5 Days in Portugal: Lisbon, Sintra & Porto
5-Day Portugal Itinerary
Lisbon Classics
Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge, and Bairro Alto..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Sintra Day Trip
Train to Sintra, Pena Palace, and Quinta da Regaleira..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Train to Porto
Morning train (3 hrs).
Afternoon exploring the Ribeira district.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Porto Wine & Bridges
Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge, port tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Francesinha & Departure
Eat a heavy local lunch and fly out..
Explore the local area and enjoy the vibes.
Enjoy a local dinner and the evening atmosphere.
Pro Tips
Bacalhau (salted cod) is everywhere. Eat a Francesinha in Porto (Cafe Santiago is great). Drink Vinho Verde in Lisbon and Port in Porto.
Where to Stay
Lisbon: Chiado
Central for 3 nights.
Porto: Ribeira
Right on the river for 2 nights.
Daily Budget
Per person, per day including accommodation, food, and activities
Must-See Attractions
- Lisbon Classics
- Sintra Day Trip
- Train to Porto
- Porto Wine & Bridges
- Francesinha & Departure
Hidden Gems
- Livraria Lello in Porto is famous, but the real gem is the quiet Miradouro da Vitória.
Getting Around
The Alfa Pendular fast train between Lisbon and Porto takes about 2.5 hours. Book in advance for discounts.
Frequently Asked 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.