Discover Portugal: Lisbon to Porto Tour

Your vacation begins in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon. Gaze at Torre de Belém by the Atlantic Ocean, a tower built in the Age of Discovery with outstanding Manueline stylings. Take a tram through hilly streets to the Alfama district, where a medieval maze of architecture awaits. A plate of Porco Preto, cured ham, tastes best served with Duoro wine, a must for all visitors. Take an evening stroll across the square Praça do Comércio after visiting the MAAT museum to feel inspired. 

Next, you’ll move north along the coast towards Coimbra, stopping off for a picnic on the beach before arriving in this riverside city. Enjoy a walking tour that takes in architectural delights such as the historic Paço das Escolas university, Santa Cruz monastery, and the baroque Joanina Library. A cycle across Pedro e Inês Bridge provides expansive views of the winding Mondego River. At night, enjoy Bacalao in a restaurant where Fado music plays, and Madeira wine is generously poured late into the evening. 

Feel harmonious with nature as you enter Castelo de Paiva, a town by the Paiva and Douro River. Hike through valleys of green hills that roll out of view and enjoy a sip or two whilst on a vineyard tour. On the Island of Loves, gaze across the river before entering mountain villages Midões and Gondarém, communities that reflect an ancient history of Europe’s oldest country. 

End in Porto by the Douro River and walk the atmospheric streets of Portugal’s second largest city. Baroque and neoclassical buildings, adorned with the classic azulejos tiles, create a beautiful architectural backdrop. Bike through Ribeira and across Ponte Dom Luis Bridge, an iconic landmark where you can watch as rabelo boats float by. A cellar tour along the Cais de Ribeira to taste the finest port is a must on route to a restaurant that serves up meaty dishes of Francesinha and Vinho Verde wine.