5 Days in Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra & Porto
Portugal is small enough that five days can actually cover a lot of ground if you use the trains. This route gives you the hills of Lisbon, a fairytale castle, and the moody, wine-soaked alleys of Porto.
Day-by-Day Snapshot
Lisbon Classics
Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge, and Bairro Alto.
Sintra Day Trip
Train to Sintra, Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira.
Train to Porto
Morning train (3 hrs). Afternoon exploring the Ribeira district.
Porto Wine & Bridges
Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge, port tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Francesinha & Departure
Eat a heavy local lunch and fly out.
- •Trying to drive in Lisbon or Porto (the roads are narrow and parking is a nightmare).
- •Not buying Sintra tickets in advance.
- •Ordering a Francesinha sandwich alone (it's massive, share it).
- •Skipping the train and driving between the two cities (train is faster).
May or September.
Livraria Lello in Porto is famous, but the real gem is the quiet Miradouro da Vitória.
- Lisbon: Chiado: Central for 3 nights.
- Porto: Ribeira: Right on the river for 2 nights.
Getting Around
The Alfa Pendular fast train between Lisbon and Porto takes about 2.5 hours. Book in advance for discounts.
Where to Eat
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Common Questions
Is 5 days enough for the Algarve too?
No. Stick to the cities. Add 3 more days if you want beaches.
Is it very hilly?
Yes. Both Lisbon and Porto require serious walking up steep inclines.
Is Porto better than Lisbon?
Porto is moodier, smaller, and feels older. Lisbon is grander and sunnier.
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