5 Days in Portugal: The Perfect Lisbon and Porto Itinerary (By Train)
Planning 5 days in Portugal? This Lisbon and Porto itinerary combines beautiful viewpoints, tiled churches, colourful streets, fantastic food and easy train travel between the two cities.
Portugal was one of the countries I had wanted to visit for a long time, and when I finally made my first trip, I decided to combine Lisbon and Porto. I had heard so much about both places, especially Porto, where friends kept telling me that I would love the atmosphere. They were right.
Lisbon felt bright, romantic and full of energy. I loved wandering along the steep cobbled streets, seeing yellow trams squeeze past old buildings and stopping for more pastéis de nata than I probably needed. Porto, on the other hand, had a quieter kind of beauty, with its tiled churches, old bridges and colourful houses by the Douro River.
For a first trip, I think these two cities make a wonderful combination, particularly if you have limited time. The train connection means you do not need to rent a car, and you can focus on enjoying the places instead of spending your holiday driving.
This 5 days in Portugal itinerary is the route I would recommend after my own visits, rather than an exact diary of how I spent each day. It gives you two full days in Lisbon, a travel day with time in both cities, and two more days to explore Porto. I have also included where I would stay, how to travel by train, photography spots and a few alternatives if you prefer a slower pace.
Why Visit Lisbon and Porto on the Same Trip?
Lisbon and Porto are two of Portugal’s best cities for a first visit, but they have different personalities. Lisbon has sweeping hilltop viewpoints, vintage trams, grand squares and colourful neighbourhoods. Porto feels more intimate, with blue-and-white azulejo tiles, a beautiful riverfront, a famous iron bridge and streets that are lovely to explore without a strict plan.
I also like how well they balance each other. If you love architecture and photography, you will find something beautiful in both cities. If you enjoy local food, bakeries, cafés and walking for hours, you can easily fill five days without running out of things to do.
If you are still deciding where else to visit in the country, my top 10 Portugal travel destinations guide covers places beyond these two cities, including the Algarve, Madeira and the Azores.
5 Days in Portugal Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Destination | Suggested highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Lisbon | Praça do Comércio, Alfama, Tram 28, Castelo de São Jorge, viewpoints | Lisbon |
| Day 2 | Lisbon | Jerónimos Monastery, pastéis de nata, Belém Tower, Tagus River and Chiado | Lisbon |
| Day 3 | Lisbon → Porto | Slow Lisbon morning, train to Porto, São Bento Station and Ribeira | Porto |
| Day 4 | Porto | Chapel of Souls, Igreja do Carmo, Livraria Lello, Clérigos Tower and Porto Cathedral | Porto |
| Day 5 | Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia | Luís I Bridge, Gaia viewpoints, riverfront, cafés and sunset | Porto or depart |
My recommendation: Spend two nights in Lisbon and at least two nights in Porto. If your flight leaves Porto early on day six, book a third night in Porto. This schedule assumes you have most of day one available; if your flight arrives late, drop one or two stops rather than trying to squeeze everything in.
You can follow the itinerary in reverse if flights are cheaper or more convenient: start in Porto, travel south by train and finish in Lisbon. Neither direction requires a rental car.
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Lisbon — Alfama, Trams and Viewpoints
I would spend your first day exploring central Lisbon on foot, with a tram ride if the queues are reasonable. The hills can be surprisingly steep, so wear comfortable shoes and leave time for coffee breaks. Lisbon is a city that rewards a little wandering, not just racing between landmarks.
9:00 AM — Start at Praça do Comércio and the Waterfront
Begin at Praça do Comércio, the grand square opening onto the Tagus River. With its bright buildings, elegant arches and wide open space, it is a lovely introduction to Lisbon. Take a few minutes to walk towards the water and enjoy the view before heading up into the older neighbourhoods.
10:00 AM — Wander Through Alfama
From the centre, start exploring Alfama, one of the oldest and most atmospheric neighbourhoods in Lisbon. I loved the winding streets, tiled buildings, little staircases and balconies. Some corners feel like they are hiding just around the next bend, so I would not try to follow every turn of a map.
11:00 AM — Look Out for the Famous Tram 28
The iconic yellow Tram 28 is one of the first things many people imagine when they think of Lisbon. I enjoyed how the old trams move through streets that sometimes look barely wide enough for them. A ride can be fun, but long queues and packed carriages are common, so do not feel you have missed Lisbon if you only photograph one passing by.
