Lisbon: To Porto, Day Trip & Transfer with Stops in 3 Cities

Traveling between Lisbon and Porto doesn’t have to be a straightforward drive. If you’re keen to see more of Portugal’s scenic coast and historic towns, this private transfer with optional stops in three cities could be just what you need. It’s a relaxed way to move between two major hubs without the hassle of driving yourself, plus you get to explore some iconic spots along the way.

What we really like about this tour is the flexibility it offers—you can customize your stops, spending more time in places that catch your eye. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and attentive driver make the journey smooth and stress-free, especially if you’re traveling in a group or with family. And the reviews highlight how well-organized and knowledgeable the guides are, making each stop not just a photo-op but a meaningful experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a guided tour in the traditional sense—you won’t have a guide explaining everything at each site. Instead, you get the benefits of a private transfer with stops, which is perfect if you prefer to explore at your own pace. It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible, comfortable way to see a few highlights without rushing or dealing with public transport.

This experience is ideal for those who love a mix of travel comfort and sightseeing. If you’re traveling from Lisbon to Porto and want a taste of Portugal’s charming towns without the hassle of planning multiple routes, this could be a good fit. Now, let’s break down what makes this transfer and stopover journey worthwhile—and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows you to choose up to 3 stops on your way from Lisbon to Porto
• Comfortable private transfer in a clean, spacious vehicle
• Stops in culturally rich towns like Óbidos, Nazaré, and Aveiro offer sightseeing, shopping, and local treats
• Excellent value for the price of around $246 per person for a full day of travel and exploration
• Highly praised guides and drivers ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience
• Suitable for travelers who want freedom to explore without rigid schedules

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Lisbon to Porto Experience

This isn’t your typical transfer—think of it more as a customizable journey that balances transport with sightseeing. You start with a convenient pickup from your hotel, airport, or cruise port in Lisbon. Your driver, who also acts as your guide, will then whisk you away in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle. The experience is designed to be comfortable even if you’re traveling with luggage or a small group.

Once on the road, you’ll have the opportunity to stop in up to three cities for sightseeing, walking around, or just soaking in the vibe. You can choose from a variety of towns—Óbidos, Nazaré, Coimbra, Fátima, or Aveiro—based on your interests. This flexibility is a significant advantage, especially if you have particular sites or experiences you want to prioritize.

The Stops – What You’ll See and Do

Óbidos

Most travelers rave about Óbidos for its medieval charm. This town is surrounded by ancient walls, and you can walk along the ramparts, check out the old castle, or browse through local arts and crafts markets. Expect scenic views, quaint streets, and a chance to enjoy some local snacks or a glass of wine.

Nazaré

Famous for its massive waves and legendary surf culture, Nazaré offers stunning ocean vistas. It’s a great place for photos, especially of the towering waves that attract surfers from around the world. You might also enjoy a quick walk along the beach and take in the fresh sea air. Some travelers like to stop here for lunch—there’s a variety of seaside cafes and seafood options.

Aveiro

Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is all about its colorful boats and canals. The architecture here is playful and distinctive, with pastel-colored buildings lining the waterways. Many people enjoy a long-tail boat ride to see the city from the water, and don’t forget to try the local sweet pastries sold along the canals. It’s a charming, lively place perfect for strolling.

Optional Third Stops

You can choose from Fátima, famous for its religious shrines, Coimbra, home to one of Portugal’s oldest universities, or Batalha, known for its historic monastery. The choice depends on your interests—whether you’re into religious sites, academic history, or coastal scenery.

The Journey and Timing

The total duration can vary from 3 to 9 hours depending on how many stops you select and how long you spend in each. The tour makes it easy to adjust based on your preferences. Reviews mention the timely pick-up and drop-off, with drivers waiting patiently and providing helpful insights along the way. The cost of roughly $246 per person is reasonable considering it includes private transportation, Wi-Fi, and personalized stops, especially if traveling with others, as it offers good value for money.

The Experience from Travelers’ Eyes

Reviewers are quite enthusiastic about this service. One reviewer shared, “This was our second day with [Tour Tuner] via GYG, and once again, the experience was fantastic! Nayem, our driver and guide, was professional, knowledgeable, and smooth behind the wheel. Each stop—Óbidos, Nazaré, and Aveiro—offered something unique, and the entire trip was very well organized.” This highlights how a good driver can make or break the experience, and the reviews suggest Nayem hits the mark in professionalism and friendliness.

Another reviewer remarked, “Excellent transfer from Porto to Lisbon with Nayem. The journey was comfortable, and he shared interesting insights about Portugal, making the drive enjoyable and informative.” This shows that the driver’s role extends beyond just getting you from point A to B—adding local flavor and making the trip memorable.

People also appreciate the flexibility—being able to spend more time in places they find most appealing. The luxury aspect with a clean vehicle and Wi-Fi makes the ride pleasant, especially if you’re tired after a flight or cruise.

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The Downsides and Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, it’s not for everyone. Since it’s a private transfer, there’s no extensive guided commentary at each site—if you’re looking for in-depth tours within each town, you might want to consider other options. Also, the duration varies, and if you want to maximize sightseeing, you may need to be mindful of the time spent in each place.

The price point at $246 per person can seem steep for some, but remember, it covers private car hire, Wi-Fi, and a driver-guide. It’s a good deal if you value comfort and flexibility over a fixed group tour that might feel rushed or impersonal.

This experience is not suitable for pregnant travelers, wheelchair users, or those over 135 kg or 95 years old, as specified. Plus, if you’re traveling with large or oversize luggage, you’ll want to check if it fits comfortably, as there is a luggage allowance.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love the idea of a relaxing, customized journey between Lisbon and Porto, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to see a few highlights without the pressure of a guided tour or navigating public transport. It works well for travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore at their own pace.

Families or groups who want a stress-free way to enjoy Portugal’s scenic towns will find this appealing as well. However, if you’re after in-depth guided tours or have very specific site requirements, you might prefer a more structured itinerary.

This tour offers a balance of comfort, flexibility, and local charm, making it ideal for those who want a memorable road trip experience with the freedom to explore some of Portugal’s most beautiful towns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the stops during the transfer?
Yes, you can choose which three cities to stop in, based on your preferences. The tour is flexible, and you can spend more or less time in each location.

How long is the total journey?
The duration varies from 3 to 9 hours, depending on the number of stops and how long you spend at each. Check the available start times to see what fits your schedule.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Absolutely. The private transfer uses a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle, with Wi-Fi and a bottle of water included, making the ride more enjoyable.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers the private vehicle, driver/guide, Wi-Fi, water, hotel or port pickup, and drop-off in Porto. Entrance tickets and meals are not included.

Can I stop in Fátima or Coimbra instead of Aveiro?
Yes, you have options to customize your third stop—Fátima or Coimbra are popular choices. Just specify your preferences when booking.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the private, relaxed nature of the trip can work for families with older children who enjoy road trips and sightseeing. Keep in mind the vehicle space and any mobility considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, any necessary visas, and comfortable clothing. Plan to bring snacks or souvenirs, as food isn’t included, but you can buy local treats at stops.

In brief, this Lisbon to Porto private transfer with stops strikes a good balance for those wanting comfort, flexibility, and a taste of Portugal’s charming towns along the way. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value a personalized experience without the rigid structure of guided tours, offering a relaxed way to see some of Portugal’s best-loved spots en route to Porto.

You can check availability for your dates here: