Follow this guide to discover how to spend 8 incredible days between Lisbon and Porto — including train travel, wine tastings, and hidden local experiences.
O que este artigo aborda:
- Days 1–3: Discovering Lisbon — Historic Districts, Belém, and a Sintra Day Trip
- Day 4: Traveling from Lisbon to Porto — Scenic Train Journey Along Portugal’s Coast
- Days 5–6: Exploring Porto — Ribeira District, Port Wine Cellars, and São Bento Station
- Day 7: Douro Valley Day Trip — Wine Tasting and River Cruise in UNESCO Wine Region
- Day 8: Final Day in Porto or Return to Lisbon — Livraria Lello and Coastal Walks
- How Long is the Train Journey Between Lisbon and Porto?
- Is 8 Days Enough to See Both Lisbon and Porto?
- Make the Most of Your Lisbon and Porto in 8 Days Journey
Days 1–3: Discovering Lisbon — Historic Districts, Belém, and a Sintra Day Trip
Begin your journey in Lisbon’s heart. Explore Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama, where cobbled streets, tram rides, and tiled facades capture the city’s vibrant soul.
Visit Belém for landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, and don’t miss Pastéis de Belém for Lisbon’s most iconic custard tarts fresh from the oven.
On day three, take a day trip to Sintra to see Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle. The fairytale scenery and misty hills are truly magical.
Evenings are best spent watching the sunset from a miradouro or enjoying Fado music over a glass of Portuguese wine in the historic Alfama district.
Day 4: Traveling from Lisbon to Porto — Scenic Train Journey Along Portugal’s Coast
On your fourth day, travel north from Lisbon to Porto by train. The journey takes around three hours and follows Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coastline.
Trains depart frequently from Santa Apolónia or Oriente Station, offering comfort and beautiful seaside views. Book your ticket in advance for the best price and seat.
Once in Porto, check into your accommodation near the Ribeira district. Enjoy a relaxed evening walk along the Douro River and taste your first glass of local port wine.
Traveling by train allows you to avoid the stress of airports and highways while experiencing one of Europe’s most scenic rail routes between two great capitals.
Days 5–6: Exploring Porto — Ribeira District, Port Wine Cellars, and São Bento Station
Spend the next two days diving into Porto’s charm. Start with a stroll through Ribeira, the colorful waterfront area filled with cafés and narrow cobbled lanes.
Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for stunning views, then visit Vila Nova de Gaia’s port wine cellars to learn about the city’s legendary winemaking heritage.
Don’t miss São Bento Station, famous for its blue-and-white azulejos depicting Portuguese history. It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful train stations.
Wrap up your evenings at riverside restaurants, sampling traditional dishes like francesinha or grilled cod, paired with a glass of tawny port.
Day 7: Douro Valley Day Trip — Wine Tasting and River Cruise in UNESCO Wine Region
Dedicate day seven to the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for terraced vineyards and scenic river bends surrounded by rolling hills.
Join a guided tour or take the train to Peso da Régua for wine tastings at historic estates overlooking the river. The landscape is postcard-perfect in every direction.
A short river cruise offers another perspective of this world-famous wine region. Autumn months, in particular, paint the valley in golden hues worth the trip.
This day perfectly complements your Lisbon and Porto in 8 days journey — blending nature, culture, and Portugal’s deep-rooted wine traditions.
Day 8: Final Day in Porto or Return to Lisbon — Livraria Lello and Coastal Walks
On your last day, visit the stunning Livraria Lello, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Its neo-gothic staircase inspired scenes from Harry Potter.
Spend your final hours walking along Porto’s Foz do Douro promenade, where the river meets the Atlantic. It’s peaceful, scenic, and the perfect farewell stroll.
If returning to Lisbon, the train back offers another chance to enjoy Portugal’s coastal views. Many travelers prefer to fly home from Porto to save time.
Whichever option you choose, take a final moment to enjoy a pastel de nata and reflect on your unforgettable Portuguese adventure.
How Long is the Train Journey Between Lisbon and Porto?
The train between Lisbon and Porto takes around three hours, with frequent departures throughout the day. It’s the fastest and most scenic way to travel between the cities.
Alfa Pendular trains offer comfort, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. You can easily book tickets online through Comboios de Portugal (CP) or at the main stations.
Trains from Lisbon’s Santa Apolónia or Oriente stations arrive at Porto’s Campanhã Station, conveniently connected to the city center by metro or taxi.
This rail journey is more sustainable and relaxing than driving, giving you a front-row seat to Portugal’s stunning coastline and rolling countryside.
Is 8 Days Enough to See Both Lisbon and Porto?
Yes, 8 days is the perfect amount of time to explore both Lisbon and Porto. You’ll experience two different sides of Portugal — cosmopolitan charm and old-world beauty.
Lisbon’s hills, viewpoints, and tiled streets contrast beautifully with Porto’s riverside terraces, historic bridges, and intimate wine cellars by the Douro.
This balanced itinerary lets you dive into Portugal’s culture without feeling rushed. Each city offers its own rhythm, flavors, and unforgettable experiences.
For maps, transportation passes, and trip planning tools, visit the Visit Portugal website.
Make the Most of Your Lisbon and Porto in 8 Days Journey
Spending 8 days between Lisbon and Porto is the perfect way to experience Portugal’s beauty, history, and warm hospitality in one unforgettable trip.
Plan your travel ahead, wear comfortable shoes, and allow time for spontaneous moments — they’re often what make a trip to Portugal truly special.
Whether you’re sipping wine by the Douro, admiring Lisbon’s viewpoints, or exploring Sintra’s palaces, every stop adds a new layer to your Portuguese adventure.
For updated travel information, head to the Visit Portugal official website and start planning today.
