portugal trip itinerary

How to Spend One Week in Portugal: The Perfect Portugal Itinerary

Planning your trip to Portugal and not sure where to start? Use this step-by-step Portugal itinerary packed with everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

So you’re travelling to Portugal and are looking for the perfect Portugal itinerary?

This one week in Portugal guide will help you plan your getaway: complete with a day-by-day itinerary of places to see, things to do and where to stay for each destination.

Don’t get me started talking about Portugal. Each trip I’ve taken (ten, but who’s counting) to this striking country has made me appreciate it just that little bit more.

It might be small, but Portugal is both fiercely proud and boasts a unique culture that is guaranteed to have you coming back for more. So much so that it’s a running joke with my buddies that if I ever disappear off the radar, Portugal will be the first place that they look.

Anyway. Enough of all that. Let’s get to it: the ultimate one week Portugal itinerary.

Portugal Itinerary Days 1-2: Porto

Portugal is a long and skinny country so it makes sense to start near the top and work your way down to the bottom during your trip.

Beautiful Porto sits at the end of the Rio Douro, an enchanting maze of hilly streets, the houses and shops clustered around narrow walkways begging for you to get lost in.

Lisbon may well be making a name for itself as one of the coolest destinations in Europe but Porto should not be overlooked. In fact I *may* just prefer it to the capital… just.

This effortlessly endearing city boasts a relatively quiet and easily walkable center, which includes the UNESCO heritage Ribeira District.

Things to do in Porto

Take a walking tour of the city.

Porto’s centre is easily walkable, so I think that taking a few hours to walk around the city is the perfect start to your time in Portugal. Meander through narrow lanes and twisting streets.

Most of the city’s must-sees are within striking distance of each other. The UNESCO-listed Ribera district should be at the top of your list.

Must-Sees: Clérigos Church and its iconic tower, Lello Bookstore (which is said to have inspired JK Rowling for Harry Potter), Cathedral Se, the old city walls, Sao Bento station (with its beautiful Portuguese azulejos tiles), the Dom Luis I bridge and opulent Igreja de Sao Francisco.

I’m a sucker for learning about the history and culture of a destination so I almost always book onto a guided tour when I arrive in a city .

Take a Port House Tour

I’ll level with you, you can’t visit Porto without paying homage to the city’s most famous export: port.

There are several Port houses in Porto, mostly clustered in the Gaia area: take a guided tour and sample the tipples to learn about the fortified wine (you’re tasting for purely informational purposes of course).

I’d recommend booking a Port wine tour , which visits two port houses, with tastings and food pairings at each.

Food + Drink

Popular port houses include : Sandeman I Taylor’s I Graham’s I Cockburn’s

Dinner at Restaurant DOP

I’m a huge fan of famous Portuguese chef Rui Paula’s food. Paula’s high-end Portuguese restaurant, DOP is the place to treat yourself to a delicious meal out in Porto. Paula showcases the very best Portuguese ingredients in a minimalist setting

Party at Hard Club

Part club, part concert venue, Hard Club is one of Porto’s coolest spots. Don’t arrive too early (before midnight) and prepare to stay until the early hours.

Hop on the Tram

Hop onto the tram line number 1 close to Praca do Infante Square. The old-school tram is the perfect way to see a different side of the city, it rattles its way through alongside the Douro river towards the coast, dropping you off into Foz do Douro.

Once there, stop off at Casa de Pasto da Palmeira for petiscos (Portuguese small plates) at affordable prices.

Visit the Mercado do Bolhão

Step into history at the Mercado do Bolhao. The market opened in 1914 and has been feeding the city within its rather spectacular walls ever since. Trust me when I say that you should make room in your suitcase, because you’re going to want to bring some of this food home.

Hang Out at Baixa

The neighbourhood of Clerigos is brimming with bars and nightspots – join the throng for a few tipples at Baixa. The cocktails are divine.

Practical Information for Porto

Getting to porto.

Fly into Porto’s Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport if you can, otherwise you can fly into Lisbon and take the train (the journey takes just under three hours).

Suggested Stay for Porto: The Yeatman

A luxury wine hotel in Gaia with stupendous views out over the Douro and central Porto. This is one of Porto’s best hotels and certainly one of its most stylish.

The Yeatman is a personal favourite I’ve stayed in a few times and easily could stay in a few times more! Even if you can’t stay, splash out on a meal in their Michelin-starred restaurant.

Check prices at The Yeatman. Not up for The Yeatman? Search for accommodation in Porto

If You Have Extra Time: The Douro Valley

Take a trip into the Douro Valley to tour the vineyards. Producing the Port from which Porto takes its name, you can also take the opportunity to try the vineyards’ stellar wine. 

You’ll need at least a day to visit: you can visit the Douro Valley on a day trip from Porto (this one is great) but it’s even better to spend a night in the valley. 

Bed down in luxury at the Six Senses , both the views and the rooms are divine.

I cannot rave enough about the food at DOC , the sister restaurant to DOP in Porto I mentioned earlier in this guide. Chef Rui Paula turns out absolutely incredible contemporary Portuguese dishes in an idyllic setting on the banks of the Rio Douro. Don’t miss it. 

Portugal Itinerary Days 3-4: Lisbon

It’s time to move on to the next stop in your Portugal itinerary. Our destination? Lisbon , Portugal’s beautiful and surprisingly laid back capital.

I’ve visited Lisbon time and time again and it never fails to make me love it just that little bit more…

Relatively affordable, delicious food (wear stretchy pants) and a buzzing nightlife – it’s the cool kid that everyone can’t help but love. It’s also where you’re going to be spending the next three days, so settle in and enjoy the ride.

Things to do in Lisbon

Hop on a sidecar tour of lisbon.

You know how I said that I liked to take a walking tour when I visited a new city. Scrap that. I took this vintage sidecar tour when I was in Lisbon and it was some of the most fun I had in the city.

Toot toot, beep beep!

Who doesn’t love whizzing around the city tucked into the sidecar of a vintage motorbike with a cooler than cool Lisboeta dude telling you about all the secret spots, bags of history and taking you to the best panoramic points in the city? It was 100% one of the highlights of my Portugal itinerary. 

I’m not going to lie, I basically rave about this tour to anyone I know that is visiting Lisbon, and right now, that includes you.

The tour is completely tailor-made, so if there’s stuff you’re not that interested in, are desperate to see, or have already seen, you can just let your guide know at the beginning of the trip.

To be honest, some of the best bits of the tour where he took me to places I had no idea about before (I realise that sounds a bit 70 Mills & Boon lol). I’m still sworn to secrecy about a lovely local cafe that served THE BEST CAKES. Mmmn cake. Anyway, moving on.

Book your sidecar tour

Dine at Cervejaria Ramiro

I’m guessing that you are going to be pretty hungry after your whirlwind tour of Lisboa, so do like the locals do and head to Cervejaria Ramiro for a traditional Portuguese seafood lunch.

If you’re a seafood-lover (me! me! I love seafood!), you are going to love your trip to Portugal. There are few European countries where seafood plays such a huge role in the national cuisine.

So why Cervejaria Ramiro? For one, the traditional setting couldn’t feel any more Portuguese – it’s filled with clusters, brisk waiters with a cheeky glint in their eye, but the seafood is the real star of the show. Lobster, langoustines, oysters, all freshly caught and simply prepared.

Be prepared to queue during peak hours.

Check out my review of Cervejaria Ramiro

Explore Alfama

Head to Alfama in the afternoon, when the area’s narrow lanes and tall buildings catch the hues of the golden Lisboeta light.

Alfama is one of the few areas of the city that wasn’t destroyed in the earthquake of 1755, so it’s a chance to see the Lisbon of a period that has been largely erased.

Alfama could be described as the centerpiece of the Lisbon of times past – fado music and dancing, ginjinha – it’s the beating heart of them all. 

Pop into the Museo do Fado to learn about the history of the much-loved music,

If you can – go to the Portos dos Sol for sunset – the views of the city are pretty wow-worthy.

Other must-see spots in Alfama : Cathedral Se, Castelo de Sao Jorge.

Have a Meal at Bairro Avillez

First up, time to fill up. We’re headed for Bairro Avillez .  

Chef Jose Avillez is another stellar Portuguese chef with a whopping seven restaurants dotted across the city (another has just opened as I’m writing this).

How has one chef come to dominate Lisbon’s culinary scene?

It’s simple, he makes banging dishes that make you happy to part with your cash and sad that your stomach isn’t actually a bottomless pit and at some point you’re going to have to stop eating the tasty, tasty food.

I received the tip to go to Bairro Avillez from the PR at the Four Seasons and believe me, that was a woman who knew every single restaurant in Lisbon and wasn’t afraid to be frank about her opinions on each (thanks Catarina).

Jazz at Hot Clube de Portugal

Hot Clube de Portugal has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best jazz clubs in the world. I first visited as a (mildly pretentious) 17 year old and it’s still my evening destination of choice several (I mean several) years later.

See the Sights in Belem

Sun drenched Belem is home to big-hitter after big-hitter. A few kilometres out of the centre, it’s the elaborate playground of times past. Few places have been shaped more by Portugal’s Age of the Discoveries.  

From the Gothic Manueline architectural fantasy of the Monastery of San Jeronimo to the stalwart Belem Tower and striking Monument to the Discoveries , this is an area packed with history. 

Oh, and it’s the place to snap up the sweet, flaky and impossibly moreish pasteis de nata – they’re said to originate from the Pasteis de Belem , where you can still buy them today.

If, like me, you’re at least 50% driven by food, you are going to want to block out some time in your diary to visit.

Queues to takeaway can be long – my insider’s tip is to go and sit inside, there’s often no wait time and you can be tucking into your pasteis in a matter of minutes.

Spend Time in LX Factory

An old textile factory that’s turned into one of Lisbon’s biggest hipster hangouts? Sign me up!

LX Factory is a cool conglomeration of indie businesses, including shops, restaurants and bars housed in industrial-chic quarters.

It’s not that hard to see why this has become one of the city’s popular hangouts: the street art is off the hook and the food (yes, food again, it’s always food with me) is fab. There’s even a shop dedicated to cheesecake.

LX Factory, Why You Need to Visit Lisbon’s Hipster Hangout

Go Street Art Hunting

Lisbon is one of the big destinations on the street art scene, thanks to a roster of talented home-grown artists and lots of creative spaces for them to show off their skills.

Hotspots include LX Factory (above), Calcada de Gloria, Rua das Gaviotas and Avenida Conselheiro Fernando de Sousa. 

Get ahead by booking onto a street art tour

Eat Your Way Around Time Out Market Lisbon

The international arbiters of urban culture and cool, Time Out opened their first market in Lisbon in 2014.

Safe to say, it’s been drawing in the punters ever since. Many of Lisbon’s hottest restaurants and chefs have bagged a spot in the ever-changing rotation.

I’m a total sucker for a well-curated food market. 

The chance to have a small plate from a few different restaurants is a great experience, particularly when I’m trying to see the best of Portugal in 7 days and have a limited number of meals in each city.

My biggest tip? Go hungry and dine well.

Practical Information for Lisbo n

Getting to Lisbon

I’d recommend getting up and getting on with the journey from Porto to Lisbon as early as you can bear so you can make the most of your stay in Lisbon.

You could fly from Porto to Lisbon but it’s a bit of a waste of time. You’re much better off booking a private transfer, going by train or, at a push, hiring a car and driving down yourself.

If you do the latter, just remember that, like most cities, parking in Lisbon is not the easiest task. Trains and transfers take around three hours.

I recommend buying The Lisboa Card. It will save you a lot of money if you are planning on visiting quite a few attractions and includes public transport too. Pick yours up here .

Suggested Stay: The Four Seasons Hotel Ritz

I’ll be blunt. The Four Seasons is a treat. A very expensive treat.

It’s my favourite hotel in Lisbon, but I have to admit that it comes at quite a steep cost. If you can afford it, you can look forward to decadent interiors (including marble bathrooms), eye-catching city views and a breakfast that’s to die for.

There’s even a rooftop running track to help you burn it all off afterwards.

Check prices for the Four Seasons Hotel Ritz 

Or search for alternative Lisbon accommodation.

Portugal Itinerary Day 5: Day Trip to Sintra

Travelling to UNESCO World Heritage Sintra is like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale.

Brightly coloured palaces, exotic gardens and Moorish castles, you won’t regret making the trip.

Things to do in Sintra

Visit the palacio nacional de sintra.

Make a beeline for the Palacio Nacional, one of Sintra’s much-loved (and photographed) spots.

A curious mix of architectural styles, it’s the kind of building you won’t find outside of Portugal – spacious courtyards, opulent decor and Insta opportunities galore.

You can buy tickets on the day, book online (which gives you a 5% discount) or pay a little more to buy a skip the line ticket . If you’re doing this Portugal itinerary in the peak season, it’s well worth considering going for the skip the line option.

Pena Palace

The building that launched a thousand clicks – I was enamoured with the vibrant yellow exterior of the Pena Palace before I even clapped eyes on it in real life.

See what I mean?

Weird, wacky and all-out fabulous, the Pena Palace might look like an architectural romp, but in reality, it’s one of the most important expressions of the 19th century Romantic movement in Portugal.

As with Sintra Palace, you can buy tickets on the day, book online or buy skip the line tickets .

Castelos dos Mouros

Just when you thought that Sintra couldn’t get any more dramatic… you come to the Castle of the Moors. Often shrouded in cloud, this striking castle is a 2km walk from Sintra-Vila.

Buy tickets on the day, book online or buy skip the line tickets .

Getting to Sintra

The trip from Lisbon to Sintra isn’t difficult – a simple matter of hopping on the train from Rossio or Oriente station in Lisbon for around 40 minutes. Tickets are cheap (less than €5) and trains are frequent.

If you’d prefer to go on a tour, there are plenty of tours from Lisbon to Sintra – quite a few, like this one, take you to Cascais too .

If you do book a tour, make sure that it covers all of the entrance and ticket fees – when they do, they’re a surprisingly cost efficient way to do the trip.

Portugal Itinerary Days 6 and 7: The Algarve

Why should you go to the Algarve on your Portugal Itinerary? That’s easy. 

How do sun-soaked beaches with crystal clear waters and miles of Atlantic views, medieval towns and cities, fresher than you thought possible seafood washed down with crisp whites from the neighbouring Alentejo sound to you?

For many people, a week in Portugal starts and ends with a beach in The Algarve and I can see why. It is really quite enticing to plop down and simply appreciate that good, good Portuguese sunshine.

You’d be missing out though. 

Sure, the Algarve has spectacular beaches, but move away from these and you’ll discover a region with a vibrant culture and unique history that’s waiting to be explored.

Things to do in the Algarve

Explore lagos.

I suggest that you stay in Lagos during your time in the Algarve – not only is it a rather charming destination in and of itself, it’s a good base to explore the rest of the region in the limited time that you have left.

The centre of Lagos really isn’t very big – grab a map and walk to the baroque fantasy that is the Igreja de Santo Antonio.

Nature has created many of Lagos’s biggest attractions: the rugged Ponta da Piedade comes complete with sandstone cliffs and nesting birdlife.  Closer to town the Meia Praia is a good spot to try your hand at surfing, or simply sit back and enjoy the sun.

Visit the Market in Loul é

Stop off in the quaint town of Loule in the morning to see it’s famous covered market in full swing.

I’ve always stocked up on ingredients for the bbq during longer stays, but it’s worth popping in, if only to look at a traditional Portuguese market in action.

The Benagil Cave is a short drive away from Loule and one of the area’s best natural sights.

A complete guide to visiting the Benagil Cave

Walk Around Tavira

I personally think that Tavira would take the prize for the most picturesque town in The Algarve.

With a church on practically every corner, castle ruins and a gorgeous setting on the Rio Gilao, not to mention numerous buildings with elaborate tiled facades, Tavira is just lovely.

Once you’ve had a look around the city, strike out to the nearby beaches , including the Ilha de Tavira (only reachable by boat).

I loved the nearby Praia do Barril: a wild and rather windswept beach accessed by a short hop on a narrow-gauge railway and home to the quirky anchor cemetery. Yes, you read that right, anchor cemetery.

An insider’s guide to Tavira

Ilha Deserta + Estamine Restaurant

In case you didn’t get the memo, Ilha Deserta means… deserted island.

It might not be quite deserted, but this quiet island off the coast of Faro in the Rio Formosa Natural Park is the perfect place to escape the crowds residing on other of the Algarve’s heaving beaches.

Take one of the informative eco boat tours over to the Ilha , they leave a few times a day from Faro’s harbour. Speedboats provide a noisier but more direct means of transport.

The Ilha Deserta has another attraction though. Estamine Restaurant . 

This eco-friendly restaurant serves up astoundingly good meals with sea views.

By now you know how much I love Portuguese food (and hopefully you will too) – if you trust me at all, trust me when I say you need to get yourself to this restaurant.

Practical Information for The Algarve

Getting to the algarve.

There are plenty of transport connections between Lisbon and The Algarve, but it will depend on where you stay.

If, as I suggest, you stay in Lagos, you will need to get the train from Lisbon to Tunes (fast service) and then another slower service from Tunes to Lagos.

Book ahead – tickets can (and will) sell out during the high season.

Express buses run between Lisbon and Lagos, and take around the same time as the train.

Getting Around The Algarve

You can get around some parts of The Algarve without a car – particularly along the coast.

Other destinations can be a bit more difficult. I’ve listed four of my favourite spots in The Algarve, and in all honesty, I haven’t attempted getting between them without a car. Seeing as you only have a couple of days left of your 7 days in Portugal, I’d suggest hiring a car – it just makes life much easier for this part of the country.

If that’s not practical, Lagos is the easiest destination to base yourself in as there are plenty of hotels in the centre of town, with many stunning beaches in easy walking distance. It’s a great place to discover.

Suggested Stays in the Algarve

I’ve stayed in Lagos, Vilamoura and Quinta do Lago on various Portugal itineraries and can recommend all three as good bases for your stay.  

• Casa Mãe in Lagos is a good five-star boutique option.
• If you are going to spend longer than a few days in the Algarve (a week or more), book a villa at the Four Seasons Fairways.
• Looking for high-end luxe but with hotel amenities? The Anantara Vilamoura is the perfect spot.

So, there we are, we’ve finished up your week in Portugal. I hope you have a wonderful time discovering the best this vibrant country has to offer. 

If you have more than a week in Portugal, I’ve suggested a couple of additional destinations you may want to consider below, otherwise skip along to the Practical Information and Tips section at the end. 

Have More Time? Additional Locations for a Portugal Itinerary 

Evora .

A gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage town in the Alentejo with Portugal’s best-preserved Roman temple. 

Evora is a glorious passage through Portuguese history, with architecture charting pretty much every stop from the Romans to the Moors and present day. Spend a day or two exploring its winding alleys. 

Tucked away in the Alentejo, you can add this to your Portugal itinerary between Lisbon and The Algarve. 

Cascais 

If you think resort means plastic sun loungers and all-inclusives, Cascais will make you rethink your position. Imposing mansions and a flashy marina are grounded by cute fishermen’s houses that wind away from the harbour. 

Cascais is a short hop from Lisbon – beware, it does get busy in the summer. Add to the itinerary either before or after Lisbon as a beach stop . 

The former capital of Portugal (the first in fact), Coimbra is a genteel spot with a host of historical spots including a stunning Baroque Library. The large university and its resident student population keeps things lively. 

Add to your itinerary between Porto and Lisbon. 

Practical Tips for Your Portugal Trip

• Language: Portuguese. Obvs.
• Time Zone: GMT in winter, GMT+1 in Summer
• Currency: Euro €
• Telephone Country Code + 351
• Emergency Services Number: 112
• Mobile Phone Coverage: Pretty much everywhere. You can use your phone normally if you’re from the EU, otherwise you are better off buying a local sim card to use to avoid steep roaming fees.
• Tipping: Portugal isn’t a big tipping country, but a small tip is always appreciated.

Read more about tipping in Portugal here

Getting There

The main airports in Portugal are the Aeroporto de Lisboa in Lisbon, the Aeroporto Francisco Sa Carneiro in Porto and Aeroporto de Faro in Faro.

If you are travelling to the south Algarve, you can also fly into Seville in Spain and transfer from there, sometimes it’s cheaper.

Check flights on Skyscanner

Getting Around

You have three main options when it comes to transport for your 7 days in Portugal: train, bus and car.

There are benefits to each but I’d suggest taking trains and then hiring a car for the last two days in The Algarve.

Driving in Portugal isn’t hard but I’ve noticed that sometimes drivers can be a bit aggressive on smaller roads. Just keep your own pace and let them do their thing. Drive on the right.

Useful Portuguese Phrases

Hello – Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa Noite

Goodbye – Adeus

Thanks – Obrigado/ Obrigada

Please – Por favor

Yes – Sim

What to Pack

• Sunglasses :  Portugal is no stranger to the sunshine, you’ll need them.
• Universal Travel Adapter
• Microfiber Beach Towel
• Portable Battery Pack – to keep everything fully charged while you’re on the move. And also in case you end up staying in one of those hotels that think charging sockets are completely optional (why?!)
• Comfortable shoes:  Those super-cute cobbled streets might look #thatsdarling in your Instagram pictures but believe me when I say that they wreak havoc with your feet. Plus, with cities this walkable, it makes sense to do as much of it as you can.

And there we are, you’re all ready to set off. I hope you’ve enjoyed this itinerary and you’re ready to see the best of Portugal in 7 days.

Got any feedback or suggestions? Drop me a message in the comments below.

Check out my other Portugal travel guides:

• The Insider’s Portugal Travel Guide
• 20 Unmissable Spots in Portugal
• The Coolest Things to do in Lisbon
• Secret Spots in the Alentejo
• The Best Beaches in the Algarve

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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I will forever appreciate the amount of detail you have included in this post. The Estaminé and Bairro do Avillez recommendations got me drooling. Thank you for sharing your experiences, as they have definitely shaped my itinerary for Portugal this summer. All the best!

Thanks Arina. So glad that you found it useful and it gave you a few ideas for your time in Portugal – absolutely love the country and hope you have a wonderful time.

Great post on Portugal! This is one of the best places to visit in Europe!

Thanks Whitney! Couldn’t agree more.

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Ten days in Portugal: the ultimate itinerary

Hit up stunning cities, laidback beach towns and amazing food aplenty on this ten-day tour of Portugal’s greatest spots

For a small country, Portugal punches well above its weight when it comes to food, history, unforgettable places and one-off experiences. We asked Lisbon local Lucy Bryson for her expert tips on the best way to spend ten days exploring the best of Portugal.  And although a whistlestop tour of ten days isn’t nearly enough to see everything great the country has to offer, it’s just about enough to get a flavour – and leave you hankering for more.

The good news for travellers pressed for time (and budget) is that much of the country is well served by public transport.  T rains and buses are largely reliable, comfortable, and affordable. The bad news is that your ten-day adventure will only give you a couple of days each in Lisbon and  Porto – two of Europe’s greatest city-break destinations – and you’ll miss out entirely on  harder-to-reach inland destinations, not to mention the outlying Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores . But what’s a time-strapped traveller to do? You’ll just have to come back again soon.

RECOMMENDED:

📍  The best things to do in Portugal 🏖 The best beaches in Portugal

An email you’ll actually love

The perfect ten-day Portugal itinerary

Day 1: Porto

Porto is one of Europe’s most photogenic cities, and its modern international airport is a quick metro ride away from the city centre, making it a great place to start your trip.

Get your bearings

The best way to get to know Porto is on foot.  As you leave the suburbs and head towards the city centre, workaday residential streets give way to increasingly attractive public squares leading downhill to the grand galleries, pavement cafés and religious buildings of the historic centre – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Peep into São Bento railway station to admire the beautiful, azulejo  tile - covered interior, and wind your way through the crowds on Rua das Flores shopping street to reach steep cobbled paths leading down to the insanely picturesque  Ribeira (riverfront).

This is the home of port, so stop  for a glass and a bite to eat at one of the many colourful cafés: Escondidinho do Barredo is a good call for bolinhos de bacalhau and other traditional tapas. Then stroll by the river to reach the giant face mural by revered Portuguese street artist Vhils. It’s right next to Armazén –   a colourful arts, antiques and curiosities warehouse fronted by a pavement café-bar that’s perfect for people-watching over a glass or two as the sun dips over the Douro river.

Where to stay

Music lovers would be wise to make their base at MOUCO , a strikingly modern venue combining hotel rooms (complete with record players and your choice of vinyl from the music library) with a live music venue, restaurant, and vibey bar with DJ sessions.

READ MORE: The best things to do in Porto

Day 2: Porto and Vila Nova da Gaia

Put on trainers with a good grip (you’ll be tackling a lot of steep cobbled streets) and fuel up with the bountiful hotel breakfast buffet – though coffee purists might prefer to get their caffeine kicks at highly-regarded Combi Coffee Roasters , 15 minutes’ walk away from MOUCO en route to town. 

Go downtown

Once you’re back in the city centre, check out the major downtown sights of the  Cathedral and Clérigos Tower. Be prepared to join a giant queue if you want to visit Livraria Lello, the bookshop which reportedly inspired JK Rowling while she was writing the first Harry Potter book. Recover from your sightseeing adventures with a coffee or something stronger at Base Porto, an open-air bar virtually at the foot of the Clérigos tower.

If it’s getting close to lunchtime, dive into Good Things Will Happen Soon .  L ess than 15 minutes’ walk away, it’s a kooky-chic crafts store and café, where light meals and snacks (including veggie and gluten-free options) are served in a secret garden.

Head downhill to the river and cross the wrought iron Luis I bridge to Vila Nova da Gaia , Porto’s equally stunning sister city across the bay. Port wine cellars abound here  – we recommend  avoiding the riverfront crowds and heading instead to  Poças, the 1918-founded family-run lodge tucked away on a backstreet.

Enjoy the views over the Douro to the colourful townhouses of the Ribeira and Porto’s stunning skyline with a sundown drink by the water, then head back to Porto for dinner and drinks at one of the trendy haunts along Rua do Cedofeita:  Catraio Craft Beer and Bar is a good place to start.

READ MORE: The best things to do Vila Nova de Gaia

Day 3: Porto to Aveiro

Hop on the train to a charming lagoon city

It’s a little over an hour’s train ride from Porto to Aveiro, the self-proclaimed ‘Venice of Portugal’. Trains run roughly every half hour, and standard tickets cost less than €4 . You’ll be leaving from the functional-looking Campanhã   station rather than the beautifully-tiled São Bento , but don’t worry: Aveiro’s 1860s train station has its own impressive azulejos.

Okay, so Aveiro is not quite Venice – but as you glide along in an elegant, brightly-painted moliceiro canal boat, checking out the art nouveau architecture lining the river while you drift towards the flamingo-filled salt flats on the outskirts of town, you won’t want to be anywhere else.

Art nouveau is everywhere in Aveiro, and once you’re back on dry land the best place to check it out is the riverfront Museu de Arte Nova , itself housed in a photo-worthy Belle Époque building. Afterwards, try traditional ovos moles (shell-shaped pastries with sweet fillings) at Confeitaria Peixinho before grabbing a drink at any of the cheap and cheerful bar-restaurants in downtown.

It’s a quick cab ride from the train station to the compact centre and the famous canals, where plenty of canalside Airbnbs make for an  affordable place to stay.

Day 4: Aveiro to Nazaré

Ride the bus to a famous surf town

Sitting across the road from the railway station on the eastern edge of town, Aveiro’s coach station is served by comfortable long-distance coaches. It’s a ride of around one hour 40 minutes ( €8 , three direct buses daily with Rede Expresso ) to the coastal village of Nazaré, famously home to some of the biggest waves on the planet.

You’ll need to visit during ‘Big Waves season’ (October-March) to see them reach truly monstrous proportions, but surfers visiting at other times of year will find the waves more manageable. If you want to give it a go, Nazaré Surf School offers equipment rental, plus lessons for those that need them. 

Explore the centre of town with its low-key, laidback bars and restaurants serving delicious fish and petiscos. Or if you’re f eeling flush,   Pangeia is a more upmarket dining experience.

Nazaré is the perfect mix of surfer chic and small-town charm, and offers a wealth of cosy, unpretentious and inexpensive beachside lodgings. Try the apartments from By the Beach .

Day 5: Nazaré to Lisbon

Catch a coach to the Portuguese capital

After soaking in the small-town vibes of Nazaré, it’s time to board the Rede Expresso bus again to the Portuguese capital – a ride of roughly two hours. Coaches make the trip from Nazaré at regular intervals from 6.50am to 8pm, at  €8-€12 . It’s wise to board early to make the most of all that Lisbon’s seductive capital has to offer.  Coaches from Nazaré generally arrive at Lisbon’s Sete Rios station, which is a metro ride away from the main sights. 

Get lost in Lisbon

Drop your bags at your lodgings and slip into your kicks-with-grips to explore the labyrinth of streets making up Alfama, Bairro Alto and Principe Real.  Stop at Pica-Pau for lunch, or take a petiscos tour with Devour Tours for a quick-fire peek into under-the-radar drinking and dining spots.

After dark, visit cool hub Arrios  for seemingly endless nightlife options – we recommend starting out with negronis and record-browsing at Amor Records. After midnight, Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré ’s ‘Pink Street’ throng with bar-hopping revellers.

The city is home to any number of big-name luxury hotels, but for a more personal service, look to boutique charmers like the brand new Hotel das Amoreiras , where the friendly staff, beautifully presented breakfasts and leafy location away from the tourist trail make for a warm introduction to the city. For budget lodgings close to the action, look to Airbnb for options like this smart apartment in Alfama . 

READ MORE: The best things to do in Lisbon

Day 6: Lisbon and Cascais or Sintra

Take a day trip to coast or country

Shake off a heavy head and make a beeline for coffee and some of the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon at Manteigaria . You’ll find a branch at foodie haven Time Out Market , handily located for taking the coastal train  (€3.50) from Cais do Sodré out to the beach resorts of Estoril and Cascais, half an hour out of town .

In Cascais, stop for lunch at one of the lively outdoor bars and cafes on the pedestrianised ‘Yellow Street’ and grab a cab out to Guincho to catch some surf – or just admire the dramatic landscape of cliffs and crashing waves.

If the weather’s less than perfect or you prefer fairytale castles to beach towns, head for the romantic, mist-swathed mountain escape of Sintra instead. Trains take around 35 minutes and depart from Lisbon’s handsome Rossio station. Don’t miss the Disney-esque Pena Palace .

Back to the city

After sunset, get the train back to Lisbon and jump off at Alcântara to explore the hip  LX Factory  complex , before heading back to Cais do Sodré for a saucily-styled cocktail at Pensão Amor , or laidback DJ sets and excellent burgers at Collect .

READ MORE: The best nightlife in Lisbon

Day 7: Lisbon to Sesimbra and Arrabida

Catch a bus to Sesimbra

South of the river in Lisbon, you can catch a bus from Sete Rios station (don’t confuse it with the long-distance coach station next door) to Sesimbra . It takes around 45 minutes and costs € 4.50.

While away the day on Portugal’s best beaches

Sesimbra has idyllic sandy beaches and some of the best seafood in Portugal, making it an ideal spot for lunch. Don’t miss Pescador for cosy vibes and sea views or Tasca do Isaias for the best grilled fish in town.

The town sits in a sheltered bay at the foot of the Arrabida Natural Park , famed for its adventure sports and some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal . The beach at Portinho da Arrabida is spectacular, but can only be reached by car – you could try booking a local taxi. Alternatively, hike down to the sandy and secluded Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo.  

Return in time for light meals and the best margaritas in town at the always-lively Black Coffee , or vegan treats with a sea view at Leaves Cafe.

Hotel do Mar offers stylish beachfront lodgings if your budget allows, while Vila Epicurea , in nearby Meco, has organic meals, yoga dome, and a pool with views to die for. And Airbnb has plenty of affordable rooms and apartments round here:  this one comes with gorgeous ocean views .

Day 8: Sesimbra to Comporta and Sines

Get the bus to the sunny Alentejo region

From Sesimbra’s centrally-located bus station, it’s a 45-minute ride ( € 4.50) to the coastal city of Setubal . The city’s handsome central square is worth a peek, but as time is of the essence, you’ll want to head to the downtown ferry terminal to catch the ferry over to Troia ( €5.30). Y ou might spot the Sado Estuary’s famous dolphins as you cross the waters.

This is the entry point to the sun-baked Alentejo region, famed for its handsome historic towns and its relatively underexplored beaches. Buses are infrequent, but it’s just a ten-minute cab ride to the uber-chic Alentejo beach town of Comporta .

Everybody from Madonna to Mourinho has been spotted here, so s ee what all the fuss is about with lunch and celeb-spotting on the white sands. (Stock up on local wine and picnic goodies if you don’t fancy forking out A-lister restaurant prices.) Then jump back on the bus for the two-hour trip to the Alentejo beach town of Sines ( €15) . While it’s famed for its surf and simple seafood restaurants, it’s also a good place to try the famous local black pig at welcoming spots like O Castelo.

For affordable beachfront lodgings with gorgeous views in Sines, try Hotel Valeiro .

Day 9: Sines to Lagos

Catch a coach to the Algarve

There’s just one coach a day from Sines to the Algarve beach town of Lagos  – it costs €1 4.50 and departs at 10am. That gives you plenty of time for a buffet with a beach view at the hotel, before the 10-minute walk to the Rede Expressos bus stop.

You’ll arrive in Lagos at around 12.40pm, and the bus station is only a ten-minute walk from the handsome old town. After the relatively relaxed vibes of Sines and Comporta, Lagos has a buzz to its drinking and dining scene – which shades easily into late-night partying, if that’s your bag.

After a lunch downtown (try steak or small plates with cocktails on the rooftop at the centrally-located Casa do Prego ) it’s high time for a swim and a nap on the beach. While there are arguably (even) more beautiful beaches further out of town, you’re just a few minutes’ walk from the soft sands and eye-catching rock formations of Praia da Batata . For post-beach drinking and dining, go for craft beers, rooftop cocktails and late-night DJ sets at Peppers Bar&Kitchen , which is lively without being lairy.

For an affordable base close to the town centre action, this Airbnb apartment is a good option, while the more upscale Cascade Wellness Resort   will be a welcome option for travellers in need of a little R&R away from the nightlife noise.

Day 10: Lagos to Faro

Faro , the Algarve’s regional capital, is home to the region’s international airport, so this may be where you say goodbye to Portugal.

Board a train to the Algarve’s capital

There are regular trains to Faro from Lagos railway station, which take one hour 45 minutes and cost €7.50. 

More than just a jumping-off point, Faro has its own charms. Take a stroll around the attractive marina before admiring the gleaming whitewashed buildings of the old town, stopping to admire the cathedral and for traditional local dishes next door at Tertulia Algarvia .

After dark, be sure to seek out the somewhat hidden Madalena :  a vibrant bar and cultural centre occupying a building that began life as a medieval hermitage. Today, it’s all about artfully crafted cocktails, a leafy terrace and DJ sets and a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect spot for a last night out in Portugal.

Base yourself at a centrally located guest house such as the welcoming Casa da Valentina : the perfect spot for your last night in Portugal.

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Discover Portugal: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Its wild, rugged coastline, imposing mountains, beautiful whitewashed villages, and enchanting cities make Portugal one of the best destinations to visit in Europe . Dive deep into the Portuguese history in Porto, surf the great waters of the southern Algarve , or lazily stroll through the pretty streets of Obidos. There are lots of amazing things to do in Portugal – make your way around the country with this 2-week itinerary, stopping at all the wonderful sights in between.

A 14-Day Portugal Itinerary

Welcome to Portugal , home to many gorgeous locations full of beautiful nature, stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food. You could easily explore this diverse country for months. However, two weeks is the perfect amount of time to get a good impression.

Planning to travel longer in Portugal? These are must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

Though you can travel by public transport, it’s much easier to discover the country by renting a car or campervan. From a picture-perfect coastline to charming timeworn cities, discover it all on a 2-week Portugal itinerary.

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Day 1-4: Lisbon

Start your journey in Lisbon , the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe . Known for its charming streets, beautiful buildings, and authentic trams, it has become one of the most popular destinations to visit within the country. Spend your days soaking up the sun, jumping from one cute cafe to the next while you roam through the city’s different districts. 

The various neighborhoods of Lisbon are full of rich history and culture. You can explore the museums and art galleries or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the many little alleyways. To travel around, make sure to get a Lisbon Card . This card provides unlimited rides on all public transportation and entrance to a select number of the city’s most popular sights and museums. 

Here are all your hotel options in Lisbon.

Discover the iconic Pink Street, lined with buzzing cafes and bars, perfect in the evening. Or, roam through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets in the oldest neighborhood Alfama. No matter where you go these first few days, Lisbon’s beauty and colorful tiles will take your breath away. 

