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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.

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

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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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The Ultimate 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary

Planning a trip to Portugal and don’t know where to start? I have my ultimate 10 days in Portugal itinerary that I’ve put together. After my fourth trip to Portugal, I’ve absolutely fallen in love with this country.

I’ve take the very best of all of my trips, all my travel tips for Portugal , and have put them in a single place. There is so much to do in Portugal, from the city to the countryside. I think one of the best ways to experience Portugal is to spend a few days in the city and then get out to visit the greater region.

Now, while I’ve done Lisbon three separate times, I always find myself wanting to spend a bit more time exploring. While I love the city, Portugal has a lot to discover that is under 2 hours drive from the city. That’s what I love most about this Portugal itinerary. You don’t have to travel long distances to see a wide variety of places.

So I’ve pulled together all of my Portugal trips into a single, condensed itinerary to help plan your trip. Read on to find where to stay, how to plan your time, and all the tips. This is my ultimate 10 days in Portugal itinerary.

Short on Time? Here is the Ultimate Portugal Itinerary for 10 Days:

Stop 1: lisbon and nearby day trips — 4 nights.

• Hotel Das Amoreiras or Memmo Principe Real , for the best Principal Real hotels
• The Lumiares or Lisboa Pessoa Hotel , for the best Bairro Alto hotels
• Memmo Alfama , for the best Alfama hotel

Stop 2: Evora — 2 nights

• Octant Evora , for the best overall hotel

Stop 3: Comporta — 3 nights

• Sublime Comporta , for the best overall hotel

What to Know Before Choosing Your Itinerary

How Much Time is Really Needed to Visit Portugal?

This is the top question always asked — how much is needed? I always recommend a minimum of a single week for Portugal. 10 days is not enough but will give you the right amount of time to visit a few things slowly. Lisbon alone takes three full days to properly see, and even a few more if you do day trips.

What is the Best Way to See Portugal?

When it comes to Lisbon and closeby places, by foot or public transport. To see the greater regions of Portugal, you will need a rental car. I’ve rented cars all over Europe, and by far, Portugal has been one of the cheapest yet. So ditch the car for cities like Lisbon or Porto, and take it to the beaches and countryside.

What Do I Need to Know About Renting a Car in Portugal?

You’re likely going to get a rental car in Portugal to do some portion of this itinerary. It’s easy to drive around, and recommended for ease. When deciding on a rental car:

• Do use Discover Cars to Book — They have the best rates and options for rentals, you can add full insurance at a reasonable rate, and more. This is my trusted site for booking.
• There are Toll Roads —Super simple solution: ask the rental car company to turn on the electronic transponder. You’ll get billed at the end and you don’t have to worry about having euros on you.
• Extra Drivers Cost More — If two of you drive, you’ll need to pay an additional driver fee by day. For Sixt, it was 10 euros daily.
• There is an Airport Surcharge — Each company has a different fee, but you’ll likely spend an additional 25 euros to pick up at the airport, which is no biggie since there is a major convenience in doing so.

What’s the Best Airport to Fly Into for Portugal?

If you’re coming international from the US, I always recommend Lisbon. You’re going to want to see the city anyways, and the flight options are the best. It also puts you at a great starting point for this itinerary.

How I Structured this 10 day Portugal itinerary

When I started honing on the best places and regions of Portugal to recommend, I had one thing in mind: slow, intentional travel. I wanted the logistics of the itinerary to make sense, cut down on travel time, and be practical.

This entire trip is essentially a loop beginning in Lisbon, and I’ve included a few extension ideas for places to visit. I’ve chosen destinations in Portugal that I feel aren’t always top of mind. They are incredible, beautiful, and often fewer in crowds (well, except Lisbon, but that’s a must see!).

The 10 Day Portugal Itinerary — Lisbon to Alentejo to Comporta

Stop 1: lisbon & nearby day trips.

Recommended Time: 4 nights

Getting into lisbon from the airport.

When it comes to getting into the city from Lisbon Airport, I always recommend either taking an Uber or pre-booking a transfer. I typically do an affordable pre-booked transfer for ease , and the drive time is around 20-30 minutes pending the time of day.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

I have a few favorite hotels in Lisbon, and neighborhoods. In Principe Real, I love Hotel Das Amoreiras or Memmo Principe Real . My go-to’s in Bairro Alto are The Lumiares or Lisboa Pessoa Hotel . In the Alfama, I love the Memmo Alfama for its location in the heart of the neighborhood.

For my full list of recommendations, read my guide on the best boutique hotels in Lisbon !

My Favorite Things to Do in Lisbon

• Soak in Views from the Miradouros — The city is full of them, and it’s one of the best way to get oriented. My personal favorite is Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara .
• Shop Local — The shopping is some of the best in Lisbon. I love shops like EmbaiXada , Claus Porto , Bernardo Atelier Lisboa , and A Vida Portuguesa .
• Stroll the Neighborhoods — Enjoy a quiet walk through the Alfama or even Bairro Alto, both have stunning views of the city. Stop into A Brasileira for the oldest coffee shop in town and cross the street to Livraria Bertrand – Chiado
• Take a Food Tour — These are such a great way to eat your way through Lisbon. I’d recommend this small group tour , this one with the reputable Eating Europe group , or this 17 tastings one.
• Visit the Belem Tower — It’s well worth pre-booking tickets and spending a chunk of time strolling around and taking in the views, and it’s right near Jeronimos Monastery . This walking tour is also a great way to experience both the Tower and the Monastery.
• Tour Jeronimos Monastery — Pre-book tickets to Jeronimos Monastery, the lines are usually for the chapel, which is beautiful but can also be viewed from above with a ticket to the conclaves (can’t be missed). I found myself loving an hour or two to stroll around.
• See MAAT Museum — One of my favorite museums in Lisbon to visit along the waterfront. Pre-book tickets here .
• Spend an Afternoon at LX Factory — They converted a ton of industrial factories into shops and restaurants, and there’s quite a few things to enjoy here. Find a rooftop bar, restaurants, and a wonderful book store too.
• Tour Ajuda National Palace — If you’re looking for grandeur and decorative art, come into the 19th-century palace where the royal residence once lived. Pre-book tickets here .

The Best Restaurants in Lisbon

• Time Out Market Lisboa — this food hall has everything you could want. If you want a good, no-res meal, come here.
• Magnolia — The it-girl right now of Lisbon, come in for any meal. The space is warm and inviting, and the food is it. *Reservation required
• Pica-Pau — This is where I’d go for traditional Portuguese food done highly well. Good spot to try bacalhau. *Reservation required
• Belcanto — Chef Jose Avillez runs the food scene in town and if you’re looking for fine dining, this is the one I’d book. *Reservation required
• Bairro Do Avillez — Several restaurants in one, this is where Chef Jose Avillez has several options for dining. I always love Minibar but wasn’t impressed last trip so I’d stick with Taberna in the front. *Reservation required
• Prado — for best farm to table cooking, this is where I’d come in for do big share plates with friends. *Reservation required
• A Cevicheria — One of the best ceviches in town, I go here every trip. *Reservation required
• Pasteis de Belem — If you want to skip the line, just past by the left and ask for a seat (much shorter than take away).

The Best Coffee Shops in Lisbon

• Hello, Kristof
• Copenhagen Coffee Lab & Bakery

Where to Take a Day Trip From Lisbon

There are so many wonderful day trips I have done over the years and I’ll share a few to consider for your trip. Any of these can typically be done by public transport, but a group tour may be good option too.

• Sintra — The most obvious day trip that one must do is Sintra. It’s home to magical castles and ancient times. Tour places like Castelo dos Mouros, Palacio Nacional da pena, Palacio Nacional de Sintra , and more (you need tickets in advance for all). And of course there is the traditional pastry house of Casa Piriquita which is well worth a visit. You can train there from Lisbon in 40 minutes on the Sintra Line or self-drive in 30 minutes. Some tours to consider are: a full day private tour , half day tour in classic car , or this complete tour full day tour.
• Cascais — Just south of Lisbon is my favorite seaside town of Cascais. Reach it in under 40 minutes by train and have the whole day at the beach and in town. I personally always do this one as I love the change of scenery.
• Ericeira — This is where to go for those who want to go surfing. You can reach it by direct bus in 40 minutes or by car. There is a lot in the small town from boutiques to shops, and the entire beach area.

Sample Itinerary for Lisbon ( My 4-Night Lisbon Itinerary here )

• Day 1 — Get settled in town. Walk your neighborhood. Get a coffee. Dinner at Timeout Market for ease.
• Day 2 — Explore Alfama and the city center. Get a coffee at A Brasilieira and ride a cable car. Have lunch at A Cevicheria. See the miradouros, shop local. Eat dinner at one of Chez Jose Avillez’ restaurants.
• Day 3 — Spend the morning to early afternoon out in Sintra or Cascais. Late afternoon at LX Factory and eat dinner at one of the restaurants there.
• Day 4 — Belem Tower in the morning, stop by Pasteis de Belem for breakfast. Tour the Jeronimos Monastery and then walk along the waterfront to the MAAT. Lunch at Magnolia. Cruise around Bairro Alto and the neighborhood. Dinner at Prado.

Stop 2: Evora

Recommended Time: 2 nights

Getting to evora from lisbon.

The best way to get to Evora from Lisbon to continue this itinerary is by rental car. I would transfer back to the airport and get your rental car there (or book in town with a drop-off at the airport at the end). I recommend booking with Discover Cars for the best rates and options for rentals. You can also add full insurance at a reasonable rate, and more.

Where to Stay in Evora

You have a few choices for accommodations in Evora, but I think the best it to be out in the countryside. I stayed at Octant Evora and enjoyed the natural setting. Some other hotels to consider as well are Imani Country House , Convento do Espinheiro , or L’AND Vineyards .

My Favorite Things to Do in Evora

• See the Historical Sights — You can spend all day walking on foot going from one historic sights to the next. Stop into the  Roman Temple of Évora , see the Chapel of the Bones , and definitely go into the Cathedral of Evora (climb the stairs to the rooftop!)
• Do Some Local Shopping — There are several local boutiques in town like Oxalá , O Cesto Artesanato , and Livraria Fonte de Letras . Get things like olive oil, cork products, and more.
• Go Wine Tasting in The Valley — With several wineries within reach, I’d spend an afternoon at one of them like Fitapreta Vinhos or even L’AND Vineyards .

For more Evora recommendations, don’t miss my full guide to Evora, Portugal !

Where to Eat in Evora

• Botequim da Mouraria — One of the best meals of my last trip, line up early for open to get a seat at this 8-person bar. All dishes made by the owner and chef, this is where to come for the classics.
•   Fialho — The spot to come for all the classics like roasted lamb and local cheeses. *Reservation required
• Dom Joaquim  — Great local spot for elevated dining, it’s one of the most popular restaurants in town. *Reservation required
• Cavalariça Évora — Though there is one in Comporta, the Cavalariça Group opened doors in Evora. I’d pop in for a leisurely lunch here. *Reservation required

Things to Do Nearby Evora

• Visit the Village of Monsaraz — I would spend a full day exploring the valley, going all the way out to Monsaraz. The small hilltop village is so stunning, and well worth a couple of hours.
• Shop Ceramics in Corval — Known as one of the best ceramic towns in Portugal, I’d come here to shop at the “olarias” in the town. I loved Olaria Tavares .
• Stop at São Lourenço do Barrocal for Lunch — Out in the valley is the prestigious hotel , and well worth stopping for lunch at their tavern restaurant . Idyllic views, this was one of my favorite things I did.
• Visit the Village of Montemor-o-Novo — On your way from Lisbon, I’d pop into the historic town to stroll the streets and tour its ancient castle at the top.

Sample Itinerary for Evora

• Day 5 — Drive Lisbon to Evora, stop in Montemor-o-Novo along the way. Spend the whole day in Evora, see all the sights, eat lunch at Botequim da Mouraria or Cavalariça. Check into hotel, relax. Dinner at Dom Joaquim.
• Day 6 — Depart to tour the valley. Stop in Corval to shop pottery. Go to Monsaraz to tour village. Eat lunch at São Lourenço do Barrocal. Head out to the wineries like Fitapreta. Come back to Evora for a dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Stop 3: Comporta

Recommended Time: 3 nights

Getting to comporta from evora.

On your morning out of Evora, leave mid-morning to make the 1.5-2 hour drive out to the coast. It’s a leisurely drive, make sure your car is full on gas. The roads are easy to navigate, windy at times, but straightforward.

Where to Stay in Comporta

There is no more prestigious property than Sublime Comporta . It’s luxurious, super well done, has all of the amenities. So if you’re looking to splurge, I would book in there. I’d consider other properties like Spatia Comporta , Quinta da Comporta , and AlmaLusa Comporta .

My Favorite Things to Do in Comporta

• Spend time at the beach . There’s not a more better way than to just be at the beach in Comporta. The main ones are  Praia da Comporta ,  Praia do Pego ,  Praia da Torre , and  Praia do Carvalhal .
• Relax poolside. Book in a few hours to just stay at your property and enjoy.
• Shop town. Comporta town has a few small local shops for home and lifestyle goods. Stop into  Rice – Marta Mantero ,  Lavanda , and  Mercearia Gomes .
• Drive down to the village of Melides. This up-and-coming town has a lot to offer. From its main beach to the iconic Hotel Vermelho which was opened by Christian Louboutin, you could spend a half day here. I’d shop at Vida Dura , eat lunch at the hotel, and stroll the town.
• Go Horseback Riding. With  Cavalos na Areia , you embark on a 1.5 hour horseback tour down to the beach with a guide.

For more Comporta recommendations, don’t miss my full guide to Comporta !

Where to Eat in Comporta

• Sublime Comporta Beach Club — This was my favorite spot for a beachside meal. Order the paella and enjoy the sunset views. *Reservation required
• Cavalariça — One of the best meals in town. I really loved how paired down yet elegant this meal was.
• ALMO Café — Stop in here for lunch at least one day, the outdoor patio is lovely. *Reservation required
• Sal — Another classic, I’ve been here several years ago and it was just as packed as last time. *Reservation required

Sample Itinerary for Comporta

• Day 7 — Drive from Evora to Comporta in the mid-morning. Stop in town for lunch at ALMO Café. Head to hotel and check in to enjoy for the night. Sunset dinner at Sal or Sublime Beach Club.
• Day 8 — Slow morning at the hotel. Stop into Mercearia Gomes to pick up things for a picnic. Spend day at the beach. Dinner at Cavalariça.
• Day 9 — Head down to Melides. Spend morning at beach. Lunch in town at the Hotel Vermelho, shop at Pura Vida. Afternoon at pool or horseback riding. Dinner at at Sal or Sublime Beach Club.
• Day 10 — Check out and head back to Lisbon for flight home — or continue on to another destination.

If You Have More Time

For more beaches & small towns.

If you have more time to spend in Portugal and want to make it a 2 week itinerary, you easily could. From Comporta, I would continue on to the Algarves. It’s the most obvious choice for ease and you can drive down the coast in a few hours. Towns like Faro, Albufeira, Lagos, and Sagres are popular. You will need car.

For Small City & Wine Region

If you wanted to head north for a small city and wineries, I would return you car to Lisbon Airport or Lisbon Train station and go to Porto. Porto is another lovely region to visit. From there a few nights in Porto is lovely with a visit to the Douro Valley. You can get there by direct train from Lisbon so you could skip the car.

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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The Perfect 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)

Colorful, vibrant, diverse, delicious, and surprising: after working your way through this 10 days in Portugal itinerary, those are just a few adjectives that you may find yourself trying–and failing–to sum up this gorgeous country with.

Despite its small size and somewhat isolated position in the far southwestern corner of Europe, the sheer variety of things to do and see on a trip to Portugal is astounding.

And–thanks to the aforementioned small size–you can sample a decent portion of the best places to visit in Portugal in 10 days.

We’ve now been living in Portugal as American ex-pats for about a year, and with every beach town, historic monastery, cozy restaurant, and quirky museum visited, we find something else that we love about traveling in Portugal.

And, thanks to having family and friends come to visit, we’ve had the opportunity to test-drive much of this suggested itinerary for Portugal on our various loved ones, too.

If you are planning your first trip to (mainland) Portugal and are hoping to see as much as possible, we have you covered!

Here’s how to enjoy an incredible 10 days in Portugal.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 10 Day Portugal Itinerary

Getting around during your 10 days in portugal, the ultimate 10 days in portugal itinerary, other portugal destinations to add to your itinerary, tips for making the most of portugal in 10 days, the best time of year to visit portugal, what to pack for your trip to portugal.

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.

We’ve intentionally structured this Portugal itinerary as a loop beginning and ending in Lisbon.

In addition to the capital city, we’ll cover stops in Sintra , Porto , the Douro Valley, and the Algarve.

While a quick glance at a map is enough to tell you that starting and ending your trip in Lisbon isn’t the most geographically sensible thing to do, it’s what most visitors end up doing simply because Lisbon has–by far–the biggest international airport in Portugal.

If you happen to get a good flight deal, starting your trip in Porto and ending in Faro (home to the Algarve’s international airport) is another option.

However, unless you’re flying to and from another destination in Europe, it’s unlikely to make sense for your vacation.

While there are plenty of modifications you can make to this itinerary (and we’ll cover many of them below), this Portugal itinerary as written goes like this:

• Day 1 : Arrive in Lisbon.
• Day 2 : Lisbon
• Day 3 : Sintra
• Day 4 : Take the train to Porto.
• Day 5 : Porto
• Day 6 : The Douro Valley
• Day 7 : Travel to the Algarve.
• Day 8 : The Algarve
• Day 9 : The Algarve
• Day 10 : Travel back to Lisbon and head home.

This itinerary for Portugal is best accomplished with a mix of transportation.

Within Lisbon and Porto, traveling on foot, via public transportation, and via taxi are sufficient.

To travel from Lisbon to Porto, we recommend taking the train, and we break down the details of that process in this Lisbon to Porto travel guide .

For train tickets, we recommend checking prices and timetables via Omio .

In the Algarve, your life will be much easier with a rental car, though–with some modifications–you can get by without one in a pinch.

We recommend searching for your 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.

The trickiest travel day on this route is between Porto and the Algarve, when, depending on your travel style, you may prefer to fly, take the train, or drive, and we’ll go into more detail on that below.

Shop rental cars and train tickets for your trip to Portugal today!

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon and start exploring the city.

If you’re traveling to Portugal from North America, odds are very high that you’ll arrive early in the morning, exhausted, jet-lagged… and excited to see the city.

Head into the city by cab or metro (cab is the fastest and most comfortable), drop your luggage off at your hotel and enjoy your first round of pasteis de nata over coffee.

From there, it’s time to explore the city–starting with one of its highest points.

Morning: Alfama + Castelo de São Jorge

For your first morning in Lisbon, start by heading to the city’s very highest point: the remains of Castelo de São Jorge , which boasts one of the most stunning views of Lisbon.

Keep in mind that not much is left of Castelo de São Jorge–there are walls, ramparts, views, history, and peacocks.

Even so, it’s consistently ranked one of the best things to do in Lisbon, including by most of our visitors (and the lines get ridiculous, so nab skip-the-line tickets online before you go).

From there, head downhill to explore Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood and one of the only parts of the city that wasn’t destroyed in the infamous 1755 earthquake.

Here, you’ll see many Lisbon postcards come to life, including the views from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, the famous Tram 28 (though we don’t recommend riding it–just snap photos from outside) and the Lisbon Cathedral.

Wander your way through the tiny streets of Alfama, vaguely making your way toward the Praça do Comércio.

Book skip-the-line tickets to visit Castelo de São Jorge today!

Afternoon: Baixa + A Food Tour

When you find yourself at the Praça do Comércio, you’re in Baixa, the heart of Lisbon’s downtown that was reimagined and rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake.

You’ll no doubt be able to feel the difference in architecture as compared to more medieval Alfama!

Enjoy the square and accompanying views of the river, and then head inland, through the beautiful Arco da Rua Augusta and up through Lisbon’s shopping district.

Make your way past Rossio Square, and check out the Church of São Domingos.

At this point, you may be completely burned out with jetlag–but hopefully not.

If you can rally, we highly recommend signing up for this food tour , which we loved and is one of a few that we have taken in Lisbon.

We had a great time on the tour and found it to be a great quick introduction to Portuguese cuisine.

In other words, it’s the perfect activity for the beginning of your first trip to Portugal (and it will save you from having to figure out where to eat dinner your first day, too).

Sign up for your Lisbon food tour today!

Where to Stay in Lisbon

We recommend basing yourself in Lisbon for your first 3 nights in Portugal.

While there are plenty of excellent neighborhoods to stay in throughout Lisbon, we recommend picking somewhere central with good transportation connections around the city.

Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real, and Barrio Alto are great names to keep an eye out for when browsing places to stay.

For a budget-friendly hostel experience (with private rooms available), the  Sunset Destination Hostel  is a great, centrally located option.

At a mid-range price tag, you can’t beat the location or rave reviews for  Tempo FLH Hotels Lisboa .

Looking for a splurge?

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa  is part of the much-acclaimed Small Luxury Hotels of the World Collection, and offers stunning views that you won’t forget anytime soon!

Check rates & book your stay in Lisbon today!

Day 2: Enjoy more of Lisbon’s highlights.

The second day of your Portugal itinerary is all about continuing to get to know Lisbon, covering a mix of the capital’s top attractions and cultural delights.

Morning: Bairro Alto + Chiado

Start your morning in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto (high town) and Chiado, exploring a corner of the historic center that you didn’t get to see yesterday!

Highlights include the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara, the overwhelming Church of São Roque, the Carmo Convent, and a stop at Livraria Bertrand , the oldest still-operating bookstore in the world.

If you’re a fan of glitzy cafes, consider also grabbing a coffee and pastry at A Brasileira .

Afternoon: Belém + The Jerónimos Monastery

Next up on your Portugal itinerary, head down to the popular riverside neighborhood of Belém .

Here, you’ll find the famous Jerónimos Monastery and accompanying church (the church is free to enter, the monastery is not), the gorgeous Belém Tower (you don’t need to go in, but it’s worth seeing the exterior), the Monument of the Discoveries, and stunning views of the Tagus River.

You’ll also find the wildly popular Pastéis de Belém, which serves up the original pastéis de nata.

Yes, they are worth the long line (hint: the table service line is often much shorter than the takeaway line!), but if standing in line for carbs isn’t your thing, Manteigaria , another popular Lisbon bakery, has a location just down the street.

Meanwhile, the Jerónimos Monastery, while a must-see, is home to some of the longest lines for any tourist attraction in Portugal! Pre-book your ticket and, since you’re visiting Belém in the afternoon, consider going close to closing time (we took the photos of the monastery that are included in this post on a September afternoon close to closing time).

Grab your Jerónimos Monastery tickets today!

If you’re a speedy sightseer, you might even be able to squeeze in an extra offbeat museum (we love the National Coach Museum) or viewpoint while visiting Belém– here’s our guide to the neighborhood .

Evening: Sunset Boat Tour or Fado Show

In the evening, close out your day with a sunset boat cruise on the Tagus River, soaking in some of the best views of Lisbon, the Tagus, and the Ponte 25 Abril Bridge from the water.

We absolutely loved our sunset cruise experience in Lisbon and highly recommend it–kicking back and relaxing with beautiful views is the perfect way to end a busy sightseeing day.

Not into cruises? Alternatively, you could opt to attend a Fado show instead, to experience a different side of Portuguese culture.

If you prefer to enjoy a Fado show, we recommend reversing this day’s itinerary, starting with Jerónimos Monastery as soon as it opens and then ending your day in Chiado.

Book your sunset boat cruise or Fado show today!

Day 3: Take a day trip to Sintra (and beyond).

Set in the hills just outside of Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra–complete with several fantastic palaces–is easily among the most popular places to visit in Portugal.

From the beauty of the distinctive yellow-and-red Pena Palace to the quirky Alice in Wonderland vibes of Quinta da Regaleira to the stunning views from the Moorish Castle and beyond, visiting Sintra is incredibly memorable and worth the effort.

… But, its popularity also has another side effect: the palaces of Sintra are among the most crowded places included on this travel itinerary, so be prepared for that.

With 10 days in Portugal, you’ll want to visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon, and that essentially leaves you 2 options: travel by public transportation, or on a guided day trip like this .

This day trip is one of the most popular tours in Portugal and includes visits to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira as well as Cabo da Roca (long believed to be the westernmost point of mainland Europe, now simply a stunning viewpoint), and a short stop in the resort town of Cascais .

The pros of taking a tour are simple: as the palaces in Sintra are far enough apart that you can’t walk between most of them and parking is very tricky, it saves you time and allows you to see more.

The cons are simple too: with so many stops to make, you won’t have much time to linger.

If you’d rather travel independently, you can absolutely do that as well, though we recommend nabbing your tickets for Pena Palace and other popular places in advance.

The train takes about 40 minutes from central Lisbon.

Once you arrive in Sintra, you’ll board one of 2 buses that will take you to your first palace, and then (depending on which palaces you choose to see) another to your second and maybe third, depending on how fast you explore.

When you’re finished, you can head back to Lisbon via train or simply call an Uber (we tend to do this).

Book your Sintra day trip today!

Alternative Day Trip: Obidos + the UNESCO Monasteries

Not into touring palaces (and fighting crowds to do so) or admiring views of the sea?

I can’t say I entirely understand, but I do have an excellent alternative for travelers more interested in small towns and historic architecture: instead of heading to Sintra and the coast, head to Óbidos and (some of) the nearby UNESCO monasteries of Alcobaça, Batalha, and Tomar.

I’ll describe these destinations in a bit more detail in the “other destinations” sections below, but if 700-year-old monasteries and medieval castle walls you can climb on for free sound like your idea of a good time, you’ll love them.

For this day trip, you’ll want to either rent a car for the day or sign up for an organized day trip like this to handle the transportation and logistics.

Honestly, these are some of my favorite places in Portugal, so it pains me not to include them in the full itinerary–and they’re certainly worthy of a day of your time.

Book your UNESCO monasteries + Obidos day trip today!

Day 4: Head north to Porto.

This morning, it’s time to check out your hotel and head north to Porto!

Morning: Train to Porto

The easiest way to travel from Lisbon to Porto during your 10 days in Portugal is to take the train, which travels directly between the 2 cities and takes about 3.5 hours.

Most trains leave from Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia Station and run consistently throughout the day.

We go into more detail on managing the journey between the 2 cities in this blog post .

We recommend booking your train tickets for the earliest time you feel comfortable with–the sooner you get to Porto, the better!

Shop train tickets from Lisbon to Porto today!

Afternoon/Evening: Porto’s Historic Center

Once you arrive in Porto, drop your bags off at your hotel (if it’s not time for check-in yet, they should be able to hold them in the lobby for you) and get ready to explore!

If you’re looking for a quick lunch, the roast pork and soft cheese sandwich at Casa Guedes is a great place to start.

From there, we recommend checking out some of Porto’s attractions that are further from the river, such as the Chapel of Souls, the Church of Saint Ildefonso, and Rua Santa Catarina.

If you have time, head over to the Church of Carmo, as and soak up the view from Miradouro da Vitória.

And, of course, you can’t forget the very first attraction you’ll see as you arrive in Porto: the interior of the São Bento train station is magnificent!

Where to Stay in Porto

We’ve visited Porto several times now, and have made a habit of staying at Pestana Porto – A Brasileira or NH Hotel Porto Batalha during our visits.

Both hotels are beautiful, with excellent customer service and incredibly central locations that both make it easy to explore Porto on foot and easy to check in when arriving by train.

(They both also welcome Ranger, a must for us).

If you’re traveling Portugal on a budget, the Zero Box Lodge Porto gets excellent reviews.

We recommend spending 3 nights in Porto during your Portugal vacation.

Check rates & book your stay in Porto today!

Day 5: Explore Porto in-depth.

While day 4 of this itinerary involved traveling from Lisbon and day 6 will include a day trip, day 5 is all about diving deep into the city of Porto.

Morning: More of Porto’s Historic Center

After a leisurely brunch (we can heartily recommend Floresta Cafe and Esquires Coffee, both of which we’ve eaten at many times), make your way to Clerigos Tower to enjoy one of the most stunning views of Porto!

From there, check out the Porto Cathedral–while the church is free to enter, it’s well worth forking over a few Euro to explore the cloisters and attached museum, too.

Meander down toward the gorgeous Bolsa Palace (if you want to go inside, you’ll need to book a 30-minute guided tour ) and the Church of San Francisco, which is home to a downright stunning interior!

Afternoon/Evening: Ribeira + Vila Nova de Gaia

When you wrap up with the Porto attractions above, you’ll be very close to the Ribeira district: Porto’s colorful, vibrant riverside.

Once the haunt of fishermen and sailors, and now the haunt of tourists, the Ribeira district is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy views of Porto.

Like many picturesque neighborhoods around the world, the restaurants here tend to be expensive and mediocre, but you can find occasional gems (we enjoyed our meal at Grupo Desportivo Infante D. Henrique, which has a great view but is a bit out of the hustle and bustle).

From Ribeira, make your way across the (lower level of the) Dom Luis I Bridge, to Vila Nova de Gaia.

This charming riverfront is technically a separate city from Porto, but it’s also home to all of the port lodges, and no trip to Porto is complete without a port tasting!

This port cellar tour and tasting will give you a good idea of what to expect from a typical tasting, and you can either opt for an organized tour or a build-your-own adventure experience ( Quinta dos Corvos is a personal favorite lodge of ours).

This is also where you can hop on a 6 Bridges Cruise to experience Porto from the water for an hour–a delightful experience in and of itself.

Once you wrap up exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, ride the cable car back up to the top of the Dom Luis I Bridge, where you’ll be treated to gorgeous views over the city and an easy walk back to your hotel.

Day 6: Take a day trip to the Douro Valley.

Today, set off from Porto to visit one of the most dreamy destinations in Portugal: the Douro Valley.

Set a couple of hours east of Porto (give or take), the Douro Valley is the origin of the famous port wine and the oldest demarcated wine region in the world.

Here, the wine grows on dramatic terraces leading to the Douro River and, due to how steep the terraces are, the grapes are still harvested by hand.

And, as beautiful as the photos of the Douro Valley are, I have to say: this is one part of Portugal that photography simply sells short.

It is even more stunning in person!

On a day trip to the Douro Valley from Porto, you’ll have time to take in a few mesmerizing viewpoints, attend a port tasting or two at the source, and possibly take a cruise along the Douro River.

While you can rent a car and drive out to a quinta or two yourself, this is one day where a guided tour makes absolute sense.

The best viewpoints in the Douro Valley, while stunning, can require a bit of tricky driving, and for obvious reasons, port tastings and driving on tiny, winding, unfamiliar roads don’t mix well.

With only 10 days in Portugal to work with, this is an area where it’s easier to let experts deal with the legwork.

There are many excellent tours out there, usually offering some combination of a couple of port tastings, a lunch, and a river cruise in the town of Pinhão (if you get a chance to check out the azulejo-covered train station while you’re in Pinhão, be sure to take it).

This day trip is an excellent option for those who want to focus exclusively on the Douro Valley, and this tour is a fun alternative who want to combine the Douro Valley with a stop in the charming small town of Amarante .

Book your Douro Valley day trip today!

Day 7: Make your way from Porto to Lagos.

Without a doubt, traveling from Porto all the way to the country’s southern shores in Lagos is the longest travel day on this 10 day Portugal itinerary.

You essentially have 3 options: first, rent a car and drive, which will likely incur a one-way rental fee (they’re usually quite reasonable, but double-check).

The drive is about 5 hours (360 miles/575 kilometers), not including stops.

Alternatively, you could take the train (6.5 hours and 1-2 changes), or fly to Faro (about an hour of flight time, then another hour to drive to Lagos).

All of the options have their pros and cons, you can price rental cars via Discover Cars here and check train and flight tickets on Omio here . Personally, we’d rather drive or take the train, as we generally consider flying more hassle than it’s worth for distances this short.

Regardless, once you arrive in the Algarve, you’ll likely want a car–so if you don’t pick one up in Porto, you’ll want to grab one once you arrive!

Evening: Lagos’ Historic Center + Ponta da Piedade

Once you arrive in Lagos and get checked into your hotel, you’ll potentially still have a bit of daylight left to work with! Start getting to know the town by wandering the historic center and waterfront.

Fort Ponta da Bandeira is always worth a look and, if it’s still open when you arrive, the Church of Santo Antonio is a must-see.

Ponta da Piedade, one of the most stunning viewpoints in all of Portugal, is a 10-minute drive or 45-minute walk from the center of town and is an excellent place to be at sunset.

Where to Stay in Lagos

Lagos is one of the most beloved beach towns in the Algarve and makes an excellent final base to round off your 10 days in Portugal.

Look for hotels within walking distance of the historic center, ideally with on-site parking, and you’ll be well-positioned to explore the region.

We adored our stay at Tivoli Lagos and would be thrilled to return to enjoy the beautiful property, gorgeous pool, restaurants, and delicious included breakfast again.

With free parking (almost) on-site, comfortable rooms, and incredibly easy access to Lagos’ attractions, Tivoli Lagos is a fantastic place to stay.

Hotel Lagosmar is another excellent nearby option, and Dream Lagos B&B is a fantastic place to stay when visiting Portugal on a budget.

We recommend staying in Lagos for 2-3 nights.

Check rates & book your stay in Lagos today!

Day 8: See the best of Lagos + nearby towns.

Today is all about enjoying the best of the Algarve, both from land and sea!

Morning: Boat Tour From Lagos

Start your morning with a boat tour from Lagos , which will show you Ponta da Piedade and the coastline of the Algarve from a whole new level.

With any luck, you may spot a few dolphins, as well (though if that’s your focus, a dolphin spotting cruise might be more your speed).

If you’re looking for something more physically active than a boat ride, there are kayaking options as well!

Book your Ponta da Piedade boat tour today!

Afternoon/Evening: Algarve Town-Hopping

Lagos may be a wonderful place to visit in Portugal, but it’s surrounded by plenty of other gorgeous, white-washed towns that also deserve to be explored.

Albufeira (busy, beautiful, known for its nightlife) and Ferragudo (charming, laid-back) are both a short drive away and worthy of a visit.

Looking for something a bit more out of the way?

Sagres (yes, like the beer!) is located on the southwestern tip of mainland Europe, about a 40-minute drive from Lagos, and is also a gorgeous option.

It’s best known as a surfing destination, but the town center and scenic views from its 15th-century fortress are also worth checking out.

Alternative: Beach Time

Of course, after more than a week of intense sightseeing around Portugal, the idea of even more tours, towns, and attractions may sound more exhausting than invigorating!

If that’s you, don’t worry: the Algarve has plenty of beaches ready to help you relax as long as you need.

Praia Meia, Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Estudantes, and Praia do Pinhão are just a handful of the many dreamy beaches in the immediate vicinity of Lagos (some within walking distance) that are excellent places to relax.

Fair warning, though: if you hail from a hot climate like us, the beaches of the Algarve don’t have particularly warm water, even in the height of summer.

Day 9: Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and kayak to Benagil Cave.

Hiking, kayaking, and coastal views are what your last full day in Portugal is all about!

Of course, there’s also the perfectly valid option of relaxing on (or continuing to relax on) one of the Algarve’s many legendary beaches today instead–more on that in a bit.

Morning: Bengail Cave + Carvoeiro

If you’ve seen photos of a sea cave in Portugal, odds are it was of the stunning Benagil Cave.

This absolutely gorgeous cave is an iconic spot in the Algarve, and experiencing it yourself is one of the best things to do in Portugal!

In order to access Benagil Cave, you’ll need to do so from the water–and  kayaking  (or SUPing) the 200m required is the perfect option.

Don’t want to kayak or SUP?

You can still visit Benagil Cave, but here’s the catch: regulations prevent boat tours like this popular one from letting participants disembark in the cave.

If you want that iconic view of Benagil Cave from standing on the small beach inside, you’ll have to sweat a bit to get it!

However, a boat tour has its benefits as well, including more time to visit several other sea caves in the area.

Once you wrap up visiting Benagil Cave–or if you’d rather not–the town of Carvoeiro, where the cave is located, is well worth a wander (and its beach is a wonderful place to enjoy some time on the sand).

Book your Benagil Cave kayaking tour  or  small boat tour  today!

Afternoon/Evening: Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Often considered one of the best hikes in Portugal, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail stretches 6 kilometers each way and runs from Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes.

This out-and-back trail is absolutely stunning and one of our favorite places in Portugal, and the very top photo of this Portugal blog post was snapped when we were hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. Featuring magnificent views all the way through, every step of this moderate trail is a delight.

You’ll even hike right over the Benagil Cave, though a fence prevents you from being able to see into the cave very well.

Alternative: Beach Day

If you’re looking for a beach to enjoy as you get ready to wrap up your 10 day Portugal itinerary, you can’t beat the iconic Praia da Marinha.

Situated at one end of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, the Praia da Marinha is absolutely stunning and a fantastic place to either enjoy the sand or admire from above.

Countless publications, including the Michelin Guide, have ranked Praia da Marinha as one of the most beautiful beaches on Earth over the years, and to see it in person is to fully understand why.

There’s parking near the beach, and if you’re not up for a full hike, you can always hike however much of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail you would like from there, and then double back to the beach when you’re ready.

Day 10: Make your way back to Lisbon and say goodbye to Portugal.

… over one more pastel de nata, probably!

Honestly, depending on what time your flight leaves, you may need to return to Lisbon on the evening of day 9 instead.

But, since Lagos and Lisbon are less than 3 hours apart by car, you can still have a full day of exploring and then drive back the evening of your 9th day.

If you have an evening flight out and wake up in the Algarve this morning, we recommend getting one last glimpse of the sea if you have time!

It’s very tempting to simply use this section to make a list of all the incredible places that we love in Portugal–but that’s not particularly helpful!

