Lisbon in 5 Days for Couples - Roman ruins of Conímbriga
In Collaboration with pentravel. Updated on January 31, 2026.
Private 5-day cultural journey from Lisbon through Coimbra, historic schist villages, Serra da Estrela, Belmonte, Tomar and the Fátima–Nazaré–Óbidos corridor, finishing with an Ericeira sunset. Designed for couples seeking culture, relaxed pacing and romantic moments each day.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with pentravel, inspired by the tour 5-Day Private Cultural Tour of Central Portugal. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Roman ruins of Conímbriga
- University of Coimbra & Biblioteca Joanina
- Historic schist villages and Piódão at golden hour
- Torre (Serra da Estrela) and local cheese & bread tasting
- Convent of Christ (Tomar) — Templar history
- Sanctuary of Fátima, Nazaré coastal views, Óbidos medieval walls
- Sunset at Ericeira (surfing coast) — romantic finale
Itinerary
Day 1
Departure from Lisbon to explore Roman Conímbriga and the University city of Coimbra. Evening intimate Fado performance in Coimbra.
Pickup in Lisbon — depart for Conímbriga
Private pickup from your Lisbon hotel and scenic drive west-northwest toward Conímbriga; brief comfort stop en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your driver for a short coffee stop in a local village cafe for fresh pastéis de nata — it's a charming Portuguese start.
- Spring mornings are mild; bring a light layer for the drive and early-morning photos.
- Seat together up front for the best views — request a seat rotation if you want alternating window shots.
Conímbriga – Roman ruins (self-guided with guide commentary)
Explore one of Portugal’s largest and best-preserved Roman sites: mosaics, baths and the visitor centre that narrates life in ancient Lusitania.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to avoid the midday tour groups — mosaics photograph best in soft morning light.
- Bring comfortable shoes; paths are uneven in places but short — hold hands and take it slow for romantic wanderings.
- Ask your guide to point out the highlights (House of the Birds mosaic) and pose near a mosaic for a classic couple portrait.
Lunch in Coimbra — relaxed riverside meal
Drive to Coimbra and enjoy a relaxed lunch in the historic centre before an afternoon of discoveries.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a terrace by the Mondego River for a romantic table with views — ask for outdoor seating if weather permits.
- Order a local dish (chanfana or roasted cod) and share a dessert; Portuguese desserts are perfect for two.
- Spring means outdoor seating is pleasant; reserve ahead if you prefer a specific riverside table.
University of Coimbra & Biblioteca Joanina
Guided visit to the historic University complex and the baroque Biblioteca Joanina — grand, atmospheric and unforgettable.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the Joanina Library timed-entrance — it has limited capacity; this helps avoid queues and preserves the intimate atmosphere.
- Keep voices low inside the library to enjoy its baroque glow; the dim interior is highly romantic for history lovers.
- Wear soft-soled shoes for quieter steps on wooden floors; the cloisters are lovely for a couple's photo.
Quinta das Lágrimas — romantic garden stroll
Wander the historic gardens associated with the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês — a classic romantic stop in Coimbra.
Tips from local experts:
- Late afternoon light is perfect here — time your visit for soft shadows and fewer visitors.
- Follow the riverside paths slowly and pause at the Fonte das Lágrimas for an intimate moment.
- The paths have some steps; take your time and sit on a bench together to enjoy the quiet.
Evening special moment — Intimate Coimbra Fado performance
Private or small-group Fado de Coimbra performance: melancholic, evocative singing by students, perfect for a romantic evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a small Sala de Fado for an intimate experience (book ahead) rather than large tourist venues.
- Pair the performance with a glass of tawny port or a regional wine to enhance the atmosphere.
- Seating is limited and often early — arrive a little before showtime to get a front table for the best ambiance.
Overnight in Coimbra (private accommodation)
Drop-off at your booked hotel in Coimbra; evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quiet room overlooking the river or the old city for romantic night views.
- Ask reception about late-night stroll routes near the university — Coimbra is atmospheric after dark.