Also read: The Best Cities to Visit in Europe .

Hotels in Lisbon

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado. There are also plenty of great hostels to choose from.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Day trip to Sintra

As you discover the beautiful capital, don’t forget to dedicate one of the days to visiting the fairytale-like Sintra . This stunning UNESCO site is full of hilltop castles, colorful palaces, and exotic gardens. It’s only a short 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, making it the perfect day trip on your 2-week Portugal itinerary. You can use the same Lisbon Card you used in the city to get there.

Get your Lisbon Card in advance here

Due to its microclimate, you’ll find the hills covered in lush greenery. Wander between the majestic pine forests as you discover the different castles and palaces in this huge natural park.

Tip: Sintra is incredibly popular amongst tourists, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance as it is likely to get busy. You can see availability and tickets here . From Lisbon, you can also join an organized tour of this magical town, including an entrance to a few sites. 

Day 5: Porto Covo

On day 5, head south towards the cute traditional fishing village of Porto Covo. Whitewashed houses, nestled around quaint little squares and cobblestone streets, stand perched on top of some dramatic cliffs here, making it the perfect stop on any 2-week Portugal itinerary. 

This relaxed little town has a great atmosphere, quiet beaches, and incredible seafood, causing it to slowly grow in popularity. It’s the perfect introduction to the series of cute little coastal villages that lead down to the Algarve . Roam through the old historic center and relax on one of the beaches, looking out at the rugged Isle do Pessegueiro (Peach island). 

Stay the night in one of the cute accommodations in the center of town or go camping . If you’re traveling in the summer, try to book your accommodation in advance as it can fill up quickly.

Hotels in Porto Covo 😴

Lisbon to Porto Covo: About a 2-hour drive by car or 2,5 hours by bus. Note, however, that traveling by bus can take much longer due to potential stops between locations.

Day 6-8: Algarve

One of the highlights of a 2-week Portugal itinerary has to be time spent in the famed sunkissed Algarve region , the jewel of Portugal. Enjoy a breathtaking coastline, epic caves, and waves that give the area its reputation as a surfers’ paradise. 

The surrounding, rugged nature is a sight to remember, and the charming whitewashed villages no less. Discover the area by going hiking, sunbathing at the countless beaches, and exploring the beautiful caves with emerald water.

If you’ve got the time, don’t forget to put the Benagil Cave & Praia do Marinha (beach) on your list! You can easily discover these wonderful sights of the Algarve by yourself or by joining a tour. 

Book your kayaking tour to the Benagil Caves

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos’ gorgeous town is the perfect place to base yourself for the next two days. It has a lively atmosphere and is within walking distance of some of Portugal’s best beaches and surf spots. See all hotels in Lagos .   

Porto Covo to Lagos: 1h and 40 minutes of driving, or 2 hours by bus. 

Hotels in the Algarve 😴

Day 9: Évora

After soaking up the sun on the southern shores, head back inland toward the stunning medieval city of Evora. This hidden gem sits at the heart of the rural Alentejo region and is a must-see if you’re 2 weeks in Portugal. Travel through the countryside full of olive groves, open plains, and traditional stone villages before reaching the impressive city walls. 

Join a guided walking tour of Évora

Evora even has UNESCO status due to its beautiful architecture and rich history that goes as far back as the Romans! Spend a few hours during the day exploring the quaint streets that sit sandwiched between white and yellow-painted houses. Make sure to visit the Evora cathedral and the ruins of the Roman temple in the center. 

From Lagos to Evora: 2,5 hours by car or about 4 hours by bus.

Hotels in Evora

Evora has lots of beautiful accommodation options, from cute boutique guesthouses to luxury spa hotels. It’s even possible to stay in one of the unique aqueduct houses!

Hotels in Evora 😴

Day 10: Obidos

Continue on to the ‘Town of Queens’, Obidos – one of the most stunning towns you will come across on your travels through the country. This slice of Portuguese heaven, with its whitewashed cottages and colorful flowers, is so beautiful that Portuguese kings traditionally gifted it to their queens. 

Take your time walking the 1.6 km-long castle walls surrounding the town, looking out over the hills and vineyards. Then, get lost between the charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional shops and a few churches covered in beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

Join a guided walking tour of Obidos

The contrast between the white houses and their red roofs is a stunning sight, making Obidos a worthy destination on your trip to Portugal . 

From Évora to Obidos: is a 2-hour journey by car. You can also travel by train or bus, which both take about 4 hours and have one transfer. 

Hotels in Obidos

Hotels in obidos 😴.

Here are all your hotel options in Obidos.

Day 11: Douro Valley

Welcome to the Douro valley , home to the many port houses of the world, tucked in between the lush hillsides, amongst endless vineyards and rolling hills. Enjoy one of the many hiking trails, discover the valley towns, or participate in water sports on the wild Douro River.

Wine Tour Portugal  

Make sure to book a wine tour in the Douro Valley – one of the highlights of your 2-week Portugal itinerary. Known as the oldest wine region in the world, it stretches all the way from Porto to the border of Spain . Wine tours range from tastings to learning about the harvesting experience or staying the night on one of the beautiful estates. 

Book your Douro Valley wine tour in advance 

Obidos to Douro Valley: just over 3 hours of driving or an 8-hour bus and train ride. This is the longest consecutive part of the journey, but it takes you past some of the most incredible landscapes in the country. 

Stay overnight in the Douro Valley

We stayed at Quinta do Monte Travesso , where we did a wine tour and camped overnight. However, there are hundreds of beautiful Quintas to stay at throughout the huge region, so the options are endless.

Hotels in the Douro Valley 😴

Day 13+14: Porto

Continue your journey to your last destination, Porto. Any 2-week Portugal itinerary wouldn’t be complete without spending at least a few days in this extraordinary city. With views over the Douro estuary, Porto has one of the oldest centers in Europe, proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It dates back many centuries to when it was one of the outposts of the Roman Empire. 

Here are all your hotel options in Porto.

Walk in the small hillside streets, take the funicular railway, and discover one of the most magical bookstores in Europe, Livraria Lello . Porto is not as hilly as Lisbon, meaning you can easily walk around the different neighborhoods. Though you can also join a boat or tuk-tuk tour to get even better acquainted with the impressive city of Porto. 

From the Douro Valley to Porto: 1-hour drive or 2h or 15 minutes by train (with one transfer). At the end of your 2 weeks in Portugal, you can either drive back/train to Lisbon or fly out from Porto. 

Where to stay in Porto

Stay in Ribeira if you want to be by the riverside and enjoy the night-time buzz of the city. For hillside views and a younger influx of restaurants, stay near Igreja do Carmo.

Hotels in Porto 😴

Costs of Traveling in Portugal 

Traveling through Portugal can be done quite cheaply. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe! You can enjoy a coffee for around 2 USD and stay in beautiful accommodations for roughly 25 USD a night. 

Costs of Traveling in Portugal

Travel on a budget in Portugal, from $330 − $350 USD weekly per person, mid-range $470 − $1300 USD, and high-end from $1270 − $1970 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $20 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $20 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $5 − $15 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around Portugal

Portugal is incredibly diverse, and many of the most beautiful sites lie in remote locations. Because of this, the best way to travel the country is to hire a campervan or rent a car. These options also give you the most flexibility, allowing you to make up your own time schedule each day. 

However, you can also travel by public transport, though the journeys often take much longer. There are great rail and bus links between Lisbon and Porto, allowing you to stop at many villages in between. But also to the south, bus services run between villages.

Traveling longer in Portugal? Discover the must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal is beautiful all year round. However, the spring and fall months are the best time to visit Portugal. These are the shoulder seasons when fewer tourists visit, prices are lower, and it’s still sunny (but not as hot as in summer).

September/October is also the harvest season, making it a great time to go on a Douro Valley wine tour . Additionally, you can witness some of the best surf sessions happening in places like Nazare, where you’ll find some of the highest waves in the world. 

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Douro Valley: Portugal’s Stunning Wine Region

Aveiro, portugal: 7 best things to do in [year, obidos: one of portugal’s most beautiful villages.

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How to Plan an Amazing Portugal Itinerary (10 Days)

Planning a trip to Portugal? You’re in the right place. We started and ended our three month European adventure in Portugal, and fell in love with its warm, inviting culture (and SUPER friendly people), its food and wine, and its beautiful landscapes from the terraced vineyards in the world-famous Douro Valley, to the stunning beaches on the Algarve.

In this guide to planning your Portugal itinerary, here’s what we’re going to cover:

• Exactly how to plan a 10 day Portugal itinerary, including what stops to make, what route to take, and all the important logistics you need to know
• A guide to what to do, where to stay, and how to get there for each stop on the itinerary
• Options for shorter (5-7 days) and longer trips if you have more or less time than 10 days in Portugal

Throughout the guide, we’ll share our favorite finds and experiences in Portugal based on our trip to help you plan your unforgettable trip.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Is 10 Days in Portugal Enough?

We want to start this guide out by setting expectations before we dive into how to make the most of a trip to Portugal if it’s your first trip. 

No, 10 days is not nearly enough time to see everything there is to see in Portugal. It’s true that Portugal is a relatively small country, compared to other countries in Western Europe like Spain, France, and Italy. It’s also true that there’s just too much ground to cover in 10 days. 

So you need to go into this itinerary knowing that you’re not going to be able to see it all . 

If it’s your first trip to Portugal and you have 10 days, we think you’ll be disappointed if you don’t see Lisbon , Porto , and the Algarve . So we’ve structured this 10 day Portugal itinerary to make sure you’re able to spend about three days in each of those places. 

Is it ideal? No, ideally you’d have more time to explore within each region. But with limited time, you have to make some compromises. 

But Matt and Alysha, what about Coimbra / Nazare / Braga (insert many other Portuguese cities here) ? Yes, all of those are well worth seeing, but if you only have ten days and it’s your first time, we’d recommend focusing your time on the three places we outlined above – Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. 

What if you have more or less than 10 days?

• With 7 days in Portugal , we think you can realistically tackle the Lisbon – Porto corridor (including some nice day trips) OR the Algarve. Not both. 
• With two weeks in Portugal , you’ll have more time to breathe and can add a few additional stops in smaller cities like Braga , Coimbra , Tavira , or Évora in addition to seeing Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. 

Getting Around Portugal

Getting around Portugal with limited time is a bit complicated, which we’ll get into in a second. 

At a high level, there’s a robust train network run by Comboios de Portugal and bus network through companies like FlixBus and ALSA that connect most major cities and towns throughout the country.

We used Omio a lot on our trip to Portugal. Omio shows you all the options for getting from one city to another in one place – by train, bus, or plane – so that you can compare without going to multiple other websites. Plus, we ran into issues occasionally with our American credit cards getting declined through the official train website, and Omio was much easier to use without throwing our phones across the room. It’ll cost you a very small service fee (usually one Euro per ticket), but we think it was a much, much better experience (which is why we used it so often).

We love traveling by train, and it’s the best way to get around on the west coast, between Lisbon and Porto (and even further north than Porto) where there are both regional and high speed trains to choose from.

Trains in Portugal are significantly cheaper than in places like Spain and Italy, which is an added bonus (they’re also slightly less comfortable, in our experience). 

With limited time, always choose the high speed (Intercity, or IC) trains, which will be more expensive but significantly faster.

Once you get out of that major thoroughfare, the options for train travel get a little worse, which is where the bus network comes in. Oftentimes the buses take roughly the same amount of time as the regional trains, and can be even cheaper. 

For each step in this itinerary, we’re going to give you our take on the best way to get from one place to another. Oftentimes it will be the train, but sometimes the buses offer a convenient alternative. 

Should You Fly Between Cities in Portugal? 

This one highly depends on which route you choose below. There are some journeys, particularly from Porto to the Algarve, that are actually best done by flying between cities. 

We’ll get into this in the “routes” section, but we’d only recommend flying if it’s absolutely necessary – it will be expensive, oftentimes slower if you count all the time getting to the airport and sitting around waiting, and less convenient overall. 

Definitely don’t fly between Lisbon and Porto – the high speed train does a good job connecting those two major cities. 

Should You Rent a Car in Portugal?

We think you should rent a car to visit the Algarve . The car will give you the flexibility to get off the beaten path a little bit and out to some less crowded (but equally beautiful) beaches that just aren’t well connected with public transportation. We would not have been able to make it to nearly as many places as we did if we didn’t have a car.

That being said, you can still enjoy the Algarve without a car, but it will be a slightly different experience. 

However, we absolutely would not recommend having a car in either Lisbon or Porto , where it will be more of a hindrance than a help thanks to parking and traffic. 

Instead, plan on renting a car when you arrive on the Algarve, and keeping it only during that leg of the trip. This will also save you money in the long run on gas, days of car rental, and tolls. 

We rented a car through AutoEurope , which gives you the prices and availability for multiple car companies all in one place.

When you choose your carrier, stick to the major international car rental companies like Europcar, Hertz, and Avis, and steer clear of the regional Portuguese car rental companies, which will do their best to nickel-and-dime you into financial ruin. 

Tips for Renting a Car in Portugal

We think you should definitely rent a car to do the Algarve, it’s just a matter of figuring out the best way to do it for your particular trip.

Here are a few things to consider about renting a car in Portugal that we discovered over the course of our trip. 

• If you’re picking up a rental car in one place and dropping it in a different place, your rental will be subject to a “one-way” fee that escalates based on the distances between locations. For reference, we picked up our car in Lagos and dropped it in Évora, which is about a three hour drive, and it was a 50 Euro fee. We imagine the fee would be similar for Lisbon. 
• There is an airport surcharge of about 30 Euros, depending on the company, that applies when you are either picking up or dropping off at an airport (in this case, likely either Lisbon Airport or the Faro Airport). You could avoid this by picking up the car in Lagos instead, but if you are arriving at the Faro Airport, it makes more logistical sense to just pay the fee. 
• There are toll roads throughout Portugal, which means you will pay to use the bigger, faster highways. The two you’re most likely to encounter are the A2 between Lisbon and the Algarve, and the A22 between Lagos and Faro. The easiest way to handle them is to ask your rental car company to activate their electronic transponder, which will automatically bill you for any tolls. More information on toll roads in Portugal here . 

Where to Start & End Your Trip

There are two options that we’ve come up with, and each has a set of pros and cons. Which one you choose most likely depends on your flight into Portugal. 

The first option is flying in and out of Lisbon , which tends to have the most routes – particularly direct flights – in and out of Portugal to international destinations.

This is also likely to be the cheapest option, though it’s the least convenient in terms of logistics (as we’ll get into in the next section) because it involves you making your way back to Lisbon from the Algarve, which can be a bit of a journey at over four hours. 

The second option, and the one we’d strongly recommend, is to fly into Porto and out of Faro (the main airport on the Algarve).

This option might have fewer flight options and can be a bit more expensive, but it’s also by far the most convenient because it doesn’t involve hours of backtracking to catch your flight home. 

The Route for This Portugal Itinerary

We’re putting our stake in the ground and recommending the version of the itinerary that has you flying into Porto and out of Faro, which is by far the least complicated way to do it.

We think the potential added cost is going to be worth it for the time saved by not having to get back to Lisbon to catch your flight . 

We get that you might not agree, and it’s pretty easy to rearrange the itinerary below to accommodate flying in and out of a single city. You’ll just need to add a train or bus journey to your itinerary at the end to get back to catch your flight. 

With that out of the way, here’s how we’d spend 10 days in Portugal if it’s your first time. 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Porto in AM
• Day 2 : Porto 
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Douro Valley
• Day 4 : Travel to Lisbon (as early as possible)
• Day 5 : Lisbon
• Day 6 : Day Trip to Sintra
• Day 7 : Travel to Algarve + Pick up Rental Car
• Day 8 : Algarve
• Day 9 : Algarve
• Day 10 : Algarve + Fly Home

You obviously have a bit of flexibility in terms of when you choose to do the day trips from Lisbon and Porto, what days to do which activities, and more.

We’re not going to give you a day-by-day itinerary – instead, we’re going to give you our picks for what to do, where to stay, and how to plan a day trip (to the Douro or to Sintra) for each city. 

The Complete 10 Day Portugal Itinerary for First Timers

And now that we’ve got all the boring-but-important logistics out of the way, onto the fun stuff! 

If you’re coming from somewhere like the US or Canada, you’re going to be a little slow on your first day due to jet lag. Plan on taking it relatively easy, drink plenty of water, and don’t go buckwild on the Port on your first day in Portugal. 

Days 1-3: Porto + Day Trip to the Douro Valley

Your first stop in Portugal is Porto, which has a friendly rivalry with its neighbor to the south, Lisbon, over the fact that Porto was the original capital and is the city that the entire country is named after.

Portugal was conquered by the Christian armies of the Inquisition from north to south, ending in the 12 th Century, which is when the borders of present-day Portugal were formed (and have more or less stayed the same since). 

We found Porto to be similar to Lisbon in some ways, but significantly different in many respects.

The first is that it’s a much older city. Lisbon was leveled by a massive earthquake (somewhere between 8.5 and 8.9 on the Richter scale) in 1755. Along with the subsequent fires and a tsunami. Not a great day for Lisbon. 

Porto survived the earthquake, which means the buildings in the city center are much, much older. Which gives it a more lived-in feeling, and a less polished look. We heard the word “gritty” used, but don’t quite agree with that assessment. Lived-in is a better term in our experience. 

Everywhere you go in Porto, it feels like real people live there (rather than parts of Lisbon that feel like it’s exclusively tourists). And that’s a feeling that we really enjoy. 

P.S.: To help you plan an amazing few days in Porto, we wrote a guide to planning an amazing 3 days in Porto ! We also have a guide to spending one day in Porto , if you’re short on time.

Porto is a great two day destination, which begs the question “why do you have us here for three days then?” 

At the end of every trip, we do a “best experience / food / drinks” recap together over a glass of wine (or several). There was an experience that came up over and over again during the conversation about our trip to Italy , Spain , and Portugal.

And that experience was our day trip to the Douro Valley , which included a winery visit to try port, an amazing lunch experience, and a boat cruise on the picturesque Douro River. 

It’s expensive, it’s true, but we think it’s worth a whole day of your time to see the famous terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley, one of the oldest wine regions in Europe (if not THE oldest). 

Pro-tip : Every single local we met in Porto said something along the lines of “hey, be careful with port” – it’s super easy to drink, it’s 20% alcohol, and it’s full of sugar so the hangovers are awful. You’ve been warned. 

Arriving in Porto

There’s a handy metro line that goes to and from the Porto airport – Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) – in 30-40 minutes. You can buy tickets at the entrance, and it will connect you with the other metro lines once you arrive in the city. More information here . 

You can also take a taxi (which will cost around 23 Euros) or pre-book a private transfer to take the stress out of arriving. 

What to Do in Porto

Here are some things we enjoyed in Porto, in no particular order.

• A Walking Tour to Learn about Porto’s History . Porto’s history is fascinating, going all the way back to the Roman Empire (and beyond that, too) and along the way becoming the capital of Portugal before Lisbon was given that title. One thing you’ll notice is the fact that Porto is an older city than Lisbon, mainly because of the earthquake that leveled Lisbon in 1755. A walking tour will introduce you to all that history and more with a local who can give you tips on what to eat and where to eat it, how to get around, what not to miss, and more. We always do walking tours in nearly every city we go to, and always walk away (ha!) with a bunch of new stories and a better understanding of history. We’ve also learned that you get what you pay for here, and there’s a reason the free tours are, well, free. Here’s the one we’d choose in Porto, though we actually chose this private walking tour in Porto ourselves with our favorite tour company, Withlocals. 
• Miradouros . Porto is a beautiful city, perched on a hill overlooking the river below, so there are a few viewpoints that we think you shouldn’t miss. First is Miradouro da Vitória ( here on Google Maps), which is a place we found ourselves multiple times on our trip. It’s a great view out over the city and river, and it’s worth the effort you’ll expend coming from the bottom of the hill. On the opposite side of the river, Jardim de Morro ( here on Google Maps – technically in Vila Nova de Gaia) has some of the best views of the city, which sprawls up the hill away from the river, and the Ponte Dom Luis I (the bridge).
• The Port Houses in Vila Nova de Gaia . Across the river from the city of Porto is a separate city called Vila Nova de Gaia, which is where all of the port houses are located. It’s worth an afternoon of your time to cross the river and do a tour, where you’ll learn about the process of making port and usually get to enjoy a tasting at the end to understand the differences between ruby, tawny, and the other types of port. We did the tour at Graham’s Port Lodge and really enjoyed it, though we also heard good things about Taylor’s and Churchill too from various locals we interacted with. If you’re looking to try port in the city center of Porto, go to Prova , where we got a mini-lesson on the basics of port before we made it across the river later in the trip. 
• Eat a Bifana and a Francesinha . Two of Porto’s most famous dishes are meat-heavy sandwiches that we had mixed feelings on. Neither of us are huge meat eaters, and I have Celiac Disease and need to eat gluten free, so our choices were limited. We did manage to find both, though! The Francesinha is a sandwich stacked with multiple types of meat, a fried egg, and a spicy sauce made of beer and broth. It’s basically a heart attack on a plate. We enjoyed it, but probably wouldn’t eat it again. The second is the bifana , which is a pork sandwich that is both cheap and delicious. My brother was the guinea pig here, and ended up enjoying it. We got it at Conga , recommended to us by our walking tour guide. You know it’s authentic when you can see them making the meat in the window. 
• Livraria Lello . We’re conflicted about this one, because we actually chose to skip it after seeing the massive line outside – which exists all day long, opening to closing. This is a beautiful bookstore that became famous when fans learned that J.K. Rowling wrote a portion of the books while working in Porto as an English teacher in the early 90’s, and that this bookstore might have served as inspiration (key word: might). The interior, particularly the staircase, is beautiful, but we were a little shocked by the price and popularity. It’s 5 Euros to enter, which you’ll get back if you decide to buy a book.

You might notice that all of the port houses have very, uh, English names. Graham’s. Taylor’s. Sandeman’s.

That’s because they were, and still are, owned by English companies who, at the time they were started, were looking to find a new source of wine after the French ramped up prices.  

If you’re looking to get some deeper knowledge and insight into the food scene in Porto and northern Portugal, we’d recommend a food tour.

Given the fact that I have Celiac Disease, we didn’t do one ourselves (it would just be me salivating over everyone else eating delicious food, even though I’d love the history and stories part of the tour). Here’s the tour we would have done, had it made sense. 

Where to Stay in Porto

Porto is a compact city, so staying anywhere near the center of the city is going to put you within walking distance of basically everything in the city. It’s a little bit hilly, but not too bad.

We have an entire guide dedicated to deciding where to stay in Porto , which you should definitely read if you want to get deeper into each neighborhood we recommend and why we like it.

Otherwise, here are the highlights.

That being said, we’d recommend staying relatively close to the river, either in the upscale Ribeira neighborhood along the river, or in one of the neighborhoods adjacent to it to the north. 

We personally stayed in Bolhão , which was about 10-15 minutes away from the river on foot, and was a more affordable location than the area along the river. And, to be honest, it was much more enjoyable and we’d stay there again in a heartbeat. 

We heard mostly Portuguese (versus the mix of English, French and Spanish you’ll hear near the river) and there were a ton of great places to eat and drink within 3-5 minutes of walking. And it felt younger and more lively, particularly at night. 

We stayed at Your Opo Cozy Apartments , which was the perfect base for us because we need access to a kitchen and prefer having more space to spread out (especially since we were traveling with my little brother).

We also had our eye on Hotel Moon & Sun , which is a good option if you’re looking for a nice hotel in a great location (across from one of our favorite coffee shops in the city). 

Update 2024: My mom and her friend stayed at Hotel Moon & Sun in late 2023 and loved it. The location is great (they also loved So Coffee Roasters across the street).

We were originally going to stay at The Passenger Hostel , but changed to an apartment with more space when my brother decided to join. 

Planning Your Day Trip to the Douro Valley

In short, we could not recommend the tour we did more highly . Like we said above, we spent a full 90 days (well, 89, really) in Europe, and that day was at the top of the list of our favorite experiences. 

If you’re looking for our top recommendation, that’s the tour we’d choose. However, there are a couple of other ways you could tackle the Douro Valley. 

• Do it independently by public transportation : It is possible to do this day trip using public transportation, but we think you have to make significant trade offs doing it that way (though it is much cheaper). There is a train from Porto to Pinhão, a major town in the Douro Valley full of wineries and restaurants along the river. However, once you’re there, you’ll have to walk / taxi between places, and you’re really confined to the area immediately around town. 
• Do it independently by car : If you rent a car, we think you’ll have a better experience than using public transportation. But, again, it comes with tradeoffs. You’ll have to drive, which means watching how much port you drink (don’t drink and drive, folks!), and it can be expensive and inconvenient to rent a car for a day. That being said, it does give you more flexibility even than a guided tour to discover places that you wouldn’t have otherwise found, which we like. If you want to do the Douro Valley independently, this is how we’d do it. 

We’d definitely recommend making it out to the Douro Valley. The best way to do it is either by  booking the tour we did , which includes a winery, an amazing lunch (with more wine), a Douro River cruise (with more wine), and all transportation, or  renting a car and doing it independently .

Days 4-6: Lisbon + Day Trip to Sintra

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a lovely city to explore. In fact, it reminds us a lot of San Francisco, our last home before we quit our jobs and hit the road full time (ish).

It has hills with amazing views, a great food and drink scene, and even has a red bridge that looks suspiciously like the Golden Gate. 

We were somewhat surprised to learn that the entire city was essentially flattened in the 18 th Century thanks to a giant earthquake (another similarity to San Francisco). It has since been rebuilt, and has made multiple lists of “best places to travel” over the past decade or so. 

Lisbon is no longer off the beaten path, but it still very much has the charm of a mid-sized city, with a mix of tourists and locals, that places like Paris and Rome just don’t have. 

Getting to Lisbon

Hourly Intercity (IC) trains – those are the fast ones – depart from Porto’s Campanhã train station and will take you to Lisbon in about three hours. We’d opt for an early train to get to Lisbon by noon or so. 

Plan to arrive at Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia station, which is connected to the rest of the city with Lisbon’s clean and efficient metro. The alternative is Oriente, which is further out and not as well-connected. 

Click here to see prices and train times for the journey from Porto to Lisbon . 

What to Do in Lisbon

We have an entire guide to spending 3 days in Lisbon, which you should definitely read for far more detailed information on exactly what to do and see in Lisbon. 

Here are the highlights. 

• Try to Visit All the Miradouros . Lisbon is a city full of hills, which means there are great views to be had at the top of them. Our favorite views in the city were from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte ( here on Google Maps), which is allll the way at the top of the hill behind Alfama. The view, which includes the castelo and the bridge, is worth the climb (it’s where the picture at the top of this section was taken). Another great view is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara ( here on Google Maps), which is near Bairro Alto with views back towards the castle.  
• Take a Walking Tour to Learn About the City’s History and Rebirth . We actually did two different walking tours in Lisbon, and would recommend them both. The first was a private walking tour through Withlocals , which is one of our favorite tour companies. They connect you with a local who takes you on a one-of-a-kind private city tour to see their city through their eyes, which is unique. We also did the We Hate Tourism walking tour through the “Real City,” which is more focused on socially responsible travel and takes you to a neighborhood that you probably wouldn’t ordinarily make it to on your own. Both are great for different reasons. 
• Head Out to Belem . Belem used to be a suburb of Lisbon, and in a way it still kind of is, though it’s technically inside the city limits. There are a few things to do and see out in Belem, and it’s an easy 15-20 minute tram ride from the center to get there. There’s the Torre de Belem, a former defensive tower (that wasn’t particularly good at its job) turned prison that sits in a strategic location along the Tagus River. DON’T GO INTO THE TOWER – NOT WORTH IT. The Jerónimos Monastery is worth a visit for the beautiful cloister. The Monument to the Discoveries is a towering nod to Portugal’s intrepid past as one of the original naval powers in Europe. And, of course, there’s Pastéis de Belem , which claims to be the first place to sell the egg custard tart, and has its own name for them that nobody else gets to use (they came in second in our pastéis de nata taste-off). 
• Hunt for the Best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon . Over our time in Lisbon – almost a week – we made it a goal to try all the pastéis de nata and decide which one we liked best. We quickly learned that the endeavor was going to be impossible, so we decided to focus on the couple of spots that consistently get all the press. Mantegaria , a recommendation from our walking tour guide, ended up being the clear winner. Pastéis de Belem took the second spot. Aloma , a pick of both locals we did walking tours with, was a distant third, but that might have been user error given that the pastéis we got weren’t warm. It’s also worth noting that they aren’t usually gluten free, so Matt had to watch Alysha and his two brothers devour pastéis with reckless abandon. 

Where to Stay in Lisbon

First of all, below is the short version. We have an entire guide dedicated to deciding where to stay in Lisbon , which you should read for more detail on the options, pros/cons, and specific places to stay.

While there are many possible answers to this question, we think 99% of people should choose between the central and charming Chiado neighborhood, and the historic Alfama neighborhood, which is full of narrow cobblestone streets and amazing viewpoints. 

Chiado is more utilitarian – it’s well connected to the rest of Lisbon with its central location in the center of the city and a dedicated metro stop. There’s an endless number of places to eat and drink your heart out, and you’re going to be 5-10 minutes away from the best food and nightlife in the city (which we think are in Bairro Alto and Principe Real). 

Alfama is the most romantic part of the city. It’s the part of Lisbon where you’ll find narrow, pedestrian-only cobblestone streets, and it’s home to two of the best views of the city. There are a handful of hotels and guesthouses scattered throughout the neighborhood. 

We’d highly recommend avoiding staying in an Airbnb in Lisbon because of the impact it has had on housing prices, which have in turn forced locals out of the city and further out into the suburbs. Choose hotels, apart-hotels, guesthouses, and hostels instead. 

Planning Your Day Trip to Sintra

Sintra is a great day trip from Lisbon, and is also the most common day trip that visitors take, which means you’re not going to be alone on the journey out there.

The main attraction here is Pena Palace, which is all the way at the top of the hill. Take the bus or a taxi to get there from the train station, it should be your first stop in Sintra. From there, work your way back down the hill. 

Pena Palace is essentially a summer home, built in the Sintra Mountains by King Ferdinand II. Originally, it was a monastery on the hill, but it was destroyed during the 1755 earthquake and sat there in disrepair for years.

Then, Ferdinand said “wouldn’t it be great to have a place to escape the oppressively hot Lisbon summers? Maybe a place on a hill, with nice views and a cool coastal breeze?” 

12 years later, the palace was finished. There are tons of other attractions to see in addition to Pena Palace, but you should keep in mind that you won’t be able to see them all on a day trip.

Focus on 2-3 (we have thoughts below on what those 2-3 should be, duh), and save some time for walking around the town of Sintra at the bottom of the hill. 

Planning on taking a day trip to Sintra? We have an entire guide dedicated to planning an amazing Lisbon to Sintra day trip , which has more detail than the section below.

Getting to Sintra 

Sintra is an easy 45 minute train ride from Lisbon’s Rossio Station in Baixa. Getting to Rossio is pretty easy from basically anywhere in Lisbon, including Baixa, Chiado, and Alfama. 

The most important thing to know is that you will want to be on the first feasible train out to Sintra , which totally depends on how early you want to wake up. 

The train we chose left at 8:11 am, which we think is the perfect time because you’ll arrive in Sintra around 9:00 am, and most of the attractions open at 9:30 am, giving you about 30 minutes to get up the hill to Pena Palace to start your day and beat the rest of the visitors. 

What to Do in Sintra

Here’s the thing – there’s actually A LOT to do in Sintra. So much so, that you’re definitely not going to be able to comfortably fit it all into a single day, which is likely the amount of time you have. 

For context, we were on one of the first trains out to Sintra, and didn’t make it back to the city until somewhere around 3:00 or 4:00 pm. And we only really did a couple of the many tourist attractions in Sintra. We would suggest picking two or three things that you’re most interested in, and tackling those two plus the town of Sintra, which has some good places to eat and drink. 

We also obviously have an opinion on what you should focus your time on, and we think the two sites you should choose are Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle . Both offer different experiences – one is an opulent palace with fertile gardens, one is a replica of a former, you guessed it, Moorish Castle with spectacular views out over the ocean. 

If you want to add in a third sight, we’d recommend the Quinta da Regaleira . 

We’d do the two aforementioned sights before lunch, making your way down the hill as you go, having lunch in the town of Sintra, then doing the 10 minute walk out to the Quinta da Regaleira before heading back into town to catch the train back to Lisbon. 

Strap in, bring water and snacks, and prepare yourself for a full day affair. 

Here are some more details on the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. 

Pena Palace

There are two parts of the Pena Palace complex, and they require different tickets. There are the gardens, and then there’s the interior. We decided to skip the interior – we’ve seen plenty of opulent palaces over the course of our travels, maybe the rich dudes should have spent the money that they spent on their summer home on something, I don’t know, more useful?

We would recommend just getting a ticket for the grounds, and admiring the palace from the outside. Here’s how we’d spend your time: 

• Start by exploring the gardens. When we arrived, the palace was fogged in and you could barely make out the bright yellow facade. If you find yourself in the same boat, fear not! It will likely burn off. Head out to the High Cross in the gardens, which is a nice view (if the fog happens to be gone – it wasn’t when we were there). In general, our favorite part of the gardens was the lakes area at the bottom of the hill. 
• Then make the walk up to the palace. Admire the arches and tiles along the outside, and go up into the chapel, which is free. 
• Walk the walls of the palace . There’s a short path around the palace walls, which you should save for last because it’s a great view out over Sintra and all the way to the coast, so you want it to be clear. 

More info here . 

Castelo dos Mouros

Honestly, we were SO close to skipping this. But we were so glad we didn’t!

Walking along the reconstructed walls of this Moorish Castle from the 8th or 9th Century was the highlight of our time in Sintra, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. 

It was built when the were in control of the Iberian Peninsula, and then it was taken by the Christians in the 12th Century, and basically left in various levels of desertion ever since as tensions calmed and people no longer felt the need to live within the castle walls and started making their way downhill towards Sintra and proverbial greener pastures. 

There are some historical sights to see along the way, but we’d focus your time on walking the walls from one end to the other, which involves some steps (which are actually kind of hard), and is basically a nonstop spectacular view from start to finish. Go counter-clockwise. 

More information here . 

Dive deeper into Lisbon with our other Lisbon travel guides:

• 3 Days in Lisbon: Planning the Perfect Lisbon Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Lisbon: Our Guide to 4 Amazing Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Lisbon: A Complete Guide to Lisbon’s Best Gluten Free Restaurants
• The Best Coffee in Lisbon: 9 Amazing Lisbon Coffee Shops to Add to Your List
• Planning Your Lisbon to Sintra Day Trip: A Complete Guide

Days 7-10: The Algarve

The Algarve is the area along Portugal’s southern coast, and it’s very, very different from the other cities and regions in the country.

It’s more Mediterranean, with incredible fresh fish and seafood, warm weather (too warm in the summer for us), and a gorgeous coastline full of golden sand beaches and coves of turquoise water.

It’s the perfect place to spend the last few days of your Portugal itinerary soaking up the sun and relaxing on the beach before returning home. 

Getting to the Algarve

There are three options for getting to the Algarve if you’re coming from Lisbon. We used Omio to compare (and usually, book) our trains and buses in Spain and Portugal.

It’s a better user experience (we occasionally ran into issues with our foreign credit cards being declined by the official train websites) and it’ll just cost you a small service fee (usually 1 Euro per ticket). 

First is the train . We love traveling by train in Europe, and there are intercity trains (those are the fast ones!) that will get you from Lisbon to Faro in 3 hours.

From there, you’ll have to connect with a regional train to get to places on the Algarve like Lagos or Carvoiero (spoiler: those are two places we’d recommend staying on the Algarve). Book your train tickets as far in advance as possible for lower prices. 

Second is the bus – we’d opt for FLIXBUS. The bus is slightly less comfortable, we think, but usually cheaper (especially if you’re booking close to the date of travel, when Intercity trains become more expensive).

There are also more direct options to more places on the Algarve (Lagos, in particular), versus the train to Faro and then connecting with a regional train from there. The bus is going to take about 3.5 hours, and cost somewhere around 6-10 Euros. 

Third is renting a car in Lisbon and driving, which takes about three hours or so. This is a particularly good option if you’re flying out of Lisbon to get back home.

If that’s the case, this is actually our top recommendation because it’ll make getting back to catch your flight a little more simple, and you won’t have to pay a one-way fee for dropping off the car in a different place than where you picked it up. 

Whichever way you choose, we’d opt for an early departure from Lisbon to get you to the Algarve for the afternoon. Click here to compare your different options on Omio . 

Do You Need a Car on the Algarve?

After traveling by train and bus for part of our trip to the Algarve, and then renting a car for the second part, we have a strong perspective that the best way to enjoy the Algarve is by renting a car.  

Sure, there is a regional train network that connects the major towns on the Algarve, but oftentimes the best beaches are going to be a bit outside of town, and a car makes it easier to get there. 

Having a car will also give you more flexibility, since trains aren’t that plentiful (they only come a few times a day) and it’s hard to figure out exactly when local and regional buses come (or if they come at all). 

We rented a car twice during our three month European adventure, once in Sicily , once on the Algarve.

Both times we used AutoEurope to compare prices with different rental companies and find the best rates, and booked a car through Europcar , which was a pleasant experience both times. We’d recommend both.

What to Do on the Algarve

You have three days on the Algarve, and we have a strong perspective on what you should do with those days based on our own experiences. 

Heads up: In this section, we’re going to give you a bit more of a day-by-day itinerary to help you organize your time. For more detail, head over to our Algarve itinerary , which has all the information you’ll need to make the most of your time on Portugal’s southern coast. 

Day 7: Lagos and Around

On your first day, spend the day settling in and exploring the area around Lagos. There are three beaches in particular that we think are well worth your time. 

• The first, Praia dos Estudantes , is one of the Algarve’s most famous beaches thanks to the Roman bridge that is visible from the beach. 
• Next, stop by Praia do Pinhão , where you can pick up a coastal route up on the bluffs that takes you to the third beach on your tour-de-Lagos-beaches.
• The last beach, Praia da Dona Ana , is also one of the most-visited beaches in the entire region. It’s a little cove, accessible from both ends, and the best views of the beach are from the bluffs on the eastern side (which is where you’ll find yourself if you follow the coastal trail). 

All three beaches would be a good spot to relax in the sun for a few hours. Make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water. You can walk to all of them, doing one big loop back to the center of Lagos. 

For seafood that’s about as fresh as it can be, head out to Restaurante Chico Zé for lunch, which is a 10 minute drive north of the center of Lagos.

It’s a family run, lunch-only establishment where there is almost always a line out the door during the high season (and sometimes during shoulder seasons). Don’t miss the grilled sardines, served with potatoes. 

An alternative closer to town would be Tasca Da Lota , which is within walking distance of the city center near the train station. It’s cash only. 

For sunset, drive out to Ponta da Piedade , which is a unique rock formation surrounded by sheer cliffs. It’s a spot that most of the boat tours leaving from Lagos stop at because there’s a series of cool sea caves and hidden grottos. 

On foot, you can walk down the long set of stairs to get to the base of the cliffs – just remember that you’ll have to climb back up. Once you’ve done that, it’s also worth finding the trail that heads west from the parking lot and walking along the boardwalks for more amazing coastal views. 

On the way, stop by Praia do Camilo , a small, hidden beach accessible only by climbing down a long set of steep stairs (and, again, climbing back up when you’re done, of course).

Day 8: The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

On your second day, tackle what we think is the best hike on the Algarve – the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail . 

This hike, best done from east to west starting from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes , was one of our favorite experiences in Portugal. And we’re from coastal California, which we learned is very similar to the Algarve in terms of scenery, flora, and fauna.

The point is, it’s a great hike, and that’s coming from two people who have done countless hikes with similar views and scenery. 

First, an overview of the full out-and-back hike. 

• Length : 7 miles / 11.4 km
• Elevation Gain : 1,200 ft. / 365 meters
• Season : Year round (more on this below)
• Trail Type : Out and Back (we have ideas on alternate routes below)
• Difficulty : Easy / Moderate
• Trailhead Location : Either Praia da Marinha or Praia do Vale de Centeanes
• Dog Friendly : Yes! 

If that sounds like too much for you, you have a few options in terms of shortening the hike. 

• Option 1: The Full Hike, Round Trip – 7 miles / 1,200 feet of elevation gain (11.4 km / 365 m). Hike the entire trail out-and-back from Praia da Marinha to Praia do Vale de Centeanes, and then back the way you came. 
• Option 2: The Full Hike, One Way – 3.5 miles / 600 feet of elevation gain (6 km / 180 m). Do the entire hike, but only one way. This requires using either taxis, Uber, or hitching a ride to get back to your car at the first trailhead (or finding a way to get there without a car). 
• Option 3: Partial Hike, Out and Back – 3.3 miles / 600 feet of elevation gain (5.6 km / 180 m). Hike the section between Praia da Marinha and Praia do Carvalho, which in our opinion is the best part of the trail. You can continue on to the nice lighthouse – Farol de Alfanzina, for an additional 2 miles (3.2 km) added to your round-trip distance. 

For more details, including which direction to go, where to park, what time of day to hike, and a detailed trail report, head over to our Seven Hanging Valleys Trail Guide .  

Finish your day at the ending point for the trail you hiked earlier in the day – Praia do Vale de Centeanes – which is a pretty spectacular place to watch the sunset.

You can either bring a blanket and set up shop on the beach, or head up onto the bluffs to the east of the beach, where there’s a point that juts out into the sea and has some benches overlooking the spectacular coastal landscape. 

Day 9: Sagres and the Western Algarve

On your third day, head the opposite direction towards the Atlantic Ocean, where you’ll find a dramatic coastline that looks a little bit different than the one you’ve explored so far. Think towering limestone cliffs and dramatic drop offs with the churning sea below. 

This part of the Algarve, which is much quieter than the area around Lagos and to the east, reminds us a lot of Point Reyes National Seashore, which is a short drive from our home base in California. 

Start by driving all the way out to Farol do Cabo de São Vicente, the southwestern-most point in Europe, and making your way back east towards Lagos. 

• Praia do Beliche ( here on Google Maps) was our favorite beach in the area, and the steps leading down to it are super steep (which is saying something in Europe, land of the unnecessarily steep steps).
• The town of Sagres is a little sleepy, but it’s worth heading out to the Fortaleza de Sagres , which you’ll have to pay a few Euros to access, but the views from the point are worth it. It is going to be windy when you’re there – it almost always is. It’s also home to some of the best surfing in Europe if that’s something you’re into. We were there in the winter, so we took a hard pass on surfing lessons . 
• Praia da Mareta ( here on Google Maps) and Praia do Martinhal ( here on Google Maps) are two nearby beaches we enjoyed. 

After you’ve explored Sagres and the surrounding area, you can either head back to where you’re staying and do some more exploring, or head up the coast north along Portugal’s Atlantic coast to Praia da Arrifana , which is a different feeling than the Algarve. Or you could stop by the small fishing town of Salema on your way back to Lagos. 

Where to Stay in the Algarve

For this amount of time on the Algarve, we’d recommend choosing one home base and exploring from there. 

Keep in mind that this is the quick version. We have an entire guide dedicated to choosing exactly where to stay in the Algarve , so you should head over there if you want the details.

For the sake of convenience, we also think that place should be relatively central to give you the best access to both the eastern Algarve and its pristine white sand beaches, and the rocky, cliff-y (is that a word?) coastline of the western Algarve. 

We stayed in two separate places in the Algarve, and would recommend them both. Those two places are Lagos and Carvoeiro , and anywhere in between those two, which are a 35 minute drive apart, would be a perfect place to stay. 

Lagos is more of a city, with a charming old town and plenty of bars, restaurants, and other amenities that you might be interested in.

If you’re looking to stay in the middle of a bustling city with lots of restaurant options and bars that are open until the early hours of the morning, Lagos is for you.

In Lagos, we stayed at the Salty Lodge , which is smack dab in the middle of the old town. We really enjoyed this place, and our room had a pretty spectacular view towards the ocean. If your room doesn’t, they also have a rooftop terrace with this view. 

Rooms at the Salty Lodge are apartment-style, complete with stovetops and ovens for cooking. Though you’ll be within walking distance of about 25 different restaurants, if you’d rather do not cook on your trip to Portugal. 

Carvoiero has a more relaxed vibe. Sure, there’s a little area near the main beach that has a nice stretch of bars and restaurants, but the draw here is the unparalleled access to beautiful beaches and the laid back nature of the town. If you’re looking for a relaxing, quiet place to stay, we’d recommend Carvoeiro.

In Carvoeiro, we stayed at Hello Villas , which turned out to be among the nicest places we stayed on our entire Portugal trip.

They’re spacious, quiet, and have everything you need to cook meals at home. Plus, they’re walking distance to town, though there’s a rather steep hill in between. 

Dive deeper into the Algarve with our other Algarve travel guides:

• A Complete Guide to Planning an Algarve Road Trip (3-7 Days)
• How to Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: Complete Trail Guide
• Where to Stay on the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base

What to Do with More Time in Portugal

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself with more than 10 days when you’re visiting Portugal, here are a few things that we’d add to your itinerary, along with how much time we’d allocate to each. 

• Évora (1-2 Days) : A stop in Évora, a walled town in Portugal’s Alentejo region, known for its great food and wine, that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. We were here for about 24 hours, and that was perfect. It’s just 90 minutes from Lisbon by train, but we’d recommend staying overnight if you can. 
• Coimbra (1 Day) : A charming, riverfront town known for having the oldest university in Portugal. Students walking around with Harry Potter-style capes give the town a lively, fun vibe, though only when school is in session. We spent a night here between Lisbon and Porto and enjoyed walking up the hill from the river, though school wasn’t in session so the town was a little empty. 
• Óbidos (1 Day) : Another good stop between Lisbon and Porto, this one is known for its intact medieval walls and castle, along with its charming narrow cobblestone streets. Plus, ginjinha, the sour cherry liqueur from Portugal, is served in a traditional chocolate cup here. 
• More time on the Algarve (1-2 Days) : You could easily add a day or two on the Algarve and spend it going deeper, especially on the eastern Algarve. We loved Tavira, and heard good things about Olhão (though we didn’t personally make it there). 
• Braga (1-2 Days) : Braga, way up in northern Portugal, is worth adding either as a day trip from Porto, or as an overnight destination on its own. We didn’t have time to fit it in (despite having almost a month in Portugal), but if we did, our first stop would have been Bom Jesus do Monte, a sanctuary on a hill with excellent views and architecture. 

What to Do with Less Time in Portugal

If you have less than 10 days in Portugal, you’re going to have to choose between the Lisbon / Porto corridor OR the Algarve. It’s just not possible to do Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve in less than 10 days. 

We’d recommend the Lisbon / Porto corridor for most people , which is the more culturally interesting place where you’ll find great food, wine, and historical places to learn more about Portugal’s history. You can easily spend anywhere from 5-9 days on this part of Portugal alone (honestly, you could spend months and not see it all). 

If you want a beach vacation , well, then the Algarve is probably your best bet.

7 Days in Portugal

With 7 days in Portugal, we’d focus on the corridor between Lisbon and Porto and spend 2-3 days in each with time for day trips into the surrounding areas. There’s a high-speed train connecting the two cities, so you can either fly in and out of the same city, or fly into Lisbon and out of Porto (or vice versa) – whichever is cheaper. 

You definitely shouldn’t rent a car for this version of the itinerary. It’ll be more of a pain than anything if you’re using Porto and Lisbon as home bases for exploring the surrounding areas. 

The good news is that everything in this 7 day Portugal itinerary is also in the more detailed itinerary above, so you’ll be able to use the information above to plan your trip. 

Here’s what that 7 day itinerary could look like. It depends on where you’re flying in and out of – this assumes into Porto and out of Lisbon, but it totally works if you’re flying into Lisbon, or even if you’re flying in and out of Lisbon or Porto. 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Porto
• Day 6: Day Trip to Sintra
• Day 7 : Lisbon + Fly Home

5 Days in Portugal

With 5 days, you have a few options. We’re going to give you three of our top picks, but of course there’s a nearly unlimited combination of different ways to tackle your visit to Portugal. 

You can do a shorter version of the 7 day Portugal itinerary we covered above, which could look something like this: 

• Day 3 : Travel to Lisbon (as early as possible)
• Day 4 : Lisbon 

The downside of that option is that you don’t have time to fit in day trips from either place. Which leads us to a second option, which involves focusing your entire time on Lisbon . 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Lisbon
• Day 2 : Lisbon
• Day 3 : Day Trip to Sintra
• Day 4 : Lisbon or Another Day Trip (Cascais or Óbidos)
• Day 5 : Lisbon and fly home

Last, but not least, is to spend 5 days on the Algarve. This involves either flying in and out of Faro and renting a car there, or flying in and out of Lisbon and renting a car from there. Here’s what that could look like. For more detail, check out our Algarve itinerary . 

• Day 1 : Arrive in Faro + Travel to Lagos / Carvoiero
• Day 2 : Lagos + Surrounding Beaches
• Day 3 : The Western Algarve (Sagres + Praia do Beliche)
• Day 4 : Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
• Day 5 : The Eastern Algarve (Faro + Tavira) + Travel Home

Planning a trip to Portugal?  

Here are our other Portugal travel guides to help you plan an incredible trip (even if you have to eat gluten free!).

If there’s no link below, it means we’re still working on it – long, in-depth guides take time! We’re working on it, though, we promise.

• 10 Days in Portugal: Planning the Perfect Portugal Itinerary
• 25 Incredible Things to Do in Lisbon: A Complete Guide
• One Day in Lisbon: The Best of Lisbon in 24 Hours
• 3 Days in Porto: Planning the Perfect Porto Itinerary
• One Day in Porto: How to See the Best of Porto in a Day
• Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal: The 3 Best Places to Stay

The Algarve:

• Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Charming Towns to Use as a Home Base

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

44 Comments

We have completed 2 weeks of our 4 week stay in Lisbon and the information shared here has been extremely helpful for us. We also made a day trip to Fatima and spent a few days in Porto and Lourdes (France). Lourdes was unusually cold 0 C (31 F) and because of that there were no crowds at all. We are from Michigan, so the cold weather didn’t matter much to us :). Porto is amazing and a must visit if you come to Portugal. We are staying in an ABB near Alameda metro station and we love it here – everything is within walking distance and my wife and I love walking. We easily do about 16-20K steps everyday! Uber is everywhere and very affordable and because of that, we haven’t tried the metro yet. Cafes and restaurants are everywhere and very good quality at a reasonable price.

Thanks a LOT to Matt and Alysha for documenting your experience which helped us a lot in our planning!

Thanks for the kind words, Joe! Glad you found our experiences helpful – that’s what we’re here for!

I am planning to visit Portugal for a 10 day trip starting April 11. Given this time of the year, does it make sense to visit Algarve? Is it possible to include Madeira by replacing Algarve for such a short trip?

Hey there! We were in the Algarve in early December, and it was lovely. It was warm – but not blazing hot – and the crowds were nonexistent. In April, it’ll be warmer and busier, but still worth a visit we’d say. However, if you want to do Madeira instead, just swap it in for the Algarve (it might get a little more complicated in terms of flights). However, we would say that it’s a lot of traveling to try to do Madeira (you essentially lose two full half days to flights).

I was reading some blogs and found yours to be the most detailed, precise and resourceful. So thank you for the efforts! I’ve heard a lot about Madeira Islands in Portugal, do you recommend visiting the islands in a 10day itinerary ? it is called the Hawaii of Portugal and I wanted to check if it worth visiting in a short span of time ?

Hey there! I would say that it’s a little far to try to do in 10 days, but if you wanted to squeeze it in, we’d essentially swap Madeira for the Algarve (you might have to move things around to accommodate the flights e.g. start in Lisbon, fly to Madeira and back, train up to Porto to finish). It depends on the logistics!

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One week in Portugal: The Ultimate Portugal Itinerary

Portugal has quickly become one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The promise of exciting cities, a beautiful coastline filled with beaches, good food and wine, and reasonable prices is hard for any traveller to resist. But what if you are short on time? Is it worth it to do just one week in Portugal? As someone who has done it, absolutely! Here is my suggestion for a 1 week Portugal Itinerary.

Getting Around Portugal

There are two main options for getting around Portugal. The first is to rent a car which provides a lot of freedom and can actually save on travel time. Most people prefer this, especially if you want to visit smaller towns and get out of the main cities. 

That being said, some people may be intimidated by driving in a foreign country, which is totally ok! If this is the case, Portugal has a pretty good train system that connect the major cities. Tickets can be purchased in advance online here . The farther in advance you book, the cheaper the price. The train stations are all in pretty central locations as well; within walking distance of the city centre or close to a metro or tram station. It’s an easy, and affordable, way to get around.

One Week in Portugal Itinerary

Portugal is a small country, but even then one week is a quick trip. That being said, you can still see and do a lot in this short amount of time. For 1 week in Portugal I suggest the following itinerary, which I did myself:

Day 1: Porto

Day 2: Porto

Day 3: Douro Valley Day Trip

Day 4: Lisbon

Day 5: Lisbon- Day trip to Sintra

Day 6: Lisbon- visit Belem

Day 7: Algarve

How to Spend 1 Week in Portugal

 2 days in porto.

Porto is a must when visiting Portugal. I know most people tend to highlight Lisbon, but Porto was my favourite stop thanks to the beautiful tiled-buildings, the colourful cais da Ribeira, and of course the port cellars. Porto has a ton of charm that make it impossible not to fall in love with and while you could spend longer, 2 days in Porto is perfect for those who only have one week in Portugal.

Porto is best known for its  port wine . Which is kind of funny since most of the area’s port cellars are not actually in Porto, but rather across the Douro river on the Gaia side. It’s an easy walk (or drive) across the bridge. It’s worth exploring as well, not just for the Port cellars but also because it offers beautiful views over to Porto. Don’t worry, 2 Days in Porto will give you plenty of time to experience both sides of the river.

Porto isn’t too big, and while it does have a public transit system, the best way to get around is by foot. It can be pretty hilly, so wear good walking shoes that offer some support and traction.

My top suggestions for 2 days in Porto include:

Dom Lu ís Bridge

Porto has several bridges, but this one is the most iconic. At one time it was the longest bridge of its kind in the world. Today however, it’s great for photos and offers an easy way for both pedestrians and drivers to cross back and forth between Porto and Gaia. During the warmer months, you may even spot some local boys jumping off the bridge, similar to the bridge jumpers in Mostar.

Cl érigos Church and the Torre dos Cl érgios

A beautiful baroque church with a tall bell tower. Visitors can climb the tower for 5 euros, and will be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views across the city.

S ão Bento Train Station

A train station may be an odd recommendation, but when you walk inside and see the walls and ceiling covered in beautiful azulejos , the famous Portuguese tiles, you will be amazing. There are over 20,000 tiles in the train station which tell the story of Portugal’s history. It took 11 years for the tiles to be placed. It’s considered to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Livraria Lello

Livraria Lello has become one of the most famous bookstores in the world thanks to Harry Potter. Nicknamed the Harry Potter Bookstore, this beautiful book shop is ornately decorated with the focal point being a winding wooden staircase. JK Rowling is said to have visited this bookshop many times when she lived in the city, and it definitely resembles the staircase of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter movies.

Visitors do have to get tickets to enter. However, if you buy something the ticket money will be reimbursed towards your purchase.

Porto Walkers Tour

Free walking tours (the ones where you tip at the end) have become a popular way to explore many cities around the world, and Porto is no exception. However more than just a walking tour (although it’s a good one) the Porto Walkers Tour offers a unique perk that the others do not: a local dessert from a secret spot. The woman, who bakes desserts for top restaurants in the city, has an agreement with Porto Walkers and will sell those on the tour a slice of her delicious desserts out her window for a fraction of the price. It’s not somewhere you can go (or find) on your own. Learn more about Porto Walkers tours here.

Cais da Riberia

The waterfront area of Porto is busy and filled with restaurants, shops, and crowds. But, it’s also a must-see. There’s a walkway by the water’s edge and it makes for a perfect spot to take photos.

Igrega do Carmo

Another of Porto’s beautiful churches. This one is quite younger than the other two on this list, however the highlight here is the blue and white azulejos that decorate one of the sides. The tiles tell the story of the Carmelite Order and Mount Carmel in Israel.

Eat a Francesinha

A Francesinha is Porto’s famous dish. It’s essentially a sandwich made with bread, ham, sausage, and steak then covered in melted cheese and served with an egg on top and french fries. I didn’t try one myself, but was told that it can easily be shared between two people. Check this article for the best spots to get one in Porto. 

Porto Cathedral

This Roman Catholic Church is one of the city’s oldest buildings. It’s a tall and imposing structure located in the oldest part of the city.

Port Cellars

Most of the port cellars are located along the waterfront of the Gaia side of the Douro River. There are dozens to choose from but some popular choices include Cálem, Sandeman, and Grahams. You can also try a port wine tour such as this one. 

A River Cruise

While there are a few nice viewing points around the city, a boat trip down the Douro River offers beautiful scenery and some great photo opportunities. Rides are about an hour long and are a great way to rest your feet while still experiencing the city. You can book a Porto river cruise here . 

Pal ácio de Cristal

This glass and metal structure is a popular spot for locals and visitors to come and wander the gardens, though I loved it at sunset. While it’s not a typical sunset spot (the sun sets behind you where you can’t actually see). The view looking over Porto, Gaia, and the Douro River is beautiful. Especially as the light fades, the sky changes colour, and all the lights turn on and twinkle.

Where to Stay in Porto

When it comes to deciding where to stay in Porto my biggest suggestion is to choose a spot near some of the main attractions as listed above. That way you know you are in a central location.

When it comes to types of accommodation, Porto has everything from hostels to luxury hotels. I travelled solo through Portugal so chose to stay in hostels. Portugal has some amazing ones that are clean, central, and offer family-style dinners to make it easier to meet others. If that’s not your style, or you prefer something more private, there are a number of hotels varying in price as well. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Portugal.

Hotels: Porto Spot Hostel ,   , Pilot Design Hostel and Bar 

Mid-range hotels: HF Ipanema Porto , Porto Antas Hotel , Mercure Porto Centro

Luxury hotels: Pestana Palacia do Freixo , Palacio Das Cardosas , Crowne Plaza Porto

1 Day in the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is easily accessible as a day trip from Porto, so keep your base there for the night but plan on spending the whole day exploring one of the most beautiful regions of the country.

There are a few options for seeing the Douro Valley. Most people will recommend that you rent a car and do it by yourself. It’s definitely a more freeing option, but not always ideal for those who don’t want to rent a car and drive. It’s also possible to take a train to one of the smaller towns and explore on your own. This will allow you to see the scenery and enjoy a river cruise, but you won’t be able to get into the hills to visit the different quintas (port or wine makers). The third option is to do a guided day trip to Douro Valley . This is what I did and I loved it. The tour included roundtrip transportation, a visit to two different quintas, lunch in a village, and a scenic boat trip offering views of the stunning landscape.

I have to say, I think that the Douro Valley was the highlight of my one week in Portugal. So I highly recommend a visit. If you are looking for a day trip, try this tour that I did and loved: Douro Valley Tour: Wine Tasting, River Cruise, and Lunch

3 Days in Lisbon With Day Trips to Sintra and Belem

The capital city of Portugal is teeming with beautiful sights, delicious restaurants, and tons of things to see and do which is why I suggest spending the most time in this part of the country for your one week in Portugal.

Lisbon is much bigger and Porto, so you will probably want to make use of the metro or city trams occasionally but, of course, walking is the best way to explore. Again, bring proper walking shoes; it’s just as hilly and the roads and walkways can be incredibly slippery, especially when wet.

You could easily spend one week in Portugal here, but 3 days in Lisbon is a good amount of time to experience the city and see the nearby highlights.

I have huge list of all the things to do in Lisbon , so I’m just going to highlight a few of my favourites here. Part of the charm of Lisbon is exploring the streets and alleyways on your own and seeing what you discover. With that being said, don’t miss the following:

Visit St. George’s Castle

If you look from any of the miradouros (viewpoints) around Lisbon, the commanding Moorish building known as St. George’s Castle is impossible to miss. The imposing hilltop castle dates back to the second century and is fun to explore. Plus the views from the walls overlooking the city are pretty impressive.

Ride Tram 28

Lisbon’s trams are iconic, and no tram is more well-known that tram 28. This is, basically, the tourist tram and offers the best viewing route around the city. However, it can get incredibly crowded and uncomfortable. Your best bet is to go first thing in the morning, or later in the day to help avoid the crowds. Note: be wary of pickpockets while on board!

Visit Sintra

The fairytale town of Sintra, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site, is an absolute must when in Lisbon. You can go on your own or join a tour. It’s impossible to see it all in a day but if you pick a couple of spots you can make a good full or half day trip out of it. Consider these day trip options:

• Full day Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais
• Sintra Highlights

Explore Alfama District

Alfama is one of the best places to get lost in Lisbon. Winding alleys, staircases, and steep cobblestone streets surrounded by old houses and buildings. It’s one of the oldest parts of Portugal and it’s incredibly charming. 

Alfama is also home to Portugal’s best-know flea market which is called the Thieves Fair. Despite the name, vendors claim nothing has been stollen, but you will find all kinds of good for sale. The Thieves Fair runs twice weekly, on Tuesdays to Saturdays, and opens at 6am. Go early for the best buys. 

There are lots of great restaurants in the Alfama neighbourhood as well, so I suggest planning on spending a morning or afternoon exploring with the intention of stopping for lunch or dinner. 

Visit Belém

Belem is only a short tram ride away from Lisbon, and has quite a few attractions to see. The reason most people go to Belem is for Pasteis de Belém which is believed to serve up the most delicious pasteis de nata (egg tarts) in the area. Along with the pastries, you should also visit the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument of Discoveries.

Listen to Fado in Bairro Alto

You can’t go to Lisbon and not listen to Fado at least once. It’s an important part of the city’s culture and if you are lucky enough to come across a good Fado singer, you will be amazed. Try Café Luso or Adega Machdo, both of which are in Bairro Alto.

Grab some food at the Time Out Market

This food hall is basically heaven for foodies. From wines to pastries to meals, you can find pretty much everything here. There’s a bunch of tables in the middle where you can eat, or you can take your food to go. It’s a great lunch or dinner stop, and most vendors have very affordable prices.

Take a Sunset Cruise

Lisbon has a pretty good sunset from the water. You can go down to the waterfront and watch with the crowds or escape them and watch the sunset from a boat. A tour hour cruise offers a different view from the city and goes up to Belem and back. You can book a sunset cruise here.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

As I mentioned above, Lisbon is a lot bigger than Porto, so there are more neighbourhoods and areas to choose from. The city centre is a good choice since everything is then easily accessible. I like the historic areas of Chiado and Baixa. Though keep in mind that Chiado is right beside Bairro Alto- the nightlife district, so it can get loud at night.

Lisbon offers all kinds of accommodation choices. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Lisbon, depending on your budget and what you are looking for.

Hostels: Yes! Lisbon Hostel , Lookout! Lisbon Hostel  , Sunset Destination Hostel

Midrange hotels: Doubletree by Hilton Lisbon , Novotel Lisboa , HF Fenix Garden

Luxury Hotels: Pousada de Lisboa,   Sofitel Lisbon , Iberostar Lisboa

1 Day in the Algarve

Portugal’s Algarve is one of the most well-known areas of the country. Beautiful clifftop views, beaches, and hiking trails make it a popular destination in the warmer months. However, unless you are renting a car it can be really tricky to get around, which is why I’m recommending that if you only have one week in Portugal, you only visit this region for a day. 

Faro has a large airport which is perfect for flying out of (or even catching a cheap flight back to Lisbon airport to catch a flight), however Faro is really small. I made the mistake of spending my full day here and was disappointed. You can base yourself in Faro for the night, but do yourself a favour and hop on a bus to Lagos or Albufeira to explore to really see the Algarve. It’s about 1.5-2 hours away by public transit, so it will make for a long day, but trust me when I say it will be more fun than Faro.

If you aren’t up for a long bus ride, you can explore town for half a day (again, it’s tiny) and then take a boat cruise to see part of the Algarve from the water. If you are up for a bit of an adventure, try this pirate ship cruise which has a swim stop. You can also go dolphin watching ( get tickets here ) or take a boat tour through Ria Formosa, which is one of the 7 natural wonders of Portual (get tickets here )

The Algarve is about 4-5 hours by train from Lisbon, so your best bet is to catch an evening train on your final day in Lisbon so you arrive at night, then have the full next day to explore. If this seems like too much effort for one day, consider spending an extra day in Lisbon. It’s a big enough city that you can easily add on another day of sight-seeing, or visit some of its nearby beaches.

Portugal Packing Ideas

Portugal can be hot, even in the fall (I went in October and wore dresses and tank tops). So I definitely recommend layers. A few other suggestions include:

• A good reusable water bottle . The tap water is safe to drink so stay hydrated for free and bring your own bottle!
• If you are heading to the beach, don’t forget a towel! 
• Sunscreen is a must, and if you are going to the beach please bring reef safe sunscreen . Normal sunscreen kills reefs and marine life, so do the ocean and solid and go with a reef-safe brand.
• Forget the flipflops and sandals, Portugal is FULL OF HILLS and trust me when I say those streets get super slippery. Running shoes or walking shoes with good treads are a must.
• Visiting shoulder or offseason? Bring a raincoat- a good waterproof one because it can be very rainy, especially in the north. (I love Columbia raincoats for this, they have options for men and women ).

Final Word on 1 Week in Portugal

One week in Portugal may not seem like a lot of time, but you can do and see a lot in seven days. Portugal is a beautiful country and I had the best time exploring it. If you use this one week Portugal itinerary as your guide, I bet you will love it too!

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

42 Comments

Thank you for the insight into your one week in Portugal. It appears you’ve just been there; we see the recent rains and storms and even tornados have damaged some of the Algarve in February and early March; was it bad weather when you were there? It appears you were in sandals and sleeveless but it would have been quite damp and blustery, what time of year were you there?

I was there in October actually. There was a heat wave and it was like 30C every day. I think the Algarve is more of a warm weather destination so if you are planning on visiting during winter months I might suggest adding another day in Lisbon instead.

I would say more than a day in the Algarve!!! I actually really liked Faro but it wasn’t the Algarve that everyone pictures. But lots of people holiday around the Algarve and don’t leave the beach, so I think Faro provides a bit of culture away from that. Love Lisbon though, I really want to go back!

With more time I’d suggest longer in the Algarve, but I with 1 week I think a full day gives you at least a taste. It’s trickier to get around too than Lisbon or Porto so when time is a constraint, that’s why I suggested longer in other spots to see more.

Thanks for this article! This is an itinerary I would be interested in traveling in Portugal, perhaps this winter.

Go for it! It’s a gorgeous country to explore.

I remember.. more than a few years back I did a 2 week road trip around Portugal. It is till this day one of my best travel memories. It was before my blogging days and in a way I’m bummed about that, because there were amazing memories to share. But I get excited when I read posts like yours and I can say.. hey I’ve been there, I miss that place.

Time for a re-do maybe? 😉

I’m very tempted! I absolutely LOVED Portugal!

In love with your photos! that train station is gorgeous such a treat to see! I’ve never been to Portugal before but my grandparents are there often and love it!

You should go with them some time 😉

[…] out the real must-dos; especially when some of the best bits aren’t super obvious. With one week in Portugal, I only spent three days in Lisbon. And while I crammed those three days as full as I could, I […]

[…] spent an amazing (though fast) seven days in Portugal and quickly fell in love. The beautiful cities, affordable prices, and friendly locals made it a […]

I am thinking about traveling to Portugal next year and this itinerary seems really great for such a short time.

I managed to see and do a lot without feeling too rushed!

Hello Hannah, great trip tips and just in time as my husband, 17 yo son and I will be traveling March 8th to Lisbon. We will return the 16th, so your recommendations are wonderful with such tide schedule. Our trip was a great Expedia find. Our package w hotel, air & even breakfast was inclusive but I feel this arrangement restrains our plans. Reading your article I sense we must spend one night in Porto (I was planning to do so in Lagos instead and view the rugged terrain & beaches), but leaving w/o experiencing Douro Valley sounds like a true shame! Please feel free to share your thoughts…thanks!

I think it depends on what you want. I didn’t go to Lagos so I can’t really judge but to me, that area is more beaches and since it wasn’t beach season when I went (October) I skipped it. I have to say that Porto and Douro Valley was my favourite part of my trip to Portugal though

Hannah I’m so impressed with your itineraries! I’m a meticulous planner and you’ve really found the highlights, combined them with the practicalities and then made sure to mention other points of interest. Thank you! With pleasure I’ll click thru to make some bookings. You surely deserve the commission.

Aw thanks Laura! I always try to share my favourite bits of what I’ve seen and found. Figure if I enjoy them others will too 🙂

Hi Hannah- I’m in the midst (a little late) of planning a week in Portugal with my 2 adult kids (21 and 25) in early August. So many interesting things to do but, I’m nervous about the crowds and heat. I’m wondering if you think it’s too much to cover Porto to Algarve in 8 days or is it better just to focus on north of Lisbon?

I’m all over the place!! Ha! Flying into Lisbon at 6am sat august 10 Planned to stay 3 days in Lisbon, go to Porto (My son is interested in wine) Is it too much to go to Algarve or is there a cool town to stay on north coast? Thank you so much or any help. We are not into waiting in huge lines to get into restaurants, museums or sitting in the crazy heat. Be happy for any help or cool ideas! Thanks Sharon

If you are starting in Lisbon, I don’t think it makes sense to go up to Porto then backtrack down to the Algarve in that amount of time. Portugal isn’t huge, but I think you’d find it more relaxing to focus on Lisbon and Porto rather than travelling back and forth. Cascais isn’t too far from Lisbon and is a cute seaside resort town thats beach-y. There are also some beaches near to Porto, though I didn’t go to any to speak from experience. The Douro Valley though is a must if you son liked wine!! The tour I mention in the itinerary is awesome if you don’t want to rent a car. Enjoy!

Thank you so much for this helpful itinerary! It’s great 🙂

You are welcome!

Hi, Would you say Portugal trip together with Greece is doable this coming September 2019? Considering the distance of each from each other? Planning on a 2 weeks stay in Europe and love go to both, hitting 2 birds in one stone?

It is doable for sure. However, I have to say, I just came back from a month in Greece (haven’t written about it yet) and you could easily spend 2 weeks there alone, especially if you are island hopping. That being said, if you want to combine both then why not!

Great post on Portugal! It’s one of my favorite countries and I can’t wait to go back.

We will be flying to Porto from San Sebastián, Spain and then will have a week in Portugal. Will you please help me decide the number of days in each town, telling me how many days to sleep in the towns. I want to start in Porto where we can see the Douro Valley by boat; then see Sintra and Cascais; then visit Lisbon and the Algarve. I’m trying to avoid carrying our luggage to too many cities and having to pack and unpack. Thank you so much.

This itinerary allows for that 🙂 You can do day trips from Porto to the Douro Valley (the Port day tour I mention does a boat tour). Then from Lisbon you can do day trips to Cascais and Sintra. You’ll probably want to combine them both in 1 day if you only have a week though and still want to get to the Algarve. Then end in the Algarve. That way only 3 stops (Porto, Lisbon, Algarve) where you need to bring your luggage.

Hi There. I loved reading about your trip. My husband and I are landing in Faro on Saturday June 13. We are flying home from Faro one week later. I have an airbnb booked in Lagos for the week. Initially we were planning on staying in the Algarve for the week and just exploring the area in our rental car. The more I research Portugal, the more I wish we were travelling to Lisbon (or Porto) during our week. I just cant get my head around the logistics. I suppose we could take a train from Lagos to Lisbon on Wednesday then from Lisbon to Faro on Friday night to catch our flight home on Saturday. I just don’t want to eat up a lot of time. Any suggestions?

I took the train between Faro and Lisbon and it wasn’t too bad! A few hours but since you have a week I think it might be worth it because Lisbon is a really cool city! Renting a car would probably cut down on time but not sure if that’s something you are interested in or not.

Love reading the advice on this site. We are flying into Lisbon early on March 12 and leaving Lisbon morning of March 22. Never been to Portugal before so having difficulty deciding where to go, and at this time of year. Know it’s not beach time.

Don’t want to move too often but would love to see it all! Thought we’d save Porto for another time but having second thoughts.

Was going to do Lisbon, 4 nights, with side trips, then rent car and go to Nazare for 2 nights, with side trips, then Evora for 1 night, then The Algarve for 2 nights, then back to Lisbon.

Now I’m thinking we should skip the Algarve….any suggestions? Want culture, food, wine, views, relaxation…

Hard for me to say because I only did Faro in the Algarve which I didn’t love. That being said you are right, it’s not beach weather, so I might skip it and do more North in the cooler months and save south and the Algarve for a Beachier visit. If you don’t want to move around a lot, then Lisbon does make a good base for a few days for sure. Porto was my favourite part of the country as I loved the city and the day trip to Douro Valley. Plus if you want wine… Porto has all the awesome port places.