However, if you have more than 10 days to work with–say, around 2 weeks in Portugal or so–here are the destinations we’d strongly consider adding to your itinerary.

You won’t have time for all of them, even with a full 14 days to work with, but some will likely catch your eye more than others.

And, all of these places are within around 2 hours of Lisbon, Porto, or both, making them smooth additions to your route.

One of our absolute favorite small towns in Portugal, Obidos lies about an hour north of Lisbon and is completely surrounded by the intact walls of its medieval castle.

And, one of the best things to do in Obidos is to simply stroll along the tops of those walls!

Check our our guide to the best things to do in Obidos!

Alcobaça + Batalha + Tomar

The monasteries of Alcobaça and Batalha, plus the Convent of Christ of Tomar, are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are located within fairly short drives of each other, only 1.5 hours or so north of Lisbon.

They also happen to be typically uncrowded and are some of my favorite places in Portugal!

Tomar, and the Convent of Christ of Tomar in particular, has 12th-century roots in the Knights Templar.

All 3 destinations have absolutely mesmerizing architecture and are well worth visiting.

(Entrance to all 3 is also included with the Lisbon Card , so if you plan to purchase the card, try to structure your visits here so they’ll be covered).

As Lisbon’s most convenient beach/resort town (less than an hour by train or car), Cascais is a local and tourist favorite!

From relaxing on the beaches to checking out fun attractions like the Boca do Inferno and the Castro Guimaraes Museum (well worth the 4 Euro entry fee), Cascais is a fun addition to any Portugal itinerary.

It also doesn’t take long to see: whether you have 2 hours or 2 days, you’ll have fun in Cascais.

Here’s our guide to taking a day trip to Cascais.

Braga, located northeast of Porto, is best known for its famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bom Jesus de Monte.

Exploring the city center, and visiting the many other historic churches in the city (including the Braga Cathedral), are also well worth your time.

As the capital of Portugal’s Alentejo region, Évora makes a fantastic day trip from Lisbon or an overnight addition to a Portugal itinerary.

While you’re there, don’t miss the 12th-century Gothic Cathedral, the spooky Chapel of Bones, or the remains of a 2000-year-old Roman temple that you can find in the center of the city.

Check out our guide to the best things to do in Évora!

Known as the “birthplace of Portugal”, Guimarães is located in the north of the country, not far from Braga and within day-tripping distance from Porto.

The 10th-century Guimarães Castle and the 15th-century palace of the Duke of Bragança are among the best things to see in town, but don’t miss the chance to explore the historic center, either!

Home to the UNESCO World Heritage-recognized University of Coimbra, Portugal’s “third city” is incredibly beautiful and mixes ornate architecture and lengthy history (it was the capital of Portugal from 1139 to 1385) with youthful energy.

Note that Coimbra is located along the train route between Lisbon and Porto, and is a very easy stop to add between the two.

Choose your day trips based on your travel style.

We’ve structured this 10 day Portugal itinerary to cover the country’s biggest highlights in a short amount of time–which, realistically speaking, means visiting some places (Sintra, for example) that tend to be crowded.

If you know that you’re a fan of quieter, more offbeat destinations, Lisbon and Porto both have an overwhelming number of options!

Instead of Sintra, for example, you could head to Évora or Tomar.

Instead of the Douro Valley, you could visit Braga and Guimarães .

There are no wrong answers, and there are far more incredible things to see in Portugal than you can cover in less than 2 weeks.

Don’t overextend your itinerary.

Given Portugal’s compact nature (it’s about the same size as Indiana) it can be very tempting to add on “just one more!” destination to your travel plans. Try to resist the urge, though!

This itinerary for Portugal is already very fast-paced as written, and you don’t want to end up spending all of your time in a car or on a train instead of enjoying the country.

Carefully consider how you’ll get from place to place.

While Portugal’s train system is very useful in some areas–like traveling between Lisbon and Porto–it can get a bit more complex on other routes.

Even traveling between Lisbon and Lagos via train , for example, requires making a change.

And taking a day trip to Évora from Lisbon via train, while it looks simple on paper, requires some careful planning, as there are only 2 trains per day.

Rental cars can come in handy here, and for places very close to a major city (like Cascais and Sintra), so can taxis and/or Ubers.

Check train routes + schedules in Portugal today!

Bring shoes with an excellent grip.

Portugal’s traditional pavement, or  calçada portuguesa , is one of the most distinctive features of the country’s cities and towns (though you’ll also find it in many of the places Portugal once colonized).

These walkways are beautiful, distinctive, and quite slippery–especially in the rain.

Watch your step, especially on hills, and opt for shoes with some grip on them!

Be prepared to climb lots of hills.

Most of the places included on this 10 day Portugal itinerary, including both Lisbon and Porto, are famous for their steep hills!

Be prepared to get a workout when exploring both cities, as well as in places like Sintra.

Portugal is the epitome of a year-round destination, and this itinerary for Portugal in 10 days is equally viable in January and July.

There will be a few things that change with the seasons, of course–the Algarve in January will mean more pleasant hiking but no swimming, and you’ll certainly fight more crowds at Pena Palace in August than you would in March–but the overall structure of the route is solid at any time of the year.

Portugal’s winters are extremely mild but can be wet, especially in the north.

Plan for rain if you’re visiting in the winter, but that’s no reason to cancel your trip.

After all, you could just as easily end up with January weather in the Algarve that looks like this:

If we had to pick our absolute favorite times to recommend for visiting Portugal, we’d recommend April/May (the jacaranda trees blooming in Lisbon in May is a special bonus!), and September/October.

In other words, shoulder seasons that offer plenty of sunshine and mild weather, while avoiding the worst crowds of July and August.

Our summer packing list for Europe will cover the vast majority of what you need to bring to Portugal–but here are a few essentials to keep in mind!

Travel Adapters for Portugal   — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll need adapters for your electronics.

Dry Bag  — Want to keep your electronics safe during a beach day, kayaking tour, or boat trip?

Securing them in a  dry bag  is the perfect low-cost solution!

Sunglasses — Remember how I mentioned that the beautiful calçada portuguesa is incredibly slippery?

Well, there’s another hazard: it’s also incredibly bright!

You’ll want to wear sunglasses even more than usual during your 10 day Portugal vacation.

Camera  — We absolutely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works.

Just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Hand Sanitizer  — We carry this everywhere, and have never been sorry to have it floating around in our day bag.

Reusable Water Bottle — Cut down on plastic waste and save money by bringing a reusable water bottle along for your 10 days in Portugal!

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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.

49 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Days in Portugal Itinerary (+ Travel Tips!)”

Thanks for the treasure trove of information. We are going on 10 day trip to Portugal in early March and your travelog is very helpful in planning our trip. One question: after 3-4 days in Lisbon, what would you think of renting car for the rest of the trip to Porto and Algarve? Is parking in Porto a hassle to be avoided? Thanks Kam

If you’re hoping to make a day of the journey and stop somewhere between Lisbon and Porto (Alcobaca Monastery, Batalha Monastery, or Obidos would be a few of our top picks), you can absolutely do it that way!

With only 10 days in Portugal, you’d likely be trading extra time in Porto to be able to do so, but if that sounds like a fair trade-off to you it’s workable.

You definitely won’t need a car when sightseeing in Porto, but parking isn’t too bad. There’s a garage right down the street from the NH Hotel we used when we decided to drive up one trip, and you can get in and out of the city fairly easily from there.

Many thanks for your reply, it was very helpful. Apologies for my late response, was out of pocket for some time. On further checking and deliberation, I think we will do the train and rent a cart only in Algarve, to make it easy on ourselves driving wise in a new country. Our plan now looks like the following (4N Lisbob, 3N each in Algarve and Porto): 2/28: Arrive Lisbon 3:10 pm 3/1: Lisbon 3/2: Lisbon 3/3: Lisbon 3/4: Morning train to Lagos arriving noon-2 pm (depending on which train) 3/5: Algarve 3/6: Algarve 3/7: Train to Porto arriving 1:30-3:30 pm (depending on which train) 3/8: Porto 3/9: Douro valley 3/10: 2 pm train to Lisbon 3/11: Early morning flight out of Lisbon to Houston

Sounds like a fantastic trip!

Hope you guys have a great time, and we’d love to hear how it goes!

Thank you for this wonderful deep dive into a country we’ve been so excited to visit for a long time. Just booked our flights for this July, and we’ve constructed an itinerary very much based on your guide! Leaning Lagos for our Algarve stay as it seems central to explore the coast in both directions. Here’s our plan!

• Fri Jun 30: fly to Lisbon PM • Sat Jul 1: arrive Lisbon AM / Lisbon PM • Sun Jul 2: Lisbon • Mon Jul 3: Sintra tour • Tue Jul 4: train to Porto AM (3.5hrs) / Porto PM • Wed Jul 5: Porto • Thu Jul 6: Douro valley tour (port tasting!) • Fri Jul 7: drive to Lagos/Algarve (5hrs) / Lagos PM • Sat Jul 8: Algarve • Sun Jul 9: Algarve • Mon Jul 10: Algarve / Lisbon • Tue Jul 11: fly home

Sounds like an excellent trip! You guys are going to have a fantastic time.

So glad we were able to help with your planning. 🙂

Hi Kate, thank you for such great ideas. What do you think of this itinerary:

fly into Porto – 2-3 days (river cruise) then train/bus Coimbra – 1 day then train or bus to Lisbon – 5 days (Sintra/Obidos/Evora/Fatima) then train or bus to Algarve – 2 days then train or bus to Lisbon – fly home

too much for so little time? is it worth doing a multi-city airline ticket?

Hi Christine,

Sounds like you have about 13-14 days to work with, right? If so, that’s doable, but I’d mix it up a little bit.

