Although it might go by somewhat unnoticed, Northern Portugal is a fantastic destination, where everything that makes the country worth visiting comes by the bucketload. We LOVED it the first time we visited, and now we are at home in Porto. And what better way to explore this region than with this enviable 7-day Northern Portugal itinerary?
Sure, Southern Portugal does deserve the attention it gets, but venturing to the country’s north unlocks a world of adventure. It is one of the gorgeous rolling hills, deep valleys, and world-class vineyards, with a unique vibe expressed through a rich cultural spirit.
Perfect 7-day Northern Portugal itinerary + tips
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We’ve put together this Northern Portugal 7-day itinerary to seek a spot on your bucket list. It’s jam-packed with things to do, places to go, and juicy travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Northern Portugal itinerary | At a glance
So, before jumping right into the good stuff, here’s a quick snapshot of your Northern Portugal itinerary:
- Day 1 – 2: Discover Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto
- Day 3: Journey through the historic town of Braga
- Day 4: Visit Peneda Gerês National Park
- Day 5: Marvel at the founding city of the Kingdom of Portugal, Guimarães
- Day 6: Delve into the cultural side of Amarante
- Day 7: Admire the Winelands of the Douro Valley
Explore Northern Portugal in 8 to 10 days
If you’re still unsure about how long to spend and you’ve got more time on your hands, here are some extended itinerary samples:
Northern Portugal in 8 days
- Day 1 – 2: Get acquainted with Porto
- Day 3: Head for historic Braga
- Day 4: Explore Peneda-Gerês National Park
- Day 5 – 6: Visit Guimarães & Vila Real
- Day 7: Be bewildered by Amarante
- Day 8: Tour the Douro Valley
Explore North Portugal in 9 days
- Day 1 – 2: Arrive and settle into Porto
- Day 3: Venture to Viana do Castelo
- Day 4: Discover the lineage of Braga
- Day 5: Traverse Peneda-Gerês National Park
- Day 6: Ponte de Lima, Guimarães, and Vila Real
- Day 7: Get blissfully lost in Amarante
- Days 8 – 9: Wander the vineyards of the Douro Valley
See it all with a 10-day itinerary
- Day 1 – 3: Three fabulous days in Porto
- Days 4 – 5: Visit the historic city of Braga
- Day 6 – 7: Immerse yourself in the coast of Viana do Castelo
- Day 8: Venture through Peneda-Gerês National Park
- Days 9 – 10: Indulge in the wineries of the Douro Valley
Sidenote: If you want to expand your trip to more than just northern Portugal, make your planning easy with this 10-day itinerary.
We have a detailed trip planning guide after we share our itinerary recommendation. However, note that you can fly to Northern Portugal directly by opting to fly to Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto.
We flew from Calgary, Canada, to Porto a few times, and on other occasions have taken trains and buses (Flixbus) from Lisbon (Airport) to Porto. So both are good options, depending on your flight availability and connections. Public transportation will take at least 3 hours, from Lisbon to Porto.
To explore the other parts of northern Portugal, you can also rely on public transport (trains and buses) or book day tours. Renting a car is not necessary, but if you want to, it’s pretty easy.
Day 1 & 2 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Porto
Welcome to the north of Portugal. What better introduction than Porto, the country’s second-largest city?
Day 1 in Porto
One of the best places to dive into what makes the north special, here you’ll get a glimpse into one of the most beautiful cities in the country.
Breakfast at A Brasileira Café
Porto has no shortage of delectable spots for a morning bite, but A Brasileira café in Rue Sá da Bandeira is a local and tourist favorite.
Insider’s tip: Foodies should take the chance to head for the Bolhão Market. Here, you can sample classic Port wine, local cheese, and ham, and buy authentic Porto souvenirs.
Visit to São Bento Train Station
After breakfast, head for the São Bento Train Station, one of the most famous tourist attractions in the city that is entirely free to visit.
Constructed during the early 20th century, the station continues to be an eye-catching display of Art Nouveau architecture. Attracting thousands each year, the station’s iconic azulejo tilework, portraying Portugal’s history, is gorgeous and educational.
Marvel at the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
Igreja de Santo Ildefonso is another stunning example of azulejo tilework, with more than 11,000 tiles adorning the church facade. Although construction finished in 1739, the azulejo facade was added in 1932 to elevate the pre-Baroque design.
Wander through Livraria Lello
There are bookstores, and then there’s Livraria Lello. To many, it is the most beautiful thing in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. Designed in a neo-Gothic style, its architectural flair is a sight.
Rumor has it that the store also inspired Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, making tours of it even more magical. So, is Livraria Lello worth it? Most definitely.
Dinner at Lado B
Even though you can grab some delicious food all over Porto if you’re after a compelling dining experience, head for Lado B. Sitting along one of the city’s busiest avenues, their claim of serving the “best francesinha in the world” is well-earned.
Day 2 in Porto
Having settled into Porto, your second day in the city will kick things up. With a treasure trove of historic buildings, monuments, and legendary landmarks, these are the main highlights of day two.
To settle any breakfast debates, before exploring the cathedral, head for Confeitaria do Bolhão to satisfy your hunger and sweet tooth.
Morning visit to the Cathedral of Porto
Constructed during the 12th century, the imposing Cathedral of Porto sits atop one of the many hills in the city and is your first stop for the day.
It’s one of the city’s most revered religious sites, representing a perfect blend of Gothic and Baroque design influences. There is an entry fee to visit the cloisters, museum exbihits and the Episcopal Palace (it is 3 euros per person).
Explore the Palácio da Bolsa
Another standout attraction in Porto is the Palácio da Bolsa. Currently home to Porto’s Chamber of Commerce, you can take a guided tour of the building to see highlights such as The Arab Room, inspired by the Alhambra in Spain.
See the Torre dos Clerigos
A famed highlight of the Porto skyline, the Clerigos Tower, or Torre dos Clerigos, is an architectural masterpiece.
Alongside the tower, the building also consists of a church and a museum. It’s best to get a skip-the-line ticket, which allows you to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Late afternoon in Ribeira & Vila Nova de Gaia
Although Ribeira is one of the city’s more touristy areas, it’s also a great place to spend the afternoon. The neighborhood wows with dozens of rows of bright houses with views of the Douro River and stunning viewpoints of the Dom Luis I Bridge.
Stroll through the boutique stores and indulge in the best local food at the district’s eateries. The famous Douro River 6-bridge cruise departs from here and is worth the ticket.
Cross the Dom Luis I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia. Yes, the area is home to various landmarks, but it’s also known for the many wine cellars that dot the neighborhood.
You can either book a guided wine-tasting tour or head out and independently explore legendary cellars, including the Calem, Pocas, and Burmester cellars, or the famous Graham’s Port Lodge.
See a Fado show
Back in the Ribeira neighborhood, be sure to book a ticket for a Fado show. These intimate performances, accompanied by Port wine, are a traditional part of Portuguese culture and a great way to end the day.
Read next: Find out how to spend three days in Porto if you have more time on your hands.
Where to stay in Porto
Miragaia Riverside Suites – Having stayed here, I can’t rave enough about this stunning riverfront apartment hotel. An excellent accommodation option close to various attractions. Check availability here
Day 3 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Braga
After getting to know a bit about the north during your two days in Porto, the next leg of your journey takes you to Braga. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, its roots can be traced back to the year 16 BC, and it’s often referred to as the “Rome of Portugal”.
Porto to Braga is 45 minutes by car and bus.
Day 3 in Braga
Arrive in Braga early in the morning and prepare for a day brimming with ancient churches, vibrant shopping streets, imposing Baroque mansions, and a booming nightlife.
Tour the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte
Whether you only have one day in Braga or a week, the Santuario do Bom Jesus do Monte should be your first must-do tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site took 600 years to complete and has been a pilgrimage destination since the 14th century.
