Portugal and Galicia in 14 days

The Rich Heritage and Urban Sophistication of Portugal and the Medieval Cities and Pristine Nature of Galicia

Welcome to our 14-day adventure through Portugal and Galicia, where we'll guide you through a blend of rich heritage, urban sophistication, and medieval towns.

Throughout this journey, we’ll explore Portugal’s vibrant cities, such as Lisbon and Porto, with day trips to Braga and Sintra. We'll delve into Porto's renowned culinary scene, enjoying world-famous wines and local delicacies. In Galicia, we’ll wander through the medieval streets of Santiago de Compostela, meet the caminantes along the way, and explore the picturesque Rías Baixas. We'll drive along the rugged Costa da Morte and trek through the breathtaking Ribeira Sacra.

Trailblazers: let’s get ready for a great adventure through the heart of Portugal and Galicia

Day	City/Activity
1	Lisbon
2	Lisbon
3	Train from Lisboa to Porto. Lunch and Dinner in Porto
4	Porto
5	Day trip to Braga
6	From Porto to Pontevedra. Dinner in Pontevedra.
7	Day trip in Rías Baixas
8	Pontevedra and dinner in Santiago de Compostela
9	Santiago de Compostela
10	Day trip to A Coruña and Costa da Morte
11	Lugo
12	Daytrip in Ribeira Sacra
13	Return to Lisbon
14	Sintra and farewell dinner in Lisbon

Our 14 days itinerary map

Choosing Our Wheels: Trains vs. Cars in Portugal and Galicia

When planning our adventure through Portugal and Galicia, we were faced with a choice: embrace the efficiency of public transportation or opt for the freedom of a rental car. European trains offer speed and convenience, zipping between cities. On the other hand, having a car means you can set your own schedule, detour to charming villages, and discover places frequented by locals but often overlooked by international tourists.

For our journey, we decided to enjoy the best of both worlds. From Lisbon to Porto, we hopped on the train, savoring the ease of not having to navigate Lisbon’s busy streets or hunt for parking. Plus, we were excited to try the Alfa Pendular service from Comboios de Portugal, which lived up to its reputation. Cruising at speeds up to 135 mph, the train offered both speed and comfort, even in "clase turística".

In Porto, we picked up our rental car from Europcar. This gave us the freedom to explore the stunning Rías Baixas, drive along the rugged Costa da Morte, and trek through the breathtaking Ribeira Sacra. Having a car meant we could stop wherever we pleased, from small medieval towns to scenic overlooks.

We chose to return the car at Lisbon Airport, avoiding an unnecessary return trip to Porto. Although the one-way rental cost was substantial, it was worth the convenience and saved us time and stress of the reaching Porto within the closing ours of our rental pick-up location.

Lisbon: Cobblestone Hills, Culinary Delights, and Soulful Fado

Lisbon welcomed us with its signature cobblestone streets, steep hills, coffee shop culture, and the tantalizing taste of bacalhau and pulpo. Our home base for this adventure was the well-rated Rossio Plaza Hotel—check out our detailed blog post and YouTube video for the full scoop.

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimation

After our transatlantic flight landed in the morning, we knew the best way to shake off jetlag was with a strong cup of coffee. We found the perfect spot at a Chiado café, where we sipped our drinks al fresco and where we engaged in one of my favorite European pastimes: people watching. Recharged, we took a leisurely walk along the Tagus River, breathing in the refreshing breeze.

Our first major stop was the stunning Jerónimos Monastery, followed by a visit to the iconic Belém Tower. As the day progressed, we headed uphill to Bairro Alto, where we enjoyed a family-cooked meal at a cozy neighborhood restaurant. We had lively conversations in my first attempt at Portuguese (or "Portuñol," as my mix of Spanish and some Portuguese, real or invented, is known) with the local clientele, making it a joyful end to our first day in Lisbon.

Day 2: Exploring the Heart of Lisbon

We kicked off our second day with a hearty breakfast at a trendy coffee shop in Chiado. Fueled up, we ventured to the Castelo neighborhood, where we were treated to extraordinary views of the city and enjoyed getting lost in the meandering, cobblestone streets. The sense of history and charm in this area is truly captivating.

No trip to Lisbon is complete without a ride on the iconic tram 28, so we hopped aboard and let it take us through the city’s picturesque neighborhoods. Our Lisbon adventure culminated with a memorable evening at the legendary Fado Tasca da Chico, where the soulful music, glasses of Vinho Verde and conversation with fellow travelers from other countries, kept us going well into the night.

We found that two days in Lisbon was just the right amount of time to leisurely visit the main sights, enjoy long lunches al fresco, explore a couple of coffee shops, and savor a late night of Fado. The pace was perfect for soaking in the city's vibrant culture without feeling rushed. Be sure to check out our blog post on Lisbon for details on the sights, coffee shops that you shouldn't miss, restaurants, and walking itinerary.

Fado at Tasca da Chico

Porto: Cosmopolitan Sophistication with Old-World Charm

Porto captivated us with its blend of cosmopolitan vibes and old-world charm. We enjoyed trendy dining experiences, tasted world-renowned port wine, and walked through its beautiful streets—one of those treats that the travel gods grant you, leaving nothing but gratitude in your heart.

Day 3: From Down-to-Earth Lunch to Sophisticated Dinner

We arrived at the stunning São Bento station—no other city in the world welcomes you like Porto does. After checking into the NH Collection Porto Batalha (check our blog for more details), we set off for lunch at Cachorrinhos, made famous by Anthony Bourdain in "Parts Unknown." With our appetites satisfied, we ventured into the neighborhoods of Bolhão and Aliados. Here, we admired the beautiful architecture adorned with blue azulejos, stopped for some excellent coffee, and savored delicious pastéis de nata.

The highlight of our evening was a memorable dinner at the trendy Mistu. The sophisticated ambiance and exquisite dishes made for an unforgettable dining experience. Be sure to check our blog post for a detailed review and dish recommendations at this amazing restaurant.

Day 4: Walking, Sights, and Port Wine

We kicked off our second day with a visit to the majestic Porto Cathedral. From there, we climbed the Escadas de Vitória, once home to the Jewish quarters before the Inquisition, and were rewarded with fabulous views at the top. We then strolled through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ribeira and enjoyed lunch at a fantastic restaurant hidden in an alleyway, just two blocks from the river—far from the typical tourist traps.

In the afternoon, we crossed the Douro River on foot, taking in more breathtaking views, and ended our day with a well-deserved port wine tasting at Taylor's. The tasting experience was the perfect capstone to our Porto adventure—check our blog post for a full account of the Taylor's experience.

We found that two days in Porto was packed but rewarding. We loved the city's cosmopolitan sophistication intertwined with its historic charm. While the allotted time was right for our 14-day itinerary, Porto is a place we'd love to revisit for some slow travel, exploring places frequented by Tripeiros (as Porto locals are known) and not just tourists. Neighborhoods like Boavista and Foz do Douro, checking out some of the great mixology bars, and strolling by the beach in Matosinhos are all on our list. Porto left room in our appetite in more than one way.

Porto from the esplanade by the Cathedral

Day 5: A Day Trip to Braga. Parks, Cathedral and a More Relaxed Pace

We picked up our car, a compact Seat, from Europcar at their Campanhã station location. Although we would have preferred to travel to Braga by train, Europcar's convenient location was closing the next day, and we needed the car for the remainder of our trip.

Braga is a delightful day trip from Porto, offering a more rounded view of life in Portugal outside the main two cities. With its beautiful parks, walkable streets, and the oldest Portuguese cathedral, which began construction in the 11th century, Braga has a unique charm. The city's scale is perfect—not overwhelming, yet large enough to boast good shopping, restaurants, and a vibrant ambiance.

It's easy to see why Braga is becoming a magnet for expats, digital nomads, and those seeking slow travel or a place to retire. It offers a relaxed pace of life with plenty of cultural attractions and a strong sense of community. Be sure to check our blog post for a detailed walking itinerary of Braga.

