Porto, Aveiro, Coimbra & Lisbon

Description

3 Nights – Porto
2 Nights – Aveiro
3 Nights – Coimbra
4 Nights – Lisbon

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✈ UK to Porto (3 nights):  Porto is the perfect introduction to Portugal with its mix of pretty riverside views and interesting history. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be drawn to the charming streets and bustling waterfront promenade, Cais da Ribeira. The lively Praça da Ribeira, surrounded by quaint shops and vibrant bars, is the ideal place to relax and watch the world go by. Set sail on a traditional rabelo boat trip along the Douro River, passing under the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, a striking double-decked metal arch that spans the river. For a dose of history, head uphill to the magnificent Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto), a Romanesque masterpiece with spectacular views of the city. Also head to the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and the São Bento Station, with its breathtaking blue and white azulejos (traditional ceramic tiles) that depict scenes from Portugal’s history. Of course, no visit to Porto is complete without experiencing its famed port wine, so make sure you head to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour the wine cellars and learn about the ancient process of ageing and storying this national drink.

🚆  Porto to Aveiro (2 nights): Next, hop aboard a scenic train to Aveiro, a charming city with winding canals and Art Nouveau architecture – often dubbed the Venice of Portugal. Glide through the canals on a traditional moliceiro boat, passing the Mercado do Peixe and the Ponte dos Ovos Moles (named after the city’s famous sweet treats). To truly soak up the city’s charm, you’ll need to put on your walking shoes. Head to the Museu de Aveiro, tucked away in a former monastery, where you can admire religious art and visit the tomb of Princess Joana. If you’re a fan of art, make your way to the Museu Arte Nova, which showcases the city’s unique architecture and design.

🚆 Aveiro to Coimbra (3 Nights):  You’ll continue your journey via train to Coimbra, where history practically spills out onto the streets, and there’s no shortage of spots to explore. At the heart of the city is the Universidade de Coimbra, one of Europe’s oldest universities, where you can wander through the Paço das Escolas courtyard, climb the Torre da Universidade bell tower for incredible views, and lose yourself in the Biblioteca Joanina, a Baroque library filled with ancient books. Next, head to the Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro, a former bishop’s palace which houses Gothic sculptures with Roman ruins underneath. The 12th-century Sé Velha cathedral is a must-see along with the Arco de Almedina arch which leads you into the medieval wonders of Coimbra’s upper town.  After all that exploring, you’ll be ready to head to one of the local taverns or riverside restaurants to sample the delicious local dishes such as leitão (roast suckling pig).

🚆 Coimbra to Lisbon (4 nights) Arriving by train once more, your Portuguese adventure reaches its grand finale in Lisbon, the country’s lively capital. A city of sun-drenched squares, iconic yellow trams, and an irresistibly welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Lisbon consistently ranks as a top city to visit.  To step back in time, wander through the maze of alleys in Alfama, where narrow streets wind past colourful houses adorned with bright bougainvillea.  Climb up to Castelo de São Jorge for sweeping city views, or admire the Romanesque beauty of Lisbon Cathedral, the city’s oldest church. When it’s time to slow down, grab a coffee in one of Lisbon’s lively squares and indulge in a traditional pastéis de nata (custard tart).  As night falls, head to Bairro Alto where you’ll find vibrant bars and the sound of Fado music spilling out into the streets.

If you fancy a day trip, hop on a train to Sintra, a fairy-tale town nestled in the Serra de Sintra mountains. Explore the Pena Palace, perched high above the town, or get lost in the enchanting gardens and secret tunnels of Quinta da Regaleira. If you’d prefer a beachy day trip, head to Cascais, a lovely coastal town just a short ride away, offering golden beaches, fresh seafood, and stunning Atlantic views – the perfect way to round off your Portuguese adventure.

✈ Lisbon to UK:  We’ll take you to Lisbon airport for you trip back home to the UK.