A Short Getaway in Portugal

Portugal in 5 Days: A Whirlwind Taste of Tiles, Trams & Tawny Port

One of my favourite things about living in Europe is how easy it is to change environments in the blink of an eye. If I’m ever in need of foreign food, unfamiliar faces or just a fresh backdrop, all I have to do is hop on a short flight and—voilà—I’m somewhere completely different. Whether it’s a weekend escape or a cheeky couple of days off work, I always come back re-energised and inspired by the scenery switch.

Over the years, I’ve taken all kinds of mini-adventures: hitch hiking to Copenhagen, exploring the Irish countryside, learning to drink vodka in Warsaw, clubbing in London, wandering Budapest’s hidden corners… and most recently, sampling Portugal’s delights.

Because I wanted to experience as much of the country as possible in a short amount of time, I decided to keep moving. No rigid schedule, just a loose plan and a thirst for discovery.

DAY 1:  PORTO – A charming start

Thanks to the abundance of low-cost flights, I managed to score return tickets to Porto for less than €60 per person. Low transportation costs are pretty much non-negotiable when choosing a weekend destination.

With its hilly cobbled streets, blue-and-white tiled facades, and riverside sunsets, Porto was the perfect place to kick off the trip. It’s small enough to explore on foot without that pressure of checking off a list of “must-see” spots. You just wander.

Sip some Port—the local pride and joy— while admiring the architecture and sample staples like grilled sardines or, for the brave, “Tripas à moda do Porto”: a stew made of tripe, beans, pig’s trotters and offal… I skipped it (guts and feet stew? Not my cup of tea), but if you’ve tried it, I want to hear about it!

Evenings are lively: cafés and bars fill with chatting locals and travellers. The nightlife spills into the streets, with people standing outside drinking, laughing, living.

DAY 2: TRAIN TO LISBON – Capital calling

Direct trains from Porto to Lisbon run every hour, take about three hours, and cost around €25 one way. We left after breakfast and arrived just in time for lunch.

I’ve said it before: I love cities by the sea, and Lisbon is no exception. That ocean breeze brings a cool, laid-back energy to the whole place.

Lisbon deserves way more than a pitstop—it’s bursting with history, iconic architecture, picturesque neighbourhoods and a nightlife that doesn’t quit. But for a short stay, it makes for a fantastic taster.

DAY 3: LISBON ON FOOT AND BY TRAM

Lisbon is made for wandering. It’s bigger than Porto, so your feet will thank you when you hop onto one of those iconic yellow trams.

We spent the day exploring Belém, picnicking in the botanical gardens, and trying the Pasteis de Nata—those legendary custard tarts that absolutely live up to the hype.

DAY 4: DRIVING TO THE DOURO VALLEY

We rented a car and drove north to the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the place for wine lovers.
Having your own wheels is key here—it lets you roam at your own pace and pull over for as many scenic photo stops (or spontaneous vineyard visits) as your heart desires. Many estates offer tours and tastings, often for free. Pop in and visit one or several estates, most welcome visitors and even have guided tours around the premises, explaining the types of grapes and the manufacturing process. Sampling is of course, part of the learning process… But don’t get too carried away, you still have to drive!

We spent the night in Amarante, a charming little town tucked into the valley.

DAY 5: HOME BOUND

We made sure to use a rental company that let us pick up the car in Lisbon and drop it in Porto, which made everything smoother. On day five, we drove straight to the airport and flew home, fully fuelled by wine, sun, and custard.

TIP:

Ladies, leave your heels at home. I’m serious—these cities are all but heel friendly. Between the cobbles and the hills, you’ll spend more time looking down than looking around, and that would be a shame.

Have you been to Portugal? 

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