If you want to avoid constant movement, I would absolutely stick to two bases only.
Lisbon + Porto works very well for 6–7 nights. The train between them is easy (around 3 hours), and both cities allow you to mix wine, coastline and culture without changing hotels.
Porto has been repeatedly distinguished as one of Europe’s Best Destinations in recent years, and what makes it special is how compact and walkable it is. You can explore historic streets in the morning, cross to Vila Nova de Gaia for Port wine tastings in the afternoon, and be by the Atlantic in Foz do Douro by sunset — all in the same day.
If you love beaches and wine:
From Lisbon, combine Sintra with Cascais for dramatic coastline.
From Porto, the Douro Valley is an unforgettable wine day trip.
You can also reach beautiful Atlantic beaches very easily from both cities.
To make the most of your time without rushing, consider exploring Porto either by bike along the river and coast (the flat ride towards Foz is lovely and very scenic), or with a short guided tuk tuk experience in Porto to understand the city layout early in your stay — it helps you decide what areas you want to revisit more slowly later.
Portugal rewards slower travel. Two bases, early starts (which you enjoy!), long lunches, sunset viewpoints — that’s the rhythm that makes an anniversary trip memorable.
