12 days in Portugal: itinerary

The route

• Days 1–3: Lisbon
• Days 4–6: Coimbra
• Days 7–9: Porto
• Days 10–12: Douro Valley

Why this order works

It keeps transfers short and ends near a major airport. CP runs the mainland rail network; Alfa Pendular is the fastest intercity service on the Lisbon–Porto and Lisbon–Algarve corridors, with major stops including Coimbra and Aveiro

What it costs

At mid-range pace, an estimated $1,800 per person on the ground, excluding flights.

When to run it

Best months: April, May, June, September, October.