Braga. Igreja do Sao Marcos

Day 6: On the Road to Pontevedra

It was time to say au revoir to Portugal and head north to Galicia. We decided to follow the coast on our way to Pontevedra instead of the more direct highway route. Passing through Matosinhos and Lavra, we were treated to great views of the Atlantic, making the journey all the more enjoyable.

Upon arriving in Pontevedra, we checked into the beautiful Parador de Pontevedra, a 16th-century Renaissance palace converted into a hotel. Visit our blog for more information about our amazing stay. The afternoon greeted us with a Galician torrential downpour, so while we initially ventured into the streets, we eventually decided to relax in the parador.

For dinner, we opted for an early meal at the Parador (early dinner in Spain is at 8:45 pm!). The food quality matched the stately dining room perfectly. The bacalao and solomillo de ternera, paired with a young Mencia wine, made for an impressive introduction to Galician cuisine. After dinner, we struck up conversations with several caminantes, who shared their experiences and stories from walking the Camino de Santiago. There's nothing like making amigos along the way and sharing stories with a bottle of wine.

Day 7: Day Trip Along the Rías Baixas – Crisp Albariño Wine and Fresh Seafood (Is This Paradise?)

We kicked off our tour of the Rías Baixas with a stop in the medieval and photogenic town of Combarro, which happens to be the town of my ancestors. We enjoyed a leisurely walk of about two hours, engaging in conversations with locals and sipping on coffee (or two) as we soaked in the charm of the hórreos and narrow streets.

Following the road along the Ría de Pontevedra, we were treated to amazing coastal views. For lunch, we stopped by the water in Sanxenxo, where we indulged in zamburiñas (little scallops), caldo gallego, and the best Galician cheesecake of our trip, all paired perfectly with crisp Albariño wine.

In the afternoon, we continued our drive along the Ría de Arousa, visiting scenic churches by the water. Our journey culminated in Cambados, where we wandered through its medieval streets and ended up in its beautiful main square. The blend of history, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine made for an unforgettable day.

Be sure to check our blog for a detailed road map and YouTube video to plan the perfect Rías Baixas tour.

Combarro and its horreos

Day 8: Morning Touring Pontevedra and a Leisurely Road Trip to Santiago

We started the day in Pontevedra, getting lost in this amazing medieval gem of a city. We wandered through its charming streets, stopping at its beautiful churches and parks. We were lucky to be there when the famed Spanish camellias were in bloom, adding a splash of color to our morning walk.

In the afternoon, we continued our journey to our second destination in Galicia, the iconic Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, we stopped at a park to see a scenic waterfall and enjoyed an afternoon snack at a local coffee shop in Padrón. The leisurely pace allowed us to soak in the beauty of the Galician countryside as we made our way to this historic city.

We arrived in Santiago at the posh Palacio del Carmen hotel (check our blog post for details) and ventured into the city at night. Dinner was at a trendy restaurant, followed by witnessing the splendor of Santiago's cathedral illuminated against the night sky. Bookending a special evening, we sang along with the Tunas (traditional Spanish band), accompanied by tourists, caminantes, and locals in Santiago's square, Plaza del Obradoiro.

Santiago de Compostela cathedral at night

Day 9: Exploring Santiago – Walking Cobblestone Streets and the Rooftop of a Cathedral

At Trailblazing Adventures, we love to walk our cities, and Santiago de Compostela was no exception! There’s so much to see in a relatively condensed area. We strolled along Rua do Franco, where pilgrims have walked for centuries, seeking tabernas after their exhausting journeys. We did our share of eating in the tabernas (without the exhausting journey part of it).

Our highlights were joining the Cathedral tour, walking the rooftop of the cathedral for amazing views of the city, and listening to the organ while walking alongside the pilgrims through the crypt that houses the relics of Santiago Apóstol. Check our blog on Santiago for our walking tour map, lunch recommendations, and tips on how to beat the crowds and not miss a bit of this extraordinary city.

Day 10: Day Trip to A Coruña and the Costa da Morte – A Classy City and Vast Atlantic Views

We headed to A Coruña, just a short one-hour drive from Santiago along the highway. We were instantly charmed by A Coruña’s old quarter, its grand plaza, and the iconic white houses overlooking Paseo Marítimo, Europe’s largest seaside promenade. We also visited the Roman lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO Heritage site and the oldest existing Roman lighthouse, dating back to the first century.