If you do ride, keep your belongings close and remember that Tram 28 is public transport, not a private sightseeing tour. I would rather enjoy a shorter ride and spend more time walking through Alfama than queue for a very long time.
12:00 PM — Visit Castelo de São Jorge or Enjoy a Long Lunch
Castelo de São Jorge sits high above Lisbon and offers views over the rooftops and river. It is a good stop for travellers interested in the city’s history, though getting there involves a climb. If you are travelling on a tighter budget, you can skip the castle interior and enjoy nearby public viewpoints instead.
If you want another pastel de nata while you are near the castle, my Lisbon guide also recommends Pastelaria Santo António. You can find it at Rua do Milagre de Santo António 10, 1100-351 Lisboa, not far from Castelo de São Jorge. It is a handy alternative to the busier bakeries in central Lisbon.
2:00 PM — Admire Miradouro de Santa Luzia
One of the most beautiful things about Lisbon is how often a steep street leads to an unexpected viewpoint. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is a lovely spot to admire the rooftops of Alfama and the river. I would bring my camera here and spend a little longer taking in the scenery.
3:00 PM — Continue to Miradouro da Graça
If you still have energy, climb a little farther to Miradouro da Graça. The view is fantastic, and the atmosphere is usually more relaxed than a busy shopping street. You can sit down, enjoy a drink and appreciate the colourful city below.
4:30 PM — Take a Break for Pastéis de Nata
I do not think I could write a Lisbon itinerary without mentioning pastel de nata! The crisp pastry and creamy custard filling are irresistible, especially when served warm with a little cinnamon. I tried them more than once during my visit, and a stop at a bakery is always a good reward after walking up Lisbon’s hills.
Of all the Lisbon egg tarts I tried, Manteigaria was actually my favourite. I loved its crisp pastry and balanced sweetness, and you can watch the fresh tarts being made. When you return towards Chiado, visit the Manteigaria shop at Rua do Loreto 2, 1200-108 Lisboa.
Evening — Dinner in Central Lisbon and Optional Pink Street
For your first evening, choose a restaurant around Baixa, Chiado or another neighbourhood that suits your hotel. If you prefer a lively atmosphere, you can walk past Pink Street in the Cais do Sodré area. It is a fun, colourful photo stop, though you should expect a much busier mood later at night.
My Lisbon tip: Try not to plan too many paid attractions on day one. The city has a special charm in its small streets and beautiful viewpoints, and those moments are just as memorable as its famous monuments. For more detailed sightseeing ideas, read my top things to do in Lisbon guide.
Suggested Lisbon tours and experiences: If you would like to explore the historic neighbourhoods or visit the city’s major sights with a guide, compare these activities. Check what’s included, especially for attraction tickets and entry times.
Day 2: Discover Belém, the Tagus River and More of Lisbon
On your second day, I recommend exploring Belém, a historic district beside the Tagus River. It is farther from the centre, so allow time for the tram, bus or train journey. This is a good day for beautiful architecture, river views and delicious Portuguese pastries.
Important: Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower are generally closed on Mondays and some public holidays. If your day two falls on a Monday, switch this day’s schedule with day one, or enjoy the waterfront and buildings from outside. Check the official monuments website for current opening hours and tickets.
9:30 AM — Visit Jerónimos Monastery
Jerónimos Monastery is one of the most impressive buildings in Lisbon. Its elaborate stone details and cloisters make it a must-see for travellers who enjoy history and architecture. If you want to visit the cloister, consider booking in advance because popular dates can sell out.
The church and the paid cloister have different access arrangements, so check both before you go. I would rather take my time admiring the building than rush in and out just to tick it off a list.
11:00 AM — Try the Famous Pastéis de Belém
A trip to Belém would not feel complete without trying the famous custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém. They are a little different from simply grabbing a pastry anywhere in the city because the bakery itself is part of the experience. Expect queues at busy times, but they often move steadily.
Pastéis de Belém address: Rua de Belém 84–92, 1300-085 Lisboa. This is the historic bakery mentioned in my Lisbon guide, conveniently close to Jerónimos Monastery; the link leads to the bakery’s own contact and location information.
