The stage, step by step
From the Sé to Parque das Nações
You leave Lisbon from the Cathedral and cross Beato, Penha de França and Marvila. The setting is still urban, but changes when you reach Parque das Nações, where the route opens out beside the Tagus.
Sacavém and the northern neighbourhoods
After Parque das Nações come Sacavém and, further on, Vialonga, Forte da Casa and Póvoa de Santa Iria. There is still plenty of urban life here, so you can shop or take a break before tackling the more isolated section.
Towards Alverca and Alhandra
Between km 9 and 23, the route gains 47 m gradually, with an average gradient of 0.3%. It passes through Alverca do Ribatejo and Alhandra as the city recedes and fields appear beside the river.
The long final stretch to Vila Franca de Xira
From km 23 to 26.5, there is a 42 m descent, with an average gradient of 1.2%. From approximately km 25, you face the final 16 km without shade, villages or continuous services; conserve your energy and keep going to Vila Franca de Xira.
What to see on stage 1
Lisbon Cathedral (Sé)
This is the departure point for the first official stage of the Portuguese Way. Take your time at the start and use it as a landmark before entering Lisbon's maze of streets.
Parque das Nações
The Way offers one of its most urban scenes here: modern architecture and open spaces beside the Tagus. It is a welcome change of pace after Lisbon's first neighbourhoods.
River Tagus
The river accompanies much of the transition towards the Ribatejo. The route moves from the urban waterfront to cultivated areas, giving you a clear reference as you progress towards Vila Franca de Xira.
Ribatejo farmland
In the second half, buildings gradually disappear and the landscape becomes agricultural. Services are not frequent here, but this is the section that most clearly marks your departure from Lisbon.
Where to sleep in Vila Franca de Xira
Accommodation is heavily concentrated in Lisbon, where you can consider This Is Lisbon Hostel, The Central House Lisbon Baixa or INN POSSIBLE Lisbon Hostel. Do not rely on finding a bed later on; if you want to finish in Vila Franca de Xira, confirm your accommodation before setting off and do not expect to sort it out during the final 16 km.
Where to eat and refuel
You leave Lisbon with plenty of options, including Garum Fish & Wine Bar and Salsa, as well as cafés such as Café do Elétrico. You can also buy food and water at Pingo Doce or Meu Super. Towards the final section, food and drink cannot be taken for granted: carry supplies for the last 16 km without services.
Practical tips for this stage
Start early
With 41 km ahead and an average duration of 7.6 hours, an early start makes a real difference. It also gives you more time in hand for the final stretch without shade.
Fill up before the isolated section
The key advice for this stage is to carry enough water for the final 16 km. Do not wait until you are tired to look for a village or service.
Make the most of the urban areas
Lisbon, Parque das Nações, Sacavém, Póvoa de Santa Iria and Alverca do Ribatejo are the obvious places to buy food or take a break. After that, the day becomes much more solitary.
Book before you walk
If you plan to sleep in Vila Franca de Xira, secure your bed in advance. The final section offers no comfortable back-up plan if you arrive exhausted.
Frequently asked questions about stage 1
How long does it take to walk from Lisbon to Vila Franca de Xira?
It is 41 km, with an indicated average duration of 7.6 hours. This figure does not necessarily include breaks, so an early start is advisable.
Where is the most demanding section?
The stage is tiring mainly because of its distance rather than any steep climb. Between km 9 and 23 you gain 47 m and, from around km 25, you face 16 km without shade or villages.
Are there services throughout the route?
No. There are services at the beginning, but the final stretch has no shade or villages. Buy food and fill your bottles before leaving the urban areas.
What kind of terrain will I encounter?
It is hilly terrain, between 0 m and 51 m above sea level, changing from Lisbon's city streets to cultivated fields beside the Tagus.