- If you plan an early departure next day, arrange breakfast-to-go with the hotel front desk.
Day 2
A scenic day through the Schist Villages: Lousã, Góis, Coja and the postcard-perfect Piódão for an overnight stay and golden-hour viewing.
Drive Coimbra → Castelo de Lousã and morning walk
Short drive to the Castle of Lousã; gentle walk around castle grounds and viewpoint.
Tips from local experts:
- The castle hill offers sweeping valley views — arrive when the light is soft for the best photos.
- Paths are uneven; wear comfortable shoes and consider a light jacket for spring breezes.
- Grab a coffee at a nearby cafe and share it on the castle wall for a quiet moment alone.
Ecomuseu do Xisto — Góis (traditions of schist)
Discover the schist-village culture and local crafts at the Ecomuseum; a relaxed guided introduction to rural life.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the curator about local artisans — small demonstrations are often available and make for meaningful souvenirs.
- The museum is low-key and uncrowded — perfect for couples who like quiet cultural immersion.
- Bring cash for small handicraft purchases; many artisans prefer cash payments.
Lunch in Góis — riverside tavern
Shared lunch in a family-run tavern overlooking the river; regional flavors and relaxed service.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a terrace table by the river for a peaceful meal together.
- Try a regional starter to share so you can sample more of the local cuisine.
- If you have dietary needs, request simple dishes (grilled fish/vegetables) — small houses are usually accommodating.
Coja — village stroll and photos
Short stop in Coja for a gentle walk through lanes, small chapels and countryside views.
Tips from local experts:
- Coja’s narrow lanes are photogenic — take slow walks and capture the stone architecture.
- Spring wildflowers often line the paths — pick a quiet bench to enjoy the views together.
- Wear sensible shoes; some streets are cobbled and may be uneven underfoot.
Drive to Aldeia do Piódão — arrival and check-in
Scenic drive to the iconic ‘nativity-scene’ village of Piódão; check-in to local pousada or guesthouse.
Tips from local experts:
- The drive has narrow mountain roads — relax and let the driver handle timings; open windows for fresh air and photos.
- Request a room with a village view — the stone houses clustered on the slope are magical in soft light.
- Pack a small day-pack for an evening stroll; hotels often have limited luggage handling in tiny lanes.
Golden hour in Piódão — romantic village viewpoint
Slow, unhurried walk to the best viewpoint for golden-hour photography across the amphitheatre of blue-trimmed houses.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to pick a quiet spot and watch the village glow together.
- The viewpoint is rustic — bring a small blanket and a warm layer for spring evenings.
- Respect local residents — keep noise low and enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the stone lanes.
Overnight in Piódão — candlelit dinner
Dinner at your guesthouse or a nearby tavern featuring regional dishes; evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a table near a window or terrace for village views while dining.
- Order local specialties to share (cheese, cured meats, slow-cooked stews) and ask for small portions to taste more.
- Spring nights can be cool in the mountains — request an extra blanket or cozy seating by a fireplace if available.
Day 3
A day exploring the Serra da Estrela natural park: Torre summit, Covão d’Ametade, Seia for bread and cheese experiences and an overnight in Covilhã.
Drive Piódão → Torre (Serra da Estrela)
Scenic mountain drive into Serra da Estrela National Park, ascending toward Torre — mainland Portugal’s highest point.
Tips from local experts:
- Spring mornings on the mountain can be crisp — bring a warm layer and sunglasses for bright snow-reflected light at higher altitudes.
- Ask the driver to pause at panoramic pullouts for couple photos — the vistas are spectacular.
- Roads can be winding; motion-sickness-prone travelers should sit forward and have a light snack before departure.
Torre viewpoint & market — mountain panorama and local products
Enjoy panoramic views from Torre (1,993 m) and browse a small local market for Serra da Estrela cheese and crafts.
Tips from local experts:
- Taste the protected Serra da Estrela cheese (queijo) — ask a vendor for a small tasting sample.
- The summit can be windy — wear a windproof layer and hold onto hats for photos!
- If visiting after winter snows, check footpaths' condition; stay on marked routes for safety.
Covão d'Ametade — short walk to the river springs
Visit the scenic Covão d’Ametade, the spring area where the Zêzere River forms; gentle, romantic nature walk.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths may be wet or rocky; wear sturdy shoes and share a scarf or wrap for a cozy picture on a rock by the spring.
- Bring a small picnic snack to enjoy together by the water — it’s a quiet, scenic stop.
- Respect the natural area and avoid loud music so you can savor the peaceful setting.
Seia — Museu do Pão and bread workshop (light, hands-on)
Visit the Bread Museum (Museu do Pão) in Seia and enjoy a short, hands-on bread-baking workshop — small group/ private arrangement.
Tips from local experts:
- Book the bread workshop in advance—spring is popular for culinary experiences; it’s intimate and perfect for couples.
- Workshops are tactile; wear casual clothes and consider tying long hair back for the activity.
- Sample the local broa and pair with Serra da Estrela cheese — staff often set up tasting platters for couples.
Sabugueiro — mountain village stop
Photo stop and short stroll in Sabugueiro, one of the highest villages in the park; rustic charm and wool traditions.
Tips from local experts:
- Sabugueiro is small and atmospheric — stroll slowly to absorb the mountain village character.
- Look for local wool products (burel) as cozy souvenirs — perfect for a shared keepsake.
- Weather can change quickly in the mountains; pack a light rain layer just in case.
Drive to Covilhã and Wool Museum visit
Short transfer to Covilhã with a visit to the Wool / Lanifícios Museum to learn about the region’s textile heritage.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum is a calm, indoor stop — perfect to warm up after mountain air and to learn a shared local story.
- Ask about historic textile demos or guided tours which add context and make the visit more intimate.
- Pick a small textile souvenir; hand-made items are romantic keepsakes that recall the day.
Evening special moment — local cheese & wine tasting at sunset
Private tasting of Serra da Estrela cheese and local wines while watching the mountain sunset near Covilhã.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quiet outdoor spot for the tasting — sunset makes it especially romantic.
- Pair cheese with a local rosé or light red for balanced flavors that are easy to share.
- Ask your guide for photography tips to capture the sunset and tasting for keepsakes.
Overnight in Covilhã
Check-in and evening at leisure in this historic mountain city.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a room in the old town for cobbled-street charm and easy evening walks.
- Ask the hotel about late check-in or dinner options if you arrive after 21:00.
- Set an alarm for a relaxed morning — tomorrow is a longer driving day.
Day 4
Belmonte in the morning (history & Jewish heritage) then onward to Tomar to explore the Convent of Christ and riverside terraces — overnight in Tomar.
Drive Covilhã → Belmonte (morning departure)
Drive south-east to Belmonte; scenic countryside en route.
Tips from local experts:
- The drive is a good time for conversation and slow views — enjoy the changing landscapes.
- Carry bottled water and light snacks for the road; small towns may have limited opening hours earlier in the day.
- If you’d like an impromptu stop, ask your driver to pull over at a scenic viewpoint for a couple photo.
Castelo de Belmonte & town viewpoint
Visit Belmonte Castle for panoramic views and a walk through fortifications linked to explorers like Pedro Álvares Cabral.
Tips from local experts:
- The castle ramparts offer sweeping valley views ideal for romantic photos — morning light is soft.
- There are steps to access viewpoints; move at an unhurried pace to enjoy the atmosphere.
- Combine the castle visit with a walk through the small, historic Jewish Quarter nearby.
Museu Judaico de Belmonte — intimate cultural visit
Discover the well-preserved Jewish heritage of Belmonte in a compact, emotional museum.
Tips from local experts:
- The museum is serene and intimate — take time to read exhibits together and discuss the history.
- Respect photography signs; some exhibits are best absorbed quietly.
- If open, ask for a short private introduction from staff — small talks can deepen the experience.
Drive to Tomar & lunch en route
Drive west toward Tomar with a countryside lunch stop before arriving in the Templar city.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick a small roadside restaurant for authentic food and quiet ambience rather than a busy motorway service.
- Share tapas-style dishes so you can sample several local flavors during the drive stop.
- Keep the afternoon flexible for a relaxed arrival in Tomar and a scenic riverside walk.
Convento de Cristo, Tomar — guided visit
Explore the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and Castle of the Templars; exceptional Manueline architecture and cloisters.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a guided tour focused on the Manueline details — it brings the architecture’s romance to life.
- The convent has steps and uneven surfaces; pace yourselves and use shaded cloisters for breaks.
- Time your visit to include the covered cloister and the Charola for atmospheric photos in filtered light.
Evening special moment — sunset near Convento or riverside terrace
Sunset photo stop with panoramic views of the Convent or a quiet riverside terrace dinner to end the day romantically.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a terrace table with a view of the convent silhouette at sunset for a magical dining backdrop.
- Ask for a wine recommendation from the waiter to pair with local dishes — staff often have charming suggestions.
- Reserve a corner table for privacy and soft lighting that enhances the evening mood.
Overnight in Tomar
Check-in to a charming hotel in Tomar’s historic centre; evening at leisure.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room in the old town for evening strolls along cobbled lanes.
- Many hotels can pack a light breakfast if you plan an early departure the next day.
- If you want a late-night walk, the riverside path is calm and starlit in May.
Day 5
Final day: Sanctuary of Fátima, coastal Nazaré, medieval Óbidos and a romantic sunset at Ericeira before return to Lisbon.
Drive Tomar → Santuário de Fátima (morning)
Short drive to the world-famous pilgrimage site for a reflective morning visit of the basilica and plaza.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to enjoy the Sanctuary’s calm before larger pilgrim groups; morning light is gentle and peaceful.
- Wear respectful attire for the sanctuary interiors; soft fabrics and modest coverings are appreciated.
- Share a moment at the candle-lit hall; lighting a candle together is a simple, romantic ritual.
Drive to Nazaré — lunch and Sitio viewpoint
Head to the fishing town of Nazaré for lunch, local customs and panoramic views from Sitio (clifftop).
Tips from local experts:
- Sit at a terrace in Sitio for sea views and the iconic cliffs where giant waves are watched in winter.
- Order fresh grilled fish to share — it’s a romantic coastal meal best enjoyed slowly.
- For dramatic photos, walk to the lighthouse area or the clifftop viewpoint (Sitio) and time for light breeze.
Drive Nazaré → Óbidos — medieval town walk
Short transfer to Óbidos for a stroll along the charming cobbled streets and the castle walls.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk the town walls hand-in-hand for a quintessential romantic experience and fantastic views of the whitewashed town.
- Try a small Ginjinha de Óbidos (cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup) as a sweet shared treat.
- Cobblestones can be uneven — choose comfortable footwear and pause at quiet terraces for photos.
Return toward Lisbon with a sunset stop at Ericeira
Drive back toward Lisbon with a final romantic stop in Ericeira to watch the surfers and sunset over the Atlantic.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at Praia dos Pescadores or the nearby headland 45 minutes before sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a light wrap — ocean breezes are cooler at dusk in May; a shared blanket makes the moment cozier.
- If you'd like a slightly livelier ending, choose a beachside seafood shack for a casual last shared bite.
Final transfer — drop-off in Lisbon
Return drive to Lisbon with drop-off at your hotel or a pre-agreed central location; tour ends.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a 45–75 minute drive depending on traffic; relax and enjoy a final debrief with your guide on favourite moments.
- If you’d like late-night plans in Lisbon, ask your driver for a recommended cozy bar or rooftop for a final toast.
- Keep your camera handy — the twilight skyline approaching Lisbon can be a lovely final photo op.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 5 |
| Highlights | 7 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 7 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 27 |
| Total Places | 27 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Meal, Culture, Neighborhood, Nightlife, Hotel, Outdoor, Experience |