12:00 PM — Walk to Belém Tower
Continue along the river towards Belém Tower, one of Lisbon’s best-known landmarks. I think it looks especially beautiful against the water and open sky. Even if you do not plan to enter, the walk and views around the monument are well worth the trip.
If you want to visit inside, check ticket availability and opening hours beforehand. Access can be affected by holidays, restoration work or weather, so keep the outdoor visit as your reliable fallback.
1:30 PM — Enjoy a Relaxed Walk Beside the Tagus
After visiting the monuments, walk for a while along the Tagus River. This part of Lisbon has a more open, spacious feeling compared with Alfama’s narrow streets. It is nice to have some time without a ticket, a queue or another timetable to follow.
3:00 PM — Optional: Visit Basílica da Estrela
On the way back towards central Lisbon, you can stop at Basílica da Estrela if you are interested in churches and architecture. It has a beautiful exterior and a different atmosphere from the busy attractions in Belém. If you feel tired, skip this detour and go straight to Chiado for a coffee instead.
4:30 PM — Explore Chiado and the Santa Justa Lift Area
Spend the late afternoon in Chiado and Baixa, where there are plenty of cafés, shops and elegant old streets. The Santa Justa Lift is one of Lisbon’s most unusual landmarks. You can admire its iron structure from the street; riding it is optional, especially if the line is long.
I also like taking time to look at the decorative Portuguese tiles, or azulejos, around the city. They appear on churches, houses and even small souvenir items, and they add so much colour to Lisbon’s streets.
Evening — Consider a Fado Performance
If you are interested in traditional Portuguese music, consider spending your second evening listening to Fado. There are restaurants and small venues offering performances, particularly around Alfama and Bairro Alto. Book somewhere that matches your budget and the atmosphere you want; dinner is not always required.
My day-two tip: Belém can easily take most of the morning and early afternoon. Choose just one extra neighbourhood for the rest of the day instead of rushing across Lisbon trying to see everything.
Day 3: A Slow Lisbon Morning and the Train to Porto
By day three, you will probably have discovered that Lisbon is a city where you can keep finding lovely corners. I would leave this morning flexible, especially if you want to revisit a favourite bakery, take more photographs or enjoy breakfast without setting an alarm too early.
9:00 AM — Breakfast and One Last Lisbon Walk
Start with coffee and breakfast at a café near your hotel. I loved Lisbon’s relaxed café atmosphere, and sometimes sitting with a pastry while watching the street is just as enjoyable as visiting another famous landmark.
If you still have a little time, wander through one of the small streets you missed on the first day. Lisbon has so many beautiful façades, staircases and tiled corners that you do not need a big attraction to enjoy your morning.
Late Morning or Early Afternoon — Travel from Lisbon to Porto by Train
After checking out of your hotel, take the train north to Porto. CP (Comboios de Portugal) operates Alfa Pendular and Intercidades services between the cities. Depending on the departure and service, the trip is usually around three hours, making it easy to fit into a five-day itinerary.
In Lisbon, long-distance trains commonly depart from Lisboa-Santa Apolónia or Lisboa-Oriente. In Porto, they generally arrive at Porto-Campanhã. From there, transfer to a local train or other public transport for the historic centre around São Bento. Check your exact departure, connection and fare on the official CP website before travelling.
I recommend booking your intercity train ahead of time if your travel dates are fixed. You can often find different ticket prices for different trains, so it is worth comparing a few departures rather than assuming every trip costs the same. A departure around lunchtime usually leaves you a comfortable afternoon and evening in Porto.
3:30 PM — Arrive and Admire São Bento Station
After arriving in Porto and dropping off your luggage, head towards São Bento Station in the heart of the old city. The tiled panels inside are beautiful, and the station is worth visiting even if you are not taking a train from there. It is a lovely first impression of Porto’s artistic character.
4:30 PM — Walk Down to Ribeira and the Douro
Spend your first afternoon in Porto walking downhill towards Ribeira, the old riverfront neighbourhood. I loved the colourful houses, steep streets and lively atmosphere beside the Douro. Compared with Lisbon’s wide viewpoints, Porto feels more intimate and cosy.
Evening — Try Portuguese Food in Porto
Choose a restaurant around Ribeira, the old centre or another area close to your accommodation. Porto has plenty of casual places to eat, and I loved stopping for good food and a drink after a long sightseeing day. Do not worry about visiting another museum tonight; simply enjoy the city.
