Early morning flight from Manchester to Lisbon to maximise daytime — flight time about 2h 40m so you can arrive mid/late morning and make the most of the day.
Large and lively food hall with many stalls so everyone in the group finds something they like; open roughly 10:00–00:00 so suits varied arrival times.
Sleep in or enjoy a relaxed neighbourhood breakfast at a pastelaria with coffee and pastel de nata — a deliberately free day so the group can rest or choose activities.
If the group is energetic, catch the train to Sintra (≈40–45 minutes) to see Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira; palaces typically open around 09:30–18:30 so plan for a full day.
If you fancy culture, book a Fado show and dinner in Alfama or Bairro Alto (concerts usually start around 20:00–21:00); otherwise keep the evening free.
Choose MAAT for modern art and architecture (usually open 11:00–19:00) or the Coach Museum for its magnificent historic carriages; both are near Belém.
Treat the group to outstanding seafood — Ramiro is a local institution (arrive early or expect a wait) while Sea Me mixes tradition with modern touches.
Quick breakfast and check out of your Lisbon accommodation; prepare for car pick-up and a scenic driving day northwards — luggage in the car makes side-stops easy.
Collect your rental car in Lisbon (pick-up at the airport or downtown). For a multi-day one-way rental Lisbon → Porto expect ~EUR150 for 3 days off-season; check insurance and local one-way fees.
Historic University (one of Europe’s oldest) with the ornate Biblioteca Joanina — prebooked visits recommended as opening times are limited (often 09:00–17:00).
Dine in a traditional tasca for hearty local food or at Loggia for a more modern option with views of the city — Coimbra offers good value and friendly spots.
Cross or walk along Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit a port-wine cellar for a guided tasting—most cellars operate 10:00–18:00 so afternoon visits fit well.
If you prefer not to keep the car in the city, drop it off at a Porto central depot or airport location (check rental terms for one-way drop-off fees); otherwise park and continue exploring.
Visit the famed Art Nouveau bookshop (prebook tickets) and climb Clérigos Tower for sweeping city views; Lello normally opens around 10:00 and can get busy so morning is smart.
Take a 50–90 minute river cruise for great views of the city and bridges; operators run trips roughly 10:00–18:00 depending on season so book a mid-afternoon slot.
Return the rental car at the agreed Porto depot or airport site — allow time for the final check and paperwork; confirm fuel/toll charges before leaving.