Great reviews and suggestions. I am in Portugal now with my husband and dog for two months. We started in the Algarve, first Quarteira (we did side trips to Loule, Amancil, Tavira) next we go to Lagos. We have several side trips planned there too. We are skipping Lisbon because of Covid, but will try fir a day in Alfama. We will be two weeks in Porto. I have a bad knee. Walking is difficult. Any suggestions on easy side trips from Porto?

I did the Douro Valley from Portugal which is amazing. If you join a tour or rent a car it might be a little easier with your bad knee. You can tour many of the Quintas but you can also just do tastings in the main buildings. There are also nice scenic boat rides in the area which you may enjoy as well!

Hi, thx for all the great info in this article. Doing a 1 week mother/daughter trip with my 15 yr old in late June. Want to see Fatima, Sintra & Porto. Was planning on staying in Lisbon and just doing day trips. Is that doable?

Sintra is an easy day trip from Lisbon but Porto is far enough out the I suggest spending at least a couple of nights there.

I know you wrote this great article several years ago, but it’s still valuable info, so thank you! I’m interested in the suggested free walking tours in Porto. Question- what is the suggested tip amount? I have no idea. Thanks in advance!

In my experience, most people do 10-20 euros per person depending on the guide, but it is totally up to you!

Hello, I am taking my wife to Portugal for her Birthday (its a secret so don’t tell her…lol) in September for 9 days not including travel days from Florida. My plan at the moment is 3 days in Porto, 3 days in Lisbon and 3 days for flexibility. Maybe see the Algarve area if there is time. We will have a rental car if we decide but may do the trains if they are relaxing. Do you know if they have cabins or just open seating on the trains? And if they have restaurant / bar cars? Also, do you have any suggestions of something we may want to see or do as we some extra time that may not be on this itinerary you made? Thank you very much for your article as it was very helpful and one of the main reasons I chose Portugal for this trip with my wife.

I think the trains are pretty basic since they aren’t big long distances. I don’t remember cabin or bar carts on my trains. There is still most to see if you decide to stay central. Cascais can be a good day trip. I’ve also heard good things about Obidos. You can also easily spend longer in Lisbon if you don’t want to feel rushed.

Is it crazy to go to Portugal first week of January?

I haven’t been so can’t really comment. Lisbon and central might be ok. I’ve heard that the north gets very rainy during the winter

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8 Day Portugal Itinerary: Vineyards, Cities, & Villages

What is the best 8 day Portugal itinerary for first-time visitors? Is 8 days enough for Portugal?

Having traveled extensively across this stunning coastal country, I can attest to its amazing people, culture, and, of course… food! From iconic foodie destinations like Lisbon, and Coimbra to lesser-known gems like Aveiro and Guimarães, this 8-day itinerary highlights all of the amazing things first-time visitors should include on their trip.

Depending on your travel style, 8 days may sound too short or too long, but I’ve curated this itinerary to ensure it suits a multitude of travel types. We’ll be starting our journey in the vibrant city of Porto, and from there, we’ll travel down Portugal’s rugged coastline through everything from small fishing villages to the charming capital of Lisbon.

I’ve also included ample information on the best time to visit Portugal, how to get around, my personal travel tips from my own experiences, as well as ample information on how much time is typically recommended to spend in the country as a whole.

Felicidades!

The Ultimate 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

From Porto’s majestic riverfront and Douro Valley wine country in Northern Portugal to Coimbra with its famous hilltop setting on your way across Southern Europe into Nazaré or Lisbon where coastal culture awaits – there are many places that make up this gorgeous Iberian peninsula!

On this spectacular 8-day itinerary, you’ll experience the major cities, sweeping coastlines, and the lovely towns that make up the western coast of Portugal!

Day 1: Porto

Porto is a great destination for everybody. You can find modern architecture, old buildings to explore, and, of course, plenty of wine country!

Popular activities include taking boat rides from one side of the river Douro River to the other , or visiting other historic sites like São Bento Station, Luís I Bridge, and the iconic red staircase of the Livraria Lello.

Things To Do in Porto

Start your day off with brunch at Zenith – Brunch and Cocktails Bar on Praça de Carlos Alberto. They’re serving up authentic brunch menu items all day long for a delicious start to your 8 day Portugal itinerary!

After you eat, make your way towards the center of town where you can climb the red staircase of Livraria Lello before entering the impressive Iglesia de los Clérigos (Clérigos Church) boasting Porto’s iconic bell tower.

From there, check out the impressive São Bento Station before making your way over to the Porto Cathedral on your way over the famous Luís I Bridge .

Pop your head into the riverside district of Cais da Ribeira to mingle with the locals and witness stunning scenery overlooking the Douro River before grabbing lunch at one of the dozens of authentic eateries.

Spend your evening making your way up to the Muralha Fernandina , the edge of the city offering sweeping views of the Douro River, as well as some interesting history on the 14 th -century wall that is now a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Did you know that the Douro Valley is one of the best wine producers in the entire world ? If not, and you’re a wine lover, be sure to check out some of these top-rated wine tours from Porto to the Douro Valley !

In the post, we also include wine tours that take place right in Porto if you don’t have time for a day trip!

Day 2: Coimbra

Perched on the edge of the Mondego River, this vibrant city is full of side-by-side cookie-cutter houses that seem to grow up the hilltop.

Coimbra is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal. It’s home to some breathtaking architecture and a unique cafe culture, but it also has plenty for tourists who need their fix of partying or shopping!

Things To Do in Coimbra

Some of the best sights in Coimbra are its awe-inspiring cathedrals like Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and Igreja de Santa Cruz, as well as historic buildings such as the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova and the Museu do Mosteiro de Santa Clara a Velha.

You can also find excellent shops selling high-quality goods on Avenida Central, one of the main roads that goes through town.

To start your day, head to Nata Lisboa for a fresh cup of coffee and a Pastel de Nata or a light sandwich.

From here, you can either make your way down to the lovely Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra , a botanical garden offering gorgeous scenery, or up to Igreja de Santa Cruz , a popular detailed church.

Once you reach the gardens, turn left and walk down R. Infantaria 23 to the Sé Nova Cathedral (New Cathedral).

Once you’ve explored to your heart’s content, I highly suggest following the beautiful, windy streets as you make your way over the Santa Clara Bridge to the Museu do Mosteiro de Santa Clara a Velha and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova .

Spend your evening back in the center of town and enjoy late-night music and delicious tapas at the endless bars and restaurants with the locals!

Day 3: Nazaré

Nazaré, Portugal is a charming and picturesque fishing village.

Known for its strong cultural heritage from the Portuguese Azores Islands, it’s a place where you can walk around on cobblestone streets flanked by tiny colorful houses with blue-painted window shutters or wander through rolling green hills dotted with sheep to find incredible views of oceanside cliffs.

This seaside town offers a plethora of interesting sights and activities. From its natural beauty to its fascinating past, you’ll find yourself wanting to spend more time than just one day exploring the area.

Spend your evenings enjoying fresh seafood, local wines, and tapas at any restaurant!

Things To Do in Nazaré

When you’re on vacation, there’s no reason you can’t devour a delicious breakfast every morning! Head to Village Brunch and Coffee for freshly squeezed juices and authentic brunch recipes that continue bringing in both locals and tourists alike.

For your first day in Nazaré, I suggest exploring the town and major sites and attractions so you don’t feel rushed on your second day. But, you can choose to relax on the beach if your feet need a break from the first few days of sightseeing.

If you do decide to explore the town, start by wandering the dozens of tiny cobblestone streets behind Nazaré Beach. Check out the hand-crafted shops, the tiny tapas bars, and chat with the locals!

If you have time, check out the impressive Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré), a 14 th -century shrine with an interesting history of the Virgin Mary behind it!

Before beginning your all-night fiasco out on the town, climb up to the Mirador del Suberco – it’s the best lookout in Nazaré offering panoramic views of the city!

Day 4: Nazaré

A quaint fisherman’s village with just enough space between individual homes so each resident has unobstructed access both along the coastline and around inland areas perfect for exploration, Nazaré is one of the most popular destinations on this 8 days Portugal itinerary.

Today is the day for the beach! Nazaré is full of beautiful beaches including the popular Nazaré Beach , as well as North Beach .

One of the most famous places in the world for its extremely high surf, the waves here occasionally reach up to 30 meters high (100 feet)! Though there are plenty of days where the waves will be just right for body surfing and kids, use caution when the seas are rough.

Want to enjoy a small hike after your day relaxing in the hot sand and turquoise blue waters? Make your way over to the Fortress São Miguel Arcanjo and Farol da Nazaré !

These scenic hikes will provide sweeping views of the Portuguese coastline and Nazaré Beach for some of the best picture opportunities on this side of the country!

Afterward, make your way into town again where you’ll see how this once small fishing village has become an epicenter of hospitable charm. Though fishing is no longer the main source of income due to the major influx in tourism, there is no shortage of character here.

The women still dress in traditional wear and you can watch your food get cooked right in front of you on the streets over large vats of open flames.

Though more touristy now, Nazaré is one of the most authentic destinations on this 8 day Portugal itinerary!

Day 5: Óbidos – a highlight on this 8 day Portugal itinerary!

Known for its medieval charms, Óbidos should be at the top of your Portugal itinerary. The village has been inhabited since Roman times and is famous as one of Europe’s best-preserved walled villages.

Visitors come from all over to explore the cobbled streets, beautiful castle ruins with stunning views out across lush green hillsides or down towards a tranquil river below – whichever way they turn their gaze!

Things To Do in Óbidos

Start your day with a delicious breakfast from the local hotspot, Cantina do Parque , before heading off on a journey to the infamous Castelo de Óbidos .

Keep in mind that this restaurant is about 4 kilometers from the main part of the city, so if you can’t get on the train and don’t have a car available to you, it might be better to find a restaurant closer to town.

While the castle will likely take you the majority of the day, if you’re a quick sightseer, then you’ll also be able to fit in the Museu da Cerâmica , as well.

Take the 35-minute train ride from Óbidos Station to the Caldas da Rainha Station to get there (this same train can also get you to the great breakfast spot I mentioned above).

The town of Óbidos may be small, but it’s packed with things to do. Spend your time wandering the cobblestone streets and take some pictures of the stunning buildings!

And don’t forget about food – there are plenty of local cafes where you can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes like octopus salad or squid ink pasta while people-watching at window seats by the streetside cafés!

Day 6: Sintra

Sitting high in the hills about an hour outside of Lisbon, this quaint little village offers locals and tourists alike an experience like no other! The best part about exploring it?

The towering 12 th -century Pena Palace is surrounded by a beautiful green park full of hiking trails and scenic overlooks!

Things To Do in Sintra

Sintra is known for its grand architecture, palaces, and fortresses, making this one of the most medieval towns in Portugal. Start your day in the center of town and grab a bite at the popular Café Saudade for breakfast.

From here, hop on the train at the Largo C.M. Sintra Station and take the 16-minute ride to the Palacio da Pena Station. You’ll only have about a 7-minute walk to the palace.

Explore the impressive Pena Palace and its surrounding gardens for hours on end as each new room is more beautiful than the last! Take dozens of pictures from this sky-high perspective, roam the corridors, and finish your afternoon with lunch at the restaurant.

Once you have finished exploring the palace, you can do one of two things (or both if you move quickly!): you can take a 10-minute walk up to the Castelo dos Mouros , a Moorish fortress dating back to the 8 th -century, or you can take an hour and 15-minute train ride to the Cabo da Roca – the most western point in Europe!

Personally, I think you can fit in both. Get up at the crack of dawn to explore Pena Palace and the surrounding gardens, walk up to the hilltop Moorish fortress for a quick visit, then come back down and hop on the train.

The Cabo da Roca offers one of the best views in Europe and deserves to be on your 8 day Portugal itinerary, so do yourself a favor and try to squeeze it in!

If I haven’t convinced you yet, check out my 7 reasons why the Cabo da Roca is one of the best day trips from Lisbon or my Ultimate Day Trip to Sintra Guide and Itinerary !

✔️ Pro Tip: Get your lunch to go from the restaurant or pack lunches for the day and eat them on the train to save time!

Day 7: Cascais

Lively and historic Cascais is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience Portuguese culture.

With its cobblestone streets, azure beaches, delicious restaurants on the water’s edge and charming villas set in vineyards overlooking the ocean—Cascais offers visitors an abundance of things to do!

The best way to enjoy the gorgeous city of Cascais is by wandering through its historic streets or exploring its many charming shops for souvenirs.

From medieval castles to beautiful beaches framed by lush green hillsides, there are so many things you can do while visiting this historically rich coastal hub.

Things To Do in Cascais

Our suggestion is to start with breakfast at Local – Your Healthy Kitchen Cascais , an authentic Portuguese restaurant serving up top-quality meals from breakfast through dinner. Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, do as a tourist does and take to the streets!

Cascais is full of vibrant craft shops, a Portuguese-designed square layered with white and blue bricks, and streetside cafes serving up afternoon espressos and tapas!

Cascais is one of our favorite towns on this 8 day Portugal itinerary for its traditional design, unique local eateries, and beautiful layout. Once you’re done exploring the town, it’s time to take a peek at a few of this town’s top sights!

As you make your way down to the point of Santa Marta, you’ll be rewarded with exquisite ocean views, the Santa Marta Lighthouse and Museum , the Citadel of Cascais , and the Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães .

However, there’s one attraction that not many people get to. If you’re up for a quick 10-minute walk to the western end of the point, you’ll witness the incredible cliffs of the Boca do Inferno (that’s me pictured above!)

You’ll often see fishermen climbing down these impressive cliffs casting deep inside the caves, and locals enjoying a lunch nearby.

As one of the most special parts of Cascais, I highly suggest including it on your 8 day Portugal itinerary!

✔️ Pro Tip : When you get down to the viewing platform, you’ll notice a break between the cliffside and the platform on the right-hand side. This is where the fishermen walk down to get closer to the water for casting. This is also how I got that really cool picture above! Follow it for a great picture opportunity, and don’t worry, it’s not as dangerous as it looks.

Day 8: Estoril

Estoril has many great sights within its borders-from the beautiful sandy beaches of Tamariz , Azarujinha , and Poça , to the historic buildings with fascinating stories about their past inhabitants, and quaint cafes tucked away behind plazas where locals gather over coffee or drinks at sunset.

From the beautiful town center with its quaint shops and cafes to the world-class golf courses that tempt you at every turn, there’s no shortage of things to do in Estoril!

Things To Do in Estoril

Before jumping into the waves for some surf or falling head over heels in love with a Portuguese dress, start off with a hearty breakfast at Pastelaria Garrett !

This restaurant offers everything from traditional home-cooked recipes to classic staples, making it the perfect way to start your day.

Then, similar to Cascais, just start exploring! Estoril and Cascais are a classic duo day trip on any Portugal itinerary that includes Lisbon, so enjoy the square, chat with the locals, buy yourself an authentic Portuguese souvenir , then relax on the beach for the ultimate day in Estoril!

Got a history buff in your group? Check out the local museum, Casa das Histórias Paula Rego , which offers eclectic exhibits and artwork by the Portuguese-born artist, Paula Rego in an architecturally distinct setting.

End your evening with wine and tapas at one of the dozens of seaside cafes and bars set along the beautiful coastline! You also have the option of adding one of these 11 Incredible Lisbon Boat Tours to your itinerary if you’re so inclined.

✔️ Pro Tip: This marks the end of our 8 day Portugal itinerary, but if you happen to have the ability to join a 10 days Portugal itinerary or more, consider these fun add-ons! You’ll likely need to fly or take the train out of Lisbon anyway, so why not add an extra day or two for exploring Portugal’s vibrant capital?!

Optional 8-Day Portugal Itinerary Add-Ons

Day 9: lisbon.

A city bustling with culture, Lisbon is an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re looking for gorgeous views or a rich history to explore, this port town has something that will suit your tastes!

With so many amazing sites, attractions, landmarks, and panoramic views, you’ll want to spend at least two days in Lisbon if you can fit it into your 8-day Portugal itinerary.

If not, then check out my article on how to spend one day in Lisbon for everything you’ll need to know about exploring the best this vibrant capital has to offer in just 24 hours!

Since Lisbon is a rather large city with lots of steep hills, it’s best to divide the city between two days so you don’t retrace your steps and end up climbing the same hills over and over.

Things To Do in Lisbon

For the first day, we’ll be focusing on the western side of the city near the Chiado , Cais do Sodre , and the Bairro Alto neighborhoods.

Want to take a ride on one of those yellow trolleys you see going everywhere? Head to Chiado where you can get on the Elevador da Bica , or the Bica Funicular! It will take you down the popular Rua de São Paulo and Rua do Loreto for a fun activity in Lisbon.

Once you get off, wander through the nearby Ribeira market where you’ll be able to explore dozens of stalls offering handmade crafts, different food options from around the world, as well as traditional Portuguese recipes! This is the best place to get lunch in Lisbon.

Once you’ve finished lunch, it’s time to take to the streets. Since many of the major attractions lie in Lisbon’s eastern side, use today’s for getting lost in Lisbon’s tiny, charming streets and sampling as many local foods as you can.

It may be one of your last days on your Portugal itinerary, so relax and enjoy the view!

Day 10: Lisbon

On your second day in Lisbon, we’ll be focusing on the eastern side of the city around the Alfama and Baixa de Lisboa districts. Start your day in the Praça do Comércio , the main square of Lisbon.

I would avoid getting a sit-down breakfast in this area as it tends to be rather touristy and you’re more likely to experience inflated prices and poor quality service, but a quick pastel de nata and a coffee in this area will do just fine!

From here, walk under the main arch of the square and follow Rua Augusta, one of the most popular shopping streets in Lisbon.

When you get to the end, you’ll be greeted by the impressive Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel , a medieval 12 th -century Catholic church that was destroyed during the famous Lisbon earthquake of 1755.

You’ll also have the opportunity to ride up the Santa Justa Lift which offers spectacular views of the city!

From here, I suggest taking a trolley back down to the start of the Alfama district where you can explore the Lisbon Cathedral , St. Anthony’s Church , and the Museu do Fado (Music Museum of Portugal).

Alfama is also home to two beautiful observation decks in Lisbon, both offering incredible panoramic views of the city’s red clay rooftops and Tagus River.

The first is called Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the second is Miradouro de Santa Luzia and are within close proximity to each other, though you may want to take advantage of the trolley to get you up the hill!

If your feet are up for it (though you can take a trolley), make your way up to the Moorish Quarter and step out onto the terrace of the Mirador de Graça .

Take in the stunning views of Portugal and reminisce on all of the magical experiences you’ve gained thus far! Then, make your way back to one of these amazing hotels in Lisbon with rooftop pools .

What To Do if You Want a 10+ Days Portugal Itinerary

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 10 days available for spending in Portugal, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe… one of them being the Algarve .

Aptly named, the Algarve is a paradise on Earth. It’s one of Europe’s southernmost regions with sandy beaches and crystal blue waters that make it hard to believe you’re still in Portugal! It’s also one of the best regions in Portugal to go sea kayaking !

Spend a few days exploring the dozens of scenic beaches like the one shown above ( Marinha Beach ), kayak through sea caves to the infamous Benagil Caves , or take a boat ride through the scenic Ponta da Piedade .

Stroll the city streets of Lagos to find authentic souvenirs and enjoy some tapas around every corner!

Once you’ve taken in all the sun you can, head up to the Castelo de Silves , a Moorish castle offering spectacular views of this tranquil coastline.

For the evening or on an additional day, spend at least a few hours exploring the tight network of whitewashed houses in the Old Town Of Albufeira ! This beautiful village mimics almost that of Santorini, Greece, and is known for its delicious, local seafood and hospitable people.

Some other great trips to fit in on your Portuguese itinerary include the coastal cities of Sines , Vila Nova de Milfontes , and the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina !

7 Days Portugal Itinerary Option

If you don’t quite have 8 days to spend in Portugal, don’t fret! That’s still plenty of time to see and do a lot of the fun things in this culturally packed country.

While you could cut the above itinerary down so you only have between a half and full day in each place, I don’t think you’ll get the most out of your trip that way, and you could end up becoming disappointed and overwhelmed by the amount of traveling you’ll need to do.

Instead, here is an updated 7 days Portugal itinerary that dedicates time to the absolute best places to visit with the right amount of time in each place for when you’re traveling on a time crunch!

Day 2: Óbidos

Day 4: sintra, day 5: cascais and estoril, day 6: lisbon, day 7: lisbon.

This new 7-day Portugal itinerary cuts down your time in Nazaré to one day and eliminates the town of Coimbra.

While Coimbra is beautiful, you’ll actually see a lot of similar sights in both Nazaré and Lisbon, so Coimbra is really only necessary if you have enough time to make it work.

This itinerary also has you combine both Cascais and Estoril into one day. Now don’t stress, the two towns are within walking distance of each other!

On our first trip to Portugal, we did both Cascais and Estoril in a single day, then actually took the train back to our Lisbon accommodation. It’s extremely easy to walk around these two towns when you’re short on time, so don’t worry, you won’t feel stressed.

Lastly, we kept the itinerary to include the two days in Lisbon. Since the capital is such a large city with dozens of museums, nearly half a dozen scenic overlooks scattered between each district, and dozens of cathedrals, churches, and famous landmarks to see, it’s nearly impossible to do it all in one day.

Plus, since you’ll be nearing the end of your trip, you’ll want to be able to enjoy your last few days without being stuck on public transportation or wasting time getting from place to place.

For your last few days in Lisbon, enjoy some olives and wine, get lost in the city streets, have a pastel de nata and an espresso, chat with some locals, and photograph every nook and cranny of the city!

Travel Tips for Visiting Portugal

Portugal may be one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe, but before you go jetting out your door, there are a few things you should know.

• In Portugal, the locals speak Portuguese, not Spanish . Do your best to learn a few phrases before you get there since many of the smaller towns won’t be as familiar with English and other languages.
• Hopefully, you like seafood . The Portuguese are very big into utilizing the freshest ingredients from their local landscapes which, of course, mainly includes the ocean. Fresh seafood, wine, and olives are a large part of Portuguese cuisine.
• It gets very hot in the summer . If you aren’t someone who loves the beach, but plans to visit Portugal during the summer months, be prepared for hot days and extreme amounts of sunlight. You also won’t find many shops and restaurants with air conditioning, so keep that in mind when planning your 8 day Portugal itinerary.
• Portugal uses the euro for currency . Worth less than the U.S. dollar, be prepared to lose a little bit of money on exchange rates if you are coming from the U.S.
• Pack good walking shoes . As you’ll learn more about below, the best way to get around Portugal’s small towns and cities is to walk! Be sure to pack supportive walking shoes that will successfully get you up and down hills and over dozens of cobblestoned streets.
• If you don’t want the hors d’oeuvre, send it back . It’s normal for waiters to bring you a small dish of bread and olives before you order food at a restaurant. If you don’t want it, however, kindly ask them to take it away, otherwise you will pay a few euros for it.
• If you want to see museums, try to visit on Sunday . Some museums in Lisbon and Porto offer free entry on Sundays!
• Watch your belongings . While pickpocketing isn’t as common here as it is in other European cities, you should still keep an eye on your belongings and never leave them unattended.
• If you order a café, you’re going to get an espresso . The Portuguese often start their days with a shot of espresso, so if you’re looking for something with milk, be sure to ask for a meia de leite instead.
• 112 is the equivalent of 911 . If you have an emergency and need emergency services, be sure to call 112! It’s free to call.

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

While Portugal is a wonderful destination to visit year-round, there are a few things you should consider before planning your 8 day Portugal itinerary.

First, think about your travel style . Do you have your heart set on soaking up the sun on one of the dozens of beaches in Cascais ? Or would you prefer to explore the secret castles and do some hiking in Sintra without the swarms of other tourists?

While Portugal is the perfect place to visit in summer, you’re going to experience it with tens of thousands of other people. Don’t get me wrong, if you don’t mind the tourists, this is the best time to visit Portugal!

The weather is warm enough for swimming but not too hot that you can’t explore the beautiful cities on foot, and people come from faraway places as well as nearby countries like France, Spain or Italy – making it a popular tourist destination year-round with many things to do such as late-night concerts at church squares on weekends!

However, if you’re looking to avoid the tourist season, it’s best to travel to Portugal outside of the summer months of June through August . May will still provide warm weather and the majority of shops, bars, and restaurants will be beginning their summer hours.

September offers a nice relief from the summer heat just before fall sets in with warm ocean temperatures and a comfortable air temperature, so you’ll still be able to squeeze in a few good beach days on your itinerary!

How to Get Around Portugal

While you have a few options for getting around Portugal, there are some ways that are more regularly suggested. First, when you’re in the major cities of Lisbon and Porto, avoid renting a car .

The streets often climb steep, narrow hills, and cross paths with the local trams and trolleys. Not to mention the thousands of tourists and lack of parking, save the car rentals for when you’re leaving the main cities.

The best way to get around in each of the places we discussed is to walk ! The majority of Portugal’s towns and cities are extremely walkable with the majority of attractions being within close proximity to each other.

You can also rent bikes for a fun and local way of seeing a town! Bikes provide the perfect combination of convenience and efficient sightseeing on a budget, so this is a highly recommended family or couples activity you can do.

To get between major cities, Portugal has a great public transportation system where you can take either a train or bus . However, the train doesn’t stop everywhere, so be prepared to make several connections and do some walking in between stations if you’ll be visiting more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

➡️ For a full guide on train travel between Porto and Lisbon , read my post about it here !

If your 8 day Portugal itinerary involves many small towns, it’s usually recommended to fly into Porto or Lisbon, enjoy the city, and then rent a car when you plan on leaving.

This will save you the headache of dealing with a rental in busy cities, but will allow you the freedom to explore smaller destinations on your own schedule!

What to Eat on Your 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

Portugal’s cuisine and wine are a delight for visitors with tastes from all over the world. Portuguese dishes can range from traditional to modern depending on where you eat them, but one thing is certain: Portugal has some of the best seafood in Europe!

Owing to its incredible bounty from the local waters, locals and tourists can enjoy generous quantities of the freshest seafood around.

The food here ranges from small dishes (tapas) like sandwiches to large plates of hearty stews or roasted meats, all served alongside wine and sangria (my personal favorite).

Foods you should try while visiting Portugal include their world-famous olives ! They come both as tapenade for appetizers along with breads including prosciutto crostini or garlic toast, but also on their own skewered over open flames during the evening hours at many restaurants.

Seafood can be found everywhere: sardines ( Sardinhas Assadas ) get grilled up by vendors who line Avenida da Liberdade opposite Lisbon’s grandest shopping district near Rossio Square, octopus salad is served along streetside restaurants on the boardwalk to the west of Praça do Comércio, and squid ink pasta is a delicacy found in restaurants all over the country.

For a fresh, white fish, try the most commonly eaten fish in Portugal: Bacalhau !

Then, there’s the oh-so-good famous Portuguese custard tarts: the Pastel de Nata (Pasteis de Nata is the plural form).

These buttery, flaky, bite-sized tarts are the perfect sweet breakfast or on-the-go snack that you can find all over Portugal.

Don’t like creamy textures? Don’t worry, I don’t either. But, the perfectly crisp and flaky crust creates an unbeatable balance that you’ll be devouring one after another!

Now, we can’t talk about Portuguese cuisine without even mentioning the wine … sangria is a large part of Portuguese culture so be ready to get whisked away with 1€ glasses filled with fresh fruit for 24 hours of happy hour!

Another reason to leave those heels at home, a few of these and you’ll be relaxing at a riverside cafe in no time… isn’t it nice that Portugal is so affordable? Remember that red wine pairs nicely with meats and hearty stews, while white wine is most often paired with fish and light pasta dishes.

As for traditional dishes, be sure to try some of the country’s specialties including Caldo Verde , a green soup made with kale, potatoes, olive oil, and sometimes chorizo, and Piri Piri Chicken which is spicy marinated whole chickens that get roasted over high heat and flames – very popular all over the country!

Then, there’s a dish for all of the true meat eaters out there – the Cozido à Portuguesa !

This traditional dish starts with a layer of flavorful rice and potatoes and is then topped with an array of slow-roasted meats of all sorts and covered in the drippings.

Served with some wilted cabbage, this authentic Portuguese dish is bound to make it on anyone’s 8 day Portugal itinerary!

FAQ: 8 Day Portugal Itinerary

How many days is ideal for portugal.

In my opinion, 10 days is ideal for spending in Portugal since you’ll have enough time to explore the cities, relax on the beaches, sample wine in the Douro Valley, and even kayak through the Benagil Caves!

While it is possible to spend just one day in Porto or Lisbon, there is so much more to see in this beautiful country that will take much longer than a single day in each place. Portugal is a country with so many natural attractions and historical landmarks that you can spend weeks here exploring!

Beaches are popular spots to enjoy the sun, the cities are known to have some of the best food in Europe, and the small villages are bursting with unparalleled charm and coastal views.

Everywhere you look there’s something new to be explored in this dazzling paradise! From the mainland all the way to the remote Azores, I recommend spending at least one week in Portugal if you can.

Otherwise, you may regret not planning for more time and wishing you had made other arrangements. The best way to go about planning your own 8 day Portugal itinerary is to keep as many things fluid as possible.

Book flexible accommodations with a 24-hour notice cancellation policy, wait to buy your train tickets until you get to the station, and only buy tickets for attractions that you are positive you’ll be attending.

While all of these things can cause stress in the long run if you end up following your itinerary to a T, they’ll also give you the flexibility to change or cancel your plans in the event that you decide to stay in a certain place longer or to skip the second night in a place and move on to the next destination.

Can You Do Portugal in 8 Days?

You can absolutely see most of the major sites and attractions from Porto all the way down to Lisbon in just 8 days !

You’ll be able to spend some time relaxing on the beach, exploring the endless cobblestone streets, sampling dozens of unique restaurants, and shopping in trendy shops and boutiques.

If you’re looking to explore further down the coast of Portugal where the Algarves begin, you will likely need at least 10 days to avoid feeling rushed.

However, if sticking around the major cities and train stops is your ideal vacation, then 8 days in Portugal is enough time!

Is a Week Too Long in Portugal?

One week is not too long to spend in Portugal, in fact, a 7-day Portugal itinerary can be the perfect amount of time to explore the country’s rich diversity, encompassing its stunning coastal towns, historic cities, and breathtaking countryside .

If you’re a backpacker or enjoy being on the move, I can see why you may think spending a full week in just one country can be a time-consuming choice, but despite Portugal’s compact size, the country has some of the most beautiful and diverse regions of anywhere in Europe!

From the vibrant streets of Lisbon and the Douro Valley’s incredible wine estates to the serene beauty of the Algarve’s beaches, a 7-day journey offers a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s unique charm.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Portugal for 8 Day?

Portugal is well-known for its history and culture, as well as the stunning natural landscapes that it has to offer. But, it’s especially great for those looking to travel on a budget!

Portugal offers inexpensive prices in comparison to other popular European countries such as France or Italy. This makes it an excellent destination not only for tourists but also young, or budget travelers who are seeking an affordable vacation.

While prices will vary by the season that you visit Portugal, with summer being the most expensive, I have pulled a few averages to help you get an estimate of how much money you will need to budget for your 8 day Portugal itinerary.

Based on each section, add up what you believe you will be taking part in to help figure out what you will be spending.

Transportation (per trip and person)

Flights : varies on date and season, check Expedia for the best deals ! Car Rental (for 8 days) : 330€ Taxi : 6.50€ Trolley Ride : 3€ Metro : 1.50€ High-Speed Train (Porto to Lisbon) : 35€

Breakfast : 1.40-6€ Lunch : 6-10€ Dinner : 9-20€ Multiple Course Meal (2 people) : 40€ * Get out of the main tourist squares to find food on the lower end of the above prices! *

Attractions

Pena National Palace and Park : 13.30€/11.88€ Belém Tower : 8.50€ Castelo dos Mouros : 7.60€/6.18€ Santa Justa Lift: 5.30€ (purchase tickets at lift) Lisbon Card : 19-42€

Accommodation (per night)

Budget Hostel : 16-60€ Mid-Range Hotel : 80-120€ Luxury Hotel : 136-600€+

Which City is Better Porto or Lisbon?

This depends on a number of items including what your goals are sightseeing-wise, if you plan on going to the beach, how many museums you would like to visit, and so on.

So, to determine which city is better for you , we’re going to explain how each one rates in terms of each item, which will help you decide which one to visit if you don’t have time for both on your Portugal itinerary!

If you’re a true history buff looking to dive deep into Portugal’s ancient history, then you better ensure that Lisbon is on your itinerary! While Porto does have several great museums, Lisbon boasts 62 in the city alone.

And if you get the Lisbon Museum Card , then you’ll have unlimited access to dozens of museums as you make your way around the city.

While Porto is set on the beautiful Douro River, the majority of the beaches require some traveling to the west coast which would take over an hour to walk to or about a 30-minute train ride.

Lisbon, on the other hand, is home to almost a dozen beaches right in front of the city, as well as dozens more a short train ride away to the seaside towns of Cascais and Estoril.

If you have a heavy focus on sunbathing on your Portugal vacation, then Lisbon is your go-to city!

When it comes to attractions, Lisbon simply has a lot more to offer for a few reasons. Since it’s the capital of the country, you’re going to find the most amount of major landmarks and sites that the country wants to conveniently show its visitors.

It also brings in nearly double the amount of tourists than Porto every year, so naturally, there are far more businesses and shopping districts to explore here.

Porto is often described as a compact, mini Lisbon, so you’re going to find fewer attractions and fewer tourists in this city (which is usually a good thing!)

As for the scenery, we believe these two cities are pretty equal. They both offer iconic lookouts, red clay rooftops, and stunning settings perched over a river.

While Lisbon may be the larger city, Porto is no less beautiful with its charming, yellow tram and infinite amount of riverside cafes. When it comes to beautiful scenery, you can’t go wrong visiting either Porto or Lisbon!

When it comes to nightlife, Lisbon takes the win on this one. Due to its cosmopolitan atmosphere and sheer quantity of bars, restaurants, and exotic nightclubs, there’s no end in sight to the exciting experiences you can have here.

Visitors can stroll down the iconic Pink Street after dark listening to live music and pop in and out of over a dozen bars on this single, lively strip.

As for Porto, you’re more likely to enjoy quieter evenings along the river eating tapas and drinking wine with some locals. Depending on your definition of going out for a night on the town, either city may please you.

3 Best Hidden Gems in Portugal!

Want to escape the city of Lisbon and get off the beaten path? Me too!

​ Check out this ultimate guide where I tell you all about the best hidden gems in Portugal – from the beaches in Cascais to the vineyards of the Douro Valley… and more!

If you’re planning your Portugal vacation and don’t know where to start, this guide will get you exploring this vibrant country like a local!

Other Helpful Portugal Resources

Is Lisbon Safe? 21+ Tips for Staying Safe in Lisbon Portugal 21 Best Portugal Packing List Items for 2024: What to Wear in Portugal The Complete Guide to the Supermarkets in Lisbon Barcelona vs Lisbon: The Ultimate City Comparison The Beautiful National Symbols of Portugal: Bird, Animal, Tree, Flower, Fish, & More! Does it Snow in Portugal? The Complete Guide

Portugal might be one of the most underrated countries in Europe that I have had the pleasure of visiting so far! It offers gorgeous scenery, great cities with bustling nightlife and vibrant culture, as well as fresh cuisine that will keep your taste buds happy.

With all of this and so much more, there’s no wondering why Portugal itineraries top the list as some of the most popular in the entire world! Before jetting off on your Portuguese vacation, be sure to use my helpful tips and advice for planning your ultimate 8 day Portugal itinerary .

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

One Week in Portugal Itinerary: Two Sample Itineraries for 7 Epic Days in Portugal

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

If you’re planning to spend one week in Portugal, but aren’t sure where to go or what to see, you’ve come to the right place!

In this Portugal one week itinerary I will list everything you need to know to spend seven amazing days in Portugal.

However let’s start with the premise that seven days in Portugal aren’t really enough to travel across the whole country.

As small as this European country may be, it’s hard to spend a week in Portugal and properly see everything that deserves to be seen.

But don’t worry, I have just the right solution for you! I spent almost a month in Portugal spread out across various trips, and am here to share with you all my top tips for making the most of your week in Portugal.

Instead of speeding across the country, I would suggest focusing your Portugal itinerary either in northern Portugal or southern Portugal.

Admiring the famous azulejos facade of the Chapel of Souls in Porto

In this guide I included two sample Portugal 7-day itineraries. I also included information on all the best things to do in each city, where to stay, tips on where to eat, the best tours and more.

Each itinerary has its highlights and focus points, as well as being better suited for specific types of travellers and seasons.

For example northern Portugal is best suited for a winter trip to Portugal, or for travellers who are more interested in history and nature.

