Friday, 27 February

Today's Route  [Porto to Lisbon]

Lots of driving today but we'll start with a relaxed breakfast at Camélia Brunch Garden at the mouth of the Douro river, then hit the road with a fun stop at Pinhais Cannery & Co. before a classic lunch of crispy leitão at Mugasa. After arriving in Lisbon, we’ll dive straight into the city’s energy with colorful streets, historic bookshops, and the grand squares and arches of downtown. We’ll finish with sunset by the river at Cais das Colunas, a lovely dinner at Tapa do Bairro Alto, quirky drinks at Pavilhão Chinês, and a stylish overnight at Duo Hotel Lisbon.

Breakfast at Camélia Brunch Garden  [Foz do Douro]

Camélia Brunch Garden in Foz do Douro is a bright, leafy brunch spot that feels calm and fresh to start the day. It’s known for colorful brunch plates like eggs, pancakes, and toast-style dishes alongside great coffee and juices. The relaxed garden vibe makes it perfect for easing into a travel day.

Pinhais Cannery & Co.  [Matosinhos]

Pinhais Cannery & Co. in Matosinhos is a beloved old-school sardine cannery where tradition and craftsmanship are still on full display. Visiting feels like stepping into a living piece of Portuguese food history, with the chance to see how the tins are made and packed. It’s a fun, uniquely Porto stop that’s both cultural and delicious. 

Lunch at Mugasa Leitão  [Sangalhos]

Mugasa Leitão is a legendary stop for crispy, juicy roast suckling pig, often regarded as the best place in Portugal for leitão. The star is the perfectly roasted pork with crackling skin, served simply so the flavor shines. It’s a must-do road-trip lunch that feels like a true Portuguese food pilgrimage.

A Walk Along Pink Street  [Lisbon]

After arriving in Lisbon, we'll take a walk down Pink Street, a colorful, lively stretch known for its bright pavement and playful hanging umbrellas overhead. It’s one of the city’s most fun photo spots, especially as the evening energy starts to build. Even a quick walk through gives you that classic Lisbon nightlife vibe. 

Livraria Bertrand in Chiado  [Lisbon]

Livraria Bertrand in Chiado is a charming historic bookstore recognized as the world’s oldest operating bookshop. Walking through its rooms feels like stepping into Lisbon’s literary past, with shelves that seem to go on forever. It’s a cozy, iconic stop even if you only pop in for a quick look. 

A Stroll Down Rua Augusta  [Lisbon]

Strolling down Rua Augusta is one of the best ways to soak up Lisbon’s lively downtown energy. The pedestrian street is packed with shops, street performers, and classic tiled buildings that make it feel vibrant and photogenic. It’s an easy, fun walk that naturally leads us toward the city’s grand waterfront square. 

Arco Triunfal da Rua Augusta  [Lisbon]

The Arco Triunfal da Rua Augusta is Lisbon’s grand triumphal arch marking the entrance to Praça do Comércio. Its sculpted details and towering presence make it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. If you go up to the top, you’ll get an amazing view over Rua Augusta and the riverfront.

Praça do Comércio  [Lisbon]

Praça do Comércio is Lisbon’s grand waterfront square, opening up dramatically to the Tagus River. The wide yellow buildings and open space make it feel regal, bright, and full of history. It’s one of those places where you can just stand still for a moment and feel the scale of the city.

Sunset at Cais das Colunas  [Lisbon]

Cais das Colunas is a beautiful riverside spot in Lisbon where two stone columns frame the Tagus like a postcard. Watching sunset here feels calm and cinematic as the sky turns gold over the water. It’s a perfect place to pause, take photos, and soak in our first Lisbon evening.

Dinner at Tapa do Bairro Alto  [Lisbon]

Tapa do Bairro Alto is a cozy, lively spot that’s perfect for a fun Lisbon dinner in the heart of the nightlife district. It’s great for Portuguese-style tapas like petiscos, grilled seafood, and shareable bites that pair well with wine. The warm atmosphere makes it an ideal place to settle in and enjoy the evening. 

Drinks at Pavilhão Chinês  [Lisbon]

Pavilhão Chinês is one of Lisbon’s most unforgettable bars, packed with vintage curiosities and quirky museum-like rooms. Grabbing a drink here feels like discovering a secret collection hidden behind an unassuming door. It’s the perfect late-night stop for a fun, slightly surreal Lisbon vibe.

Stay at Duo Hotel Lisbon  [Lisbon]

Staying at Duo Hotel Lisbon is a stylish and comfortable way to cap off our day in the city. Its modern design and central location make it easy to explore Lisbon or unwind after dinner and drinks. The sleek rooms and thoughtful amenities gives us a relaxing home base for the rest of our trip.