One Week in Portugal: Lisbon to Porto by Train

Portugal packs Atlantic cities, hilltop palaces, and wine country into a compact country—ideal for a seven-day loop without constant flights.

Recommended pacing

Days 1–2: Lisbon — Alfama viewpoints, Belém monuments, and a food-focused evening in Bairro Alto or Mouraria. Lisbon’s hills are real; group sights by neighborhood.

Day 3: Sintra — Pena Palace and Moorish Castle require timed tickets in summer. Return to Lisbon or stay in Sintra if you hate early trains.

Day 4: Óbidos & Coimbra — Medieval walls in Óbidos fit a half day. Coimbra’s university quarter rewards an overnight.

Days 5–7: Porto — Ribeira riverfront, port lodge tastings in Vila Nova de Gaia, and a half-day Douro Valley option if you rent a car or book a tour.

Getting around

CP trains connect Lisbon, Coimbra, and Porto. Book intercity tickets ahead on busy weekends. In cities, walk plus metro (Lisbon) or light rail (Porto).

Driving is optional; parking in old centers is painful. If you drive, Óbidos and Douro are easier.

Food and budget

Expect €12–25 lunch menus and €25–45 dinners with wine in tourist centers. Tipping 5–10% is appreciated, not mandatory.

Mid-range travelers often spend €90–150 per person per day excluding flights.

Best seasons

April–June and September–October offer mild weather and long daylight. August is crowded in Lisbon; Porto stays somewhat cooler.

See our complete 7-day Portugal itinerary for daily activities and restaurant-style suggestions.