Whilst southern Portugal is perfect for a summer trip and people who want to visit the beautiful beaches of the Algarve.

So if you want to discover the best way to spend seven days in Portugal for your interest and travel style, just read on!

• 1 Do you need travel insurance for one week in Portugal?
• 2 How to get around Portugal in one week
• 3.1.1 Explore the Ribeira district
• 3.1.2 Visit the many churches of Porto
• 3.1.3 Wander around Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• 3.1.4 Visit Livraria Lello
• 3.1.5 Some popular Porto tours you can join
• 3.1.6 Where to stay in Porto
• 3.2.1 Do a wine tasting at a local vineyard
• 3.2.2 Explore Pinhão
• 3.3.1 Cruise the canals of Aveiro
• 3.3.2 Discover Buçaco National Forest
• 3.3.3 Visit Coimbra
• 3.3.4 Where to stay in Coimbra
• 3.4.1 Batalha Monastery
• 3.4.2 Alcobaça Monastery
• 3.4.3 Explore Nazaré
• 3.4.4 Where to stay in Nazare
• 3.5.1 Explore Obidos
• 3.5.2 Relax in Peniche
• 3.5.3 Surf in Ericeira
• 3.5.4 Where to stay in Ericeira
• 3.6.1 Discover the castles of Sintra
• 3.6.2 Relax in Cascais
• 3.6.3 Where to stay in Lisbon
• 3.7.1 Enjoy the view from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
• 3.7.2 Shop at Rua Augusta
• 3.7.3 Praca do Comercio
• 3.7.4 See the famous Elevador Da Bica
• 3.7.5 Lisbon Cathedral
• 3.7.6 Wander around Alfama
• 3.7.7 Eat & drink at Time Out Market & Pink Street
• 4.1 Day 1: Start in Lisbon
• 4.2.1 Where to sleep in Evora
• 4.3.1 Discover Evora
• 4.3.2 Visit the cute town of Monsaraz
• 4.3.3 Stay in Mertola
• 4.3.4 Where to stay in Mertola
• 4.4.1 Explore Tavira & its beaches
• 4.4.2 Visit Faro
• 4.4.3 Beach & party in Albufeira
• 4.4.4 Where to stay in Albufeira
• 4.5.1 Sunrise kayak to Benagil Cave
• 4.5.2 Chill at Praia do Marinha
• 4.5.3 Where to stay in Lagos
• 4.6.1 Relax at the beaches in Lagos
• 4.6.2 Admire the cliffs of Ponta do Piedade
• 4.7.1 Road trip to Sagres
• 4.7.2 Surf at Praia do Amado

Discovering the cloisters of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

Do you need travel insurance for one week in Portugal?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

The distinctive architecture and colours of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

How to get around Portugal in one week

The easiest way to travel around Portugal and see every stop on this itinerary is to  rent a car  and drive. Renting a car will give you the most flexibility both in terms of destinations and timings.

Portugal has a good public transport system, with trains connecting all the major cities and cheap buses that can get you almost everywhere.

However, if you want to visit some of the off the beaten track towns of this Portugal 1-week itinerary, a car is the easiest way to get there.

Especially if you’re planning a Portugal family vacation , a car will give you the most flexibility.

You won’t necessarily need it all the time, for example in the bigger cities like Porto and Lisbon it’s easier to get around on foot.

Or places like Sintra and Evora are most easily visited on an organised day trip to avoid driving in traffic. But overall, a car will give you the most freedom.

Click here to search for the perfect car rental for your trip!

View over the beach and town of Carvoeiro in the Algarve, Portugal

1 Week in Portugal Summary

As already mentioned, it’s nearly impossible to explore the nation from A to Z in just seven days. There are tons of things to do in all the different cities, towns, and regions.

You could speed from Porto down to Faro in seven days, just about touching on all the main highlights, but you wouldn’t be able to properly soak in the vibe of this gorgeous European country.

Which is why instead of only one Portugal 7-day itinerary , in this guide you will find two itineraries!

One itinerary focuses on northern Portugal, from Porto to Lisbon , whilst the other focuses on southern Portugal, going from Lisbon to the Algarve.

Each itinerary is best suited for different types of travellers and seasons. Read on to discover my two sample 1-week in Portugal itineraries!

Admiring Belem Tower in Lisbon

Northern Portugal One Week Itinerary

This Portugal one week itinerary is best suited for travellers who have are more interested in history and nature, or who are visiting Portugal in the colder months from October to April.

Here’s what awaits during seven days in northern Portugal.

Day 1: Explore Porto

This northern Portugal 7-day itinerary starts in Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Porto boasts picturesque views, delicious food and fascinating architecture.

Here’s a brief breakdown of how to spend a day in the city – I do have a more in-depth Porto 1-day itinerary if you’d like to check that out.

Enjoying the view from Miradouro da Vitoria in Porto, Portugal

Explore the Ribeira district

This charming neighbourhood features narrow and cobbled streets lined with bars and restaurants ready to satisfy your taste buds.

This riverside district usually takes up most of the image results on Google when you search for “Porto”, and with good reason.

Cais da Ribeira, the riverfront street, features stacked 18th-century pastel houses reminiscent of a LEGO build. There are also cafes to take care of your coffee fix, and it is the perfect gateway to the famous Ponte Luis bridge.

A traditional rabelo boat cruising along the Douro River with the Porto cityscape behind it

Visit the many churches of Porto

Porto is packed with churches, many of which date centuries back. Apart from their religious importance, they’re also a marvel to witness thanks to their amazing architecture.

Some of the most interesting and famous that you have to visit include:

The Chapel of Souls is perhaps Porto’s social media darling, as its exterior boasts azulejos , traditional Portuguese blue and white tiles. Not only are they mesmerising enough to go viral on Instagram, but they also hold historical significance as they showcase how some saints lived.

The Chapel of Souls in Porto, Portugal

The Clerigos Church is perched on top of a hill and features a 75.6-metre (248-foot) high tower offering scenic views of Porto’s skyline. Beware, though, you’ll have to climb 240 steps to this viewpoint in all its glory.

If you want to visit the top of Torre dos Clerigos, make sure to book your skip-the-line entrance ticket online beforehand . That way, you won’t have to waste time queuing! 

Click here to purchase your Torre dos Clerigos skip-the-line entrance ticket , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Igreja dos Clerigos in Porto, Portugal

Porto Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in the historical centre of Porto, close to Ribeira neighbourhood. It’s one of the most important Romanesque monuments, as well as offering gorgeous views over the rooftops of Porto.

Igreja do Carmo & Igreja dos Carmelitas are two church located right next to each other. And when I say right next to each other, I really mean it!

They’re incredibly detailed and beautiful churches, both for their azulejos exteriors and their intricate interior decorations.

Porto Cathedral

View over Porto from Porto Cathedral

Wander around Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

If you’re a flora enthusiast, there’s no better place to visit than this garden which dates back to the 19th century.

Even if you aren’t into flowers, it’s a great stop for relaxing after all the sightseeing you’ll be doing and also overlooks the beautiful Douro River.

Visit Livraria Lello

Suggesting a library might seem weird, but I’m sure you’ve heard of this library specifically!

Livraria Lello supposedly inspired JK Rowling for some of the scenery in Harry Potter, and once you explore the Neo-Gothic and Art Deco elements of it, you’ll see why.

There’s always a huge queue to visit it, so make sure to head there early in the morning! You will have to pay 5 EUR to enter the library, but this is then redeemable as credit for a book purchase.

The shopfront of Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal

Some popular Porto tours you can join

Porto is a fairly small city, and I personally think you can quite easily see everything Porto has to offer by walking around alone.

However, since this Portugal 7-day itinerary is quite packed and you will only have one day in Porto, you might want to do a guided tour instead.

That way you will have a knowledgeable guide showing you around and telling you about the local history of everything you see, as well as being sure you’ll tick off all the highlights. Here are some of the most popular Porto tours online.

Porto City Highlights 3-Hour Guided Electric Bike Tour   – Discover all the most beautiful spots in Porto by bike (they’re electric bikes as well, so they won’t be too tiring)!

Porto: Guided Historical Centre Tuk Tuk Tour   – If you don’t want to cycle, this tour is perfect to save energy and still all the beauties of the historical centre of Porto!

Porto Historical Centre Walking Tour  – A classic walking tour, where you will learn the history of this gorgeous city.

Porto: Delicious Food and Wine Walking Tour  – Because visiting a city is good, but learning about it while tasting the delicious local cuisine is better!

Enjoying the sunset over Porto and the Douro River

Where to stay in Porto

In Porto I stayed at  Hotel do Norte . The hotel itself isn’t particularly grand, but it’s very affordable, the position is extremely convenient, and it even has great views over the azulejos of the Chapel of Souls just across the street.

It’s located right in the centre of Porto, and will be a great starting point for your Porto walking tour.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Do Norte!

If you want something a bit fancier, I have listed below some of the best places to stay in Porto  for higher budgets.

Mid-range –  Vera Cruz Porto Downtown Hotel  – This modern hotel is perfect for those who want something night, without breaking the bank. Centrally located, it has an epic terrace with Porto views.

Book your stay at Vera Cruz Porto Downtown Hotel here!

Luxury –  Oporto Home – River Front :  If you want to treat yourself, this wonderful apartment is the place to do so. The huge windows provide plenty of light, as well as epic views over the river and Porto.

Check out prices and availability at Oporto Home – River Front here!

Exploring Ribeira and Cais da Ribeira in Porto, Portugal

Day 2: Day Trip to the Douro Valley and its Surrounding Towns

The next part of your northern Portugal 1-week itinerary should be a day trip to the famous Douro Valley .

It’s one of the country’s most popular wine regions, but it has more to offer than just vineyards. Here are some of the best things to do in the Douro Valley and surroundings.

Do a wine tasting at a local vineyard

Would it be a trip to a renowned wine region without visiting at least one of the area’s wine farms? Probably not.

Enjoy a delicious lunch with views of the Douro Valley’s splendour while sipping on the region’s finest wines. Among the best wine farms to visit in the region include the Quinta do Crasto, Quinta da Pacheca, and Quinta das Carvalhas.

Check out prices & availability for your Douro day trip below!

Exploring the vineyards of the Douro Valley

Explore Pinhão

The sleepy town of Pinhão around the Douro Valley is famous for its natural beauty.

It also has other drawcards, including the Pinhão Railway Station, which draws in tons of visitors thanks to its beautiful azulejos. It also has the Casal de Loivos viewpoint, where you can take in the splendid landscape of the area.

Hike in the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley also offers many beautiful hiking trails. You can hike amongst the vineyards, taking in the gorgeous green rolling hills and sweeping river.

And after a tough hike, a vineyard visit and lunch is the perfect reward! There are many organised Porto day trips that will take you to the Douro Valley to hike, see epic viewpoints and taste delicious local wine.

Hiking through the vineyards of the Douro Valley, Portugal

We drove to the Douro Valley for our hike, but even if extremely scenic, the drive is very long and tiring. Joining an organised tour will allow you to sit back and enjoy the views, without having to worry about how to get there.

You’ll also be sure you won’t get lost amongst the vineyard trails, and that you will be visiting the truly best wineries. Here are some of the most popular Douro valley tours from Porto.

Porto: Douro Valley Hiking Tour & Boat Cruise with Brunch :  This tour is a great choice as it not only includes the transfer and hike, but also food and another Douro iconic activity; cruising on the river!

Click here to book your Douro Valley hiking tour with brunch & cruise!

From Porto: Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch :  This highly rated tour is the most popular wine tasting tour of the Douro Valley. With this tour you know you can’t go wrong!

Click here to book your Douro Valley wine tasting!

Best of Douro Valley – Douro Valley Wine Tour – Private Tour :  If you’re going on this Porto day trip for a special occasion, you might want to do so on a private tour, instead of sharing with other people.

Book your private Douro Valley wine tour here!

Hiking in the Douro Valley, Portugal

Day 3: Road trip to Aveiro, Buçaco National Forest & Coimbra

On day 3 it’s time to properly hit the road! Next up in your 1 week in Portugal itinerary will be Aveiro and Bucaco National Forest, to then ultimately end the day by sleeping in Coimbra.

Cruise the canals of Aveiro

Known as the “Venice of Portugal”, this small city boasts fantastic waterways lined with colourful boats. Here, you can spend a few hours wandering through the streets while marvelling at the art nouveau architecture and street art.

To see the city from a different perspective, hop on a traditional Moliceiro boat and view Aveiro’s landscapes from its waterways.

You could also take a taxi or bus to the nearby Costa Nova beach town to view its quirky, striped houses and to enjoy a bit of beach time.

Aveiro: Traditional Moliceiro Boat Tour :  This highly rated Aveiro tour will take you cruising along the canals in a traditional Moliceiro Boat, and is perfect if you plan to make your own way to Aveiro.

Check out prices and availability for your Aveiro boat cruise on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator !

Aveiro: Guided Tuk Tuk City Tour :  This option is perfect if you plan to make your own way to Aveiro, but still want a guided tour of the city.

Book your Aveiro guided tuk tuk city tour here!

The colourful boats and riverfront houses of Aveiro

Discover Buçaco National Forest

On your way to Coimbra, this nature haven is the ideal stop, especially if you’re a nature lover. This walled arboretum is home to over 250 trees and plants that eagerly await your visit.

Prior to visiting Portugal I hadn’t heard much about Bucaco National Forest, and we almost drove past it without stopping, but it actually turned out to be one of our favourite places in Portugal.

It’s still quite under the tourist radar, so you won’t find big crowds there. You can spend a few hours wandering around this green paradise, discovering the neo-Manueline Palace, small chapels and huge variety of flora and fauna.

Enjoying the views over Bucaco National Park in Portugal

Visit Coimbra

You’ll want to plan your first two stops in order to arrive in Coimbra during the afternoon, so that you can visit the cities many attractions.

This includes the Machado de Castro National Museum, the Chapel of São Miguel, and Portugal dos Pequenitos.

Another must-see sight in Coimbra is  the historic University of Coimbra, where you will find a unique baroque library. In Coimbra there are also countless striking churches, amongst which the 12 th  Century Romanesque cathedral Sé Velha.

Afterwards, you can enjoy a mouthwatering Portuguese fair at one of the many diners in the city before retiring to your hotel.

Exploring the main square of the University of Coimbra

Sé Nova, the new cathedral of Coimbra

Where to stay in Coimbra

Here are some Coimbra accommodation options for every budget, perfect places to rest after your first long road trip day.

Budget:  NN Guest House   – This guest house is close to all the attractions and a very affordable place to stay.

Click here to book your stay at NN Guest House!

Mid-range:  JR Studios & Suites   – Located on the opposite side of the river to Coimbra, this hotel has modern renovated suites and an epic view over the river and Coimbra. If you’re driving it’s also going to be easier to park and continue your road trip the following day.

Check out prices and availability for JR Studios & Suites here!

Luxury:  Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra   – If you want to stay somewhere truly unique and treat yourself, this is the place to do so. Located in the heart of the old town, this hotel offers deluxe suites with exposed bricks for a rustic feel.

Click here to see prices and availability at Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra!

Wandering the streets of Coimbra in Portugal

Day 4: Discover famous Monasteries and stay in Nazaré

On your way from Coimbra to Nazaré, you’ll have plenty of stops I recommend you make. On top of that list are the famous monasteries found between the two cities.

Batalha Monastery

The Batalha Monastery is one of Portugal’s most important gothic sites, having played a significant role in evolving the country’s gothic style.

While its beauty is its main drawcard, it was built to celebrate the Portuguese victory over the Castilians in the 12th century.

If you’re not big on monasteries and only want to do one historic stop, I recommend you make it at Batalha. The intricate detail of its cloisters and architecture is stunning, with the unfinished chapels attracting most of the attention.

The unfinished chapels of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

Alcobaça Monastery

This UNESCO world heritage site isn’t as significant historically as the Batalha Monastery, but it has a real charm worth seeing.

Personally we only visited the interior of the church and burial site, without visiting the whole monastery and cloisters.

It’s a good place to break up the drive and soak in part of of Portugal’s history, without necessarily dedicating too much time to it.

The imposing facade of Alcobaca Monastery in Portugal

Explore Nazaré

Nazaré is famous for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, although it has more to offer than just that.

Drive directly to the Faro de Nazarè, as besides being a main attraction in an of itself, it’s close to many other must-sees in Nazare.

The lighthouse of Nazare is the spot where some of the world’s biggest waves form. If you’re visiting in winter, you might even be able to see them!

Here you will also find a small museum dedicated to explaining how the big waves are surfed, as well as surf boards and stories from the big wave surfers who surfed in Nazare. You also get beautiful views of the coastline.

The famous Faro de Nazare in Portugal

Some of the surf boards on display at the museum in the Faro de Nazare, Portugal

From here you can then walk along to another incredible viewpoint; Miradouro do Suberco. Perched on a cliff, from here you can enjoy splendid views of Nazaré town and its turquoise waters.

We already mentioned that Portugal has a ton of churches, and Nazaré follows suit. The Igreja Nossa Senhora da Nazaré is a must-visit thanks to its unique statue of Mary.

It’s located in the heart of the old town, so you can wander around the centre after visiting it.

View over Nazare from Miradouro do Suberco

Afterwards, take a tranquil stroll down the Avenida da Republica promenade, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of many seafront eateries. We had a delicious octopus dinner at Pangeia by the Sea .

Where to stay in Nazare

In Nazare we stayed at  Paz & Amor Guest House . This guest house is very cosy and affordable, plus it offers a huge rooftop terrace with views over Nazare and the sea.

It’s not located right in the heart of Nazare, but it’s in a convenient position close to the main street, so that you can easily find parking and then continue your road trip the following day.

Click here to book your stay at Paz & Amor Guest House!

Sunset on the beach in Nazare

If you want something a bit fancier, I have listed some options for other budgets below.

Mid-range:  Hotel Mar Bravo   – Located right on the beachfront and by the main avenue of Nazare, this hotel is perfect if you want something nice and conveniently located, without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Hotel Mar Bravo here!

Luxury:  Miramar Hotel Spa & Apartments   – If you want to treat yourself, this gorgeous property is the place to do so. With their spacious rooms and stunning pool with sea views, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long road trip day.

Book your stay at Miramar Hotel Spa & Apartments here!

The funicular leading down to Nazare from the old town

Day 5: Discover Obidos, Peniche, and Ericeira

After a day in Nazaré, you should make your way to Ericeira, with some stops along the way at Obidos and Peniche to experience what they have to offer.

Explore Obidos

This historic city boasts narrow cobblestone streets dotted with white houses and a number of diners with local delicacies.

A must-do here is to climb the city walls and enjoy panoramic views at the summit. Just beware that the cobblestones are slippery, and there are no guard rails, so don’t go out there acting like Spider-Man.

It’s one of the most beautiful small towns in Portugal, where you can walk around for a few hours and feel like you’re stepping back in time. The drive from Nazare only takes around 35 minutes.

A must-see sight in Obidos is Igreja de Santa Maria, a church famous for its beautiful interior décor of azulejos.

Walking the castle walls of Obidos in Portugal

View over Obidos from the castle walls

Relax in Peniche

Peniche is a seaside fishing city soaring in popularity thanks to its stunning beaches with calm waters. While everyone can take a dip in the ocean, you’ll find plenty of surfers taking on the relenting waves.

However the next stop of your Portugal itinerary will be the really famous surf spot, so don’t spend too long in Peniche. Personally, we only stopped as it was on the way and we wanted to have a nice seafront lunch.

One of the beaches in Peniche, Portugal

Surf in Ericeira

Like Peniche, Ericeira is famous for its beaches and is a treasure trove for both experienced and beginner surfers. One of the most famous surfing beaches is Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas.

If that doesn’t sound enticing to you, there’s more to do away from the many beaches. Although, I must stress that you shouldn’t miss the mesmerising sunset at one of them.

At the top of the list is exploring the charming old town with its blue and white houses, a quiet vibe, and narrow cobblestone streets.

There are also some local restaurants, cafes, and shops you can support in exchange for incredible goods. We had an amazing seafood dinner at Mar d’Areia .

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas in Ericeira seen from above

Where to stay in Ericeira

In Ericeira we stayed at  Casa Branca . This accommodation offers both dorms and private rooms, both ensuite or with shared bathroom. The rooms aren’t particularly fancy, but the place itself is incredible.

The hotel is in a historical building, and has a huge outdoors area. It’s located just outside the old town, so you can relax away from the crowds at the end of the day, but without being too far from all the action

Click here to book your stay at Casa Branca in Ericeira!

If you’re looking for something different, I have listed below other options for other budgets.

Mid-range:  Reserva FLH Hotels  – The rooms in this hotel are spacious, modernly decorated and have terraces with epic views over Ericeira and the sea. It’s perfect if you want something nice without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Reserva FLH Hotels Ericeira here!

Luxury:  Vila Gale Ericeira  – This seafront hotel is perfect if you want to treat yourself after a long day of road tripping and surfing. Pair the great sea views with spacious rooms and you have a winner!

Book your stay at Vila Gale Ericeira here!

Casa Branca in Ericeira, Portugal

Day 6: Visit the castles of Sintra & Cascais

At the tail end of your 1 week Portugal itinerary, the charming municipalities of Sintra and Cascais await. The drive from Ericeira to Sintra is only 40 minutes, but make sure to hit the road early, as you have a packed day ahead!

Discover the castles of Sintra

Sintra boasts palaces, castles, historic villas, and a long history that garnered its classification as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here’s a brief guide on how you can see the best of the town. Read this Sintra day trip for a more comprehensive guide.

Your first stop should be at the Palacio Nacional da Pena, a colourful castle that used to be home to the royal family. Perched on top of a hill, it’s worth a visit thanks to the panoramic views of Sintra it offers.

Click here to book your Pena Palace skip-the-line entrance ticket!

Getting up close to the gorgeous architecture of Palacio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal

Right next to it you will find Castle of the Moors, an older and more historical castle with unparalled views, but less famous than Pena Palace.

It was initially built as a fortress to protect Moorish trade during Medieval wars. Personally I liked it better, as it felt more interesting and has considerably less visitors.

Make sure to purchase your fast track entrance to Castle of the Moors before visiting!

Exploring Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

Next is Sintra Old Town, a small walkable centre with narrow streets and plenty of eateries for satisfying your palates.

You can also visit the Sintra National Palace, which showcases amazing artistry with an azulejo salon, painted ceilings, and walls with various paintings. Make sure to visit also Quinta da Regaleira, home to the famous Initiation Well.

Each palace has its own entrance fee and ticket prices vary, which is why I recommend joining a Sintra tour . That way you don’t have to worry about entrance fees, and will have a local guide showing and taking you around.

Check out here prices and availability for a Sintra guided tour on  GetYourGuide  and  Viator !

Relax in Cascais

After discovering the gorgeous castles of Sintra, you have one more stop before heading to Lisbon for the night. You can visit the beautiful town of Cascais, which is conveniently located on the way.

Initially a fishing town, the Cascais municipality stands out as one of Portugal’s wealthiest areas. While it’s dotted with grand mansions, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the plethora of sights here.

Your first stop should be Old Town Cascais, which boasts narrow streets and colourful houses like many Portuguese cities. The entire area is walkable, with plenty of restaurants and cafes selling Portuguese delicacies.

In Cascais, you can shop ‘til you drop at either the bustling Rua Frederico Arouca street or Praça 5 de Outubro plaza. At the latter, you can also hop into one of its many restaurants to grab food.

Afterwards, visit the breathtaking beaches to soak in the sun or dip into the turquoise waters. When the sun starts to set, drive over to Lisbon (around 30 minutes drive) for a fun night in the Portuguese capital.

One of the beautiful city beaches in Cascais

Where to stay in Lisbon

In Lisbon I stayed at  This Is Lisbon Hostel . They offer dorms and private rooms, both with ensuite or shared bathrooms. They also have a huge terrace where you can sit in the morning to enjoy your breakfast and sweeping views over Lisbon.

It’s also in a great position, located close to Alfama, central Lisbon and many of the beautiful Lisbon viewpoints.

Click here to see prices and availability at This Is Lisbon!

If you don’t fancy a hostel, I have included other great places to stay in Lisbon below.

Mid-range:  Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel   – This boutique hotel is perfect for those who want something nice, centrally located and cosy, without breaking the bank.

Click here to book your stay at Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel!

Luxury:  Lisboa Pessoa Hotel  –  If you want to treat yourself, this is the perfect place to do so. With their spacious rooms and gorgeous rooftop terrace, it’s the perfect place to relax after a Sintra day tour.

Book your stay at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel here!

The view from the rooftop of This Is Lisbon hostel

Day 7: See the best of Lisbon

Fittingly, the last stop of your 7 days in Portugal is its capital and largest city. As a result of its size, Lisbon has many attractions to visit and activities to partake in, some of which you can find below.

Enjoy the view from Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

If you love viewpoints as much as I do, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy visiting the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Once you’ve made your way to the top, you’ll be spoiled with splendid views of the city centre.

Shop at Rua Augusta

After taking in the views, go shopping on Rua Augusta, which is the main shopping avenue of Lisbon. The street also features various diners you can stop by to eat.

The view over Lisbon from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Arco da Rua Augusta in Lisbon, Portugal

Praca do Comercio

At this large square, you can spend time wandering around marvelling at the incredible architecture, King Joseph I statue, and yellow walls. Then stop by one of the eateries in the square to recharge your batteries.

See the famous Elevador Da Bica

After filling your belly, get ready to enjoy the Elevador Da Bica, one of Lisbon’s most famous sights. The main attraction is a small, yellow tram that zips down a narrow street while offering passengers incredible views.

Alternatively, you can stroll down the avenue on foot for a slower-paced experience.

Walking next to the famous Elevador da Bica in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon Cathedral

With tons of churches in Portugal, it’d be a crime to not visit one in Lisbon. This Roman cathedral is the oldest church in the capital and features several architectural elements as it’s been restored and renovated many times.

Wander around Alfama

Make sure to spend some time wandering around the streets of Alfama. This is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood, and is a trove of cute cobbled streets and unique corners. You will also find many beautiful viewpoints.

Some of the most famous viewpoints in Alfama (if not all of Lisbon) are Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. The latter is especially good at sunset, as you can enjoy a sweeping view over the rooftops of Lisbon.

Enjoying the sunset over Lisbon from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

The view over Lisbon and the river from Miradouro de Santa Luzia

Eat & drink at Time Out Market & Pink Street

If you’re in Portugal for the gastronomic experience, then you can’t leave without having visited this market. It features several food stalls selling Portuguese cuisine and international grub like sushi.

Nearby you will also find the famous Pink Street, a street lined with fun bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a bit of Lisbon nightlife and end your Portugal itinerary.

This is the end of my first Portugal 7-day itinerary suggestion. If you have longer you can spend a bit more time exploring the Portuguese capital, or maybe stop for longer at some of the previous road trip stops.

The famous Pink Street in Lisbon

Southern Portugal 7-Day Itinerary

My second itinerary suggestion focuses on southern Portugal and the Algarve. If you’re a beach and nature fan, or are visiting Portugal in summer, here is how I recommend you spend one week in Portugal!

Day 1: Start in Lisbon

For the first day you can follow the same Lisbon itinerary I outlined above. If you have time, you could also visit Belem and Jeronimos Monastery, one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon .

Or you if you want to see all the highlights of Lisbon with a local guide, you could also join one of these popular tours.

Lisbon: 2.5 Hour Hills Tour by Electric Bike   – This tour will take you to all the famous spots and awesome viewpoints, with minimal effort since you’ll use an electric bike!

Lisbon: Daytime/Sunset City Cruise by Sailboat with Drinks  – See Lisbon from a different angle! I suggest the sunset cruise for the most beautiful golden hour light.

Lisbon: Food and Wine Walking Tour  – Because what better way is there to discover a city than eating your way through it?!

Lisbon Essential Tour: History, Stories & Lifestyle  – The classic tour that will take you to explore all of the highlights of Lisbon.

The beautiful courtyard of Geronimos Monastery in Lisbon

Belem Tower in Lisbon, Portugal

Day 2: Explore Sintra & Cascais

Day two of this southern Portugal itinerary is the same as Day 6 of my northern Portugal itinerary, so you can follow the daily schedule I outlined above.

These two days are the same since, even though the rest of the itinerary will go on to explore entirely different regions of Portugal, the capital city and its surroundings are so famous and beautiful I couldn’t help but include them both.

One key difference however is that at the end of your Cascais visit, instead of driving to Lisbon for the night, you will be heading to Evora. The drive is longer (1 hour 44 minutes), but well worth it!

Exploring the Romantic palace of Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra, Portugal

Where to sleep in Evora

In Evora we stayed at  Burgos Guest House . The guest house isn’t particularly fancy, but it has clean and spacious rooms and is located in the heart of Evora.

For an affordable price you can stay close to all the attractions, as well as to convenient parking spaces.

Click here to book your stay at Burgos Guest House!

If you’re looking for something a bit different, here are other accommodation options for other budgets.

Budget:  Heaven Inn Suites & Terrace  – This hostel offers a great option for budget travellers. It’s conveniently located in the centre of Evora, has spacious dorms and a terrace with views of Evora.

Check out prices and availability at Heaven Inn Suites & Terrace here!

Luxury:  M’AR De AR Muralhas  – Located just outside the old town walls of Evora, this beautiful hotel with pool is the perfect place to treat yourself and rest after the long drive from Lisbon.

Book your stay at M’AR De AR Muralhas here!

The Roman Temple in Evora, Portugal

Day 3: Explore Evora and road trip to Mertola

Day three of your southern Portugal itinerary will take you to Mertola, however before ending your day there you will have the opportunity to visit some gorgeous historical Portuguese towns. Starting with Evora, where you spent the night!

Discover Evora

Many travellers visit Evora on a day trip from Lisbon , without realising just how much they miss! This unique town is full of cute cobbled streets and quaint white houses lined with yellow borders.

The sleepy town of Evora is most famous for its Roman Temple, which has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also boasts the eerie Chapel of Bones, which is decorated with human bones, and the azulejo-tile Igreja dos Lóios.

You have to visit also Evora Cathedral, its cloisters and rooftop. From the top of the cathedral you will be able to enjoy stunning views over the rooftops of Evora and the surrounding countryside.

After spending a few hours exploring Evora, you can drive on to Mertola, breaking up the 2 hour drive with a stop in Monsaraz.

View over Evora and the countryside from the rooftop of Evora cathedral

The famous Chapel of Bones in Evora, Portugal

Visit the cute town of Monsaraz

Monsaraz is a quintessential stop on your way to Mertola. Sitting on a hilltop, it’s perfect for enjoying views of its quaint countryside.

Like in other Portuguese regions, the town’s cobbled streets are lined with white houses, providing a great opportunity to meet the locals.

You have to visit Monsaraz Castle. From the castle walls you will see the best views of the surrounding countryside, as well as enjoy the opportunity to learn of the castles history. This medieval castle is a must-see on any Portugal itinerary.

Enjoying the view over Monsaraz and the surrounding countryside

Stay in Mertola

Also perched on top of a hill, you can enjoy views of the town and its countryside from the medieval castle and city walls.

Located inside the Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana, it’s the perfect place to visit for nature lovers as it’s an enclave surrounded by greenery.

Mertola is particularly famous for its scenic position, perched on the Guadiana River. You will end the day tired by the long drive and sightseeing, but will have the opportunity to relax in this quaint Medieval town.

View over Mertola and the Guadiana River

Where to stay in Mertola

In Mertola we stayed at  Casa Amarela  and I can highly recommend it. Located on the opposite side of the river from Mertola, all the rooms have epic views over the river, town and castle of Mertola.

It will also be much easier to park, as there isn’t much parking space inside the old town of Mertola. From there you can easily walk across the bridge and into Mertola town in 15-20 minutes.

Click here to book your stay at Casa Amarela!

If you’re looking for accommodation of a different budget, here are other options.

Budget: Mertola Castelo Palace by Eden Lands – This lovely guest house is located in the heart of the old town. Set in a renovated historic building, it’s a great place to stay for travellers who want an authentic experience on a budget.

Check out prices and availability at Mertola Castelo Palace by Eden Lands here!

Luxury:  Quinta do Vau   – Located on the same side of the river as Casa Amarela, this beautiful property has an infinity pool with views over Mertola, the river and countryside. Do I need to say anything else?

Click here to book your stay at Quinta do Vau!

The view over Mertola from our room at Casa Amarela

Day 4: Road trip to the Algarve! Tavira, Faro & Albufeira

No one-week itinerary in Portugal would be complete without the historical Algarve province, which spans several cities and towns.

After spending the start of this itinerary learning about Portugal’s history and visiting beautiful castles and towns, it’s time to hit the beaches!

The rest of this Portugal itinerary will take you to the Algarve. So get bright and early on day four, hit the road and start the journey in Tavira!

Explore Tavira & its beaches

The Tavira coastline is its main attraction, with long, golden sand beaches waiting for you to soak in the sun. However the town of Tavira is also very pretty and worthy of a visit.

Here you’ll find more cobbled streets, cute white houses and pretty churches. Don’t forget to make your way to Praça da República, as the plaza has a string of bars and restaurants to dine alfresco during your visit.

Exploring Tavira in the Algarve by tuk-tuk

Rooftop views in Tavira, Portugal

I didn’t personally love Faro and wouldn’t dedicate it much time, but considering it’s the capital of the Algarve region, we figured we should do at least a quick stop there.

Historic cathedrals and convents, Moorish city walls, and the Castelo de Silves are the historic draw cards in Faro.

Faro Beach’s sandy shoreline is perfect for stretching your legs on the fun side. If you want you could also participate in watersports like kayaking or dolphin and marine life watching by the ocean.

However I would personally recommend to just do a quick stop, break up the drive and see the main sights of the old town. Then get back in the car and continue on to the prettier towns of the Algarve!

Sunset in Faro Marina, Portugal

Beach & party in Albufeira

As your resting point, Albufeira is a holiday destination fittingly renowned for its buzzing nightlife, which is the perfect nightcap after a day of exploring.

If that’s not your vibe, there are various Blue Flag beaches with water-sports like a thrilling jet ski experience waiting for you.

Whether you choose to wander the white streets of the old town, relax on the beach, shop till you drop on the seafront avenue or go on a thrilling jet ski ride, Albufeira is the perfect introduction to the Algarve.

Make sure to go to bed early, as you have an early start and intense day waiting for you tomorrow!

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Where to stay in Albufeira

Albufeira is one of the most popular places to stay in the Algarve . I have listed below some accommodation options in Albufeira for every budget.

Budget –  Alfagar Cerro Malpique :  This residence has lovely studios that are perfect for budget travellers. It’s located a bit outside the centre of Albufeira, but it has a huge pool and epic views over the sea and town.

Click here to book your stay at Alfagar Cerro Malpique!

Mid-range –  Casa dos Arcos :  This charming guest house is the perfect place to stay for those who want to treat themselves without breaking the bank. You can relax in their lovely courtyard after a long day of exploring the Algarve.

Check out prices and availability at Casa dos Arcos here!

Luxury –  Hotel Baltum :  If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. This hotel has modern rooms and a huge rooftop terrace with epic views over the white houses of Albufeira and the sea.

Book your stay at Hotel Baltum here!

Exploring the streets of Albufeira Old Town

Day 5: Kayak to Benagil Cave & Relax at Praia do Marinha

This day was easily my favourite day of my whole Portugal trip. Today you will get to explore the gorgeous natural rock formations that make this part of Portugal one of the most famous beach destinations in the world .

Sunrise kayak to Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is a popular sea-cave only accessible via the ocean. Inside the cave, which sits between the shoreline and the ocean, you can enjoy a picturesque setting and natural lighting thanks to the hole in the ceiling.

I was afraid this would be one of those Instagram vs Reality places, where it looks beautiful in photo but in reality it’s just overrun by tourist crowds. However I was very pleasantly proven wrong.

We did a 7AM kayak tour to Benagil Cave , and were the only group inside the cave at this time. This allowed us to spend half an hour in the cave, enjoying the stunning natural beauty, taking photos and just soaking it in without crowds.

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

The tour then took us to explore some more sea-caves and the Algarve coastline.

Since you can only reach Benagil Cave by sea, you have to join either a boat , kayak or SUP tour to visit it. I very highly recommend joining a sunrise tour (or the earliest available) to beat the crowds.

When we walked past Benagil Beach later in the day it was completely packed of tourists, kayaks and boats. Under those circumstances, Benagil Cave would very much appear as the ugly version of those “Instagram vs Reality” memes.

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Kayaking into Benagil Cave from one of the grotto entrances on the sea

Kayaking to Praia da Marinha during our Benagil Cave kayak tour

Chill at Praia do Marinha

After waking up before dawn and spending the first couple hours of the day kayaking, we then went straight to Praia do Marinha to relax.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also hike part of the Seven Valleys Hanging Trail (45 minutes) to reach it.

