13-Day Family Road Trip Itinerary in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Douro Valley, Lago, Faro, Albufeira, and Sintra

Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal on July 3, 2025

10:00AM

Arrive at Lisbon Airport

Arrive at Lisbon Airport and pick up your rental car for the trip ahead.
Drive 30 minutes to your hotel in the city center.
EUR 100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Time Out Market

Experience delicious Portuguese dishes at this vibrant market filled with local flavors and dining stalls.
Walk 10 minutes from your hotel to the market.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Alfama District

Wander through Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, famous for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views.
Walk 15 minutes from Time Out Market.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit São Jorge Castle

Explore the historic castle that offers panoramic views of the city.
15-minute walk from Alfama District.
EUR 10 per person, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ramiro

Savor fresh seafood, especially famous for its garlic shrimp and crab.
10-minute drive from the castle.
EUR 80, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening Stroll in Bairro Alto

Enjoy a leisurely evening walk in one of Lisbon’s most vibrant neighborhoods alive with music.
5-minute drive from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Lisbon Sightseeing

Lisbon, Portugal on July 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fabrica Coffee Roasters

Start your day with locally roasted coffee and pastries.
5-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Jerónimos Monastery

A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning Manueline architecture.
25-minute drive from breakfast.
EUR 12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Discover Belém Tower

Explore the historic tower located along the waterfront, symbolizing Portugal's Age of Discovery.
10-minute drive from the monastery.
EUR 6, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at O Prego da Peixaria

Enjoy a unique twist on traditional Portuguese food with fresh fish sandwiches.
15-minute drive from Belém Tower.
EUR 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit MAAT - Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology

Explore exciting contemporary exhibitions in an architecturally stunning building.
5-minute walk from lunch.
EUR 9, 2 hours

5:15PM

Tram 28 ride

Board the iconic yellow tram, which will take you through the city's historical neighborhoods.
Walk to the nearest tram station.
EUR 3, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at A Cevicheria

For a twist, savor flavorful ceviche in this trendy and artistic venue.
Drive 10 minutes from the tram stop.
EUR 70, 2 hours

9:00PM

Fado Music Experience

Enjoy traditional Portuguese Fado in a local restaurant for an authentic cultural experience.
Walk 10 minutes from dinner.
EUR 50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Porto

Porto, Portugal on July 5, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Porto

Check out and embark on a 3-hour drive north to Portugal’s second-largest city.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 3 hours

11:00AM

Arrive and check-in at Porto hotel

Settle into your hotel and refresh after your journey.
N/A
EUR 100, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

Savor authentic Portuguese lunch at this traditional market atmosphere with various food stalls.
10-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Ribeira District

Hop around colorful houses and enjoy the riverside views of the Douro River.
15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Livraria Lello

Explore the stunning bookstore known for its neo-Gothic style and inspiring atmosphere.
15-minute walk from the Ribeira.
EUR 5 (voucher for book purchase), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Café Majestic

Dine in this beautifully ornate cafe that harkens back to the Belle Époque.
10-minute walk from the bookstore.
EUR 80, 2 hours

8:30PM

Evening walk across Dom Luís I Bridge

Enjoy a picturesque evening stroll with views over Porto and the Douro River.
5-minute walk from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Douro Valley

Douro Valley, Portugal on July 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Garonte

Relish local pastries and a coffee to start your day right.
5-minute walk from your hotel.
EUR 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Douro Valley

Take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the breathtaking Douro Valley, known for its wine country.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Wine Tour and Tasting

Visit a family-friendly winery where you can tour the vineyard and taste local wines while the kids enjoy grape juice.
20-minute drive from the valley entrance.
EUR 15 (wine tasting), EUR 5 (juice for kids), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Quinta do Vallado

Dine at this picturesque winery, enjoying local cuisine paired with their wines.
5-minute drive from the winery.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Pinhão

Stroll around the charming village overlooking the Douro River and visit the railway station decorated with azulejos.
25-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Douro Valley hotel

Settle into your family-friendly accommodation surrounded by nature.
10-minute drive from Pinhão.
EUR 120, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the Hotel’s Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at your hotel's restaurant featuring local specialties.
N/A
EUR 70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Exploring Douro Valley

Douro Valley, Portugal on July 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast with stunning views over the vineyards.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Douro River Cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Douro River, taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
10-minute drive to the boat launch.
EUR 50 per person (children have discounts), 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit a Local Olive Oil Farm

Learn about olive oil production and taste fresh local oils with bread.
30-minute drive from the boat cruise.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at DOC Restaurant

Dine at this renowned restaurant overlooking the Douro River, specializing in local dishes.
20-minute drive from the olive oil farm.
EUR 90, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Vineyards

Return to your hotel and enjoy guided walks through nearby vineyards, learning more about wine production.
10-minute drive back to the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

Rest and take a break before dinner.
N/A
EUR 0, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Wine Estate

Experience dinner at a local estate with organic farm-to-table ingredients.
20-minute drive from hotel.
EUR 80, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Travel to Lago

Lago, Portugal on July 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lago

Hit the road for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Lago.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurante O Veleiro

Savor breathtaking views along with fresh seafood dishes.
Right at Lago, 10-minute stop.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Relax at Lago Beach

Spend the afternoon lounging and swimming at Lago’s beautiful beach.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle in your hotel and relax a bit before dinner.
N/A
EUR 100, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at O Camões

Enjoy local cuisine with a cozy family-friendly atmosphere.
10-minute drive from hotel.
EUR 70, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll by the Waterfront