Our adventure continued as we drove through the Costa da Morte, a stretch of rugged coastline with breathtaking views of the vast Atlantic. We stopped at postcard-perfect lighthouses, explored secluded coves, and wandered through quaint seaside towns.

Check our blog and YouTube video for more details—this is a trip you don't want to miss if Galicia is in your plans.

Bench overlooking the Atlantic by Praia dos Cristais in Laxe, Galicia.

Day 11: From Santiago to Lugo – A Walled Medieval City with a Charming Old Quarter

We left Santiago and drove through the backroads of the green Galician countryside towards Lugo. Along the way, we stopped in the off-the-beaten-path village of Silvarrei, home to a hidden gem—the small church of San Xoán de Silvarrei. This charming Romanesque church, with its simple yet captivating stone facade and quaint bell tower, exudes timeless beauty.

We arrived in Lugo and checked into the modern and functional Hotel Mercure (check our blog for a review). A persistent rain didn't deter us from walking to the old city to visit the magnificent cathedral, explore the charming old quarter, and climb the city walls. Lugo's walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and the finest surviving example of late Roman fortifications.

San Xoao de Silvarrei. Comarca de Lugo

Day 12: Ribeira Sacra – Amazing Views, Rugged Treks, and Romanesque Churches

We left Lugo and headed south to the Minho River canyon, ready for a day of exploration in the heart of Galicia. Our first stop was for a 2-mile short trek through a lush forest and vineyards overlooking the Minho, leading us to the Romanesque gem that is the Igrexa Santa Maria das Pesqueiras. This hidden treasure isn't easy to find—check our detailed directions in our Ribeira Sacra blog.

Continuing our journey, we drove alongside the Minho on a winding road as challenging as it was rewarding. The unparalleled beauty of the viewpoints, vineyards, and river beaches made every twist and turn worthwhile.

We finished our journey in Monforte de Lemos, another medieval town full of charm. Here, we enjoyed our last Galician dinner, savoring bacalao confitado and solomillo in the cellar of a charming restaurant, reflecting on the incredible day we had in the Ribeira Sacra.

Day 13: Drive Back to Lisboa

It was time to say adios to Galicia. We truly enjoyed our time here and cannot wait to plan another trip to spend more time in both the Costa da Morte and Ribeira Sacra, and perhaps extend the trip to Asturias. There's nothing better than departing with the desire to explore a place more.

We spent the day driving to Lisbon. Given the length of the trip, we stuck to the highways for most of the way. We made a stop in Ponte de Lima, Portugal, for a great lunch, a little rest, a double coffee, and a visit to the impressive Roman bridge.

We arrived in Lisbon and stayed at Parque das Nações due to its proximity to the airport, ease of parking, and more moderate prices than downtown Lisboa. Our accommodation was the Moxy Lisboa Oriente, a modern and functional new hotel. Check our blog for a review.

Day 14: Sintra – Palaces, Fortifications, and the Magical Initiation Well

We drove to Sintra early in the morning to beat the crowds that, even in the shoulder season, are large in this well-known destination. Our first stop was the enchanting Pena National Palace, followed by the historic Moorish Castle. But my favorite was the expansive Quinta da Regaleira. Believe me, no photo or video prepares you for the experience of going down the initiation well. The word "magical" is often overused, but this fantastic experience is like something out of a Borges book.

We said goodbye to Lisboa and ended our trip with a great dinner by the Tagus on the Parque das Nações esplanade.

Initiation Well. Quinta da Regaleira. Sintra

I hope you enjoyed and found this blog useful. Feel free to visit the more detailed blogs on each of the cities where you will find walking tours, information on the different sights, and an honest assessment of what to visit and where to stay and dine. Also my YouTube channel Trailblazing Adventures where you will find a video version of most of my blogs.

Leave a comment with a city I should have visited in Portugal or Galicia that you recommend for another trip, or ask questions about the itinerary. Fellow adventurer, until next time, happy travels!