Praia da Marinha is a mainstay in any Algarve itinerary and with good reason. Thanks to its clean, turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs and golden sand, it’s one of the most scenic beaches in the Algarve.

Spend the rest of your afternoon chilling on this beautiful beach, soaking in the sun and swimming in the clear sea. Once you’ve had your sun fill, it’s time to drive on to Lagos, where you will be spending the night.

The drive is only 45 minutes, but you can break it up with some stops in Carvoeiro and Ferragudo, two cute coastal towns.

Praia da Marinha at high tide seen from above

Where to stay in Lagos

In Lagos I stayed at  Topcity Hostel & Suites . The hostel is located in the heart of Lagos, with a rooftop pool, spacious terraces for every dorm and a fun atmosphere. It’s a great option for budget travellers, although more on the party side.

Click here to see prices and availability at Topcity Hostel & Suites!

If you don’t fancy staying in a hostel, here are some other options.

Mid-range –  Hotel Marina Rio :  Located in the heart of Lagos, this hotel is perfectly located for your evening wanderings around town. It also has a panoramic terrace and spacious rooms, without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Hotel Marina Rio!

Luxury –  Cascade Wellness Resort :  This 5-star resort is perfect if you want to treat yourself. With their epic pool, garden and sea view, you can fully relax after your busy exploring days. It’s also really close to Ponta da Piedade.

Click here to book your stay at Cascade Wellness Resort!

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

Day 6: Discover the best Lagos Beaches & Ponta da Peidade

Today you finally get to rest, as you won’t have to spend hours road tripping across Portugal. You will be able to discover some of the most beautiful Algarve beaches , right on your doorstep.

Relax at the beaches in Lagos

Lagos is blessed with some of the most famous beaches in Portugal. From Lagos town centre you can easily walk to Praia dos Estudiantes, Praia de Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo.

I recommend visiting first Praia do Camilo, as it’s both the smallest and most famous. That way you’ll be able to enjoy it before the big tourist crowds arrive.

It’s famous for its picturesque setting between towering cliffs, and the wooden staircase leading down to it.

Praia do Camilo in the Algarve, Portugal

Praia de Dona Ana and Praia dos Estudiantes are also famous for their golden sand, towering cliffs and turquoise water.

During the day we stopped by at all the beaches, soaking in some sun, going for a tip in the cool sea and just generally chilling.

This is partly why I suggested that my southern Portugal 7-day itinerary is best suited for a summer trip, since there’s a lot of beach exploring and chilling.

That said, the Algarve is one of the most popular European winter sun destinations , so you could still do this itinerary even then!

View over Praia de Dona Ana in the Algarve, Portugal

Admire the cliffs of Ponta do Piedade

In between your beach hopping, make sure to pay a visit to Ponta da Piedade. Ponta da Piedade is a group of rock formations on the Lagos coastline, and one of the most famous attractions in Lagos , if not all of Portugal.

Here you will find many towering yellow-golden cliffs dotted around the crystal clear ocean.

You can walk along the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, enjoying the view of the turquoise sea and the trail of boats wandering through the steep rock formations.

I highly recommend also joining one of these boat tours of Ponta da Piedade . While at first I thought they were very touristy and unnecessary, they’re actually a great way to see these beautiful rock formations from a different angle.

If you think they’re impressive seen from above, just wait till see them from below!

Click here to book your boat tour of Ponta da Piedade,  or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The stunning views of Ponta da Piedade, Portugal

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

Cruising along the coast of Ponta da Piedade

Day 7: Surf in Sagres & Chill

The end of your week in Portugal is approaching, and it’s time to close it in style! Jump into the car early in the morning, and head to the cute town of Sagres for a bit of surf vibes.

Road trip to Sagres

This small town is the perfect end to your Portugal trip as it’s a hidden gem that doesn’t attract travellers en masse.

As a result, it’s the ideal place to experience life as a local if you’d like to immerse yourself in that type of experience, and maybe extend your trip and stay longer.

Like the other points of interest along the Algarve, Sagres has several beaches. The Praia da Mareta is perhaps the best one. Apart from its golden sand and clean water, its promenade is dotted with several bars and restaurants.

Venture to the Cabo de Sao Vicente for a splendid sunset view that people in the distant past once dubbed the “end of the world”.

Afterwards, visit the Fortaleza de Sagres, the areas only “tourist attraction” to see how the Portuguese defended themselves.

The sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

Praia do Amado in Portugal

Surf at Praia do Amado

Amado Beach draws in surfers, primarily experienced, like moths to a flame daily. The beach features the only wedge in the area and relentless Atlantic Ocean waves perfect for bringing along your surfboard.

Apart from the thrilling experience, the beach is great for just listening to the sound of waves crashing as the sun shines its rays on you.

Final Thoughts on Spending One Week in Portugal

There you have it, the two ultimate Portugal in 7 days itineraries!

As you can see, they’re both very action packed itineraries. Diluting them down to fit everything on this Portugal bucket list into only one seven day trip would mean not doing this beautiful country justice.

If you only have one week of vacation and want to visit Portugal, I suggest choosing one of these two itineraries based on your interests and season, and saving the second one for your next trip!

For the nature lovers, you can also head to the Portuguese islands. I spent 10 days in the Azores , hiking , whale watching and discovering the beautiful islands . It’s the perfect extension of a week in Portugal!

Have you been to Portugal before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below! I personally loved Portugal, and the huge variety it offers. As many Portugal quotes say, it’s a country with much to offer.

I hope you will find my Portugal 1-week itinerary useful in planning your time in Portugal. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed reading my Portugal 1 week itinerary? Pin it!

10 Days in Portugal: Trip Itinerary from Lisbon to Porto

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Are you looking for ideas for Portugal itinerary and are not sure where to start? In this article, you can find our 10-day itinerary for Portugal, covering all the most beautiful places between Lisbon and Porto. Take a look!

When we booked the flights for a 10 day trip to Portugal , we had a very different trip in mind than the one we ended up doing. At first, we thought to visit Lisbon and Sintra, then head to the beautiful beaches of Algarve and all the way to Faro …

After a little research, however, we quickly realized that we would be missing some of the most interesting places in Portugal. And so we decided to leave the Algarve beaches for the next trip and to visit the main highlights, the most beautiful places in Portugal instead.

Good to know: Because it was cheaper for us to fly in and out of Lisbon, we started this trip in Lisbon, visited all the nicest places of central Portugal, drove all the way to Porto and the Douro Valley, and ended our trip back in Lisbon area (Sintra).

Because driving distances in Portugal aren’t that big, it was perfectly doable. You can adjust this itinerary a bit and start in Lisbon and end in Porto or vice versa. At the bottom of this article, we also have some alternative itinerary suggestions for your trip to Portugal. Read on!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Portugal

Portugal Itinerary with the Main Highlights of Central Portugal from Lisbon to Porto:

• Day 1: Lisbon (sleep in Lisbon)
• Day 2: Evora (sleep in Evora)
• Day 3: Obidos and Alcobaca (sleep in Alcobaca – Nazare area)
• Day 4: Batalha, Grutas de Mira de Aire, Nazare (sleep in Alcobaca – Nazare area)
• Day 5: Conimbriga and Coimbra (sleep in Coimbra)
• Day 6: Buçaco forest – Costa Nova – Aveiro (sleep in Aveiro)
• Day 7: Douro Valley (sleep in Porto)
• Day 8: Porto (sleep in Porto)
• Day 9: Sintra (sleep in Sintra)
• Day 10: Sintra and fly home
• Portugal trip itinerary for any duration

Portugal Trip Itinerary and Map

Below, you can find a detailed day-to-day Portugal itinerary, exactly as we did it. We also included some practical tips for the most important landmarks and day tour suggestions for some places that you could potentially also visit as a day trip with an organized tour. Take a look!

To help you get a better idea of where everything is located, I also included a map indicating all the places mentioned in this article. See below.

Day 1: Lisbon

We arrived in Lisbon late in the evening, so I’m not going to count this travel day. In addition, we spent one full day in Lisbon. We stayed in the heart of Lisbon, close to Rossio square, and the location was perfect for dining and sightseeing.

While one day isn’t enough to see all the best places and attractions in Lisbon, you can still do a lot. We focused on the city center , Alfama district , and did a sailing cruise on the Tagus River . Below you can find all our tips and recommendations for what to see and do in Lisbon in one day. Check it out for more details!

TIP: If you have two days in Lisbon , make sure you also visit the Belém District as well. The main highlights here are the Jeronimos Monastery ( book tickets in advance!), Belem Tower (also best to book in advance ), and the Discoveries Monument . Count at least half a day for this part of town – that’s if you buy tickets in advance. Otherwise, you’ll probably need even more time.

LEARN MORE: One Day in Lisbon

Day 2: Evora

We had planned to visit Belem in the morning before leaving Lisbon. Unfortunately, one of our kids didn’t feel well and so we decided to leave Lisbon and head straight to Evora. We rented a car starting on this day and we picked it up in the city center.

TIP: Here you can find the best deals for car rental – it’s the car rental deals search engine that we always use and recommend to our readers.

Driving time from Lisbon to Evora – 1,5 hrs.

Evora is a small cozy medieval town. The main sights in Evora are: Chapel of Bones , Templo Romano , and the Cathedral (tower). Other highlights include the Public Park of Evora, Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça, the Town Square, Evora Aqueduct and the City Walls.

Practical information for visiting Evora:

• Evora is perfectly doable as a day trip from Lisbon , but if you are renting a car for your trip anyway, I suggest you spend a night there. Hotels are much cheaper than in Lisbon, there are many good local restaurants and there are very few tourists.
• Book a hotel just inside the city walls. We stayed at the  centrally located hotel M’AR de Ar Muralhas . I would have loved to stay 2 nights in Evora just for this hotel.
• Leave your car outside the city walls (or at the hotel parking) and explore Evora on foot.

Day 3: Obidos and Alcobaca

After leaving Evora, we drove to one of the most picturesque little towns of Portugal, Obidos. It’s a very popular day tour from Lisbon and you can expect it to be busy. I recommend getting here as early as possible. After visiting Obidos, we also visited the famous Alcobaca Monastery.

TIP: So many of our readers are asking how to visit these stunning places in Portugal without a car . While you can’t see everything from this itinerary without a car, it is possible to visit places mentioned in day 3 and day 4 of this itinerary with a tour.

You can see Obidos, Batalha Monastery, Fatima Sanctuary, and Nazaré village with an organized small-group tour from Lisbon in one day. In that case, I recommend that you go with a small-group tour like this one or with a private tour like this one . Without any doubt, this is one of the best day trips that you can do from Lisbon.

Driving time from Evora to Obidos – 2hrs.

The absolute  must-do in Obidos is walking the city walls . It’s really fun and the views are spectacular; just watch your kids! The biggest part of the wall has no railings or any other kind of protection on one side.

Make sure to taste the specialty of the area – Ginja de Óbidos  – sour cherry liquor.

Practical tips for Obidos:

• Park your car at one of the many big parking areas outside the city gate.
• Count 2 to 4 hours to visit Obidos. We spent 2 relaxing hours sightseeing here; this didn’t include time for lunch.

Alcobaça Monastery

Driving time from Obidos to Alcobaca – 30 minutes.

Our next stop for the day was Alçobaca Monastery. Alcobaca is one of the oldest convents in Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Practical tips for visiting Alcobaça Monastery:

• Count 1-1,5hrs for a visit.
• Take a sweater with you. Despite the fact that it was really warm outside when we visited, it was quite chilly inside the church and the cloister.

Where to Stay for Visiting Alcobaça, Batalha, Tomar Monasteries and Fatima

To visit the monasteries, I recommend staying in the Alcobaca – Nazare area. There is so much to see and do that you can easily spend several days here.

We spent 2 nights at the  beautiful hotel Vale d’Azenha , just a few kilometers outside of Alcobaça. This modern hotel has amazing views, an infinity pool, and a really nice spa area. On top of that, they have a very good restaurant that uses fresh local ingredients; it was one of the best meals we had in Portugal.

Alternatively, if you prefer to stay closer to the action, you might find a bigger choice of accommodation in the nearby coastal resort Nazaré.

Day 4: Batalha Monastery, Grutas de Mira de Aire, Nazare

Another top day in Portugal today! We had another fantastic landmark in our planning – Batalha Monastery. In addition, we visited stunning underground caves, and one of our favorite coastal towns of Portugal – Nazaré. Below, you can find more details about each of these places. Read on!

Batalha Monastery

Driving time from Alcobaca to Batalha – 30 minutes.

If you visit just one monastery in Portugal, make it the Batalha! Do not miss the Unfinished Chapels , it’s an absolute must!

We chose to visit just two monasteries – Alcobaca and Batalha . Tomar seems to be worth a detour if you have an hour or two to spare. As for Fatima , I had read in several books and also hear from people who visited that it’s not really worth it from the touristic point of view.

Practical tips for Batalha Monastery:

• Count 2 hrs for a visit.
• Arrive early to avoid big groups.
• Carry a sweater.

Grutas de Mira de Aire

Driving time from Batalha to Grutas de Mira de Aire – 30 minutes.

Our second stop today was Parque Natural de las Sierras de Aire e Candeeiros , and in particular the caves – Grutas de Mira de Aire.

We have visited many caves all over the world during our travels. However, I cannot remember that any of them would have been as big and as impressive as Grutas de Mira de Aire. We were a bit uncertain whether these caves were worth the detour, but yes, they absolutely are! It was one of the highlights of our Portugal trip for the whole family!

Practical information for visiting Grutas de Mira de Aire:

• The caves are a bit outside the main tourist routes. You can find all the practical information on their official website .
• You can only visit the caves with a guide. There is one tour hourly, at 40min after the hour.

Nazaré

Driving time from the caves to Nazaré – 50 minutes.

A charming little coastal town of Nazare is a mix of old traditions and a busy beach destination. Don’t miss the O Sitio district  up on the cliffs overlooking the city. Nazare also holds the record to the world’s largest waves. Even in calm weather, they were impressive!

Tip: If visiting in summer, consider spending an extra day in Nazare and enjoy the beautiful beaches in the area.

Practical information for visiting Nazaré:

• Park your car in the city center and explore the town on foot.
• You can reach the O Sitio district by funicular (recommended). Alternatively, you can take a car.

LEARN MORE: What to Do in Nazaré

Day 5: Roman Ruins of Conimbriga and the City of Coimbra

On this day, we visited some lesser-known places in Central Portugal, as well as Coimbra – the biggest town of the region. Take a look!

Roman Ruins of Conimbriga

Driving time from Alcobaca to Conimbriga – 1hr.

Our first stop today was the  ancient Roman city of Conimbriga . It’s one of the best-preserved Roman towns in Portugal, with lots of very impressive mosaic floors. A small adjacent museum is also worth a short visit. Plan to spend about an hour.

Driving time from Conimbriga to Coimbra – 20min.

Coimbra  is the biggest town of Central Portugal and the ancient medieval capital of the country. The compact city center of Coimbra is best explored on foot, just be prepared to do some serious climbing. Don’t miss the University of Coimbra and in particular the library and the Saint Michael’s Chapel .

Tip: Just on the other side of the river you can find Portugal dos Pequenitos   – a park with miniature buildings of Portugal and the former colonies. Check it out if visiting Coimbra with kids.

Practical information for visiting Coimbra:

• Book a centrally located hotel and explore the city on foot. We stayed at hotel Oslo in the city center. The terrace/bar had the best views of the old city you could wish for.

Day 6: Mata Nacional do Buçaco – Costa Nova – Aveiro

This was another amazing day discovering a hidden gem of Central Portugal – Bussaco Forest. We also visited Aveiro and – one of the most picturesque towns in Portugal – Costa Nova. Take a look below for more details!

Mata Nacional do Buçaco

Driving time from Coimbra to the forest – 30min.

Just 30km North of Coimbra lays the beautiful Bussaco forest (Mata Nacional do Buçaco). It’s a true hidden gem! Not to be missed is the beautiful Palace Hotel, the gardens, but also the staircase of Fonte Fria and the Via Sacra.

Practical information for Buçaco forest:

• Entrance fee: 5 EUR/ car
• Ask for a map at the entrance. The forest is huge and without a map, you’ll quickly get disoriented.
• Pack a picnic and plan to spend at least 3-4 hours. Alternatively, you can have lunch at a small cafe close to the hotel.
• Leave your car at the Palace Hotel and explore the forest on foot.
• If I were to go back, I’d spend at least one night at the beautiful Buçaco Palace Hotel .

Aveiro and Costa Nova

Driving time from Bussaco forest to Aveiro – 45min.

Aveiro (50km drive from Bucaco) is a nice little town, also called the Venice of Portugal . One of the musts here is a boat ride on the canals . Aveiro is a nice place to spend a couple of hours, but then you have seen it all.

TIP: visit the nearby town Praia da Costa Nova with its colorful striped houses.

Depending on how much time you have and on your other plans, you can either spend a night in Aveiro , or drive to Porto (less than 1hr drive).

Day 7: Douro Valley and the vineyards of Porto and to Porto

Driving time: depends on the route you choose. Count at least half a day.

Because we were traveling with kids, we chose to visit the Douro Valley by car.

TIP: If you stay in Porto, consider one of the many available organized day tours to Douro Valley . That way you can actually taste Porto wine without having to drive. There are also boat trips you can take from Porto, from Peso de Regua or from Pinhao. Furthermore, there is also a possibility to explore the wine region by train. Take a look below for the best Douro Valley tours and experiences.

If you drive to the Douro Valley by car, don’t miss the scenic road from Sabrosa to Pinhao . Make sure you do this road from Sabrosa and not in the other direction because driving down you’ll have incredible views all the time.

Other highlights include Solar de Mateus just outside Vile Real, Casal de Loivos viewpoint near Pinhao, and also the towns of Amarante and Guimaraes .

Day 8: Porto

One of the most beautiful towns in Portugal , Porto is a beautiful city with a wonderful atmosphere. You can easily spend more than a day in Porto. However, Porto isn’t as big as Lisbon and we found that one day was enough for the main highlights.

Some of the main spots not to miss are the famous Port wine lodges , the UNESCO old town, and the medieval riverside district, Ribeira. If you haven’t had a chance to attend a Portuguese Fado performance, you’ll find several good options in Porto.

Practical tips for visiting Porto:  

• Stay in the city center of Porto so that you can explore it on foot. We stayed at the beautiful Oca Flores Boutique Hotel right in the old city center, and I would highly recommend it (although, getting there by car and parking a car in their secure parking place was quite an adventure). Here you can find the best deals for Porto accommodation .

Day 9: Porto to Sintra. Visit Pena Palace and Castle of the Moors

Driving time from Porto to Lisbon (Sintra) – 3 hours.

Sintra is a well-known UNESCO World Heritage Site area, just outside of Lisbon. It has a lot to offer, but most visitors only come for one day. We had a day and a half, but it still felt rushed.

On the first day we visited the Pena Palace (see the featured image all the way on top) and the Gardens of Pena . We then walked to the nearby Moorish Castle .  Palacio Nacional right in the town center of Sintra is also worth a visit.

LEARN MORE: Sintra itinerary & travel info & Best things to do in Sintra

Day 10: Sintra: Quinta de Regaleira and the Palace of Monserrate

On our second day in Sintra, we visited Quinta de Regaleira and the Park and Place of Monserrate.

Tip:  If you have more time in Sintra and have a car, you can drive to the nearby Cabo da Roca or the coastal town Azenhas do Mar .

Practical information for visiting Sintra:

• Sintra is a popular day trip from Lisbon, but if you are coming by car anyway, I would recommend spending at least two days here.
• Without the car, the best way to reach Sintra is by train from Lisbon. It takes about 45 minutes. Or you can take an organized tour . Some tours visit the places outside of Sintra too – places you can’t see if you don’t have a car.
• Accommodation is very limited in Sintra, so book well in advance. You can find the best deals for Sintra accommodation here.
• For more information about the parks, gardens, and monuments of Sintra, take a look at the official website of Parques de Sintra .

READ ALSO: Best day trips from Lisbon

Portugal Itinerary for Any Duration

The above is our trip itinerary for 10 days in Portugal . The distances in Portugal are quite small, so you can easily adapt this itinerary to your interests and any trip duration .

We traveled to Portugal with kids , so our days were not fully packed with sightseeing (although the kids would probably disagree :)). We found that this itinerary left quite some free time to explore deeper, have long meals, take a dip in the pool, etc.

• If you have at least two extra days in Portugal, visit Algarve as well. If you are driving to Algarve, you could do this at the end of this trip, after returning to Lisbon. That way you leave the more relaxing beach stay for the end of your trip. In fact, the Algarve region has so much to offer that you could easily spend another 10 days just here and never get bored. Some of the nicest towns to see here are Lagos and Albufeira ; both are good bases to stay for exploring the top places in the Algarve . Here you can find several suggested itineraries for the Algarve region , from 3 to 7 days.
• If you have less time than 10 days in Portugal, skip the places that don’t interest you, or try to do more sightseeing in a day. As I said, the distances aren’t big and if you plan well, you can see a lot in a short time.
• If you don’t want to rent a car in Portugal, please take a look at our suggestions for day tours that I included where possible. For bigger distances, like Lisbon to Porto, you can also take a train. Recently, Portugal introduced a very cheap train ticket that is valid in the entire country for a month, so it’s a very budget-friendly way to explore more of the country.

Car rental: This is the website that we always use for rental cars in Portugal.

Flights: There are many airlines flying to Portugal. One of the best options (especially if you also want to explore the islands), is TAP Air Portugal . They sometimes have good stopover deals too.

Update: We loved Portugal so much that we returned a year later to visit the Algarve region, as well as Madeira Island . We also visited the Azores and returned to the Algarve again, and again… with many more trips planned in the future. So we have many more articles about Portugal on the blog than when this guide was first published. You can find more information about all these places in our Portugal travel guide .

READ ALSO: Tips for Planning a Trip to Europe

Best Time to Visit

Portugal is a year-round destination. If you are planning to visit towns and cultural landmarks, then you can plan a trip at any time of the year, but I would suggest avoiding the hottest summer months.

If you are planning to visit the beaches, then come from May to October. July and August are the peak months when it’s very busy (and hot) everywhere.

If you want to explore Portugal to the fullest, then visit in April – May or in September – October. That’s when the weather is really nice but not too hot for sightseeing, it’s not too busy, and accommodation prices are lower.

We made this 10-day Portugal road trip in April and it was an excellent time to be here. For more information on what to expect in this season, please read our guide to Portugal in April .

READ ALSO: Best time to visit Europe

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Deborah Widmann

Wednesday 20th of March 2024

Good Morning! I have been following your blog for a year or so and you sold me on a trip to Portugal. I am trying to plan a girls trip (daughters (28) and moms( NOT 28)! We would like to go October 17 to 26. Pretty much have the flights nailed down - we will be flying into Lisbon and flying out of Madrid. Madrid was a last minute addition . Reading your most recent blog about Lisbon and Porto , we all are thinking three nights in Lisbon, two in Porto, then training down to Madrid for the remainder of our vacation. We are NOT self driving around Portugal - going to rely on Public Transportation. I guess I would like YOUR opinion if the above mentioned schedule makes sense. We are not really tour travelers, more of let’s see what’s happening in - wherever we are - today! But, we also hop on a tour if it makes sense to do so. What tours would you recommend so that we see all the attractions recommended but also “off the beaten track “ sights? You provide such wonderful information that it is a little overwhelming . I appreciate any input you could provide. Thank you so much. Deb and Sally and Maeve and Kate .

Thursday 21st of March 2024

@Jurga, thank you SO much for this information. We will be adjusting our trip. Going to vacation solely in Portugal. Three in Lisbon, three in Porto , then back to Lisbon for the last two days. Thank you again . I will be re reading your itineraries for these cities and their surrounding areas.

Hi Deborah, your trip sounds great, but I don't think there is a good train connection between Porto and Madrid. Google Maps shows me a 9-hour journey involving lots of different transport, or by Flixbus (also 8-9 hours). So you may want to reconsider that one and book a direct flight. The following airlines seem to operate that route, AirEuropa, EasyJet, Ryanair, and Iberia. The flight is a bit over 1 hour. Flights with the budget airlines start from about 40-50 euros, but they also charge for luggage, etc. Other than that, 3 nights in Lisbon is a bit short especially if you also want to make a day trip to Sintra (a must-do). There are many other amazing places to visit - see our Lisbon day trips for some inspiration. I would try to do two full days in Lisbon city (also because of the jet lag) and at least one day trip. 2 nights in Porto is ok if you just stay in the city. But if you want to also take a day trip to Douro Valley, then add one more day. From Madrid, take a day trip to Toledo. Also see this guide for ideas of places to visit: Madrid in a day (you can easily fill 2 days if you visit all the top sights). It's hard to recommend much off the beaten track if you don't rent a car, but every city has many hidden gems if you want to avoid the crowds. That said, the end of October is a good time to travel to southern Europe, and it shouldn't be too crazy anymore. Hope this helps.

Michael and Connie

Saturday 10th of February 2024

Hi. Lovely article! We have stayed in Tavira last year for 6 weeks and loved it. We will do so again Mid March to the end of April. We have decided to fly to Porto, spend around 6 days somewhere around there, hopefully near the rail line. Then we plan on spending March 12th to 16th in or around Lisbon. We won't have a car. Any suggestions as to where to stay ( we use booking.com when we can) along the way and day trips, etc. Thanks for taking our email. Michael

Sunday 18th of February 2024

@Jurga, Thank you for replying and for your help. We are thinking two nights in Lisbon so is it better to stay right in the old town or near the cuty centre, which I think is what you are suggesting? Thanks again and happy travels. Michael and Connie

Hi, it's a bit hard to recommend much not knowing what exactly you want to see. But in general, staying in the bigger cities with good railway connections is the best if you want to do lots of day trips in the area. In the north, I think Porto is a great base. In Lisbon, just stay in the city as well - there's so much to see and do. You may want to take a look at our guide to the best day trips from Lisbon for some inspiration as well. When looking for accommodation in both places, see that it's within walking distance to the main railway station - that way, you can easily make excursions without losing to much time in the commute. Hope this helps. Have a great time in Portugal!

Monday 18th of December 2023

Hi. We are planning on spending a few nights in a central location that would allow us to got Nazare, Obidos, Coimbra, Tomar, Alcobaca, etc. We can't decide if we want to stay in Tomar or Santarem. We would like to stay in a guesthouse over a hotel so we would want a place that has good restaurant locations nearby. Which city do you think would serve us better as a hub to see these other cities as day trips? Thanks so much for answering my question. Susan

Wednesday 20th of December 2023

Hi Susan, purely comparing Santarem and Tomar, I'd choose the latter. Driving distances/times, etc. you can check on Google Maps. As for hotels/guesthouses, we always use Booking.com. I stumbled upon this highly-rated guesthouse in Tomar that ias well located closer to many restaurants. And I'm sure there are many more. Hope this helps.

Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Hi - We are planning to Portugal in December and staying 3 nights in Porto and another three nights in Lisbon. We have 2 teen aged kids aged 14 and 17 who will be accompanying us. Can you please suggest the cities which we should visit ? Thanks in advance.

Thursday 12th of October 2023

@Jurga, Thanks a lot.

Wednesday 11th of October 2023

Hi Amutha, I'm not sure I understand your question. You are already staying in the two main cities and 3 nights/2 days is a nice amount of time for each. You won't have time to visit much else. So just explore Porto and Lisbon to the fullest. That being said, near Lisbon, I highly recommend visiting Sintra (can do with a tour in half a day) or on by train (plan the whole day). There are also day tours that bring you to several of the nicest areas near Lisbon in a day. If I were you, I'd do 2 nights in Porto and 4 in Lisbon (instead of 3-3), but it really depends on what exactly you want to see in each place. There is a lot to see in Lisbon and there are lots of amazing places to visit as a day trip from Lisbon. Porto is also very nice but is smaller and you don't need as much time there as in Lisbon. Hope this helps.

Friday 30th of June 2023

We are planning to visit Portugal and spend 4 days in Lisbon. Can you please advise whether it makes sense to purchase Lisbon card instead of getting individual tickets to the Jeronimos monastery, Belem and Peña Castle? Thank you

@Jurga, Thank you very much!

Hi Olga, the Lisbon Card offers really good value if you visit many attractions that are actually included with the card in a short time (you can see the full list here). Please note that Pena Palace in Sintra is not included with this card and you'll need to get timed-entry tickets if you go there. Book these well in advance if you want to choose the time slot that suits you best. Most morning time slots are sold out long in advance (so afternoons will be quieter ;)). Anyway, with 4 days in Lisbon, I assume you'll visit many more places than the ones you mentioned so yes, the card is well worth it. Even if you just buy it for one day, it costs pretty much the same as tickets to Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, so if you do anything else on that same day (even if just use public transport), it's better than buying the tickets separately. And you can definitely do a lot more in 24 hours than just these two attractions! If you get the card for longer duration, it offers even better value, but only buy it for the number of days when you'll actually use it. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

• Miranda do Douro
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Many make the mistake of only spending a week or two in Portugal due to it being a relatively small country. However, they are missing out! The best way to really get to know Portugal is to spend enough time in each city. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably reached that conclusion as well! 

Our 30 Day Portugal Itinerary allows you to explore Portugal in 1 month, stopping at the best spots. It begins in the North of Portugal in Porto and ends in the Algarve.

This itinerary is best traveled by car, so we definitely recommend renting a vehicle. While public transport between cities like Porto and Lisbon works well, this isn’t the case for all regions of Portugal.

Day 1, 2 & 3: Porto

Why not start this 30 day itinerary in the north of Portugal in Porto, rather than in the most visited city of Lisbon? A 20-minute drive from Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto should be your first stop. 

The breathtaking city of  Porto lies along the Douro river and is home to Port wine, street art, and “francesinhas.” One of the oldest in Europe, Porto’s old town in the city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. Along with exploring the historical center, there’s so much to do in Porto.

Porto: Best Things to Do

• Head to the Clérigos Tower , where after climbing the steps you can enjoy a 360 view of the city.
• Go to Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookstores in the country, founded in 1906 with a beautiful interior. Tickets cost €5. Kids under 3 years old have free entrance.     
• Igreja do Carmo, a beautiful baroque church with a facade of   Portuguese blue azulejos  (tiles) made locally in Vila Nova de Gaia, across the Douro river from Porto. 
• Book this Fado Live Show  in Porto for an intimate setting in Casa da Guitarra near Sé. 
• Visit Palacio da Bolsa, built in the nineteenth century by Porto’s Commercial Association, it used to function as a stock exchange and is a magnificent building.
• Explore the Crystal Palace Gardens. Inspired by the Crystal Palace in London, the Crystal Palace in Porto was inaugurated in 1865 and has about 8 hectares of green space with views of the River Douro.
• Take photos of the Casa da Musica. Designed by the architect Rem Koolhaas, Casa da Musica is an iconic concert hall in the historical center of Porto built in 2005.
• Walk from Porto to Gaia through the 1-kilometer Dom Luis I Bridge, providing one of the best views of the Douro river, as well as easy access to Vila Nova de Gaia. 

We also recommend an afternoon where you can enjoy a tuk tuk tour of Porto. Here are our three favorite tuk tuk tours in Porto:

• Street Art Porto Tuk Tuk Tour
• Porto Half Day Tuk Tuk All Around Porto
• Private Electric Tuk Tuk Sightseeing Tour of Historic Porto

Book Electric Tuk Tuk Tour of Historic Porto

Best restaurants in porto.

• Pedro Lemos
• Arvore do Mundo
• Tasquinha Ze Povinho

Best Hotels in Porto

• NH Hotel Porto Jardim :  This four-star hotel feels like its five stars. It has a 70 cm deep outdoor people, a spa a few meters away, and a gym. It is located within walking distance of main attractions like Bolhão market, Aliados Avenue, and Ribeira. If you have a dog or cat, this hotel is pet-friendly.
• Vila Gale Porto :  Vila Gale is a well-known chain of hotels in Portugal and is always a safe option. This one was built in 1999 and recently renovated. The hotel has a spa with an indoor pool, a gym, a restaurant, and two bars.
• Hotel Premium Porto Downtown :  Located in the old town, this modern 4-star hotel has a sun terrace with views of the city of Porto, the perfect place to enjoy some port wine. You’ll be close to everything you need, Santa Catarina street, Aliados Avenue, and the cathedral.

Book Tours & Activities in Porto

Day 4: Douro Tour from Porto

Close to Porto, you should head to the Douro Valley , which was made a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the early 2000s. The valley is a cultural landscape of vineyards where Douro wines are grown and produced. Along with delicious wine, the views are striking and a once in a lifetime experience. 

We recommend booking a Douro vineyard “hopping” tour so that you can experience a variety of vineyards. For a unique experience, book this river cruise  from Porto where you will get to stop at various wineries for tastings, with lunch included.

You can also rent your own car and book the vineyard tours yourself. If so, our favorite vineyards to visit are Quinta da Roêda (Pinhão), Quinta do Crasto (Sabrosa), and Quinta do Seixo (Valença do Douro).

Book a Douro vineyard experience

Day 5: Geres 

A 1 month itinerary in Portugal cannot exclude Peneda-Geres National Park, only an hour’s drive from Porto. This hidden gem is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, covering over 700 km2 of protected land with stunning mountain trails, river beaches, and historical villages such as Geres.

You can either book a tour from Porto or drive yourself and have more flexibility. If you are driving, we recommend arriving at the park early to enjoy your full day here and perhaps even spending the night.

Start the morning with a hiking trail. One of our favorite trails is the Sao Bento trail (PR7 PBR), a 10-kilometer hike that takes around four hours. The hike stretches along the south-eastern cliffs of the Caldo river and you will get to discover interesting religious sites such as the Basilica of St. Benedict, Portugal’s second-largest sanctuary.

For lunch, Taberna da Ti Ana da Eira in Montalegre is one of the most popular restaurants in the region. The dishes are produced from regional products in the village and the restaurant has large windows offering 360 views of the Paradela reservoir. 

Peneda-Geres National park boasts plenty of natural lagoons. We recommend the Poco Azul, a lagoon with crystal clear waters. However, to get here, you must hike an 8-kilometer trail.

If you are too exhausted from the morning hike, head to Arado Lagoa, which you can reach by car. The lagoon is formed by stunning waterfalls. 

Best Restaurants in Geres

• Taberna da Ti Ana da Eira
• Vai… Vai Geres
• O Abocanhado

Best Hotels in Geres

• Secret do Geres:  Offering one-bedroom treehouses surrounded by nature, each unit comes equipped with wood balconies, a private bathroom, and a double bed. The property also features a swimming pool, garden, and room service for breakfast in bed.
• Pousadela Village:  Pousada Village is located in Vieira do Minho and overlooks the river and valley. The property features a restaurant, bar, garden, and outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. A sauna and indoor pool are also available at Pousada Village

Day 6 & 7: Braga

A 1h30 drive from Porto, Braga is the largest city in the region of Minho and the oldest city in Portugal.  Its original name was Bracara Augusta, having been founded by Romans in the year 16 BC! Even though Braga is not very big, it is known as the “Rome of Portugal” because of its more than 30 churches. 

Braga: Best Things to Do

• The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte is located on the top of a hill, you will have to climb a large staircase. However, the view is worth it! 
• Behind the sanctuary, there’s a park with several chapels, flower beds, secluded benches, and caves surrounded by vegetation, as well as a lake with rowing boats.
• The Republic Square features a beautiful fountain and a sign with the name of the city welcome visitors, making it the perfect place for a photo.
• Visit Rua do Souto, which begins in the Republic Square. This is the main street of the historic center and closed for pedestrians only, featuring Braga’s main points of interest all within walking distance.
• The Image Museum is a space dedicated to photography within a beautiful medieval tower that opened in 1996. The Image Museum has over 200,000 images taken by classic and contemporary photographers. 
• The Torre de Menagem is also a beautiful sight, as well as the Cathedral de Braga.

Book Tours & Experiences in Braga

Best Hotels in Braga

• Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel:  Located in the heart of Braga’s historic center, Burgus Tribute & Design Hotel is close to popular attractions such as Biscainhos Museum. The modern 4-star hotel provides features a restaurant, private parking, a bar, and a lovely shared lounge. 
• Melia Braga Hotel & Spa:  Maria Braga Hotel & Spa is a luxury 5-star hotel less than 2 kilometers from the city center. This place features a large spa with indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a sauna. 
• Hotel do Parque :  Located in a 19th century-building surrounded by romantic gardens, the Hotel do Parque is less than 4 kilometers from the center of Braga. The hotel features a spa, a piano bar, and modern rooms equipped with LCD satellite TV and a minibar.

Best Restaurants in Braga

• Casa de Pasto das Carvalheiras
• Bira dos Namorados
• Cozinha da Se
• Naco na Pedra
• Esperanca Verde

Day 8: Viseu

A two-hour drive south and then towards the interior of Portugal, Viseu is your next spot. We recommend spending one day in this often-forgotten city. The capital of the Beira Alta province, less than 60,000 people live here, making it a small but worthwhile city to visit.

Viseu: Best Things to Do

• Visit the Viseu Cathedral, which was founded in the 12th century and is a prime example of Manueline, Renaissance, and Mannerist architectural influences. The interior also includes the Sacred Art Museum with exhibits of religious art and sculpture.
• The Museu de Grao Vasco is worth a visit, housed in the former bishop’s palace and displaying major works of Vasco Fernandes of the late 15th century.
• Explore Viseu’s downtown to uncover the beauty of its parks, plazas, cobbled narrow lanes, and scenic facades. 
• Stroll around Fontelo Park, one of Viseu’s best places to commune with nature. Here you will find a campsite, swimming pools, tennis courts, football pitches, a gym, and a jogging circuit.

Book Tours & Experiences in Viseu

Best restaurants in viseu.

• Old Tavern Viseu
• Cantinho do Alex

Best Hotels in Viseu

• Montebelo Viseu Congress Hotel: A 5-star hotel, Montebelo Viseu Congress Hotel is just a 20-minute walk from the center of Viseu. This spa features a spa and wellness center where guests can enjoy a professional massage and a Turkish bath, as well as an indoor and outdoor pool.
• Pousada de Viseu:  Pousada de Viseu is a 4-star establishment located in a 19th-century building, a 5-minute walk from the green park Florestal de Fontel.
• Bemyguest: A 4-star guesthouse, Bemyguest is located in an early 19th-century building in Jardim das Mães (mothers’ garden) that was renovated in 2015. 

Day 9 & 10: Monsanto

Known as a village within stones and once titled “the most typical Portuguese village of all” in a 1938 contest during the Estado Novo regime, Monsanto is a special place we believe is worth visiting.

A 2 hour drive from Viseu, it is near the city of Castelo Branco, which is also worth the visit. Monsanto is on the official route of Portuguese historical villages. Its history dates back to the country’s foundation, later on belonging to the Order of the Knights Templar.

In late 2022, it was announced that the Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon  was filmed in the iconic village of Monsanto! 

Monsanto: Best Things to Do

• Monsanto Castle is the main attraction of the village. Sitting on top of the hill, this fortified castle was built in 1165 by Gualdim Pais, master of the Knights Templar. You will get views of Serra da Estrela and Spain. Next to the castle, you will find unique ruins of a Roman chapel.
• Check out the Lucano tower, also known as the watch tower. This building features the famous “Galo de Prato” which is a symbol of its achievement during the Estado Novo. 
• Monsanto has incredible spots to enjoy the best views. In Portugal, these are called miradouros, translating to viewpoints. Our favorites in Monsanto are Miradouro da Praca dos Canhoes and Miradouro do Toucinho. 

If you want a guided tour, we recommend  booking this full-day tour of Monsanto , Idanha-a-Velha, and Penha Garcia. This tour from the city of Castelo Branco lasts around 8 hours, stopping in the historic village of Idanha-a-Velha on the way to Monsanto.

Best Hotels in Monsanto

• Casa da Villa
• Casa da Ti Maria Pereira

Best Restaurants in Monsanto

• Taverna Lusitana
• Casa da Velha Fonte
• Adega Tipica o Cruzeiro

Day 11, 12 & 13: Coimbra

A 2-hour drive from Monsanto,  Coimbra should be your next stop. We recommend staying for two days at least, but three days is perfect! Home to one of the oldest universities in the world and close to the serra of Lousa, Coimbra is one of our favorite cities in Portugal.

Coimbra: Best Things to Do

• Visit the University of Coimbra through a guided tour . Do not miss the  Joanine Library, a Baroque library situated in the center of the University of Coimbra, by the university tower. The library was built in the 18 th  century, and it is considered a national monument with priceless historical value.
• We also recommend taking a walk in the Botanical garden, one of the oldest in Portugal from the 18th century featuring 13 hectares of beauty.
• Visit the Santa Cruz Monastery and the Convent of Santa Clara, built in 1314.
• Head to Quinta das Lagrimas. This estate has been the setting for the forbidden romance between King D. Pedro I and Inês de Castro. 

Best Hotels in Coimbra

• Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas :  A 5-star hotel, Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas is located in a historic medieval palace that was recently renovated. Featuring botanical gardens and a luxurious spa with views of the city, as well as a 9-hole golf course, this hotel has all the facilities you need and more.
• Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra :  Located in the heart of Coimbra, only 400 meters from the University of Coimbra, Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra is a 4-star boutique hotel that features views of the city. A historical building, its traditional architecture has been kept intact while including all the modern amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. 

Best Restaurants in Coimbra

• Ze Manel dos Ossos
• Solar do Bacalhau

Day 14: Fatima

A 1-hour drive from Coimbra,  Fatima is a hot spot for religious tourism and a place of unique cultural value, even for those who are not religious. We recommend spending a day there, but if you are not religious, avoid the first week of August of 2023 as W orld Youth Day will be taking place and the Pope is set to visit. There will be hoards of tourists then.

Fatima: Best Things to Do

• Naturally, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima first. The main square of the Sanctuary of Fátima is huge, larger than the square of the Vatican and can hold thousands of people.
• Find the “Basilica da Nossa Senhora do Rosário” in Portuguese, a limestone church built between the 1920s and 50s. It has a 65-meter bell tower and a statue of Our Lady of Fátima. at the entrance to the church. The church is decorated in Baroque style.
• Visit the “Gruta de Moinhos Velhos,” a cave that is over 9 kilometers in extension and a 20-minute drive from the sanctuary. It is the biggest cave found in Portugal. 
• Discover the Natural Monument of Dinosaur Footprints is also a great activity. This dinosaur track site was discovered in 1994 by João Carvalho, a member of the local archeology association. 

Best Hotels in Fatima

• Hotel Santa Maria:  This four-star hotel is a 2-minute walk from the sanctuary. Hotel Santa Maria has a modern interior, spacious rooms, as well as a meditation room and chapel. The terrace on the fourth floor provides amazing views of the sanctuary. 
• Steyler Fátima Hotel Congress & Spa:  Steyler Fátima is only 100 meters away from the sanctuary. The four-star hotel has large modern rooms with terraces, a Portuguese restaurant, a chapel for praying, and even a kids club. 
• Hotel Dom Goncalo & Spa:  This four-star boutique hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from the sanctuary. You can enjoy the wellness center here, as well as the outdoor garden with a playground for the kids. 

Best Restaurants in Fatima

• Arcos de Fatima
• Restaurante O Leque

Day 15: Obidos

While most enjoy visiting during the winter holidays due to the famous Christmas Village, the town of Obidos is beautiful all year round. A one-hour drive from Fatima, Obidos Óbidos is situated in the  Center region of Portugal , in the district of Leiria. The town is known for its wonderful castle and walled city that immerse you in a medieval environment, making you feel like you are back in the 1600s.

Obidos: Best Things to Do

• Obidos Castle is a must-see. Considered Number two of the Seven Architectural Wonders of Portugal, the Castle is placed on a cliff, and inside the city is at the end of Rua Direita. Today, it’s completely restored and is one of the most beautiful castles open to the public, functioning today as a hotel. 
• The Walls that surround the town are one of its main attractions! Its perimeter is 1.565 meters (around 5134 ft), totally surrounded by a walking path on one side and a battlement on the other. You can actually walk around the walls.
• Take a photo of the Village Door, or “Porta da Vila”, the main entrance to the interior of the walled city. It was built in 1380 and it’s all adorned with the beautiful Portuguese “ azulejos ”, with an engraving dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
• Explore the Rua Direita. This is the main road in the city, connecting the Village Door to the Castle. Most of the buildings on it are souvenir stores, restaurants, and town attractions along this beautiful cobbled street.
• Try the ginjinha drink! One of the most famous Portuguese liquors, the Óbidos’ Ginjinha is world renown and makes everyone fall in love with it. Usually served in a chocolate cup, this type of drink has been present in Portugal for centuries, with the oldest record of it being in the 1st century.

Book Tours & Activities in Obidos

Best Hotels in Obidos

• Vale do Grou Natura: Located 13 kilometers from Obidos Castle, Vale do Grou Natura features a shared lounge, a garden, and a large communal kitchen with traditional materials. 
• Casa Picva: Located near the medieval wall, Casa Picva is a traditional guest house with a large garden for guests to enjoy.
• Hostel Argonauta: 200 meters from Obidos Castle, Hostel Argonauta offers both private bedrooms and shared dormitory rooms. 

Best Restaurants in Obidos

• Pretensioso
• A Nova Casa de Ramiro

Day 16 & 17: Ericeira

A one-hour drive away from Obidos, Ericeira is a seaside town in Mafra and is known to many as the surfing capital of Europe. The only World Surfing Reserve in Europe, Ericeira has the perfect coastline conditions for surfing, but also so much more! It has, in recent years, become an expat and digital nomad hub due to its picturesque streets and amazing cuisine.

Ericeira: Best Things to Do

• For surfing, we recommend booking a surf class ! The official Ericeira World Surfing Reserve spots are Cave, Pedra Branca, Reef, Crazy Left, Ribeira D’Ilhas, Coxos, and Sao Lourenco.
• For a regular beach day, Ericeira also has some amazing beaches. One of our favorite beaches in Ericeira is Foz Do Lizandro, 3 kilometers from the center of town.
• Another great beach is Praia dos Pescadores, the most central beach in Ericeira. Along with being within walking distance from the center, the “Fishermen’s beach” features beautiful fishing boats and is a family favorite.
• Enjoy a hike in Ericeira by checking out the official trail maps or asking the locals. One of your favorite hikes is over 10 kilometers, starting in Ericeira and going through Santo Isidoro, Paco de Ilhas, Marvao, and ending finally in Ribamar.
• Explore Mafra, a beautiful city located a 10-minute drive from Ericeira. Mafra is best known for being the home of the Mafra National Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed in Baroque style.

Best Hotels in Ericeira

You and the sea, chill in ericeira surf house, villa ana margarida hotel , laneez ericeira surf house, best restaurants in ericeira, mar d’areia, mar das latas, gig – green is good , mar a vista, avo restaurante, day 18, 19 & 20: lisbon.

We wouldn’t forget the capital of Portugal, Lisbon. We recommend staying at least three days in the city center and leaving at least one day to explore neighboring Sintra and Cascais. The capital has so much to offer, from its proximity to beaches and the cosmopolitan feel of the city. 

Lisbon: Best Things to Do

• Castelo de Sao Jorge: Open every day of the week, Castelo de São Jorge is located in Santa Maria Maior and open to visitors. The medieval castle overlooks the historical center of Lisbon. 
• Santa Justa Lift: The Santa Just Lift was completed in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, an architecture student of the man who built the Eiffel Tower. From the top of the lift, you can enjoy a view of the Baixa Pombalina.
• Lisbon Cathedral: Often simply called Sé, this cathedral located in Baixa was built in 1147 and is the oldest church in the present-day capital.
• Jeronimos Monastery: This former monastery in Belem constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style that was made a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Belem Tower : Built in the 1500s, the Belem Tower has a great view of the city. You can go up to the roof terrace and enjoy a stunning view of the river and Belem, as well as get a guided tour of the inside of the tower. 
• Alfama: Explore the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and the home of fado. Explore the neighborhood and look out for Fado spots, as this is the home of Amalia Rodrigues.
• Bairro Alto: At night, explore the Bairro Alto area, a popular area where people socialize and drink outside. We recommend Ze dos Bois Gallery, a musical center that has live music and serves tasty drinks. 

Save an afternoon for a tuk-tuk tour, such as these:

• Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk
• Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour  
• Lisbon 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike

Best Hotels in Lisbon

• Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel:  Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
• Selena Secret Garden :  The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
• Bairro Alto Hotel:  This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.

Best Restaurants in Lisbon

• A Cevicheria
• Adega da Tia Matilde

Day 21: Day in Sintra & Cascais

A day trip to Sintra  and  Cascais is a must. We recommend spending the morning in Sintra and the afternoon in Cascais.

A UNESCO World Heritage site,  Sintra  is a town known for its forested terrain, astonishing palaces that once belonged to royal families, and the delicious “Travesseiro de Sintra”. 

Located on the Portuguese Riviera,  Cascais  is one of the richest municipalities in the whole of Portugal. Offering a relaxing day trip away from the chaos of the capital, the port city is known as one of the most pleasant places in the country with the best food, hotels, and  beaches. 

Let’s take a look at the best things to do on your day trip to Sintra and Cascais. However, If you prefer a guided tour, this  tour of Sintra and Cascais  takes you to all the best spots. It also includes a guided ticket to the Pena Palace, allowing you to skip the long lines.  

Sintra: Best Things to Do

• Grab a “travesseiro”, a Sintra delicacy at Piriquita, in the heart of the city.
• Walk toward the Castle of the Moors, a medieval castle that sits on a hilltop and was built by the Moors in the 8th century.
•  Visit Palacio da Pena. The exterior of this palace is painted in multiple colors and is in a romanticist style. You can also wander around the castle and see the beautiful green area that surrounds it.
•  Explore “Quinta” was designed in the early 1900s and has overgrown gardens, caves, and buildings with romantic architecture.
• For lunch, drive towards Cascais and stop at a restaurant called Furnas do Guincho.

Cascais: Best Things to Do

• Have lunch in Cascais, stopping at a restaurant called Furnas do Guincho. This is one of the best seafood restaurants in the area, but it is quite pricey. For a more affordable alternative, drive to the center of Cascais and eat at Baia do Peixe. 
•  Head to “Praia da Rainha,” a secluded  beach  with a wonderful view, perfect for a family photograph.
• Walk toward “Frederico Arouca” street. This is essentially the high street with the major stores, as well as smaller vendors selling Portuguese souvenirs. 
• Find the City Hall of Cascais in “Praça 5 de Outubro”. This beautiful building with traditional Portuguese architecture stands in the middle of the commerce square which features a cobblestoned pavement. 

Day 22, 23 & 24: Comporta

After over 20 days of traveling around and discovering the cities, it’s time to relax! A 1h30 hour from Lisbon lies the often forgotten by tourists town of Comporta.  Comporta is located in the old district of Setubal, at the base of the Troia Peninsula. This is a popular place for vacationing in Portugal, but that is a lot less busy than the Algarve.

The main activity in Comporta – the incredible beaches. You might even see some dolphins. Spend the next three days relaxing on the beach and discovering amazing restaurants.

The best beaches to visit in Comporta are the classic Praia da Comporta and Praia do Pego. Praia da Comporta is hidden behind pine forests and sand dunes and features a beach bar with a DJ.

Best Restaurants in Comporta

• Comporta Cafe
• Gomes Casa de Vinhos & Petiscos

Best Hotels in Comporta

• Spatia Comporta:  The 4-star hotel features a restaurant, swimming pool, bar, and shared lounge. You can get a room or a fully equipped villa.
• Quinta da Comporta:  The 5-star hotel has a restaurant, swimming pool, and gym, and offers both rooms and suites, as well as a villa with a private pool on the beach.
• Sublime Comporta: A 5-star hotel featuring a beautiful outdoor pool, spa, and lush green surroundings. 

Day 25 & 26: Vila Nova de Milfontes

A one-hour drive from Comporta, Vila Nova de Milfontes is located on the mouth of the Mira Riva and is surrounded by the Southwest Alentejo and the Vicentine Coast Natural Park.

The town has some of the best beaches in Portugal, as well as a picturesque village and harbor with fishing boats.

Spend the next two days relaxing on the Vila Nova beaches, while taking time to explore the town.

Vila Nova de Milfontes: Best Things to Do

• The best beaches to visit in Vila Nova de Mil Fontes are Praia da Franquia, Praia das Furnas, and Almograve, 10 kilometers away.
• Visit St. Clement Fort, a fort built in the 17th century that is now an exclusive hotel.
• Discover the great restaurants, artisan shops, and patisseries in the town center and enjoy the Moorish architecture of the buildings. 

Best Hotels in Vila Nova de Milfontes

• Raminhos Guest House:  Located a 10-minute walk from Franquia Beach, the rooms feature a desk, TV, private bathroom, and luggage storage available.
• Monte da Corca Nova :  The 4-star hotel features a swimming pool, bar, garden, and water sports facilities. They offer large rooms in traditional stoned houses. 

Best Restaurants in Vila Nova de Milfontes

• Tasca do Celso
• 100 Espinhas
• Porto das Barcas
• Patio Alentejano

Day 27, 28 & 29: Tavira 

Another 2-hour drive away, stop in Tavira in the Algarve. This is where you will spend your last few days in Portugal. Tavira was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses, and features golden beaches with warm water. Since you are in the Algarve, you are also close to other cities which are worth a visit.

Tavira: Best Things to Do

• Beach day: Our favorite beach in Tavira is Praia do Barril. The beach features a wooden path over the golden sand, which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira.
• Walk through Tavira, explore the chapel of Sao Bras and the hundreds of other churches. 
• Book this 100% electric 1-hour tuk-tuk tour if you want a tour of the city from a local’s perspective. 
• Visit Vilamoura Marina, a popular marina, a 40-minute drive away in Quarteira. You will find loads of shops, restaurants, and even a worth-while beach called Praia da Falesia.
• Travel to Albufeira where you can get a  Dolphins and Benagil Caves Tour. This boat tour allows you to discover dolphins, marine life, and Benagil caves in an inflatable boat. A stop for a swim is included!

Best Hotels in Tavira

• São Paulo Boutique Hotel:   São Paulo Boutique Hotel is located less than 5 kilometers from the beach and features an outdoor swimming pool, bar, shared lounge, and large garden for guests to enjoy. 
• OZADI Tavira Hotel:  A 4-star hotel AZADI Tavira Hotel is 3 kilometers away from the beach and features a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and two restaurants. 
• Quinta Dos Perfumes:  An 8-minute walk from the beach, Quinta dos Perfumes is an 88-acre farmhouse that features beautiful orange groves and a salt-water outdoor pool.

Best Restaurants in Tavira

• Tasquinha da Paula
• Come na Gaveta
• Ponto de Encontro
• A Barquinha

Tours in Tavira

Day 30: Travel Home from Faro

Now that you have ended your 1-month Portugal itinerary in the southern region of the country, makes sense to travel back from the Algarve. Fly home from Faro Airport, a 30-minute drive from Tavira. You can return car rentals at Faro airport. Just make sure to ask about this before booking your rental.

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The 30 day excursion in Portugal looks amazing. Do you have an estimate as to the cost?? Thanks. Sherrie G.

good question Sherrie. I want to do this but have no idea about cost.

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10 Exciting Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)

From the dramatic coastline of the Algarve to the stunning terraces of the Duoro Valley, and from the quaint charms of Obidos to the otherworldly palaces of Sintra, there is no shortage of amazing places to visit on a Portugal road trip.

Nestled in the southwest corner of mainland Europe, driving through Portugal offers a neverending supply of sublime views and hidden gems.

Long an overlooked corner of the continent (though that has changed dramatically in recent years!), road trips in Portugal are bound to leave you hoping for more.

When we moved to Lisbon as American expats, we knew we wanted to spend lots of time exploring by car–and we have!

Even still, there are many Portugal road trip itineraries still left on our long wish list, so we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to show you a wide variety of the scenic drives that the country has to offer.

Here are the best road trips in Portugal–plus some essential tips to keep in mind as you plan your adventure!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Essential Tips for Your Road Trip in Portugal

Rent the smallest car you can..

Especially if you’re coming from the USA like us, you’ll likely find Portuguese roads–especially in small villages and in the countryside–are smaller than what you’re used to.

Save on gas, rental costs,  and  stress while driving in Portugal by renting the smallest car you can manage to fit yourselves and your belongings into.

We recommend searching for your (tiny) rental car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Shop rental cars for your Portugal road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

Like the rest of Europe, manual cars are the norm in Portugal.

If you only drive automatic, you’ll absolutely be able to find a car to rent for your road trip… but be prepared to plan ahead (especially if you’re traveling during the busy season when the cars get reserved quickly), and to pay extra fees for the privilege.

Prepare to pay lots of tolls.

Portugal is notorious for its number of toll rolls, especially on popular routes like driving from Lisbon to the Algarve.

The easiest way to pay the tolls is to get a “Via Verde” pass from your rental car company (they will almost certainly offer you one), which will keep a tally of your tolls and charge you automatically.

We generally get charged by the rental car company for the tolls we racked up using our “Via Verde” pass within a week or so of turning the car in.

Plan your parking in advance.

This especially applies overnight parking–ie, look for hotels that include parking or have a plan for parking listed–but also during day trips. 

Whether you’re visiting a small village, beach, trailhead, or city, knowing where to park before you arrive will save lots of time, stress, and often money.

For overnight parking, we use  Booking.com  and ideally look for places using the “free parking on-site” filter.

Depending on where you are going during your road trip in Portugal, though, free parking may not be possible–in that case, carefully check and see what hotels have reasonably-priced parking nearby.

A hotel that is an extra 10 Euros/night may end up being an excellent deal if there’s inexpensive parking nearby!

Your life will be much easier if you have a Portuguese SIM Card.

This assumes your phone is unlocked, of course, but seriously: getting a local SIM card before taking off on your road trip in Portugal will make your life so much easier!

Having access to everything from a GPS to restaurant reviews is a huge benefit of traveling in the modern age, and bringing those tools along with you as you explore Portugal by car is a fantastic idea.

You can absolutely purchase a local SIM card once you arrive, but if you want to get everything set up before you go, you can also purchase an EU SIM card for your trip  in advance.

Know that you’ll need reflective jackets in the car.

This is a standard rule in Portugal, and the jackets must be worn during any breakdowns or accidents.

If you’re renting a car for your Portugal road trip itinerary, this will likely be included in your vehicle.

On the off-chance that you’re driving your own vehicle into the country, though, it’s important to keep in mind!

The Best Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

The best of the algarve road trip.

From Campbell of Stingy Nomads

The spectacular Algarve coast in the south is one of the most picturesque places to road trip through Portugal.

The region is famous for little fishing villages with white-washed houses and cobbled stone streets, beautiful sandy beaches backed by jaw-dropping limestone cliffs, and delicious seafood.

A road trip is a perfect way to explore the charming towns and unique turquoise coastline.

With good roads and facilities and relatively short distances between towns, driving is easy in the area.

The capital of the Algarve, Faro, is a popular entry point to the region with an international airport.

Carvoeiro, about an hour’s drive from Faro, is a small town packed with attractions.

Spend a day on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, Marinha Beach with golden sand and crystal clear water.

Visiting Benagil cave is a must-do activity from Carvoeiro and you can enter the famous cave by boat trip, paddleboard, or kayak.

If you enjoy hiking don’t miss the striking Seven Hanging Valleys Trail .

From Carvoeiro drive to Lagos, home to a beautiful marina, one of the nicest old towns to explore, and plenty of unreal beaches.

Don’t miss Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana and Porto de Mos Beach.

Keep on driving to Sagres, the south-western tip of Europe with dramatic scenery the Romans used to call the end of the world. The wild ocean here is known for excellent surfing.

Make your way back to Albufeira, this once fishing village has some beautiful beaches to enjoy.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

This road trip can comfortably be driven in 7 days.

Loop from Lisbon through Portugal’s Medieval Southern Interior

By Emily of Wander-Lush

Brimming with charming medieval towns, historic castles and majestic cathedrals, a road trip through Portugal’s southern interior is a dream for history and architecture buffs.

This loop route starts and ends in Lisbon, making it ideal for travelers who are flying in and out of the capital.

Ease into things with a short but scenic drive to Obidos .

Just over an hour from Lisbon, this picture-perfect town of whitewashed houses and red roofs is a popular day-trip destination; linger on after the tour buses have departed and wander the quiet streets, visiting the impressive aqueduct and Obidos Castle.

Allow two nights to see the various monuments, and make sure you budget enough time for getting lost down the cobblestoned streets.

When it’s time to leave, duck inland to Santarem, a gorgeous Portuguese city on the edge of the Tagus River.

Catch the view from Santarem Castle and take in the gorgeous vernacular architecture before leaving the city behind to discover forests, wetlands, and river ecosystems in nearby Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park and beyond.

From there, it’s a short drive to Tomar, a former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar and home to one of the finest examples of Portuguese Renaissance architecture in the Convent of Christ.

Set aside a full day to enjoy the longest leg of this drive as you take the scenic back-road into the Alentejo region, stopping at Arraiolos, Pavia, and any other picturesque village that catches your eye.

Finish up with a few days in medieval Évora , visiting the 12th-century Gothic cathedral and the mythical Chapel of Bones.

318 miles or 512 km.

The total driving time for this Portugal road trip is just over 6 hours, but you should take your time on this historic route and make the most of each town.

A full week to 10 days is ideal.

Lisbon to Porto Road Trip

From Or of My Path in the World

With so many  beautiful places to visit between Lisbon and Porto , it’s no wonder why driving from the Portuguese capital to the country’s second city is such a popular road trip in Portugal.

From colorful palaces and castles to charming coastal towns to medieval villages and landmarks, there’s a lot to see and experience.

First, you can visit Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point.

After taking in the views of the Atlantic coastline, head to the UNESCO-listed Sintra, one of the best Portuguese cities for those who love fairytale palaces.

These include the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Monserrate Palace.

Next, visit Obidos, one of the most enchanting medieval villages in Portugal.

Stroll through the cobbled streets, walk along the walls, or even book a night at the Obidos Castle.

Continue to the city of Tomar, where you’ll find the infamous Covent of Christ, and visit Coimbra, the home of one of the oldest universities in the world, and enjoy the local version of Fado music.

If that’s not enough, you can also hike through the enchanted Bussaco Forest, and before arriving in Porto, stop at Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour at some of the best Port wine cellars in the area.

About 351 miles or 565 km.

We recommend dedicating at least 5-7 days to this road trip, though it could easily be extended to 2 weeks.

Vicentina Coast Road Trip Route

From Alya of The Algarve Family

A road trip along the wild and beautiful Vicentina Coast in southern Portugal is an incredible experience.

The coast stretches between Odeceixe in the north and Sagres in the south.

The Costa Vicentina is still to be discovered by international tourists. It’s very different from the popular southern Algarve.

The road trip can be done from Lisbon. The route follows the famous Fishermen’s Trail , one of the most beautiful coastal hiking routes in Europe.

You can combine a road trip with a beach holiday or a weekend filled with outdoor activities such as hiking or surfing.

The Vicentina Coast road trip starts in the small town of Porto Covo, 170 km south of Lisbon, and finishes at Cabo de S.Vicente, the southwesternmost point of continental Europe.

From Porto Covo, drive about 45 km south towards Zambujeira do Mar. 

It is a quiet town with a couple of beautiful beaches and stunning views of the rugged coast from the cliffs.

On the way make stops in Vila Nova de Milfontes, Praia do Almograve, and Cabo Sardão. 

The next day continue driving along the coast from Zambujeira do Mar towards Sagres.

This part of the route has many stunning beaches and breathtaking lookout points.

Places to stop on the route are Odeceixe Beach, Amoreira Beach, Arrifana, Bordeira Beach and viewpoint point, Cabo de S.Vicente, and Sagres. 

Driving Distance 

This Portugal driving route is perfect for a 3-day weekend trip.

An Azores Road Trip on Sao Miguel

From Megan of meganstarr.com

One of the best road trips in Portugal (and the rest of Europe ) is on the beautiful island of Sao Miguel in the Azores.

The island may be small (744 sq km / 290 sq mi), but it is jam-packed with incredible viewpoints, diverse landscapes, some of the best hikes in the Azores , and so much more.

The best way to see Sao Miguel is to rent a car and do a road trip!

On your first day, start off visiting the western side of the island.

Western Sao Miguel is brimming with lush greenery and volcanic lakes … which is a stark contrast to the eastern side of the island.

During this day, be sure to visit Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, Kings View (as well as the abandoned hotel called ʻMonte Palaceʻ there), Sete Cidades, and the sea stacks of Mosteiros.

For the second day of the trip, you will be visiting the dramatic landscapes of central Sao Miguel.

Some of the best landmarks and places to visit are Pocos, the famous Pineapple Plantation, Lagoa, Estacao Emissora do Pico da Barrosa viewpoint, and Salto do Cabrito… one of the most  beautiful waterfalls on Sao Miguel .

Finally, for the third day, you will head east! The east is the ʻhotʻ spot with a lot of hot springs and volcanic activity.

You can start your day in Lagoa das Furnas (be sure to try a Cozido das Furnas!), Parque Terra Nostra, and Salto do Prego.

End your day at the mind-blowing Miradouro Ponta do Sossego before heading back to Ponta Delgada (where you will spend your last day on Sao Miguel).

Taking a road trip of Sao Miguel will allow you to deeply connect with the island and never feel like youʻre spending more time driving than enjoying the scenery.

There are plenty of stops and the diversity of each will make you yearn for a second trip even before heading home from the first!

You will need a minimum of three days to travel the island (to get a good sense of it) and an additional day to spend in the capital city of Ponta Delgada.

A Scenic Drive Up the Silver Coast

From Jenifer of The Evolista

A road trip from Lisbon to Nazare will give you an up-close look at why people love the stunning Silver Coast of Portugal. 

The first village is Ericeira, a cool surf town, 30 minutes north of Lisbon.

Surfers flock here for the best waves in Europe.

Wander through the white cobblestone streets for shopping, delicious restaurants, and charming Ericeira hotels with ocean views for an overnight stay.

Next, head to Peniche for a dose of history. You’ll find a well-preserved fort that dates back to the 17th century.

If you have time, take the 45-minute ferry to the Berlengas Islands. 

The road heads inland to the walled, medieval city of Obidos. This picturesque town, filled with narrow streets lined with shops and cafes, is perfect to explore for a few hours.

Then you’ll head back to the beaches of Foz do Arelho.

It’s a beachy town overlooking a gorgeous lagoon where people enjoy a variety of water sports including SUP, kayaking, and windsurfing.

Last but not least is the town famous for big wave surfing, Nazaré.

So whether you’re looking to catch some waves or relax and rejuvenate, you’ll find plenty of things to do on a road trip from Lisbon to Nazare along the Silver Coast in Portugal.

114 miles or 183 km.

The drive time is only 3 hours in total but you should definitely plan at least 2-4 days for the trip so you have time to explore and take advantage of the charming towns and fun activities available.

Offbeat Peneda-Gerês National Park Road Trip

From Coni of Experiencing the Globe

When a country has only one national park, and you love nature, you might consider a visit.

When it’s a perfect loop from one of the country’s top destinations, then you must add it to your itinerary.

Gerês is not on most people´s  travel bucket list , but it absolutely should be!

Located only 60 miles from Porto, in the northern corner of Portugal, if you’re into culture tourism, hiking, or sightseeing in nature, Gerês will make for the perfect road trip.

The park is huge, and everything you will want to see is spread out, so jump into your car early, maybe make a quick stop in Braga, and head to Rio Caldo, where you can find a few restaurants and hotels (and campsites), and where the day will fly by swimming or walking around the river.

The next day, start by visiting the village of Gerês.

You’ll see shepherds leading their cattle to graze, and grannies selling homemade goodies.

Stop in Miradouro Pedra Bela for incredible views, in Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas if you want a bit of a trek with an amazing waterfall for a swim at the end, or in Cascata de Pincães if you want an easier hike.

Finish the day by going down an old Roman road to Ponte da Misarela, known as the Devil’s bridge, a beautiful man-made medieval building cohabiting with the stunning landscape.

You can find accommodation looping back to Gerês.

On the third day go towards Mata da Albergaria, a magnificent oak forest, and then to the small village with a top-of-a-hill castle of Lindoso.

Finish the day in Soajo, where you’ll see  Espigueiros , a collection of granite granaries built above the ground, where corn is still being kept.

From Porto to the village of Gerês lay only 60 miles, and your north Portugal road trip itinerary will determine how much driving you’ll do.

If you stick to the three days detailed above, you’re looking at around 230 miles.

Portugal Driving Tip : if you’re running out of petrol, from Lindoso cross into Spain. In a short 15-minute detour you’ll find a gas station.

There are many other waterfalls, viewpoints, small villages, and sanctuaries that you can visit if you have more time.

A minimum to take in the most important sites is 3 days, but if you have a week or more, the park will keep you entertained.

Porto + Duoro Valley Road Trip Loop

From Moumita and Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

The road trip from Porto to Douro Valley is one of the most incredible road trips in Portugal and is one of the best  things to do from Porto .

This Portugal road trip is structured as a loop starting and ending in Porto.

Start your Portuguese road trip adventure by exploring the city of Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal.

The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From taking a short cruise over the Douro River to exploring the magnificent Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world), Porto offers a lot. 

Spend at least 2-3 days in Porto before exploring the Douro Valley.

The drive to Douro Valley is very scenic.

The entire valley is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its terraced vineyards.

You will be treated to stunning sceneries and some delicious wine and food. The road follows endless gorgeous vineyards over the lush green hills and the historic wine villages. 

There are numerous miradouros (viewpoints) on the way, where you can stop to take photos and admire the view.

Don’t miss the famous Double Viewpoint or Miradouro do Penedo Durao.

For wine lovers, many of the wineries here offer Port wine tasting and a tour of their cellar. 

Be sure to stop by the small village of Pinhao, with its famously charming train station, along the way.

About 127 miles each way.

It takes around 4 hours to drive between Porto and Vila Nova de Foz Coa.

We would suggest spending at least 4-5 days exploring Porto and the towns and villages of Douro Valley.

Island Road Trip on Madeira

From Marjut of The Smooth Escape

Madeira lies in the Atlantic Ocean, 700 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal.

Home to dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush vegetation, this sub-tropical island is known as the Hawaii of Europe.

The best way to witness the beauty of Madeira is by taking a road trip.

As the island is quite small, you can use the capital city Funchal as your base and take day trips via car to the different parts of the island.

Start your trip by spending a day in Funchal. With its tropical gardens, cobblestone streets, and endless ocean views, it’s a fantastic city to explore.

Next, drive to Madeira’s northwestern coast where you’ll find towering cliffs, natural pools, and picturesque villages.

Make sure to visit the black sand beach in Seixal which is considered one of the best beaches in Madeira . 

The next stop is Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak where you can enjoy striking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

If you’re up for an adventure, you can hike the challenging trail to Pico Ruivo.

Visit also the traditional thatched houses in the village of Santana and do the scenic ‘levada’ walk to Caldeirão Verde waterfall.

Round off your trip by exploring the moon-like landscapes of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula. 

Although you could cover this whole distance in a couple of days, I recommend spending at least 5 days on this Portuguese road trip because there’s so much to see and do along the way.

Alternate Lisbon to Porto Driving Route

From De Wet of Museum of Wander

Yes, you can drive from Lisbon to Porto in about three hours, but do you really want to do that if you could slow down and see rural Portugal and a stunning surf town along the way?

This road trip takes you inland from Lisbon to the Alentejo region with whitewashed villages, cork forests and vineyards before heading back to the coast.

Stop in  Nazare  on the Costa da Prata for the freshest seafood,  long stretches of empty beach and enormous waves to surf before ending your trip in gorgeous Porto.

Leave Lisbon and head east towards Evora in Alentejo.

Evora is a stunning medieval town surrounded by a city wall.

In Evora, explore the cobblestoned old town, see the famous Bone Chapel and Roman Temple, dine on exquisite regional food, and do some wine tastings.

The countryside around Evora is peppered with vineyards, wineries, cork forests, and megalithic complexes to explore with your own wheels, too.

Then head back to the coast for some beach time and relaxation in Nazare.

In Nazare, head down to the lighthouse and Praia do Norte to see (or surf) the giant waves that Nazare is famous for.

After visiting Nazare, it’s about a two-hour drive to Porto, where your road trip ends.

357 miles or 576 km.

You enjoy this Portugal road trip in a weekend, but five days or more will be much more relaxing.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

7 thoughts on “10 Exciting Portugal Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Tips!)”

Good morning!

My husband an I are planning a road trip in Portugal in mid-Sept. to mid-Oct. 2023. How difficult is it to find overnight accommodations on the fly? We’d like to take our time each day and then find a place to rest to maximize our time. We are thinking of leaving from Porto, continuing through Douro Valley, north through National Park and the coast on return.

Assuming you’re flexible with where you stay (and especially if you’re open to staying in more rural properties), it’s not a problem at all. Based on your route I think you guys will be just fine going on the fly.

If you want to stay at a winery in the Douro Valley, you might consider booking that in advance, but if you’re just hoping to stay in the general area, you should be able to find something.

Hi Kate and Jeremy, Thank you for your invaluable blog!

We are planning a trip to northern Portugal the last two weeks of September. We would like to do a walking tour in the Penada- Geres National Park. Do you have any personal recommendations for companies who organize such tours? We are keen to spend approximately a week there, and want to visit smaller villages. Our home base will be Porto.

Many thanks in advance for any advice you may have,

Unfortunately I don’t, as we haven’t had a chance to visit yet! I do know that Get Your Guide, one of our favorite aggregates to book tours through, has a few options leaving through Porto that are listed.

Thanks, Kate. We have gone ahead and booked with MACs Adventure. Really looking forward to it!

All the best, Anne

Very nice compilation. It would be even nicer if you put a caption under pictures telling where they are.

Thanks for the feedback, Jeff! We have started slowly adding location captions on some of our new posts, but it’s quite the job with 8+ years of archives to go through! 🙂

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Lisbon & Porto 6-Day Explorer: Unveil the Charms of Portugal

April 21, 2024 · 4 min read

Embark on a 6-day journey through the heart of Portugal, starting in the vibrant city of Lisbon. Begin with the historic Belém Tower, a symbol of maritime discovery, followed by the Monument to the Discoveries. Reflect on Portugal's past at the Jerónimos Monastery before diving into the unique collection at the Bus Museum. Stroll down the chic Avenida da Liberdade, ride the Glória Funicular, and soak in the atmosphere at Rossio Square. Don't miss the panoramic views from the Santa Justa Lift. Day 3 is dedicated to the medieval São Jorge Castle and the charming alleys of Alfama. The following day, marvel at marine life in the Lisbon Oceanarium and explore the modern Park of the Nations. Transition to Porto, where the stunning Luís I Bridge and the solemn Porto Cathedral await. Wander through the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the neoclassical Bolsa Palace. Your final day includes the towering Clérigos Tower, the exquisite Livraria Lello bookstore, the azulejo-adorned Church of Saint Ildefonso, and the soulful Capela Das Almas. This itinerary promises a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and the discovery of Portugal's timeless beauty.

• Day 1: Unveiling Lisbon's Age of Discoveries

Belém Tower

Kickstart your Lisbon adventure with the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the Age of Discoveries. Spend an hour marveling at this fortified tower at Av. Brasilia, which has guarded the entrance to Lisbon's harbor since the 16th century. Its ornate architecture and historical significance make it a perfect starting point for your journey through Lisbon's rich maritime history.

Attraction Info

• Av. Brasilia, 1400-038 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,10:00am-5:30pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Monument to the Discoveries

Just a stone's throw from Belém Tower, continue your exploration to the Monument to the Discoveries. This striking monument celebrates the Portuguese explorers who contributed to the world's knowledge of new lands. A brief five-minute stop here allows you to appreciate the grandeur of the sculpture and the figures it immortalizes, standing tall on the edge of the Tagus River.

• Av. Brasília 1400-038 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 5-15 minutes
• Open from 10:00am-7:00pm

Jerónimos Monastery

A short stroll away lies the majestic Jerónimos Monastery, another jewel in Lisbon's historical crown. Dedicate an hour to wander through its vast Gothic cloisters and chapels. This architectural masterpiece not only serves as a monument to Portugal's Discoveries era but also houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama, making it a site of both beauty and reverence.

• Praca do Imperio Belém, Lisbon 1400-206 Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1-1.5 hour
• Open from 9:30am-6:00pm

Conclude your day's historical journey with a visit to the Bus Museum. Located at Rua 1º de Maio, this museum offers a two-hour dive into the evolution of Lisbon's public transportation. From horse-drawn carriages to modern buses, the exhibits here provide a unique perspective on the city's development and are a testament to the ingenuity of urban planning.

• Rua 1º de Maio, 101 - 103，1300-472 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Open on Mon-Sat,10:00am-1:00pm;Open on Mon-Sat,2:00pm-6:00pm;Closed on Sun，Closed on holidays

Where to Stay Tonight

Quiet and sunny central lisbon apartment, vila gale opera.

• Day 2: Exploring Lisbon's Historic Heart

Avenida da Liberdade

Begin your second day with a stroll down Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon's grand boulevard echoing the charm of bygone eras. This characteristic neighborhood, lined with lush greenery and historic buildings, offers a delightful hour-long promenade. As you wander, take in the luxurious boutiques and traditional Portuguese pavements that make Avenida da Liberdade a quintessential Lisbon experience.

• Av. da Liberdade, 1250-096 Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open 24 hours

Glória Funicular

Next, step back in time aboard the Glória Funicular, a vintage tram that's been climbing the steep hills of Lisbon since the 1880s. This short, yet picturesque journey is a unique way to explore the city's bus tours and historical sites, and it's an ideal half-hour interlude between the grandeur of Avenida da Liberdade and the upcoming attractions.

• 1250-096 Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour

Rossio Square

Continue your day at the vibrant Rossio Square, the pulsating heart of Lisbon for centuries. Spend a leisurely half hour people-watching, admiring the fountains, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere that makes this square a favorite meeting spot for locals and tourists alike.

• Lisbon 1100-026, Portugal

Santa Justa Lift

Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the iconic Santa Justa Lift. Not just a means of transportation, this lift offers an observation deck with breathtaking views over Lisbon's historic quarters. The intricate neo-gothic architecture and the panoramic vistas make the half-hour spent here an unforgettable highlight of your Lisbon adventure.

• R. do Ouro, 1150-060 Lisbon
• Open from 7:00am-10:45pm

LV Premier Apartments Chiado- CH

Tempo flh hotels lisboa.

• Day 3: Lisbon's Historic Heart - Castles and Quaint Quarters

São Jorge Castle

As the sun rises on the third day of our Lisbon-Porto adventure, we ascend to the majestic São Jorge Castle, a beacon of history perched atop Lisbon's highest hill. With approximately an hour to explore, visitors can immerse themselves in the grandeur of ancient battlements and take in panoramic views of the city that stretch to the horizon. The castle's storied walls whisper tales of bygone eras, offering a glimpse into Lisbon's storied past amidst the tranquil morning hours.

• Castle of S. Jorge, Rua de Santa Cruz, 1100-129 Lisbon
• Open from 3/1-10/31,9:00am-9:00pm;Open from 11/1-2/28,9:00am-6:00pm，Closing only 5 days a year on January 1st, May 1st, and December 24th, 25th and 31st*. *31st of December closed from 1pm.

After delving into the depths of history at São Jorge Castle, the day unfolds in the labyrinthine lanes of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest quarter. Here, the essence of the city's soul is palpable in every historic building and echoing Fado melody. Alfama invites travelers to lose themselves in its narrow streets for the day, discovering hidden gems and soaking up the authentic atmosphere that has charmed visitors for centuries. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and every corner reveals a new story waiting to be told.

• Lisbon, Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Hotel Convento do Salvador

Pousada alfama.

• Day 4: Lisbon's Marine Wonders and Modern Marvels

Lisbon Oceanarium

Starting your fourth day with a splash, the Lisbon Oceanarium awaits as your first stop. Nestled in the modern Esplanade Dom Carlos I, this aquatic sanctuary is a mesmerizing gateway to the ocean's depths. Spend a couple of hours being captivated by the diverse marine life housed in one of the world's largest aquariums. The Oceanarium's innovative design creates the illusion of a single vast ocean, bringing you face-to-face with everything from delicate seahorses to graceful sharks. It's an underwater odyssey that's both educational and enchanting.

• Esplanade Dom Carlos I s / nº, 1990-005 Lisbon
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open 11:00am-8:00pm on 01/01;Open from 1/2-12/23,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/24;Open 11:00am-8:00pm on 12/25;Open from 12/26-12/30,10:00am-8:00pm;Open 10:00am-7:00pm on 12/31

Park of the Nations

After immersing yourself in the aquatic wonders, emerge to the futuristic landscape of the Park of the Nations. This sprawling area, transformed from an industrial wasteland into a vibrant hub for the 1998 World Expo, now stands as a testament to contemporary design and urban planning. Dedicate the rest of your day to exploring this dynamic district, where you can stroll along the riverfront promenade, marvel at the cutting-edge architecture, and perhaps catch a concert or event. It's a perfect blend of leisure, culture, and entertainment to round out your day.

• 1990-231 Lisbon, Portugal

Global Guest PN

Tivoli oriente lisboa hotel.

• Day 5: Porto's Architectural Marvels and Cultural Tapestry

Luís I Bridge

Begin your day with a stroll across the iconic Luís I Bridge, a stunning metal arch bridge that spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. As you traverse this engineering masterpiece, take in the panoramic views of the city and river below. The bridge's two-tiered design serves both vehicles and pedestrians, offering a unique perspective of Porto's landscape from different heights.

• Pte. Luiz I, 4000 Porto, Portugal

Porto Cathedral

Next, immerse yourself in spiritual grandeur at the Porto Cathedral, a solemn fortress-like church that stands as a testament to the city's historical significance. With its Romanesque roots and Gothic cloisters, the cathedral offers a serene escape from the bustling streets. Its imposing facade and richly decorated interior provide a glimpse into Porto's religious heritage and architectural evolution.

• Terreiro da Sé, 4050-573 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 4/1-10/31,9:00am-6:30pm;Open from 11/1-3/31,9:00am-5:30pm，The church will be temporarily closed for Christmas and Easter

Continue your cultural exploration in Ribeira, Porto's vibrant riverside quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the narrow cobbled streets, past colorful houses, and lively cafes. Ribeira's bustling atmosphere, with street performers and local artisans, is the perfect backdrop to experience the authentic spirit of Porto. The neighborhood's historical significance and picturesque setting by the Douro make it an essential stop on your Porto itinerary.

• Ribeira, Porto, Portugal

Bolsa Palace

Conclude your day with a visit to the Bolsa Palace, a neoclassical marvel that once housed the Porto Commercial Association. This historical building is renowned for its exquisite interior, including the ornate Arabian Hall. A guided tour will reveal the palace's intricate details and the stories behind its opulent rooms, providing a fitting end to a day filled with architectural and cultural wonders.

• R. de Ferreira Borges, 4050-253 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 9:00am-6:30pm

Memoria Porto FLH Hotels

Ribeiredge guest house.

• Day 6: Historic Charm and Literary Grandeur in Porto

Clerigos Tower

Begin your final day with an ascent to the skies at Clérigos Tower, a baroque masterpiece that dominates Porto's skyline. Spend an hour marveling at this historic structure on Rua São Filipe Neri, where you can climb the narrow steps to be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The tower's intricate design and prominence make it a beacon for travelers seeking to uncover the architectural prowess of Porto's past.

• Rua Sao Filipe Neri, Porto Portugal
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 1/2-12/23,9:00am-7:00pm;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 12/24;Open 11:00am-7:00pm on 12/25;Open 9:00am-2:00pm on 12/31;Open 11:00am-7:00pm on 1/1;Open from 12/26-12/30,9:00am-7:00pm

Livraria Lello

Next, let the allure of literature guide you to Livraria Lello, a mere stone's throw from the Clérigos Tower. This enchanting bookstore is a masterwork of design, with its neo-Gothic façade and stunning interior that has inspired writers and dreamers alike. Allocate half an hour to wander through the aisles, under the spell of its wooden staircase and the scent of old books—a sanctuary for bibliophiles and architecture enthusiasts.

• R. das Carmelitas 144, 4050-161 Porto, Portugal
• Open from 9:00am-7:30pm，Closed on December 25th, January 1st, Easter Sunday, May 1st and June 24th.

Church of Saint Ildefonso

Continue your journey through Porto's spiritual heritage with a visit to the Church of Saint Ildefonso. This remarkable edifice, adorned with azulejo tiles, tells a story of devotion and artistry. Spend an hour here at R. de Santo Ildefonso 11, immersing yourself in the tranquility and admiring the intricate blue and white ceramic tiles that cloak the church's exterior, creating a visual symphony that echoes the city's religious and cultural identity.

• R. de Santo Ildefonso 11, 4000-542 Porto, Portugal
• Open on Tue, Thu,9:00am-12:15pm,3:00pm-6:30pm;Open on Wed, Fri,9:00am-12:15pm,3:00pm-5:15pm;Open on Sat,9:00am-12:30pm,3:00pm-6:00pm;Open on Sun,9:00am-11:00am;Open on Mon,3:00pm-5:15pm

Capela Das Almas

Conclude your Porto exploration at Capela das Almas, another sacred site that captivates with its azulejo-tiled façade. Located on Rua de Santa Catarina, this chapel offers a serene retreat to reflect on your travels. Dedicate an hour to embrace the peaceful ambiance and the detailed tile work that narrates the lives of various saints, a fitting end to your six-day sojourn through the historic and vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto.

• Rua de Santa Catarina 428 Corner with Rua Fernandes Tomás, 30 meters from Bolhão-Porto, Porto Portugal
• Open on Mon-Thu,7:30am-6:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,7:30am-12:30pm,6:30pm-7:30pm;Open on Fri,7:30am-8:00pm

Hotel do Norte

Youropo - capela.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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5 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: The Perfect Itinerary

Ready to spend 5 days in Lisbon? This itinerary will help you plan out everything you need to do during your 5 days in Lisbon, Portugal including a day-by-day itinerary and day trip options!

Planning your 5-Day Lisbon Itinerary last minute?

No time to read the full itinerary? Here are some of Lisbon's top activities, tours, hotels, and more!

Top Tours and Activities in Lisbon :

1. Full-Day Lisbon Tuk-Tuk Tour – see all of Lisbon's sights on this locally-guided tuk-tuk tour!

2. The Best Lisbon Food Tour – learn about Lisbon while sampling its best food & drinks!

3. Fado in Chiado – you can't visit Lisbon without attending a Fado show!

4. Sintra & Cascais Day Trip – the most popular day trip from Lisbon

5. Jerónimos Monastery – one of Lisbon's most famous landmarks

6. Belém Tower – another key Lisbon landmark

7. Lisbon Sunset Sightseeing Cruise – the perfect way to end a day of exploring Lisbon

Best Places to Stay in Lisbon:

1. Sao Vicente Alfama – one of the top-rated Lisbon hotels that's also very affordable, my #1 pick!

2. Blue Liberdade Hotel – another perfectly located and highly rated Lisbon hotel

3. Lisboa Central Hostel – Lisbon's best hostel, with dorms and private rooms

Lisbon, Portugal, is one of the most captivating cities in Europe.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine, a visit to Lisbon promises an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're visiting Lisbon as part of a longer trip to Portugal or elsewhere in Europe, visiting on a long weekend while studying abroad in Europe , or are planning a Lisbon city break, spending 5 days exploring Lisbon is a great way to get an introduction to the city.

With 5 days in Lisbon, you'll have time to get a good feel for the city itself and see its top sights, as well as time to take a couple of day trips!

To help with planning the perfect Lisbon itinerary, Marga from  Discover Portugal  put together this ultimate 5-Day Lisbon itinerary.

Marga is a travel writer and photographer who has made Portugal her home, so you could say she's an expert on how to plan the perfect Lisbon itinerary.

Keep reading for tips on how to plan a perfect 5 days in Lisbon, including a day-by-day itinerary with everything to see and do on each day, travel tips, day trip ideas, and more!

The Perfect 5-Day Lisbon Itinerary

Are you ready to spend 5 days in Lisbon, seeing the best the city has to offer?

This itinerary will help you make the most of your 5 days in Lisbon. This Lisbon itinerary includes all of the most famous attractions and must-do activities without being too jam-packed.

Day 1: Explore the Old Part of Lisbon

Start your Lisbon itinerary in the historic neighborhood of Alfama, a place full of cobblestone streets, alleyways, and Fado restaurants.

This area is home to some of Lisbon's most well-known sites.

The Cathedral of Lisbon, Sé de Lisboa , is a must-see, and you can even ride Tram 28 towards one of the nicest viewpoints in town: Miradouro da Graça.

Take a look in the next-door church or start making your way towards São Jorge Castle . There you'll find another fabulous viewpoint over the city waiting for you, and you can walk along the city walls.

After the castle, you can enjoy a lovely view from Miradouro de Santa Luzia, one of the most famous ones in Lisbon, thanks to the colorful bougainvilleas.

Are you in Alfama on a Tuesday or Saturday? Then you can visit the flea market Feira da Ladra, one of the city's oldest markets.

If you're interested in churches and the famous azulejo tiles, Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, the Pantheon, and the Azulejo Museum (National Tile Museum) are well worth your time. Or head to Mouraria, where you can find some amazing restaurants and quirky cafes.

Day 2: The Seven Hills of Lisbon

Lisbon is built on seven hills, and after discovering the old part of Alfama on one hill, it's time to visit another one.

Baixa (the Lower Town) is an area in downtown Lisbon. From here, you can take the famous Santa Justa elevator towards Chiado and Bairro Alto. You'll be amazed by the view from the top!

Discover the Carmo Convent, enjoy a pastel de nata at Manteigaria , and visit the oldest operating bookstore in the world: Livraria Bertrand . If you buy a book, they will even stamp it for you!

In Rua do Cormo, you'll discover high-street shops, whereas if you walk towards Avenida da Liberdade, you'll find luxury brands.

Even if you want to avoid going shopping, it's worth exploring this area as this street is stunning! The pavement, for example, has beautiful designs, and this is known as calçada portuguesa or simply calçada .

From Avenida da Liberdade, you can take a historical funicular towards Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, from which you have a beautiful view over Baixa and the castle in Alfama.

Explore Príncipe Real, the botanical garden, if you need a break or the hustle and bustle in Bairro Alto.

If you like going out, this area, as well as Pink Street, are places to be. Or bring a drink to Miradouro de Santa Catarina, where you can see a beautiful sunset over the river.

Príncipe Real is a great spot filled with restaurants and bars, such as Restaurante Pica-Pau , Madam Bō , and Lost In .

Don't skip a visit to EmbaiXada if you like shopping but also want to admire a stunning building! It was once a 19th-century palace but is now in use as a shopping mall.

The pastry shop São Roque is an equally stunning building on the other side of the street. Order a coffee and marvel at the beauty of this pastry shop!

End your second day in Lisbon with Fado in Chiado , one of the city's most famous Fado shows. This is a must for your Lisbon bucket list!

⭐️ BOOK NOW: Fado in Chiado Skip-the-Line Tickets

Day 3: Take a Day Trip from Lisbon to Magical Sintra

Day 3 of your Lisbon itinerary is going to be a long day, but one that is totally worth it.

Sintra is located only 40 minutes from Lisbon, and the area is known for its palaces and gardens. Most famous, and therefore also the busiest, are Pena Palace , the Moorish Castle , and Quinta da Regaleira.

Booking your tour or tickets upfront is a must, especially in the high season. You'll get a time slot to visit the palaces, and the gardens are filled with unique trees, flowers, fountains, and grottoes.

Most visitors just visit the palaces, but the gardens are equally stunning and less busy.

Many tour companies ( including this one ) offer a combination to visit Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira as well as the most western point of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca.

Your day will finish in the beach town of Cascais.

This full-day Sintra and Cascais tour from Lisbon is one of the best. It includes hotel pick-up in Lisbon as well as stops at Sintra, Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, Cascais, and more.

BOOK NOW: Sintra & Cascais Full Day Tour from Lisbon

If you don't want to book a tour, you can also visit Sintra easily by yourself. There are trains from the Lisbon city center that will bring you to Sintra town.

Sintra is also home to some nice souvenir shops. Still trying to figure out what to get for your loved ones? Portugal has some amazing souvenirs for you.

Sintra town also boasts some good restaurants and other sights. Some must-sees and dos include Sintra National Palace , Parque da Liberdade, and trying a queijada at Queijadas da Sapa.

If you prefer a more relaxed visit to Sintra, you can opt to visit some lesser-known palaces and sights that will be far less busy and just as beautiful!

Examples are Parque e Palácio de Monserrate , Biester Palace, Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz , and the Convent of the Capuchos.

These places are easy to reach by Uber as driving a car can be tricky in Sintra town. But if you want to explore the Atlantic Coast for the day, a car is the easiest way to travel.

With a car, you can easily visit places like Praia das Maçãs and Azenhas do Mar.

Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is also loved by hikers. There, you'll find many different trails to explore. Just be mindful that it can get boiling hot there in the summer, and the hills can be challenging.

Day 4: Belém

On day 4 of your 5 days in Lisbon, you can start exploring the western part of Lisbon – a neighborhood called Belém.

Start your day at the LX Factory , where you can find some amazing local stores, eateries, and a unique bookshop.

LX Factory is a creative and hip area that was once an old industrial textile complex. It's located underneath the Ponte de 25 Abril Bridge, which is already very close to Belém.

This neighborhood is much loved for its museums like Museu Coleção Berardo and MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology), both filled with modern art.

You can also discover the many carriages that were mostly used by the royal family in the National Coach Museum .

A relatively new museum in the area is Quake , where you can relive the 1755 earthquake that struck Lisbon and the rest of Portugal.

Most people come to Belém though to see the Jerónimos Monastery .

You can visit the church as well as the monastery, which is built in the beautiful late Gothic Manueline style.

The monks in this monastery are responsible for the original pastel de nata recipe. At the nearby Pastéis de Belém , you can still try them!

Afterward, you can visit Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a monument reminding of the times of the Portuguese Navigators.

Then, walk towards Belém Tower , one of Europe's most famous landmarks . You can even purchase tickets to go inside and climb the tower.

The best way to end your day in Belém is by enjoying a boat tour on the river Tagus. You'll enjoy the best sunset, and from the shores, you'll enjoy a whole other perspective of Lisbon.

You can choose from a traditional sunset sightseeing cruise , or opt for a sunset party boat cruise that has a DJ and a bar.

⭐️ This is the best Lisbon sunset sightseeing cruise !

Day 5: Take a Day Trip from Lisbon

If you have 5 full days to spend in Lisbon, your 5th day is perfect for escaping the city and taking a nice day trip.

One of the most popular day trips from Lisbon takes you to Óbidos, Fatima, and Nazaré all in one day.

Óbidos is a walled city that was once a gift to King Denis's wife, Isabel.

Try a cherry-tasting liquor Ginjinha, walk along the castle walls, or enjoy one of the many festivals they celebrate throughout the year.

The Medieval Festival (held in July), the Chocolate Festival (held in April or May), and the Christmas Village (one of Europe's best Christmas markets – typically open from late November through December 31) are especially worth visiting if you're visiting while they're on.

Fatima is a religious place of pilgrimage, and Nazaré is known for the huge waves surfers try to master.

⭐️ BOOK NOW: Óbidos, Fatima, and Nazaré Day Trip

Other places worth visiting north of Lisbon are Tomar, Santarém, Coimbra, Mafra, and Batalha.

There are also great day trip options south of Lisbon. If you want to enjoy a day in nature, you can enjoy an excursion to Parque Natural da Arrábida or the Sado Estuary.

If you prefer visiting a city, Évora is the perfect choice.

This city has many historical highlights, such as the Roman Temple, the Cathedral of Évora, and the Chapel of Bones.

The chapel is adorned with skulls and bones of monks – it's a pretty remarkable sight!

Évora is located in the Alentejo region, known for its wine. After you visit the city, it's great to see one of the many wineries in the area.

You'll learn more about Portuguese grapes, how the wine is made, and of course, you get to drink it! 

⭐️ BOOK NOW: Évora Day Trip from Lisbon

5 Days in Lisbon: Top Lisbon Travel Tips

Ready to start planning the details of your Lisbon itinerary? Here are some helpful Lisbon travel tips!

When to Visit Lisbon

Lisbon is a year-round destination, so you really can't go wrong with visiting during any season.

The winters are mild, and there are some lovely Christmas Markets in December.

In May and June, the flowers start blooming.

The summers can be pretty hot, but there are always beaches nearby. Visit Costa da Caparica, for example, or discover the many beaches along the line between Lisbon and Cascais.

Praia de Santo Amaro, Praia de Carcavelos, and Praia do Tamariz are perfect to cool down!

In September, the weather gets colder again, and the city gets less busy (and cheaper to visit!).

Where to Stay in Lisbon: Hotel and Hostel Recommendations

Trying to decide where to stay in Lisbon? The city is home to lots of great hotels and affordable hostels to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:

Blue Liberdade Hotel

⭐️ Rating: 9.8/10

This hotel, perfectly located between Alfama and Bairro Alto, is one of the top-rated hotels in all of Lisbon. This is the perfect place to stay if you're visiting Lisbon for the first time and are looking for a conveniently-located hotel.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at Blue Liberdade Hotel

Sao Vicente Alfama by TRIUS Hotels

Another of Lisbon's top-rated hotels, this charming hotel also has some of the most affordable rates. The location is excellent too – it's right in the heart of Alfama.

⭐️ Check prices and availability at Sao Vicente Alfama

Lisboa Central Hostel

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10

Looking for the best hostel in Lisbon? Look no further than Lisboa Central Hostel. This hostel, perfect for solo or budget travelers, has both shared dorms and private rooms. They also offer free breakfast, free walking tours , and more fun activities to get to know your fellow travelers!

⭐️ Check prices and availability at Lisboa Central Hostel

Getting Around Lisbon

Wondering how to get around Lisbon? Here are some tips:

• Trams and Buses – Lisbon boasts an extensive network of trams and buses that connect various neighborhoods and attractions. The iconic yellow trams are a charming way to travel through the city's historic quarters. The fare for a single tram or bus ride is quite affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Lisbon Metro – The Lisbon Metro is a modern and efficient subway system that covers major parts of the city. It's a quick and convenient way to move around, especially for longer distances. You can purchase individual tickets or opt for reusable rechargeable cards for multiple trips.
• Funiculars and Elevators – Due to Lisbon's hilly terrain, the city offers funiculars and elevators to help you ascend its steeper slopes. These unique modes of transport not only get you where you need to go but also provide scenic views of the city.
• Walking – Lisbon is a city best explored on foot, especially in historic districts like Alfama and Bairro Alto. Exploring on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city and stumble upon cute cafés and hidden gems.
• Rental Bikes (Gira Bikes) – Lisbon's bike-sharing system offers a practical and eco-friendly option for getting around the city. Download the Gira app and grab a bike at one of the many stations, cycle along the riverside or through parks, and soak in the city's beauty at your own pace.
• Taxis and Ride Shares – Taxis are readily available in Lisbon, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are also popular and easily accessible. While they may be more expensive than public transport, they're very convenient, especially when you want to reach specific destinations quickly.

5 Days in Lisbon: FAQs

Is 5 days in lisbon enough.

Yes, 5 days is the perfect amount of time for your first visit to Lisbon. Spending 5 days in Lisbon allows you the time to visit Lisbon's tip sights as well as take day trips to nearby places like Sintra or Évora.

Is Lisbon a walkable city?

Yes, Lisbon is very walkable and is best explored on foot. Just be prepared for some steep hills – luckily, there are some elevators and funiculars to help you ascend the steep slopes without tiring out.

Is Lisbon friendly to American tourists?

Yes, Lisbon is generally friendly to American tourists. The locals are welcoming and many speak English. American tourists can explore its charm, immerse in the rich heritage, and experience warm hospitality throughout their visit.

What is the most beautiful part of Lisbon?

The Alfama district is often considered the most beautiful part of Lisbon. Its narrow, winding streets, historic buildings adorned with colorful tiles, and breathtaking views of the Tagus River contribute to the district's beauty.

Which part of Lisbon is best to stay?

The Baixa or Chiado neighborhoods are ideal places to stay in Lisbon. They are centrally located with easy access to major attractions as well as dining and shopping options. Both areas provide a perfect balance between convenience and immersion in the city's culture.

Is Uber available in Lisbon?

Yes, Uber is available in Lisbon. You use the same Uber app you use at home to call an Uber in Lisbon. Bolt is another popular ride-hailing app in Lisbon that's very similar to Uber.

5-Day Lisbon Itinerary: Final Thoughts

Spending 5 days in Lisbon is a great way to get an introduction to this incredible city.

Following this itinerary will maximize your time, seeing everything Lisbon has to offer while allowing for free time and day trips from the city.

After your trip, you’ll be ready to come back to Lisbon to explore even more!

Have you been to Lisbon? What would you add to your 5-day Lisbon itinerary?

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Advice on itinerary please - 2 weeks in Portugal - Portugal Forum

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Advice on itinerary please - 2 weeks in Portugal

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We are coming March - April, will it be nice in the Algarve then? Do we need so many days in Lagos or Cascais?

Please advise. Thank you!

• Day 1 - March 22nd - Arrival to Lisbon

• Day 2 - March 23rd - Lisbon

• Day 3 - March 24th - Sintra

• Day 4 - March 25th - Belém

• Day 5 - March 26th - Óbidos/Nazaré/ Porto

• Day 6 - March 27th - Porto

•. Day 7 - March 28th - Douro Valley

• Day 8 - March 29th - Porto/ Coimbra / Evora

• Day 9 - March 30th - Evora

• Day 10 - March 31st - Lagos (Algarve)

• Day 11 - April 1st - Lagos

• Day 12 - April 2nd - Lagos

• Day 13 - April 3rd - Cascais

• Day 14 - April 4th - Cascais

• Day 15th - April 5th - Lisbon Airport

4 replies to this topic

However you do not want a car in Lisbon (including Belém), Sintra or Porto.

Lagos in early April may or not have suitable weather in which to be out and about. This year it did not. Always a bit of a gamble, but if you have good reasons to be there other than a beach, all very good. Likewise Cascais is a seaside resort. You could easily stay in Lisbon and go out there for a day trip if the weather's good. It's only 40 minutes by train at a cost of €5,30 (2024 price) to get there and back. If the weather's not so good, see some more places in Lisbon.

The plan is to have a private driver in most places that require transportation.

Just a couple of quick ideas.

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Weather in the Algarve in June

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 22.04.2024

Sitting at the start of the summer high season, the weather in the Algarve  in June is warm and sunny, and enlivened by local events and festivals. As such, it’s easy to see why this region of Portugal is a hotspot for sun-drenched summer vacations. Read on for more detail on the weather in the Algarve in June, along with itinerary suggestions, and ideas for what to see and do during this high season month.

Highlights of the Algarve weather in June

Is june a good time to visit the algarve, average temperatures in the algarve in june, what about the crowds and cost, unforgettable customisable portugal itineraries.

• What to do and see in the Algarve in June

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• June marks the beginning of the summer peak season in the Algarve, with average highs of 25°C (77°F). 
• This month is perfect for outside activities like beach breaks, water sports, and family vacations
• June is one of the driest months , with sunny days and minimal rainfall (less than 15mm over the entire month)
• As summer heats up, the sea temperatures also become more inviting, averaging around 19°C (66°F), perfect for swimming and water activities.

Thinking of visiting the Algarve in June?  Take inspiration from our customisable Portugal itineraries and   read our year-round travel guide .

The weather in the Algarve in June is warm and sunny © Shutterstock

As you’ll have gathered from reading our highlights of the the weather in the Algarve in June, it's great month to visit if you’re looking for warm temperatures, long sunny days and minimal rainfall.

Add to that warming sea temperatures, and conditions amount to being perfect for beach activities, swimming, and enjoying the outdoors.

It’s also worth noting that while June is the start of the summer high season, it sees fewer crowds than July and August. 

So, if you want a summer break, but like having more space on the beach, and prefer visiting historic sites, museums, and castles without long waits or overcrowding, June will suit you down to the ground.

June is also cooler than July and August, which makes exploring natural parks (hello, Ria Formosa!) and hiking the likes of the Via Algarviana trail more comfortable.

If that wasn’t enough, June is also loaded with local festivals and events, some of which we cover below.

Still not sure where to head in summer? Discover more of the best places to visit in June .

 Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock

The weather in the Algarve in June sees an average low of 16°C (61°F) and an average high of 25°C (77°F).

For broader comparison, January ­— the coldest month of the year in the Algarve — sees an average temperature range of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). 

Meanwhile, the hottest months — July and August — experience a typical low of 18°C (64°F) and highs in the region of 28°C (82°F).

Want a fuller picture of the weather? Read up on the weather in Portugal in June beyond the Algarve.

You might also want more detail on when to go to Portugal around the year.

Bordeira, the Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock

As June sits at the start of the Algarve’s high season, crowds are on the big side, and so too are costs as demand rises through the month.

If you're looking for smaller crowds  — and slightly lower costs and cooler conditions — consider visiting the Algarve in September or May.

Also note that while June isn’t as crowded or costly as July and August, for smaller crowds — and an increased chance of paying less for flights and accommodation — you’ll want to visit earlier in the month.

As always, book as early as possible to secure your preferred resort, villa or guesthouse — some options will offer early bird discounts.

Editor’s tip : keen to avoid the crowds, and travel more responsibly? Discover where to get off the tourist trail in Portugal , and find out about sustainable tourism in the Algarve .

Old town in Albufeira, the Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Portugal, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a  Rough Guides’ local expert .

Enabling you to forgo the faff of planning and booking, they can be 100% tailored to your preferences to create your perfect trip.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• The Real Algarve Experience  (7 days):  based in the traditional fishing village of Olhao, this immersive trip will see you experience the Algarve in authentic style. With a focus on food and culture, you'll get to enjoy a private food tour, take a market-to-table cooking class, visit an olive farm, and enjoy a traditional sweet-making workshop. You’ll also spend time exploring the stunning islands of Ria Formosa lagoon.
• The Best of Portugal  (12 days):  taking in capital  Lisbon , historic  Porto , the lush Douro Valley, and the Algarve, this gives you the chance to explore historic sites in Lisbon and  Sintra  and sample world-class wine in the Douro Valley, with boat trips, beaches and UNESCO Heritage Sites aplenty.
• Discovering the Coast of Portugal  (11 days):  kicking off in picturesque Porto, where you’ll uncover historic sites and wineries, this diverse experience also includes Aveiro — known as the Venice of Portugal — the Algarve, national parks, charming traditional villages, and historic caves.

Explore more customisable  Portugal itineraries .

Rough Guides' trips can take you from Lisbon (pictured) to the Algarve © Shutterstock

What to do and see in the Algarve in June 

Given that June sees the start of summer high season, it’ll come as no surprise that this is a lively month to visit the Algarve.

Beyond hitting the beach and enjoying summer season nightlife, June is a great time to visit for festivals and water-based wildlife-watching.

Here are some of the best things to do and see in the Algarve in June.

Enjoy beautiful beaches

Come June,   the Algarve’s sea temperature is warm enough for swimming, and all beaches and resorts are fully operational. 

Known for its stunning cliffs and golden sands, the coastline is ideal for relaxation or enjoying water sports like surfing, sailing, and jet skiing.

Editor’s tip: if you’re in the market for a beach break, you’ll want to discover the most  beautiful beaches in Portugal .

Immerse yourself in local festivals

Held annually at the end of June, Festival Med in Loulé features a mix of world music, arts, and food stalls that showcase multicultural influences.

In addition, June sees Saints' Festivals celebrated around the region. For example, during the festivals of Santo António, São João and São Pedro in towns like Faro , Portimão and Albufeira you can enjoy traditional pageants, folk dancing, and feasting on sardines.

Watch wildlife from the water

June's splendid weather is ideal for exploring Ria Formosa Natural Park. Take a boat tour or kayak through the lagoons and channels to see diverse birdlife and picturesque islands.

June’s calm seas are also perfect for dolphin-watching boat trips, and visits to spectacular sea caves, especially around Lagos and Portimão.

Enjoy the nightlife

As the tourist high season kicks off, the nightlife in towns like Albufeira and Lagos ramps up a few notches, with beach bars and clubs offering DJs and live entertainment into the early hours.

For more inspiration, read up on the best things to do in Portugal .

Praia De Faro, Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock

To be better informed before booking your trip to Portugal , find out what to expect of the weather in the Algarve around the year.

• January: with a temperature range of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), this is the coldest month of year, with low-season tourist levels.
• February:  similar to January, but slightly warmer, February remains quiet, though the beginning of the Almond Blossom season attracts more visitors.
• March:  mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), March is a great month for outdoor activities without the crowds.
• April: with a pleasant temperature range of 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F), shoulder-season April sees more sun, less rain, and a rise in visitors around Easter.
• May: great beach weather begins in May, with warmer temperatures drawing more crowds, though it’s not nearly as busy as summer.
• July: July sees the Algarve turn hot, with average highs of 28°C (82°F). It also sits in the summer high season.
• August:  peak season continues in August, with high visitor numbers, vibrant nightlife, and similar temperatures to July.
• September:  September remains warm, but temperatures start to cool, and visitor numbers begin to taper off as the month wears on.
• October:  with average daily highs remaining around 23°C (73°F), this shoulder-season month is ideal if you prefer cooler weather and smaller crowds.
• November: sitting in low season, November sees cooler temperatures, and is a great time to visit for the likes of golf and exploring the countryside.
• December: cool and quiet, low-season December offers average temperatures of 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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