• Overview
  • Trip Outline
  • Trip Includes
  • Trip Excludes
  • Hotels

Highlights of Portugal: Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto

Discover the Soulful Charms of Portugal by Rail

We’ve crafted a journey that allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history, soulful cultures, stunning scenery, and delectable food and wine of Portugal on this memorable 8-day journey by rail. Begin by exploring the Moorish heritage, seaside neighborhoods, and iconic viewpoints of Lisbon before heading north. In Coimbra, step back into medieval times while experiencing the lively university spirit of the town. Then indulge in the port wine traditions, picturesque Douro River valley scenery, and vibrant urban spirit of Porto before heading back to Lisbon.

During your smooth and uninterrupted travels between cities aboard comfortable and efficient rail, we’ll handle all the planning. You’re free to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, architectural wonders, and vibrant spirit surrounding you.

This is an invitation to experience the true essence and enduring romance of Portugal – blending incredible sights with authentic cultural immersion and the luxury of effortless rail travel. Embrace the deslumbrante rhythm of this remarkable country!

What your itinerary will look like:

Itinerary with Flexible Activities: You can follow our recommended itinerary to experience the highlights of each destination, or customize it to suit your personal preferences.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrive in Lisbon

Welcome to Portugal's capital! After checking into your hotel for two nights, spend your afternoon getting acquainted with Lisbon's historic Baixa neighborhood. Visit the iconic Praça do Comércio plaza facing the Tagus River and stroll along the nearby pedestrianized streets lined with restaurants and shops. [Night in Lisbon]

Day 2

Lisbon's Highlights

Today, experience some of Lisbon's top attractions like the Unesco-listed Belém district where you can see the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower. Other highlights include the hilltop Castelo de São Jorge fortress offering panoramic city views and the lively Alfama neighborhood. [Night in Lisbon]

Day 3

Travel to Coimbra

After breakfast, depart Lisbon and take the train to the historic university city of Coimbra. Upon arrival, check into your hotel for two nights. Spend your afternoon strolling through Coimbra's medieval streets and visiting sights like the 12th-century Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and the university's famous Biblioteca Joanina library. [Night in Coimbra]

Day 4

More of Coimbra

With a full day in Coimbra, you can further experience its rich history and culture. Visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, including its 16th-century cathedral-like building and the baroque University Tower. You may also enjoy exploring the lively downtown shopping district. [Night in Coimbra]

Day 5

Journey to Porto

Leave Coimbra after breakfast and continue north by train to the coastal city of Porto. After checking into your hotel for two nights, get oriented by visiting the historic Ribeira district along the Douro River and seeing the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge arching overhead. [Night in Porto]

Day 6

Explore Porto

Devote today to discovering the highlights of Porto, perhaps starting in the UNESCO-listed Ribeira. Visit top sights like the neo-gothic São Bento railway station, the baroque Torre dos Clérigos tower, and at least one of the city's port wine caves or cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. [Night in Porto]

Day 7

Return to Lisbon

After breakfast, take the train back to Lisbon. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day revisiting any attractions you missed or discovering new areas like the trendy Príncipe Real or Anjos neighborhoods known for their restaurants and nightlife. [Night in Lisbon]

Day 8

Depart Lisbon

On your final morning in Portugal's capital, visit any last sights or simply relax at an outdoor cafe and soak in the lively atmosphere before departing Lisbon. You may want to pick up some classic Portuguese custard tarts or port wine as a souvenir.

Your rail adventure and hotel package includes: 

  • Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey. 
  • First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating. 
  • 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience. 
  • Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options. 
  • Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience. 

Your rail adventure and hotel package does not include: 

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights. 
  • Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs. 
  • Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility. 
  • Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.  
  • Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered. 
  • Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion. 
  • Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included. 

 

Important Notes 

  • Customs Fees and Duties: Any – if applicable - customs fees or duties for goods purchased while traveling are the responsibility of the traveler. 
  • Extra Nights: Any additional hotel nights or early check-ins and late check-outs outside the scheduled itinerary will incur extra charges.  
  • Visa and Passport Fees: Guests are responsible for securing their own visas and any associated costs. Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. 
  • Travel Insurance: We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. Please arrange this separately, as it is not included in the package. 

All our hotel options have been carefully selected, conveniently located near the train station for your comfort.

Lisbon

Our Included Favourite

Hotel Ikonik Lisboa

Young and modern hotel

Breakfast buffet

Popular Alternative

Meliá Lisboa Oriente

Family friendly

Gym and Spa facilities

Luxe Alternative

Tivoli Oriente Lisboa Hotel

Heated indoor swimming pool

Sky Bar

Coimbra

Our Included Favourite

Vila Galé Coimbra

Spa and gym facilities

Stunning view over the Mondego River

Popular Alternative

NH Coimbra Dona Inês

Direct river view

Breakfast buffet

Luxe Alternative

Sapientia Boutique Hotel

Rooftop terrace

Exclusive experiences such as: Hora do Vinho

Porto

Our Included Favourite

Eurostars Heroismo

Exceptional garden area

Outdoor gym

Popular Alternative

OCA Oriental Porto

Onsite gym

Garden view restaurant

Luxe Alternative

Outsite Porto Mouco

Rooftop pool

Yoga Room