One restaurant I particularly enjoyed on my first visit was O Buraco (Google Maps), a simple local spot serving traditional Portuguese dishes. Its address is Rua do Bolhão 95, 4000-112 Porto, in the Bolhão area rather than right beside Ribeira. If you prefer a local meal, you could eat here tonight or save it for your full day exploring central Porto.
My travel-day tip: Keep Porto’s first afternoon light. Travelling with bags, finding your hotel and getting oriented take more time than expected, so I would save the major paid attractions for tomorrow.
Day 4: Explore Porto’s Blue Tiles, Bookshops and Historic Streets
This is your full day to discover the beautiful old centre of Porto. Before visiting, friends had told me that I would fall in love with the city, and I could understand why once I started walking among the tiled buildings and old streets. Everything feels historic, sometimes a little imperfect, but full of character.
9:00 AM — Begin at the Chapel of Souls
Start at the Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas) near Rua de Santa Catarina. Its blue-and-white tiled façade is one of the most photogenic sights in Porto. It is a fairly quick stop, but I think the amount of detail on the exterior is wonderful.
10:00 AM — Admire Igreja do Carmo
Continue towards Igreja do Carmo, another famous church covered with blue tiles. I enjoyed how different Porto’s tiled churches are from the stone Gothic and Renaissance buildings I am used to seeing elsewhere in Europe. The side façade is especially impressive, even when there are other visitors taking photos.
11:00 AM — Step Inside Livraria Lello
Livraria Lello is one of Porto’s most famous attractions, with its remarkable staircase and ornate interior. It is beautiful, but it is also very popular. I would book a timed ticket directly on the official Livraria Lello ticket website and be prepared for other people in your photos.
If you are not interested in visiting a bookshop or do not enjoy crowded interiors, this is an easy attraction to skip. I would much rather spend the time exploring Porto at your own pace than feel pressured to visit a place just because it is famous.
12:30 PM — See Clérigos Tower and Stop for Lunch
Not far away is Clérigos Tower, one of the landmarks that rises above central Porto. You can admire it from the surrounding streets or buy a ticket to climb for city views. Afterward, find somewhere nearby for lunch and a little break; the hills of Porto are no joke!
2:00 PM — Visit Porto Cathedral
Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) is another must-see stop if you love historic buildings. Its imposing stone exterior and hilltop location give it a completely different character from the colourful tiled churches you visited this morning. You can admire the building and surrounding views before deciding whether to visit inside.
Inside the cathedral complex, you can also see lovely blue-and-white tilework. I especially enjoy this contrast between the solid stone architecture and the delicate decorative patterns, which feels so typical of Porto.
3:30 PM — Cross Dom Luís I Bridge
From the cathedral area, walk towards the famous Dom Luís I Bridge. It connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River and gives you some of the most memorable views of the trip. Take care to use the pedestrian areas and pay attention to tram movements on the upper deck.
If your legs are tired after a full day on Porto’s hills, you can save a longer visit to Gaia for tomorrow. Tonight, take a slow stroll, enjoy dinner and see the bridge illuminated if you have the energy.
My Porto tip: Everything on this list is close enough to combine on foot, but it is not a flat walk. Choose comfortable shoes, add coffee breaks and keep Livraria Lello or the tower climb optional if you prefer a relaxed day. You can find more ideas in my top things to do in Porto guide.
Day 5: Vila Nova de Gaia, Douro Views and a Relaxed Final Day
For the final day, I would slow down and spend more time around the river. The best part of Porto for me is not necessarily ticking off another attraction, but watching the city from different viewpoints and noticing the colours of the houses, the bridge and the water.
9:30 AM — Cross to Vila Nova de Gaia
Make your way across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia, the area facing Porto’s historic centre. This is where you will find wonderful views back towards Ribeira and the bridge. I think it is one of the best places to appreciate how beautiful Porto’s riverside setting really is.
11:00 AM — Enjoy the Riverfront and Optional Port Wine Experience
Walk down towards the Gaia riverfront for photographs, small shops and cafés. This side of the Douro is traditionally known for its port-wine cellars, and you can join a cellar visit or tasting if that interests you. I would book a reputable visit ahead of time rather than choosing randomly on arrival.
Suggested Porto and Douro experiences: If you are considering a guided city tour, river cruise or a visit to a port-wine cellar, browse these options and check the meeting location and inclusions before booking.
