mix of Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline architecture offers a glimpse into Portugal’s royal past. Once you’ve soaked up Sintra’s charm, make your way to Cabo da Roca, the dramatic cliffs of mainland Europe’s westernmost point.

What to do in Cascais

As evening falls, stop in Cascais, a picturesque seaside town. Stroll along its cobblestone streets, check out the marina, or relax by the beach. For dinner, choose a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood — grilled sardines or octopus salad are local favorites. The relaxed atmosphere here is the perfect way to end the day before heading back to Lisbon.

Looking for a trip that fits you? Our local travel experts create itineraries tailored to your interests.

Day 3: Porto

Travel time: about 3 hours by train

Start your day early with a scenic train ride from Lisbon to Porto. Wondering how long to stay in Porto? A couple of days will cover the highlights, but a longer stay lets you dive deeper into its culture, food, and wine scene.

What do to in Porto

After checking into your hotel, head straight to Livraria Lello, often called one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. With its intricate wooden staircase, stained glass ceiling, and rich history, it’s a magical first stop in Portugal’s second city.

From there, head to the Ribeira district, a lively area along the Douro River and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is Porto at its most picturesque, with narrow, colorful houses lining the riverbank, while bustling cafes and shops spill out onto the cobblestone streets. Take a walk along the water, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and snapping photos of the iconic riverfront.

In the afternoon, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to Porto’s famous wine cellars. Sign up for a tour at one of the many historic wineries, where you’ll learn about the port wine-making process and, of course, enjoy a tasting. Try a glass of tawny or ruby port while viewing the river and Porto’s skyline.

Where to stay in Porto

Porto offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit every style and budget. Whether you’re looking for waterfront charm, artsy vibes, or a central hub, there’s a perfect spot for you. Here are some of the best places to stay in Porto:

• Ribeira district: Stay here for stunning river views and easy access to Porto’s most famous sights.
• Cedofeita: A quieter, artsy area with boutique hotels and trendy cafes.
• Baixa (Downtown Porto): Ideal if you want to be in the heart of the action, with plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

Day 4: A day trip to Douro Valley

Travel time: about 2 hours by train or car from Porto to the Douro Valley

Wake up early and get ready for a day spent in wine country. Whether you take the scenic train from Porto or join a guided tour, the journey to the Douro Valley sets the tone as you pass terraced vineyards that cascade down to the river. 

Things to do in Douro Valley

When you arrive, slow down with a boat cruise on the Douro River. As you glide along the calm waters, admire the scattering of vineyards that have been growing here for centuries, framed by rolling hills.

By lunchtime, you’ll head to one of the valley’s many family-run vineyards. There’s nothing pretentious here — just a warm welcome, excellent wine, and a traditional Portuguese lunch that could include roasted lamb, hearty stews, or fresh salads. With the view of the vineyards around you and a glass of velvety red in hand, it’s hard not to feel entirely at peace.

Before heading back to Porto, you will have time for a tasting. Taste the wines that have made this region famous - reds, whites and, of course, port wine. Each glass tells a different story of the Douro, and by the end of the day you'll feel like you've been told one of Portugal's best-kept secrets.

Day 5: Coimbra and Aveiro

Travel time: about 1.5 hours by train from Porto to Coimbra, then 1 hour by train from Coimbra to Aveiro. From Aveiro, it’s about 2.5 hours by train back to Lisbon or 1 hour to Porto.

On your last day, head to Coimbra, a city where history seems alive. 

What to do in Coimbra

The main attraction is the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in the world. Take your time exploring its campus, but don't miss the Joanina Library, a Baroque gem where centuries of knowledge is stored on gilded shelves. Even the bats that live here to protect the books from insects seem to fit the university’s quirky charm. Afterwards, wander the city’s medieval streets: steep and narrow, but worth the climb for the atmosphere and views.

What to do in Aveiro

In the afternoon, hop over to Aveiro, a coastal town with a personality all its own. Forget “Venice of Portugal” comparisons — Aveiro is distinctly Portuguese. Brightly painted Moliceiro boats drift along its canals, captained by locals who’ll give you a glimpse of the town’s traditions and history. Once you’re back on dry land, stroll along the art nouveau buildings and grab a box of ovos moles, Aveiro’s signature egg-yolk sweets. They’re sugary, unique, and a little addictive.

As the sun sets, it’s time to head back — whether to Lisbon, Porto, or the airport. A Portugal itinerary for 5 days does not seem like much, but you’ve managed to squeeze in a lifetime’s worth of memories, flavors, and stories.

From here, if you're heading to your next destination, be sure to check out our handpicked European itineraries designed to help you explore the continent with ease.

Plan with confidence using itineraries crafted by our Portugal local experts.