Ultimate Portugal Travel Guide - Lisbon, Porto and more

A week long trip to Lisbon,Obidos, Porto, Duoro Valley and Nazare.

Travel Month – April, 2025

Hello fellow travelers!!

This spring break, we packed our bags and headed to Portugal, trading routine for tiled streets, ocean air, and endless views. Our journey took us from the vibrant hills of Lisbon to the charming riverside lanes of Porto, through the rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley, and on to the dramatic waves of Nazaré. We also wandered the streets of Óbidos, where time seems to slow behind medieval walls. What followed was a week of unforgettable scenery, incredible food, and moments that made us fall a little more in love with travel—and with Portugal itself.

Day 1-2 : Lisbon – History, Hills & Custard Tarts

Lisbon was the perfect place to kick off our Portugal trip. Colorful streets, historic neighborhoods, and that relaxed riverfront vibe made it easy to fall in love with the city. Even with just two days, we fit in a lot without feeling rushed.

We explored São Jorge Castle, walking along the old stone walls and soaking in the views over the city and the Tagus River. Nearby, we stopped by the Lisbon Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest landmarks, before wandering through Alfama’s narrow streets. We also rode the Santa Justa Lift and the Funicular which gave us another great perspective of Lisbon from above. An interesting fact – Lisbon’s trams are over a century old and are part of the city’s charm.

Food was a highlight, especially a stop at Time Out Market, where we sampled a little bit of everything and soaked up the lively atmosphere. Of course, no day was complete without at least one pastel de nata (custard tarts).

One day included a quick trip from Lisbon to Sintra, which felt like stepping into a fairytale with its palaces and gardens. Back in the city, we ended our evenings walking around the plaza near the Tagus River, enjoying the breeze and watching the city slow down.

From there, we continued on to Nazaré. It’s best known for its massive waves at Praia do Norte, which can reach over 80 feet and draw big-wave surfers from all over the world. Nazaré was the perfect place to slow down, walk along the windy coast, and watch the ocean. In the evening, we headed out to Porto, where we had booked our hotel.

Day 4 – Duoro Valley – Terraces, Vines & Rustic Roads

Driving north from Porto, we entered the Douro Valley, one of Portugal’s most stunning regions. The landscape is unforgettable—vineyards stretching along rolling hills, terraced slopes, and the Douro River winding its way through the valley like a silver ribbon. It’s famous for its Port wine production.

Day 5 : Porto

We spent our final day in Portugal in Porto, a city renowned for its world-famous port wine, the historic riverside district of Ribeira, and its striking tiled façades. From the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to its maze of charming narrow streets, Porto captivates with a rich cultural scene where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with a vibrant, modern energy.

Fun fact: Porto’s name is where the famous “Port” wine comes from — and the river was historically used to transport barrels downstream to export them globally.

Final Thoughts

We had to skip the Algarve coast due to time constraints, but it’s firmly on our list for next time. Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water, the Algarve is one of Portugal’s most iconic coastal regions. It’s the kind of place that deserves slow mornings, long beach days, and plenty of time to explore — so we’re saving it for a future trip.

Practical Travel tips

What to pack: If you’re visiting in April, pack light layers. A light jacket and a compact umbrella can come in handy for cooler evenings and occasional showers.

Currency: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always useful to carry some cash in euros for small shops and local cafés

Connectivity: Don’t forget a universal power adapter to keep your devices charged throughout your trip.

Did you know? Portugal produces around half of the world’s cork — chances are your wine stopper is Portuguese! Be sure to check out locally made cork accessories, which make for unique and sustainable souvenirs.

Ultimate Portugal Travel Guide – Lisbon, Porto and more