Take a relaxed walk along the waterfront, enjoying the sunset.
5-minute drive from dinner.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Explore Faro

Faro, Portugal on July 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a day of exploration with breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Faro

Take a 30-minute drive to the capital of the Algarve region.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Faro Old Town

Wander through the charming cobbled streets and visit the Arco da Vila.
15-minute walk from parking.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Faro Municipal Museum

Delve into the history of Faro, housed in a former convent with stunning artifacts.
5-minute walk from the Old Town.
EUR 5, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Vila Adentro

Savor regional dishes in a restaurant with a quaint ambiance.
10-minute walk from the museum.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Ria Formosa Natural Park

Discover the stunning wetlands and wildlife, perfect for a family walk.
15-minute drive from lunch.
Free (parking may apply), 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Lago

Drive back to your hotel in Lago to relax before dinner.
30-minute drive back.
EUR 0 (gas), 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante A Pipa

Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in a family-friendly environment.
10-minute drive from hotel.
EUR 60, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel to Albufeira

Albufeira, Portugal on July 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Albufeira

Journey for about 45 minutes to Albufeira, a gorgeous coastal city.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 45 minutes

10:00AM

Check-in at Albufeira hotel

Arrive at your hotel and settle in before your fun activities.
N/A
EUR 100, 1 hour

11:30AM

Snack at Pastelaria O Fago

Try some traditional Portuguese pastries and coffee.
5-minute walk from hotel.
EUR 25, 1 hour

12:30PM

Beach Time at Praia da Rocha

Spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming at a famous beach.
10-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante A Casinha

Enjoy a cozy family meal with varied options for all ages.
5-minute drive back to Albufeira.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Old Town Albufeira

Wander around the picturesque streets and enjoy local shops.
10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ouzo

Dine with a Mediterranean twist in a lively atmosphere suited for families.
5-minute walk from Old Town.
EUR 75, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Albufeira Leisure Day

Albufeira, Portugal on July 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor breakfast in the hotel before your day begins.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Adventure Park Algarve

Spend the morning enjoying thrilling activities suitable for both kids and adults.
20-minute drive.
EUR 100 (family ticket), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pizzaria Delicia

Grab a quick and kid-friendly pizza for lunch.
5-minute drive.
EUR 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax on Praia de São Rafael

Enjoy an afternoon at one of the most beautiful beaches nearby, swimming and relaxing.
10-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

Head back and unwind before dinner.
10-minute drive.
EUR 0, 10 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at A Tasquinha

Experience Portuguese cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere.
5-minute drive from hotel.
EUR 60, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Travel to Sintra

Sintra, Portugal on July 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your breakfast in the hotel before departure.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sintra

Head to Sintra with a picturesque 3-hour drive, including scenic views.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cantinho Gourmet

Arrive at Sintra and enjoy a welcoming lunch at this cozy restaurant.
5-minute walk from parking.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Pena Palace

Explore the vibrant and whimsical palace surrounded by beautiful gardens.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
EUR 14, 2 hours

3:30PM

Discover Quinta da Regaleira

Wander through enchanting gardens and a grand estate with fascinating architecture.
10-minute drive from Pena Palace.
EUR 10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Sintra hotel

Arrive at your hotel and refresh yourself.
N/A
EUR 100, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Tascantiga

Enjoy a flavorful tapas dinner in an inviting setting, perfect for families.
10-minute walk from hotel.
EUR 70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Explore Sintra

Sintra, Portugal on July 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for a day of adventure with breakfast at the hotel.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Monserrate Palace

Discover another beautiful palace surrounded by lush gardens and stunning architecture.
15-minute drive from hotel.
EUR 8, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hike the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park

Enjoy a family-friendly hike with gorgeous views of the coastline.
20-minute drive from Monserrate.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Cantinho do Avillez

Savor modern Portuguese food in a cozy atmosphere.
30-minute drive back towards Sintra center.
EUR 60, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the National Palace of Sintra

Explore the beautiful history and architecture of this iconic palace.
10-minute drive from lunch.
EUR 10, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

Relax before dinner.
10-minute drive back.
EUR 0, 10 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Cantinho da Vila

Wrap up the day with delightful homemade dishes in a friendly setting.
10-minute walk from hotel.
EUR 70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Return to Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal on July 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before leaving Sintra.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Lisbon

Head back to Lisbon for a comfortable 40-minute drive.
N/A
EUR 0 (gas), 40 minutes

10:00AM

Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Explore a vast collection of interesting art set in a beautiful park.
25-minute drive downtown.
EUR 12, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado da Ribeira

Enjoy a vibrant food market with a variety of local options for a casual bite.
15-minute drive from the museum.
EUR 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll through Eduardo VII Park

Relax and enjoy the beautiful views from this lovely park.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Check in at Lisbon hotel

Settle back in your hotel for your last nights in Lisbon.
10-minute drive from park.
EUR 100, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Time Out Market

Visit one last time to enjoy your favorite food stall or try something new.
Take a 10-minute drive.
EUR 60, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Departure

Lisbon, Portugal on July 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
N/A
EUR 0 (included), 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Souvenirs

Spend the morning grabbing any last-minute souvenirs or gifts.
15-minute drive to shopping area.
Free (depends on purchases), 2 hours

11:00AM

Return Rental Car

Return your rental car back to the airport.
30-minute drive from shopping area.
EUR 0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Flight Check-in

Check in for your flight and prepare for your departure.
Located at Lisbon Airport.
EUR 0 (included in flight), 2 hours
View Hotel Availability