Road Trip from Lisbon to Porto - 7 Day Itinerary
Michal Grupa
Campervan Whisperer
From the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra to the cobbled canals of Aveiro, and the wine-scented air of the Douro Valley this unforgettable one-week road trip from Lisbon to Porto takes you through some of Portugal’s most enchanting landscapes.
Whether you’re flying into Lisbon or Porto, renting a campervan from Siesta Campers gives you the freedom to explore Portugal at your own pace. With flexible one-way campervan hire, you can pick up in Lisbon and drop off in Porto without backtracking.
This 7-day Lisbon to Porto itinerary is packed with cultural gems, coastal charm, and countryside serenity. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the essence of Portugal’s central and northern regions.
Itinerary Highlights
- Start in Lisbon, end in Porto (or reverse)
- 1-way campervan hire option to avoid backtracking
- Ideal for spring, summer or autumn travel
- Sintra’s castles and gardens
- Surf towns and cliffside views in Nazaré
- Medieval charm of Óbidos
- Historic Coimbra and canal-laced Aveiro
- Scenic Paiva Walkways
- Wine country in the Douro Valley
Lisbon to Porto itinerary: 12 hours / 700km
Where to Start Your Lisbon to Porto Road Trip
We recommend starting your adventure with campervan hire in Lisbon, where Siesta Campers has a convenient location just minutes from the Lisbon international airport (LIS).
If you’re flying into Porto, you can also do this route in reverse. Siesta Campers offers one-way campervan hire between Lisbon, Porto, (and Faro), giving you the freedom to explore without doubling back.
Both cities are well-connected by international flights and public transport. Book your campervan in advance to lock in your preferred pickup spot.
Lisbon to Porto Itinerary - 7 Days
Day 1: Lisbon to Sintra & Cascais – Palaces, Pines & Ocean Views
Pick up your campervan at Siesta Campers Lisbon and head toward Cascais, a sun-kissed fishing village turned cosmopolitan beach town. Stroll the charming village and marina, try grilled sardines, or other local seafood specialities.
Next, go for a dip or catch some waves at Praia do Guincho, one of the most beautiful beaches near Lisbon.
Continue to Sintra, a storybook town nestled in the hills just 30 minutes away. Once the summer retreat of Portuguese royalty, Sintra is bursting with palaces, gardens, and misty forest trails.
Must-see spots in Sintra:
- Palácio da Pena: A candy-colored castle perched on a hilltop
- Quinta da Regaleira: Gothic mansion with mysterious tunnels and an Initiation Well
- Cabo da Roca: The westernmost point of mainland Europe
Driving: 70 km / ~1.5 hours
Cabo da Roca
Day 2: Sintra to Óbidos – Surf Towns & Storybook Streets
Cruise north along the Atlantic, stopping in Ericeira for a seaside espresso or surf session. Further up the coast, Peniche offers more wave action and the chance to spot Berlengas Island from the cliffs.
Your destination is Óbidos, a beautifully preserved medieval village surrounded by ancient walls. Walk the cobblestone lanes, visit the 12th-century castle, and try a shot of Ginja, a cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup, a local speciality.
Driving: 125 km / ~2.5 hours
Óbidos
Day 3: Óbidos to Nazaré – Big Waves & Ocean Legends
Your road trip from Lisbon to Porto wouldn’t be complete without a short but scenic drive along the coast to Nazaré, famous for its record-breaking surf.
Climb to the Sitio viewpoint to see Praia do Norte below, home to the world’s biggest waves. Even in summer, the cliffside views are spectacular.
Lunch by the harbor, then take a funicular ride down to explore the lower town and go for a stroll along the promenade.
Driving: 40 km / ~45 mins
Nazaré
Day 4: Nazaré to Coimbra – Ancient Universities & River Walks
Leave the coast behind and head inland to Coimbra, one of Portugal’s oldest cities and home to its oldest university. The Biblioteca Joanina, a baroque library built in the 1700s, is a must-visit.
Explore the university complex, climb the bell tower for panoramic views, and wander through the historic old town. Coimbra sits on the banks of the Mondego River, perfect for a riverside picnic.
Driving: 130 km / ~1.5 hours
Coimbra
Day 5: Coimbra to Aveiro – Canals & Striped Houses
Make your way west to Aveiro, often called the "Venice of Portugal." Colorful moliceiro boats drift through the canals, and Art Nouveau buildings add charm to every street.
Don’t miss:
- Costa Nova: Iconic beach village with candy-striped houses
- Ovos moles: Sweet egg-based treats wrapped in rice paper
- Lagoon bike ride: Flat, breezy, and scenic
Driving: 70 km / ~1 hour
Aveiro
Day 6: Aveiro to Douro Valley via Paiva Walkways – Hiking, Forested Hills & Wine
Continue toward Douro Valley, but first take a rewarding detour to the Paiva Walkways (Passadiços do Paiva)—one of the best hikes in Portugal. This stunning 8km wooden boardwalk winds along the Paiva River through a rugged canyon, offering dramatic views, hanging bridges, and pristine nature. It's a great way to stretch your legs and take in the raw beauty of inland Portugal.
After your hike, continue your journey towards the Douro wine region. Surrounded by rolling hills, granite outcrops, and pine forests, you'll pass through peaceful villages tucked into the landscape. Base yourself near Peso da Régua or Pinhão, both excellent wine towns.
Driving: 115 km / ~2 hours
Paiva Walkways
Day 7: Douro Valley to Porto – The Grand Finale
Before you leave wine country behind, take time to soak in the spectacular drive through the Douro Valley—one of the most scenic routes in Portugal. Vineyards cling to steep terraced hillsides, and the winding roads offer jaw-dropping views of the river snaking far below. It’s a slow and stunning journey, so stop often to admire the landscape or snap a few final photos.
Eventually, you’ll arrive in Porto, Portugal’s vibrant second city and the perfect place to end your road trip. Drop off your campervan at Siesta Campers Porto, then set off to explore the city on foot.
Highlights:
- Ribeira District: Wander the colourful riverside quarter filled with narrow alleyways, street performers, and cozy bars.
- Dom Luís I Bridge: Walk across this iconic double-deck bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia for classic Port wine tastings in centuries-old cellars.
- Clérigos Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views over the red rooftops and winding Douro River.
Wrap up your journey with a glass of Port as the sun dips behind the hills—marking a memorable end to your Portuguese adventure.
Driving: 120 km / ~1.5–2 hours
Douro Valley
Optional detour (highly recommended!): If you have more time and aren’t ready for the adventure to end, consider extending your trip with a detour to Peneda-Gerês National Park—Portugal’s only national park and a paradise of wild mountains, waterfalls, and remote villages. It’s just a couple of hours north of Porto and offers a completely different side of the country.
Check out our 4-day Porto to Gerês itinerary for the perfect add-on to your Lisbon to Porto road trip, with scenic drives, natural hot springs, hidden hiking trails, and unforgettable wild camping spots.
Where to Camp
One of the best parts of a campervan road trip from Lisbon to Porto is waking up to the sound of waves, the scent of pine, or the view of a vineyard. Portugal offers a wide mix of camping options:
Wild Camping in Portugal
While wild camping in Portugal was once widespread, it’s now regulated, especially in natural parks and coastal areas. You can still camp wild in some places, but always check local rules and use camping apps like to find legal spots.
Campsites with Character
There is no shortage of campsites in Portugal, from rustic eco-parks to fully-equipped holiday sites and even glamping. Whether you want hot showers and laundry or a forest pitch with sea views, there’s something for every type of traveller.
FAQ
Q: Is wild camping allowed?
A: Wild camping is restricted in many areas, especially nature reserves. Stay at campsites or use camping apps to find legal, respectful places to stay.
Q: Is Portugal safe for campervan travel?
A: Absolutely. Portugal is considered one of Europe’s safest countries, with good roads, welcoming locals, and camper-friendly infrastructure.
Q: Best time to go?
A: April to October is ideal. Summer is popular but can be hot and crowded in tourist areas. Rain arrives early in the north.
Q: Can I do this Lisbon to Porto itinerary in reverse?
A: Yes! Start in Porto and end in Lisbon if that suits your flights or travel plans better.
Q: What about tolls?
A: Your Siesta Campers van comes with a toll transponder. Fees are billed after your trip. You can also choose scenic back roads to skip tolls.
Q: Do I need to pre-book campsites?
A: In high season, it’s better to book ahead. Outside of July and August, most sites have availability without booking.
Road Trip with Siesta Campers
Embarking on a road trip from Lisbon to Porto in a campervan gives you the freedom to stop where the views are best, sleep under the stars, and follow your own rhythm. Siesta Campers makes that experience seamless.
Why Choose Us?
- Flexible one-way hire between Lisbon, Porto, and Faro
- Three pickup/drop-off locations near major airports
- Fully equipped vans with kitchens, bedding, and camping gear
- Vans for every type of traveller from compact campers to spacious motorhomes
- Designed for off-grid adventures with a focus on sustainability
- 24/7 roadside assistance and a helpful local team
With two decades of experience, Siesta Campers is more than a rental company – we’re your co-pilots to unforgettable adventures.
Ready to Hit the Road?
From palace gardens and vineyard tastings to salty beach mornings and riverside sunsets, this Lisbon to Porto road trip packs a full dose of Portugal into one epic week.
Book your campervan in Lisbon from with Siesta Campers and start writing your own road story through the heart of Portugal.