If wine is not your thing, do not worry. You can still spend a lovely morning by the river without paying for a tour. The architecture and waterfront views are more than enough to keep you busy.
12:30 PM — Lunch and a Slow Coffee Break
Find somewhere for lunch around Gaia or cross back into Porto. The city has so many inviting cafés that I would not try to rush the last day. One of my favourite ways to enjoy Portugal is to have a coffee, sit for a while and watch what is happening around me.
2:00 PM — Treat Yourself to One Last Pastel de Nata
Before leaving, make time for another pastel de nata. You can find excellent ones in Porto too, and they make a nice snack after walking along the river. I know I have already mentioned these pastries more than once, but for me they are such an essential part of a trip to Portugal!
My favourite egg-tart stop in Porto was Natas d’Ouro (Google Maps), which I also recommended in my Porto food guide. If you are spending the day beside the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, the Gaia waterfront branch is at Avenida de Ramos Pinto 210, 4400-261 Vila Nova de Gaia. It is a lovely option for an egg tart with coffee and a view.
Late Afternoon — Return to the Bridge for a Final View
If your schedule allows, finish the day near Dom Luís I Bridge and enjoy the city from the waterfront or one of the viewpoints. The warm afternoon light can make the houses and river especially beautiful. On my first visit, I found Porto romantic without trying too hard, and this is exactly the kind of scenery that explains why.
If you have a flight or train to catch, replace this relaxed afternoon with your transfer and allow extra time. There is no need to rush to the airport just because an online itinerary gives every hour a sightseeing stop.
How to Travel from Lisbon to Porto by Train
The train is my preferred way to combine Lisbon and Porto. It is comfortable, straightforward and avoids the hassle of renting a car, driving into two busy city centres and finding parking. It also makes this itinerary practical for travellers visiting Portugal without a car.
Which Train Should You Take?
Look for Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) on the CP website. Alfa Pendular services are generally faster, while Intercidades may take longer depending on stops. The main intercity journey usually takes roughly three hours, but always check the timetable for your exact travel date.
Which Stations Should You Use?
In Lisbon, the principal options include Santa Apolónia and Oriente. In Porto, longer-distance trains typically arrive at Campanhã, which is not the same as the centrally located São Bento station. Check the local onward connection when booking, particularly if you have heavy bags.
Do You Need to Book in Advance?
I recommend booking as soon as your dates are firm, especially in summer and around holidays. Prices depend on the service, seat class, departure and how far ahead you book. Check your actual fare and any planned works using the official CP — Comboios de Portugal website instead of relying on a fixed price listed in an older guide.
Where to Stay During Your 5 Days in Portugal
Where to Stay in Lisbon
For a first-time visitor without a car, I would look for accommodation in Baixa, Chiado or around Rossio. These areas are central, full of places to eat and useful for getting around the city. If you love historic streets and atmospheric evenings, Alfama is also lovely, but you should be prepared for steep slopes and steps with luggage.
If you plan to take the train to Porto, remember that you will need to get to Santa Apolónia or Oriente for your departure. You do not necessarily have to stay beside either station, but I would check the journey from your hotel in advance.
To compare accommodation, my Portugal destinations guide also includes these hotel-booking links: Agoda, Booking.com and Trip.com. These are existing partner links from my earlier article; compare current prices and check the hotel’s exact location before reserving.
Where to Stay in Porto
In Porto, I would choose Baixa or São Bento for a convenient first visit, since you can walk to many of the sights in this itinerary. Ribeira is wonderful for atmosphere and riverside views, but expect hills, cobblestones and potentially noisier evenings in popular areas.
Vila Nova de Gaia is another option if you want a view across the river rather than staying directly in Porto’s historic centre. Whichever area you choose, check whether your accommodation has steep access streets or stairs before booking. Here are hotel-booking options linked in my detailed Porto guide, organised by area (some links may be affiliate links):
- Ribeira and central Porto: Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira (Agoda), Descobertas Boutique Hotel by Aspasios (Booking.com), and Mercure Porto Centro Santa Catarina (Trip.com).
- São Bento and Baixa: ALIBI by YoursPorto (Agoda), Eurostars Porto Centro (Booking.com), and Sé Catedral Hotel Porto (Trip.com).
- Cedofeita: 705 O’Porto Hotel (Agoda), Casual Inca Porto (Booking.com), and Oporto Comfort Charming Cedofeita (Trip.com).
- Vila Nova de Gaia: The House of Sandeman – Hostel & Suites (Agoda), The Rebello Hotel & Spa (Booking.com), and Hilton Porto Gaia (Trip.com).
What Is the Best Time to Visit Lisbon and Porto?
Spring and early summer are beautiful for long walks, photography and café terraces. I particularly enjoyed Lisbon’s sunshine and the way the light fell on the old streets. Late spring can also bring flowering jacaranda trees in some areas, although the timing varies each year.
Summer is popular and can be hot, especially when you are climbing Lisbon’s hills. Start sightseeing early, carry water and leave room for midday breaks. Porto often feels different from Lisbon because of its Atlantic-influenced weather, so I would still pack a light extra layer.
Autumn is another excellent choice if you want to explore comfortably with fewer peak-season crowds. Winter can also work for a city trip, but expect more rain, shorter daylight hours and occasional weather-related changes to outdoor plans.
How Much Should You Budget for Five Days in Portugal?
Your biggest expenses are usually accommodation, long-distance transport and paid attractions. It is possible to keep this itinerary reasonable by staying in a well-connected neighbourhood, using the train and walking around the historic centres rather than taking taxis everywhere.
Many of the loveliest experiences are free: admiring Lisbon’s tiled façades, walking around Alfama, enjoying viewpoints, exploring Ribeira and photographing Porto’s bridge. Choose which paid places matter most to you, such as Jerónimos Monastery, Castelo de São Jorge, Livraria Lello or a wine-cellar tour, rather than booking them all automatically.
For meals, bakeries, cafés and casual local restaurants are good options for a moderate budget. I would keep a little extra money for the pastries and spontaneous coffee stops — those are some of the nicest moments of the trip!
Can You Add Sintra to This 5-Day Portugal Itinerary?
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon, but I would not force it into this five-day plan unless it is one of your top priorities. The palaces and historic centre deserve a proper day, and replacing one of your Lisbon days would mean missing several of the city highlights.
If Sintra is a must for you, consider spending six days in Portugal instead. Add it as a separate day trip from Lisbon, or trade day two’s Belém itinerary for Sintra if you cannot extend your stay. My Lisbon guide includes more ideas for planning around the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About 5 Days in Portugal
Are five days enough for Lisbon and Porto?
Yes. With two days in Lisbon, a train day and two more days in Porto, you can enjoy the main highlights of both cities. You will not see every museum or take every day trip, but it makes a wonderful first introduction to Portugal.
Should I spend more time in Lisbon or Porto?
I would split the time almost evenly. Lisbon has more spread-out attractions and extra day-trip possibilities, while Porto is compact enough for a very enjoyable two days. If you like a slower pace, add an extra day to whichever city’s atmosphere appeals to you more.
Is it better to start in Lisbon or Porto?
Either direction works well. Start in the city with the better flight or train connections for your trip and finish in the other. I have written this guide from Lisbon to Porto because it feels like a natural progression, but the route is easy to reverse.
Do I need a rental car to visit Lisbon and Porto?
No. A car is unnecessary for this particular itinerary. Both historic centres are walkable, and train connections make travelling between them straightforward. Cars are more useful when exploring rural areas or regions such as the Douro Valley beyond the cities.
Is the Lisbon–Porto train scenic?
You will see Portuguese landscapes and towns along the route, though this is primarily an efficient intercity connection rather than a specially designed sightseeing train. I would choose the departure time that best fits your holiday instead of planning the entire day around the views.
How many nights do you need?
For five full sightseeing days with departure on the fifth evening, plan two nights in Lisbon and two nights in Porto. If you have an early departure the following day, stay a fifth night in Porto. Arriving late on your first day may mean you need an extra night to fit everything in comfortably.
More Portugal Travel Guides
For detailed attraction lists and ideas beyond this five-day itinerary, explore my top things to do in Lisbon, top things to do in Porto and top places to visit in Portugal.
I am happy I chose Lisbon and Porto for my first trip to Portugal because they made me fall in love with the country in two different ways. Lisbon was bright and full of surprises, while Porto was romantic, slightly nostalgic and beautiful without trying too hard. If you only have five days to experience Portugal, I think this route is a lovely place to start.