As you make your way up the 577 steps to the sanctuary, you’ll be treated to great views of the surrounding areas. The stairs are also quite beautiful, with an ornate zigzag design and statues, fountains, and chapels lining the route to the church.
Wander through Jardim de Santa Barbara
Next up, make your way into the heart of Braga to visit one of the most breathtaking gardens in the region – Jardim de Santa Barbara. This lush urban oasis includes perfectly manicured landscapes, cedar topiaries, and flower beds.
Make your way to the center of the garden to see and grab some snapshots of the statue of Saint Barbara.
Dive into local Braga cuisine
By now, you’ve probably worked up quite the hunger, and luckily, the local restaurants in the city know a thing or two about delicious food.
Although there are countless eateries to choose from, these are some standouts:
- Cozinha da Se Restaurant – If you’re after the best in regional dishes that include meat and fish specialties, head for this local favorite.
- Retrokitchen Braga – Offering homestyle Portuguese meals at super affordable prices, this fantastic restaurant showcases a 3-course menu that changes daily.
Marvel at the Sé de Braga Cathedral
With a heritage earning it the title of the oldest cathedral in all of Portugal, the Se de Braga Cathedral and its history go back to the year 1089. Although its tower has undergone many modifications, its original design elements and Baroque influences, added in 1723, blend beautifully.
Sidenote: There is a small entrance fee, but it’s best to grab a combination ticket at the admission desk to enter the adjoining chapels, the sacristy, and the Treasury Museum.
Shop down Rua do Souto
As you reach the end of the day, your final stop is the main thoroughfare of Old Town Braga, Rua do Souto. This pedestrianized street connects two other worthwhile attractions, the Arco da Porta Nova and Avenida Central, dating back to 1466.
As you meander along the strings of shops that line the street, head for the northern Largo do Paco. This large square is the ideal place to close the afternoon and is also home to the former Bishop’s Palace and the gorgeous Chafariz do Castelo statue.
Where to stay in Braga
Hotel Vila Galé Collection Braga – This 4-star luxury hotel, 5 minutes from Braga Cathedral, is an excellent place to spend the night, boasting an indoor and outdoor pool. Book your room here
Day 4 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Day trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park
Departing from the narrow streets, historic towns, and captivating museums, after your time in Braga, it’s time for a day trip to Peneda-Gerês National Park. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it covers a whopping 172,974 acres and is the perfect place for an outdoor getaway.
Braga to Peneda Geres National Park is 1 hour by car, and 1 hour and 40 minutes by bus.
Keep in mind that you won’t be able to cover it all in a day, so you can plan for 1-2 hikes and sightseeing in one of the quaint villages surrounding it.
You can also book day tours to check off a few highlights. But if you’re exploring on your own, start your time with one of the many enticing trails.
Hop on the São Bento trail | Hike to the Tahitian Waterfalls
The São Bento trail is an excellent morning option that should take you about 4 hours to complete. Stretching along the Caldo River and leading to sites like the Basilica of St. Benedict, it’s a grand outdoor tour.
Cascatas do Tahiti (Tahiti waterfalls) is another spot to start your adventure. It is a moderate trail and requires you to be in good physical condition. Keep in mind, you must wear hiking shoes to access this hidden waterfall (the loose stones on the trail can be dangerous).
You can swim in the pool of the waterfalls, too.
Lunchtime and an afternoon at the Ardo Lagoa lagoon | Or the hamlet of Fafião
Head for the town of Montalegre for a lunchtime bite, where there are plenty of fabulous restaurants, with Taberna da Ti Ana de Eira being a standout. To finish your afternoon, venture to the Ardo Lagoa lagoon, where you can swim and unwind in waterfall-fed waters.
Alternatively, you can visit the hamlet of Fafião. It is a quaint spot perfect to rest your legs after a long hike to the Tahiti waterfalls, and then grab a meal and a beer.
This village is home to Fojo do Lobo, which is a well-preserved ancestral trap used for hunting Iberian wolves. There are also short and easy hikes in and around the village, making it perfect for hikers of all levels (and also amazing photography opportunities).
