8-Day Relaxation Road Trip in Northern Portugal

Day 1: Explore Porto

Porto, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Majestic

Begin your journey with breakfast at the stunning Café Majestic, offering a variety of pastries and strong Portuguese coffee in a beautifully decorated setting.
Located in the heart of Porto.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Livraria Lello

Explore one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello, known for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture and intricate wooden details.
A short walk from the café.
EUR5, 1 hour

12:00PM

Ribeira District Walk

Wander the picturesque streets of the Ribeira District, where colourful buildings line the banks of the Douro River for an enchanting local experience.
Easy walk along the river.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Mercado do Bom Sucesso

Enjoy a variety of local dishes at this food market, featuring numerous stalls with authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Short drive or taxi to the market.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Port Wine Tasting at Graham’s Lodge

Delve into the world of port wine with a guided tasting at Graham’s Lodge, where you can appreciate different varieties while enjoying perfect views of Porto.
Drive to Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez

Savour innovative Portuguese cuisine with local ingredients creatively served in this beloved restaurant by chef José Avillez.
Return to Porto city centre.
EUR35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Douro Valley Exploration

Douro Valley, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at A Barca

Enjoy a hearty breakfast overlooking the Douro River, with traditional Portuguese options and delicious local pastries.
Drive to Douro Valley, about 1.5 hours.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

River Cruise on the Douro River

Board a picturesque boat cruise on the Douro River to soak in the stunning vineyard-covered hills and breathtaking scenery.
Book a cruise through local operators.
EUR25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at DOC

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant set in the valley, known for its modern Portuguese cuisine and exquisite views.
Drive to the restaurant, a short distance from the river.
EUR55, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Quinta do Crasto

Explore the renowned vineyard at Quinta do Crasto, where you can enjoy wine tastings and admire the panoramic views of the valley.
Short drive to the vineyard.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Quinta da Pacheca

Savour local cuisine paired expertly with wines produced on-site at this beautiful vineyard restaurant.
About a 30-minute drive from Quinta do Crasto.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Heritage of Guimarães

Guimarães, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café A Brasileira

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with traditional pastries and quality coffee in this charming café in the heart of Guimarães.
Drive from the Douro Valley to Guimarães, about 1 hour.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Guimarães Castle

Explore the iconic Guimarães Castle, a symbol of Portuguese history, with its impressive architecture and panoramic views.
Short drive or easy walk from the café.
EUR2, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore the Palace of the Dukes

Delve into the history of the Dukes of Braganza at this stunning historic palace located close to the castle.
Short walk to the palace.
EUR5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Taverna Vencedora

Indulge in traditional Guimarães dishes at this cosy tavern, known for its local flavours and hearty portions.
Short walk from the palace.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through the Historic Centre

Wander through the beautifully-preserved historic centre of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval streets.
Easy walk around the town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Cozinha de Fado

Finish your day with a delightful dinner at this local spot, featuring traditional dishes and live Fado music for ambience.
Return to the centre of Guimarães.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Pioneering Braga

Braga, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bracara Augusta

Kickstart your day with a lovely breakfast in this popular café, known for fresh ingredients and vibrant atmosphere.
Drive from Guimarães to Braga, about 30 minutes.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Bom Jesus do Monte

Take a cable car ride up to the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, an iconic baroque church with stunning terraced gardens.
Short drive to the sanctuary.
EUR3, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Explore Braga Cathedral

Discover the impressive architecture of Braga Cathedral, one of the oldest in Portugal, and a remarkable site of history.
Short drive back to the city centre.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Xico Gourmet

Savour contemporary Portuguese fare in this beloved restaurant, known for its creative presentation and flavours.
Easy walk from the cathedral.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll around Jardim de Santa Barbara

Relax among the beautiful flowers and greenery at Jardim de Santa Barbara, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Braga.
Short walk to the garden.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Manto Verde

Enjoy a culinary journey at this restaurant renowned for its innovative twist on traditional dishes.
Return to the city centre.
EUR35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Coastal Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pastelaria Nela

Start your morning at this local bakery, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee with a seaside view.
Drive from Braga to Viana do Castelo, about 1 hour.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia

Take a funicular up to Santa Luzia for stunning views of the coastline and a chance to explore the beautiful basilica.
Short drive to the funicular station.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Walk through the Historic Centre

Explore the charming streets of Viana do Castelo’s historic centre, with beautiful architecture and quaint shops.
Easy walk from the basilica.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Tasca da Terra

Relish traditional Minho dishes at this cosy restaurant known for its local charm and hearty meals.
Short walk from the historic centre.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Praia do Cabedelo

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Praia do Cabedelo, a perfect spot for sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim.
Short drive to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at O Pazo

Enjoy a delightful dinner of fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine with a view of the river.
Short drive back to the city centre.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Charming Aveiro

Aveiro, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pastelaria Rossio

Enjoy breakfast at this well-known bakery, famous for its delicious ovos moles and pastries.
Drive from Viana do Castelo to Aveiro, about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Canals of Aveiro

Take a picturesque boat trip through the canals of Aveiro, often referred to as the 'Venice of Portugal'.
Book a trip through local operators.
EUR15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit the Aveiro Fish Market

Immerse yourself in local culture by wandering around the vibrant fish market and sampling local delicacies.
Short walk from the canals.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at O Bairro

Taste traditional Portuguese seafood dishes at this charming restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere.
Easy walk from the market.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Praia da Barra

Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun at Praia da Barra, known for its beautiful beach and iconic lighthouse.
Drive to the beach, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Marisqueira O Barco

End your day with a splendid dinner at this seafood haven, famous for its fresh catch and traditional recipes.
Return to Aveiro city centre.
EUR30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Cultural Coimbra

Coimbra, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Café Santa Cruz

Begin your visit in Coimbra with a delightful breakfast at this historic café, known for its pastries and rich coffee.
Drive from Aveiro to Coimbra, about 1 hour.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the University of Coimbra

Explore one of the oldest universities in the world, and don't miss the stunning Joanina Library.
Short drive or walk to the university.
EUR12, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Loggia

Savour cuisine with a view at Loggia, situated within the museum, offering beautiful panoramas of the city.
Short walk within the university.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Botanic Gardens

Walk through the tranquil Botanic Gardens of Coimbra, a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
Short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Old Cathedral

Visit the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha), one of the earliest Romanesque structures in Portugal with captivating history.
Short walk to the cathedral.
EUR3, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at A Cozinha do Chef

End your day with a delectable dinner at A Cozinha do Chef, known for its innovative dishes and local wines.
Return to Coimbra city centre.
EUR35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Final Day in Porto

Porto, Portugal

9:00AM

Breakfast at Nicolau Porto

Savour a fresh breakfast at this vibrant café serving healthy options and delicious smoothies.
Drive back to Porto, about 1.5 hours.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Crystal Palace Gardens

Take a stroll through the beautiful Crystal Palace Gardens, offering stunning views over the Douro River and city.
Short drive from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

Enjoy local produce and dishes at this bustling market, ideal for tasting the flavours of Porto.
Located centrally in Porto.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Porto Cathedral

Visit the iconic Porto Cathedral, an important historical monument with impressive architecture.
Easy walk from the market.
EUR3, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Foz do Douro

Unwind by the seaside at Foz do Douro, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for a gentle walk.
15-minute drive from the cathedral.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Final Dinner at Cervejaria Ramiro

Conclude your Northern Portugal adventure with a legendary seafood feast at Cervejaria Ramiro, famed for its fresh specialties.
Drive into Porto city centre.
EUR40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability