10-Day Itinerary Through Porto, Sintra & Lisbon
If you’re craving mild weather, soulful cities, and the comfort of pastel de nata in one hand and a train ticket in the other, a November escape to Portugal is pure magic. The summer crowds are gone, the prices are friendlier, and the golden autumn light makes every street feel cinematic. Here’s a 10-day itinerary taking you through Porto, Sintra, and Lisbon, mixing together culture, food, nature, and those slow, cozy travel moments November invites.
Portugal in November: What to Expect
- Weather: Mild, usually 14–18°C. Expect a mix of sunny days, overcast skies, and the occasional rain shower. Unfortunately, we were hit by showers two whole time we were in Porto, but we got lovely sunny days in Lisbon.
- Packing: Light layers, a waterproof jacket, a warmer top for evenings, comfortable shoes, and maybe an umbrella you won’t mind losing.
- Getting Around: Portugal’s train system (CP – Comboios de Portugal) is reliable, cheap, and scenic. Book ahead for long stretches like Porto to Lisbon, but for regional lines (like Lisbon → Sintra), trains run very frequently.
10-Day Itinerary Idea
Days 1–4 — PORTO
A city of steep hills, tiled churches, river views, and port wine cellars, Porto is atmospheric in November: despite the rain and the mist, we had such a great time here.
Things To Do
Ribeira District — Wander the waterfront, photograph colorful facades, enjoy riverside wine at sunset.
Livraria Lello — Iconic bookstore; go early before the crowds.
São Bento Station — Azulejo-adorned hall that feels like an art museum.
Clérigos Tower — Climb for sweeping city views.
Vila Nova de Gaia Port Lodges — Take a tour and tasting at Graham’s, Ferreira, or Cálem.
Foz do Douro — Ride vintage tram 1 out to the Atlantic coast.
Porto → Sintra
Take the Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train from Porto Campanhã → Lisboa Oriente or Santa Apolónia (2.5–3 hrs). Then hop on the suburban train Lisboa Oriente/Rossio → Sintra (40 min).
Days 5–7 — SINTRA
Settle into Sintra, where misty forests, exotic gardens, and Romantic-era palaces scatter across the hills. November adds atmosphere: You might not be able to see the full colours of the Pena Palace, but the fog made it look very mysterious.
Must-See Places
Pena Palace — A rainbow castle on top of a hill. In November, cloud and fog only make it more magical.
Quinta da Regaleira — Gothic mansion, underground tunnels, and the Insta-famous Initiation Well.
Moorish Castle — Ancient stone ramparts with panoramic mountain views.
Monserrate Palace — Lush gardens and Moorish-inspired architecture. A quiet highlight.
Local buses serve the main palace loops in Sintra, but Bolt/Uber is a good, inexpensive option in low season.
Days 8–10 — LISBON
Travel from Sintra to Lisbon (a quick 40-minute train), and finish your trip soaking in the capital’s culture, viewpoints, and food. November brings roasted chestnut carts, golden sunsets, and quieter streets.
Top Things To Do
Belém District — Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and warm pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém.
Alfama — Narrow lanes, tiled houses, miradouros, and nighttime Fado.
Castelo de São Jorge — Hilltop fortress with views across the Tagus.
LX Factory — Boutiques, bookshops, cafés, and street art — perfect for a rainy day.
Time Out Market — Food hall for easy, delicious sampling.
Day Trip Option: Cascais — If it’s sunny, the beach town is a quick train ride away.
Gettin around Lisbon is also very easy. The Metro is fast and efficient, but it’s also worth trying to take the famous trams, such as the number 28. As alwasy, walking is my favourite option, but Lisbon is very hilly, so pack good shoes.