Sidenote: As this is a day trip, you’ll return to your accommodation in Braga for the night.
Day 5 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Guimarães
Okay, how could you not want to visit the birthplace of Portugal? As the home of the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, Guimarães is beloved for its beauty and authenticity.
Braga to Guimaraes is 20 minutes by car, and 40 minutes by bus.
Explore the Castle of Guimarães
Built during the 10th century, the Castle of Guimarães was the brainchild of the countess of Galicia, the Mumadona. What makes it so showstopping is its construction, which is made entirely out of solid rock.
The real treat here is roaming its walls to gain a dazzling view of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
Visit the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
Speaking of the Ducal Palace, next up on your visit to Guimarães, this palatial residence was constructed in the 14th century by the Count of Barcelos.
Tour through the grounds to see the intricate chapel, the first-floor rooms, and the astonishing Hall of Lost Steps, with its ceiling designed to resemble the base of a boat.
Visit Largo da Oliviera
You simply can’t call it a day in Guimarães until you’ve roamed the town’s main square, Largo da Oliveira. A cobblestoned square, this is where you can genuinely feel the medieval vibes of the city.
Beyond charming cafés and inviting eateries, the plaza also plays home to the eye-catching Nossa Senhora da Oliviera Church, and beside it, the gothic shrine dedicated to the Battle of Salado in 1340.
Where to stay in Guimarães
You can stay overnight in Braga to visit Guimaraes as it is only a 20-minute drive or 30 30-minute bus ride away. Or if you decide to stay in Guimaraes, here is a hotel recommendation.
Eurostars Santa Luzia – For your short visit to Guimarães, this luxury hotel is the best place to stay. Beautifully decorated and well-appointed, it has an in-house restaurant and bar. Book your room here
Day 6 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Amarante
As your trip continues, your next destination is the beautiful city of Amarante, a unique settlement characterized by thought-provoking bridges and architecture.
Braga to Amarante is 50-minute drive. And less than 2 hours by bus.
Cross the Ponte de São Gonçalo
After arriving in Amarante and checking into your hotel, there are a few great options for what to do first. Start your morning here, marveling and crossing the Ponte de São Gonçalo bridge, which crosses the Tâmega River with ample Instagram-worthy snapshot spots.
Admire the Igreja de São Gonçalo
Once you’ve traversed the bridge, make a beeline for Confeitaria da Ponte to sample some Amarante sweets from its balcony overlooking the river inside the historic center.
Your next stop is the Igreja de São Gonçalo.
Alongside the bridge, the church building acts as the town’s centerpiece and carries the title of a National Monument. On tour, you can observe architectural influences ranging from a 16th-century Renaissance doorway to three tiers of Corinthian and Solomonic columns.
Check out the Igreja de São Domingos
Continuing the afternoon sightseeing, go to the Igreja de São Domingos. Even though Amarante boasts plenty of churches, this one stands out for its architecture and what it houses inside.
Since its inception, the church has collected relics and artifacts, which are now on display in the museum within the church, dedicated to sacred art.
Where to stay in Amarante
Casa do Fontanário Stay – Located at the city center, this casa is a stunning space to call home in Amarante. We stayed here for my birthday, and it was a blast. We had views of the vineyards, beautiful modern rooms, and a kitchenette. Some suites had an outdoor pool. Grab a room here
Day 7 of 7 days in Northern Portugal: Douro Valley
It’s always wise to save the best for last, and the Douro Valley certainly won’t disappoint. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley is a cultural landscape of vineyards and beyond-belief views.
1 hour drive from Amarante to Pinhao (heart of Douro Valley), or 2+ hours by public transport.
Pro tip: Check out these wine tours from Porto for even more famous vineyards.
Indulge in Douro Valley wines
One of, if not the best thing to do once you arrive, is to venture out and immerse yourself in the wine culture and production of the valley. Although there are over 80 wineries, you can tour several of them. These are some standouts:
- Quinta Nova – This winery is one of the oldest in the valley.
- Quinta do Crasto – Famous for its nomination as the best vineyard in the world.
- Quinta de la Rosa – A highlight attraction also voted among the best in the world.
- Quinta do Seixo – This is one of the most recognized wineries in the valley.
Treat yourself to local cuisine
There’s no better way to have a great time enjoying delicious food than diving into regional cuisine from the Douro Valley. Each restaurant in the valley presents a gastronomic journey, with these eateries among the best:
- Toca da Raposa
- Taberna do Carró
- Calça Curta
- Taberna da Julinha
Soak in the viewpoints of scenic Douro Valley
With the Douro Valley ranking among the most beautiful places in Northern Portugal, it’s no surprise that many viewpoints are primed for a photo shoot or two.
As the Douro River snakes its way through the valley, terraced vineyards line its sides, creating an astonishing scene. There are countless such pit stops, but the two most famous ones are the São Leonardo da Galafura and the Casal de Loivo viewpoints.
Where to stay in the Douro Valley
Quinta do Vallado – Established in 1716, this boutique wine hotel is one of the oldest Quinta wine estates in the valley (Peso da Regua). Rooms include balconies, and the on-site restaurant is Scandinavian-themed. Check availability here
Customizing this North Portugal Itinerary
You can keep Porto as a base for the first five days, and then decide to move base to the Douro Valley for 2 days before flying out.
It is possible to travel to all the spots mentioned by bus/train or tours by staying overnight in Porto. If this is what you prefer, here is a suggested itinerary,
- Days 1 and 2: Porto
- Day 3: Braga
- Day 4: Porto to Guimaraes
- Day 5: Penada Geres National Park
- Days 6 and 7: Douro Valley (with a stop in Amarante, overnight in Pinhao or Regua)
Preparing for your Northern Portugal road trip: Travel tips
Even though Portugal is tiny, regardless of which part you decide to visit, you will need all the help you can get while planning your trip. Here are some basic Portugal travel tips for exploring its northern parts.
How to get to Northern Portugal
The best way to get to Northern Portugal is by plane, considering the many accessible flights arriving daily at Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto. On the slim chance that you can’t get a flight directly to Porto, Lisbon is very well-connected to the city via public transportation.
How to get around Northern Portugal
Similar to the ease of getting to Northern Portugal, traveling through the region is simple and inexpensive. There are two options available: either public transportation or a car rental.
Public transportation
Train travel in the country is operated by Comboios de Portugal, with high-speed trains running from Porto and Braga to Lisbon and more southern destinations.
As for bus services, there are many options, with Rede Expressos and Flixbus being the most popular choices. Both companies operate routes connecting major northern cities, with Rede Expressos also including stops in smaller towns and villages.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to book your bus and train tickets ahead of time, use online services like Omio or Trainline.
Renting a car
It’s a joy to traverse Northern Portugal with a rental car, as it’s far easier to get around. Aside from the convenience factor, renting a car also allows you to visit little-known towns and natural sites that are usually impossible to reach with public transport.
Book your rental car in advance, especially if traveling during peak season, using online aggregators like DiscoverCars or RentalCars.
The best time to visit Northern Portugal
Summer is, without a doubt, the best time to plan your trip to Northern Portugal. Starting in June and lasting until the end of August, this is the ideal time to experience the beautiful beaches, enjoy the Portuguese sun, and have some outdoor fun.
On the other hand, winter brings a lot of rain and some very low temperatures from December through March. The region’s shoulder seasons, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October), make good alternatives.
PS. If you’re already planning your shopping list for Northern Portugal, check out these must-buy souvenirs from Portugal.
Northern Portugal 7-day itinerary: Wrap Up
If you’re after a whirlwind adventure through Northern Portugal, where you’ll get an intimate feel of northern culture, this is the one for you. Following this travel plan, you’ll quickly turn into a local guide.
Northern Portugal awaits. All that’s left to do is book your tickets, get packing, and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
PS. There’s much more to see in the rest of this beautiful country, so plan your two-week itinerary and enjoy this paradise next to the Atlantic Ocean.
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