I’d recommend trimming one day from Lisbon to add an extra day in the Algarve.

While in Lisbon, you can easily visit Obidos and Fatima on the same day. You might also look into visiting Alcobaca Monastery or Batalha Monastery that day as well.

Personally, if it fits into your budget I’d definitely consider the multi-city airline ticket. If you can save a day of doubling back it’ll buy you more time to explore!

If you plan to do that, be sure to check rates from the Faro Airport as well–it’s much smaller than Lisbon’s but worth checking prices for as that could save you doubling back to Lisbon as well.

Hope that helps and that you guys love Portugal!

What did you have to do to take your dog to Portugal? Is there doggy day care for excursions that do not allow dogs? Do you find English speakers everywhere in Portugal? Any issues with language?

Hi Richard!

We spent over a year living in Lisbon, so we moved Ranger to Portugal with us via plane. We took him to the vet when we arrived to confirm his rabies vaccine and have him examined and got an EU Pet Passport that way.

There are doggy daycares in Portugal, especially in the cities, but I’m not sure how usable they are for visitors versus regular users. We never took Ranger to one.

English is widely spoken in Portugal, though not ubiquitous. You don’t need to speak Portuguese to get by, though learning simple phrases is of course polite and very appreciated! We’ve never run into any issues with language in a travel setting in Portugal.

Hi Kate, great info. Is it necessary to rent a car in Algarve/Lagos? Is the taxi system not very good? And if we did get a car is parking difficult to find?

I’d say it depends on your expectations–it’s possible to rely on a combination of buses, taxis/Ubers, and tours, but it would require a lot more planning and managing of your time.

Lagos is a fairly small place, as are most of the other places first-time visitors want to see in the Algarve. You won’t find the easy-to-access taxi stands you find in Lisbon or anything like that.

Parking is fairly easy, especially if you visit outside the peak summer months and/or get up early (we know people who live in the Algarve who say you can have any beach to yourself early in the morning). Most of the beaches have parking at or near them, and there’s metered parking in towns. It’s nothing like parking in cities!

Hi Kate, Jeremy, Thanks for the detailed notes .. am bookmarking this for our trip. We plan to travel to Portugal with this itinerary. Any recos if this makes sense? What would you change, if anything? 4 – reach Lis by 10am, sightsee (Lis) 5 – Sintra (Lis) 6 – 1/2 day Lis, Leave for Algarve (Lagos) 7 Algarve (Lagos) 8 Algarve (Lagos) 9 Algarve – Porto travel day (Por) 10 Porto (Por) 11 Porto (Por) 12 Porto (Por) 13 – Fly out I am traveling with my family – 2 kids (10 & 7). Would you recommend I book a car from Lisbon, keep it for my Algarve leg and return it to Porto? I am a North American driver – how easy is it to drive here? Would you recommend that over public transport? Thx

Personally, I’d take one day off of Porto and add it to Lisbon! Porto is a much smaller city, you can easily see the majority of its top attractions in 1 to 1.5 days. I’d also recommend considering a day trip out to the Douro Valley from Porto, it’s wonderful!

The driving is pretty simple in Portugal, I definitely wouldn’t hesitate to book a car. You don’t need one in Lisbon or Porto, but it will definitely come in handy in the Algarve.

Lagos is definitely doable without a car but it’s more flexible with one.

Trains are definitely a solid option for getting between cities, but there aren’t any direct trains from Lagos to/from Lisbon or Porto.

Thank you so much for the gold mine of information! We always travel with our small dog too, coming from Washington DC. We generally bring him everywhere on our travels and have a comfortable bag pack to bring him into some buildings/restaurants if they don’t allow a dog out of the bag but are okay with him being in the bag- which he happens to love. Im curious if any of the tours or castles, monasteries, kayak tours, boats etc take dogs? What was your experience? We’re going in mid December along your route. Hopefully weather is good. It’s our only school break where the whole family can travel together. We’re hoping to find some Christmas markets too!

Hi Melanie,

Absolutely, I’m so glad you found it helpful!

Portugal is reasonably dog-friendly by European standards (which is very friendly compared to most of the US), but dogs aren’t generally allowed in most attractions like castles or monasteries. You’d need to ask on a case-by-case basis, but I wouldn’t count on it. (If you were going to France or Italy… that’s another story).

Boats you might have a bit more luck, but again, you’d have to ask.

Ranger didn’t visit any attractions with us in Portugal, though he was universally welcome on outdoor dining patios.

The good news about visiting in the winter like you are is that many of the beaches that don’t allow dogs during the high season are more lax about furry visitors during the winter!

Hi Kate! I saw that you commented to another traveler that there are not direct trains from Lisbon to Lagos. How do we do the train from Lisbon to the Lagos which is in the Algarve…correct? I think I read there is a train to somewhere near the Algarve? To Faro? And then rent a car in Faro to take Lagos. We were planning on staying Lagos and the going the most popular/beautify beaches in the Alarve. Just wanted to verify as the correct plan on getting to Lagos. Thanks

Hi Kate We are planning a trip to Portugal mid April for 10 days. We are going to fly into Lisbon, spend 2-3 days there, then go to Porto for 2-3 days. Looking at flying from Porto to Faro, getting a rental car there, and make our way back to Lisbon, where we depart from. Is this too much for 10 days?

It’s a fast-paced trip, but very doable, and very similar to the itinerary option I outlined here. 🙂

Hi Kate! Whoops! I looked on the map and going to Faro is wrong. So from Lisbon to as close to Lagos as possible, where is the closest train destination and from wherever that is how do we get to Lagos since train doesn’t go to Lagos, which I’m Not sure why. But we then plan to rent a car in Lagos. I assume we can rent a car in Lagos. Maybe you can give us some guidance on doing this. Thanks.

Lagos does have a train station, but you’ll need to make a change when traveling from Lisbon, as there’s not a direct route between the 2 cities.

Yes, you can definitely rent a car in Lagos! However, since it’s faster to drive between Lisbon and Lagos than to take the train, you may want to consider renting a car in Lisbon and driving it south, since you plan to rent one when you arrive anyway.

That’s down to personal preference and your plans before and after Lagos, but it’s an option!

Hi Kate. Do you know the approximate cost per day to rent a car in Lisbon in order to drive to the Algarve. Assume an average size car. I see on the internet it says $6 to 15 US dollars which seems really cheap. And do you recommend a particular area or town in the Algarve to stay that is central to all the beaches and things to stay? Not sure if you mentioned this in the 10 day itinerary. Thanks

That does sound very cheap–we’ve definitely never paid that little, though if you got an online deal and didn’t buy the extra insurance (we always do) I suppose it may be possible. I suspect that number is a bit out of date, though. We use Discover Cars to compare prices (they’re an aggregate that searches multiple companies at once).

As far as towns go, there’s definitely some flexibility. We personally like Lagos (it’s very convenient and small without being tiny), but Albufeira and Carvoeiro are also lovely.

Hi Kate, would you suggest going to Faros from Lagos rather than returning to Lisbon. We will be heading to London after Portugal so we can get a direct flight from there. Best wishes Judy

Yes, if you can get a good flight from Faro that’s a great idea!

Love your website. Well done! Do you have this itinerary in a list format for a quick glance? Thanks!

Thanks, Smidge!

Here you go:

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon Day 2: Lisbon Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra Day 4: Head to Porto Day 5: Porto Day 6: Day Trip to Douro Valley Day 7: Travel to Algarve Day 8: Algarve Day 9: Algarve Day 10: Travel back to Lisbon and head home

The advice here is a lot of help. Could we stay in Lisbon and take day trips or is it recommended to split the vacation between Lisbon and Porto? Should tours be booked in advance or at the hotel? In Italy we booked our train travel the day that we traveled and did not have reserved tickets. Any advice would be appreciated. My wife wants to see the Fatima. Is this a church, place etc.? Thanks for any advice.

Hi Richard,

Happy that you found our site helpful!

If you want to visit Porto, we highly recommend splitting your time. If you’re flexible about what you see, you can definitely have a wonderful vacation based in Lisbon, but it’ll look very different from this itinerary (which also includes staying in the Algarve).

We personally always book our tours online and recommend our readers do the same, but it’s personal preference. Some hotels (4* and higher especially) would be happy to help, but we recommend doing price comparisons to the online options.

Fatima is a city that’s about an hour and a half north of Lisbon by car, but the major reason people visit is to see the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and surrounding buildings, which are a major Catholic pilgrimage site. To get there, you’ll want to either drive, take a bus, or book a tour.

We talk more about Lisbon day trip options, including Fatima, here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-day-trips-from-lisbon/

Hello Kate! I came to say how grateful I am to you for this itinerary. We followed it to the letter and it was one of the best trips in our lives. We decided to go to Portugal for our 20th anniversary and it was nothing short of amazing.

Fellow travellers, we tried every single activity in this itinerary and can’t recommend all of them enough. You will not be disappointed.

The only two suggestions I have – do your own research on hotels. To me two out of three hotels were not ideal, but that’s totally on me. I should have read the reviews first and choose for myself.

And another one for all the art lovers out there- if you have some free time then add some museums and art galleries to your itinerary. In Lisbon Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga and Calouste Gulbenkian Museum blew my mind. They have world class collections comparable to the best world museums.

Again, thank you Kate. What a wonderful vacation I’ve had all thanks to you.

Thank you so much for taking the time to come back and share!

So glad you had a wonderful trip to Portugal! Happy 20th anniversary, as well. 🙂

Hello Kate, My wife and I are from Florida, and we plan to visit Portugal in November. Would the 10-day itinerary still work in November since it is a low season and cooler month? Any adjustment or change will you recommend? Any special advice for traveling Portugal in November? Thank you!

Your website is wonderful and very helpful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.

Best Regards, Ken

Yes, as long as you’re prepared for a higher risk of rain, this itinerary works perfectly well year-round!

If not being able to swim at the Algarve is a dealbreaker for you, you could consider trimming that portion and spending more time further north instead–but we happen to think that the hiking and coastal views are even better down there during the low season, when the crowds and temperatures are both smaller.

Hope you guys have an amazing trip!

Hi Kate, so looking for some advice. We are in Portugal for 11 days at the end of March 2024. We fly into Lisbon but thought it made more sense to take the train to Porto to start from there and then end in Lisbon. We would like to visit Braga, Sintra, Fatima and the Algarves. Do you think that those places are doable in the time we are there? Very deceiving looking at a map, so hoping since you are so experienced with living there you could help. Thanks and appreciate any feedback you are willing to give.

Assuming you’re wanting to experience both Lisbon and Porto too, in addition to Braga, Sintra, Fatima, and the Algarve, I think you’ll find that’s a bit much for 11 days! This itinerary covers 10 days and includes fairly short visits to both Lisbon and Porto–but doesn’t include either Braga or Fatima.

Fatima itself tends to take less than a day to see, but getting there and back from Lisbon requires either a drive or bus ride, and organized tours tend to combine it with other nearby (lovely) places that you don’t really have room for in your itinerary.

If Braga and Fatima are priorities for you, I’d recommend considering skipping the Algarve, and getting your fix of the coast in Cascais, at Cabo da Roca, or both as part of a combination day trip with Sintra.

That will trim off a decent amount of travel time that you can then use toward additional day trips.

Hope you guys have a great time!

Dear Kate, Bravo! Thank you for all of the fabulous information! My husband and I will be celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary and we are planning a trip to Portugal in July. We had initially considered a tour but we prefer to plan it ourselves as we have always done in the past. Your itinerary is everything we were looking for! Thank you for all of your recommendations. All of the hotels look lovely and appear to be centrally located. If you have any other hotels that you have admired along the way please share! We will probably add one or two more nights to the itinerary. Any suggestions? Look forward to hearing from you! Best, Gabby

Hi Gabrielle,

Happy anniversary! And thank you so much. 🙂

Personally with a couple of extra days I’d consider adding on another day trip or two instead of fully changing destinations! Visiting Evora, Obidos + the UNESCO monasteries, or Cascais from Lisbon, or Braga and Guimarães from Porto, is an easy way to dive deeper into the country without having to transition to a new place to stay.

If you’re more interested in the coast, spending another day in the Algarve, either hiking, swimming, or town-hopping, is a great choice.

Hope you guys have a wonderful anniversary trip!

Thank you Kate (and Jeremy)! Your site is a wealth of information! I have passed it along to family and friends! We are just beginning our planning process! I am sure I will be reaching out again. Happy and safe travels! Gabby

That’s fantastic to hear, thanks Gabby! 🙂

Hi Kate! Happy to say we booked our flights and have begun planning our trip to Portugal! 3 nights Porto 4 nights Lisbon 3 nights Lagos

We are flying into Porto and out of Faro. I have a question about lodging in Lagos. We are considering the Tivoli or Hotel Marina Rio. (which one do you recommend between these two?). However we then stumbled upon some hotels by the coast such as the Carvi Beach Hotel or the Clube Porto Mas. Which areas do you recommend? We love the beach but obviously want to do some of the tours that you recommended on your itinerary. In addition, what is the best way to reach lagos from Lisbon? Thank you again Kate. Your site is the best! Gabby

Congratulations, that’s exciting!

As far as lodging in Lagos goes, the main thing to consider with all of them is location. The first two are both located more or less in the town center, so you’ll be right by plenty of shops, restaurants, etc. We loved staying at the Tivoli and haven’t stayed at the Hotel Marina Rio, the only note I can make there is that the marina definitely feels like a newer and more “modern” area whereas the Tivoli feels a bit more integrated into the Old Town (though on a quiet street). Both are very conveniently located.

The second two are better for accessing the beaches, and you could technically stay at the Carvi Beach Hotel and walk back and forth to the Old Town each day, though it’s a bit of a slog–definitely feels more like walking for transportation in that area, rather than meandering through a town.

If you have a car and appreciate beautiful views on your doorstep, you may love the second two options. If you’d rather prioritize pedestrian access to the town center, I’d choose one of the first two. 🙂

As far as transportation goes, we tend to recommend driving from Lisbon to Lagos because you have to make a change on the train to get there, you don’t save time, and most people want a car once they get to the Algarve anyway. If you don’t want to drive on your trip, though, the train works just fine!

Wow, thank you SO much for this, the itinerary looks fantastic and has me really excited to go! I do have a question. We are a family of four with teen boy (16) and teen girl (14). We’re thinking of going for 14 days at the beginning of July and spending the extra few days at a beach. Activities like the kayaking / SUP or perhaps body boarding or snorkeling would be fun for the kids, and we would also like to be able to walk to a village with restaurants, etc. Is there a beach town you would recommend for that? Bonus points if it isn’t too crowded or crazy touristy… We plan to rent a car so could travel a little off the beaten path. Oh, and if there are any other activities that go over especially well with teens, I’d love to hear about that, too. Thank you!

Thanks so much, Christina!

You’ll have lots of beach town options for that! Albufeira and Lagos are the classic choices, but I think you guys would also love Carvoeiro (you can kayak to Benagil Cave from there, and there’s a great mix of water, hiking, and town activities all located very geographically close together).

Tavira, on the eastern side of the Algarve, is a bit more offbeat if you’re looking for something quieter. Sagres, on the western edge of the Algarve, is very quiet and more of a surf spot, but you guys might enjoy a day trip there.

Hope you guys have a fantastic time in Portugal!

Thanks so much for your response! It’s so great to be able to communicate with someone who really knows these places! I hope you don’t mind a couple more question. Between Lagos, Albufeira, and Carvoeiro, which would have the least crowds on the beaches? And just how crowded are we talking in beginning of July? Hoping to avoid a Cancun type vibe. And if we chose Tavira, are there still opportunities for water sports, etc?

Thanks! Christina

Hi Christina,

As far the beaches… honestly, all of those places are going to be very busy in July. Maybe Lagos, simply because even though it’s very popular, there are lots of beaches in the immediate area to choose from, including some large ones? But really, there’s not going to be an offbeat/relaxed feel in any of those towns–the Algarve in general just gets busier every year!

There are definitely water sports in Tavira, but it’s a bit of a different experience as the popular beaches are a (short) ferry ride from town (or in the case of Barril Beach, a short drive followed by a walk).

Hope that helps a bit!

Loved your info! We are traveling to Portugal in late March with plans to visit Lisbon, Porto and some smaller towns. We figured the Algarve might be cool that time of year and were planning to take a flight to Madeira instead for a few nights. Have you been to Madera? Do you think this is a good choice? I am sad about not having time for both, so I’d love to know if you think we will get the same beauty out of Madeira that we would get from the Algarve region?

Sadly haven’t been to Madeira yet, but it looks beautiful and we have many friends who have fallen in love with it.

It’s very different from the Algarve–lush and volcanic, while the Algarve is more arid and “beachy”, for lack of a better word. Think Hawaii versus the coast of California along the PCH Highway, for example (not a 1:1 comparison but it’s a good way to get an idea what to expect). Both are beautiful and technically have beaches, hiking, etc, but in very different forms.

That being said I don’t think you’ll regret either one, they’re both extremely popular for a reason!

HI Kate, I really enjoy your blog as you are a wealth of information for a first time traveler like me to Portugal. I would like to know your thoughts on Peniche and if you think it would be worth spending a day or two in that town. I will be traveling with my husband, my 21 year old daughter who is up for anything and my 19 year old son who might be up for seeing castles and museums and churches and the beautiful landscapes at first but will likely become bored. We are planning a 10 day trip and I’m wondering where we should go that would appeal to both personalities. I would appreciate any advice you may have.

I can only speak for myself, but I would’ve loved Peniche in my late teens/early 20s! Heading out to the Berlengas Islands is a great way to break up the castles/museums/churches aspect of the trip, though that’s definitely worth it too.

A day in town + a day at the Berlengas Islands is more than enough to get a good taste of the immediate area, though if you want to use Peniche as a base for visiting nearby spots like Obidos and/or want extra time to relax on the beach, you can certainly stay longer!

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10 Days in Portugal – Itinerary for the Best Places to Visit in Portugal

Portugal, nestled on the western edge of Europe, beckons travelers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. From the historic streets of Lisbon to the golden beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Explore charming villages adorned with colorful tiles, sample delectable cuisine infused with Mediterranean flavors, and wander through ancient castles and fortresses steeped in history. Whether you’re seeking adventure along rugged coastlines, relaxation in picturesque vineyards, or immersion in lively city life, Portugal captivates with its warm hospitality and timeless charm, inviting visitors to uncover its many treasures.

Portugal: A Perfect 10 day itinerary

Embark on a captivating journey through Portugal’s vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage with our meticulously crafted 10-day itinerary.

Day 1-2: Porto

Begin your 10-day adventure in Portugal by exploring the vibrant city of Porto . Immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture during your two-day stay. Begin your exploration by wandering through the charming streets of the Ribeira district , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring the colorful buildings and iconic Dom Luís I Bridge . Visit the historic São Bento Railway Station , renowned for its stunning azulejo tilework depicting scenes from Portugal’s history. Delve into Porto’s literary scene with a visit to the Livraria Lello , one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores. Indulge in the city’s culinary delights, savoring traditional dishes like francesinha and fresh seafood paired with a glass of port wine.

On your second day, ascend to the hilltop neighborhood of Miragaia for panoramic views of Porto’s skyline and the Douro River. Explore the iconic Port Wine Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia , where you can learn about the centuries-old tradition of port wine production and enjoy tastings of this famous fortified wine. Stroll along the Douro River waterfront , soaking in the lively atmosphere and admiring the colorful Rabelo boats. End your day with a leisurely dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring the flavors of Porto as you watch the sun set over the city.

Day 3: Douro Valley

Embark on a day trip to the scenic Douro Valley, just a short drive from Porto. Cruise along the Douro River , passing terraced vineyards and charming villages. Stop at local wineries to taste the region’s renowned port wine and enjoy a traditional Portuguese lunch with panoramic views of the valley. Return to Porto in the evening, filled with memories of the Douro’s breathtaking landscapes and delicious wines.

Day 4: Coimbra

Travel to Coimbra , home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and a wealth of historic landmarks. Explore the university’s stunning campus, including the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace of Alcáçova . Wander through the city’s charming streets, stopping to admire the Sé Velha (Old Cathedral) and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha . Spend the evening dining at a local restaurant and experiencing the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 5-6: Lisbon

During your two-day exploration of Lisbon , Portugal’s captivating capital, immerse yourself in its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey in the historic Alfama district , where narrow streets and colorful houses lead to the iconic São Jorge Castle , offering panoramic views of the city.

Discover Lisbon’s maritime heritage at Belém, home to landmarks such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery , both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Indulge in Portugal’s culinary delights with a visit to a local market or tasca, sampling traditional dishes like bacalhau (salted cod) and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Spend an afternoon exploring the eclectic neighborhoods of Baixa and Chiado , browsing boutique shops and enjoying a cup of coffee at one of Lisbon’s historic cafés.

On your second day, take a tram ride through the picturesque streets of Lisbon, hopping off to explore attractions such as the Lisbon Cathedral and the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint. In the evening, experience Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife in the Bairro Alto district , where lively bars and Fado houses offer entertainment until the early hours.

Day 7: Sintra

Dedicate a day to exploring the enchanting town of Sintra and its surrounding attractions. Marvel at the whimsical architecture of the Pena Palace , perched atop a hill overlooking the town. Wander through the lush gardens of Quinta da Regaleira and discover its hidden tunnels and grottoes. End your day with a leisurely stroll through Sintra’s historic center, admiring its charming streets and quaint shops.

Day 8-10: Algarve Region

Conclude your journey in the stunning Algarve region over three unforgettable days, where golden beaches and rugged cliffs await. Begin your journey in Faro , the region’s capital, by wandering through its charming old town and visiting the historic Faro Cathedral . Then, venture to the picturesque coastal town of Lagos , where you can explore the dramatic sea caves of Ponta da Piedade by boat and relax on the beautiful Praia Dona Ana beach .

On your second day, head west to Sagres , known for its rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs. Visit the Cape St. Vincent lighthouse , Europe’s southwesternmost point, and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend your afternoon surfing or lounging on the pristine sands of nearby beaches like Praia do Martinhal.

Conclude your Algarve adventure with a day exploring the scenic inland countryside. Visit charming villages like Silves , with its historic castle and Moorish architecture, and Monchique, nestled in the Serra de Monchique mountains. Treat yourself to a traditional Algarvian meal at a local restaurant, savoring regional specialties like cataplana and grilled sardines. As the sun sets on your final day, reflect on the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Algarve, leaving with memories to last a lifetime.

Accommodation in Portugal

Accommodation options in Portugal range from luxurious hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are a few accommodation options in Portugal:

Hotel Avenida Palace, Lisbon

Rua 1. De Dezembro, 123, Santa Maria Maior, 1200-359 Lisbon

A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Lisbon, offering elegant rooms, impeccable service, and a central location ideal for exploring the city.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

The Yeatman, Porto

Rua do Choupelo (Santa Marinha), 345, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia

A prestigious wine hotel in Porto, boasting panoramic views of the Douro River and the city skyline. With its Michelin-starred restaurant and wine cellar, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts.

Pousada de Sagres

Sagres, 8650-385 Sagres

Charming Hotel: Situated in the picturesque town of Sagres, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat by the sea.

Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort

Apartado 1299, Vale Covo Praia do Carvoeiro, 8401-911 Carvoeiro

Overlooking the stunning cliffs of Carvoeiro, this resort offers modern accommodations, world-class amenities, and direct access to the beach. Ideal for a relaxing getaway on the Algarve coast.

What’s the best time to visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the country’s cities, countryside, and coastline. Additionally, tourist crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience. However, Portugal can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique attractions and activities. If you’re interested in beach activities and warmer weather, the summer months (June to August) are popular, but be prepared for larger crowds and higher temperatures. Conversely, the winter months (December to February) can be cooler and wetter, but are perfect for experiencing Portugal’s festive holiday traditions and enjoying indoor activities such as wine tasting and museum visits.

A few facts about Portugal

• Portugal, nestled on the Iberian Peninsula, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its borders , established in 1249, make it one of Europe’s oldest nations.
• Portuguese, spoken by over 260 million people worldwide, is the world’s sixth most spoken language.
• Renowned for cork production , Portugal is responsible for about half of the world’s supply.
• Its coastline is a haven for surfers , with Nazaré hosting some of the world’s tallest waves.
• The country’s tradition of azulejos , or decorative ceramic tiles, adorns buildings nationwide, while Lisbon’s vintage trams add a touch of nostalgia to the bustling city streets.

Portugese gastronomy

Portuguese gastronomy is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by its maritime history and diverse landscapes. Must-try dishes include bacalhau (salted cod), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and francesinha (a hearty sandwich from Porto). Pair your meals with a glass of port wine or vinho verde for an authentic culinary experience.

Getting around Portugal

Getting around Portugal is convenient and efficient, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. The country offers several options for travelers to explore its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.

• Trains operated by Comboios de Portugal (CP) connect major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, offering comfortable and scenic journeys.
• Regional and intercity buses , run by companies like Rede Expressos and Rodoviária, provide extensive coverage, reaching even remote areas not served by trains.
• Renting a car is a popular choice, allowing flexibility to explore rural regions and coastal roads at your own pace.
• Major cities like Lisbon and Porto have efficient metro systems , complemented by tram networks, particularly in Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods.
• Ferries ply the rivers in cities like Lisbon and Porto, offering scenic views and convenient transportation to nearby towns.
• Domestic flights are available for traveling between mainland Portugal and the Azores or Madeira islands, providing a quick option for longer distances.

Overall, Portugal offers a variety of transportation options suitable for every traveler’s needs and preferences.

Extra Tips for Visiting Portugal:

• Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your travel experience.
• Be prepared for the Portuguese siesta , with many shops and businesses closing for a few hours in the afternoon.
• Don’t forget to try the local seafood, including grilled sardines and seafood rice dishes.
• Take advantage of Portugal’s excellent public transportation system to explore the country’s diverse regions.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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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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How to Spend 10 Days in Portugal – The Best Travel Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: December 26, 2022

Categories Europe , Guides , Portugal , Travel Guides

You’re on your way to spend 10 days in Portugal, and you’re looking for an itinerary to show you the best in the country? Well, you’re in the right place. My 10-day Portugal itinerary is carefully structured to submerge you into the local culture, to take you around the most prominent highlights and attractions, but also to leave you enough time to unwind and enjoy your vacation. I mean, if you have to jump to a new place every other day, would you really enjoy the trip in the end? I don’t think so.

Portugal is one of the best places in the world for 7-10 day-long trips. The country is small and easy to travel around, the weather is fantastic, and every town is overflowing with a distinctive vibe.

There are three must-see areas in the Iberian country – Porto, Lisbon, and the Algarve coast. In 10 days, you can do all three of them, but you won’t be able to enjoy them properly, so one had to be left out of the itinerary. Algarve was the chosen one.

Why Algarve?

While Algarve is a fantastic place with stunningly beautiful shores, its main attraction is… well the beaches. When I travel, my biggest goal is to submerge into the country’s identity, to embrace the vibe, and to catch its soul. Porto, Lisbon , and the towns around them express the Portugal way of life more than the golden shores of Algarve (at least for me). If you’re looking for a beach vacation, though, don’t hesitate to add the scenic Algarve coast and the incredible Praia da Marinha beach to your 10 day Portugal itinerary. 

Another noticeable exception is the Douro Valley. While the place is quite impressive, It’s mostly for wine lovers and even though pretty much everyone likes wine, I’m not sure many people would like to devote a significant part of their vacation strictly to it. If you’re an avid wine enthusiast, make sure you pa a visit to the Douro Valley.

What we’ll See in Our Ten Days in Portugal

If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll most likely arrive in Lisbon. Thankfully the capital of Portugal is not just a big business city but a lively metropolis with many historical areas, peculiar attractions, and vibrant nightlife. Lisbon is the cornerstone of this 10 day Portugal itinerary and the place we’ll spend most time exploring.

Also known as Oporto, the second-biggest city in the country is an absolute must-see. Relatively still under the radar, Porto offers an incredible atmosphere (that even inspired J.K.Rolling’s wizardly world), gorgeous azulejo-tiled buildings (perfect for Instagram enthusiasts), out-worldly views (especially around the Douro River), and some of the best wine on the planet (its the birthplace of Port wine). Porto is also perfect for a day-trip to the Douro Valley.

Named the Rome of Portugal, Braga is the third-largest city in the country. Honestly, I was quite confused when I found this out, Walking around Braga does not give you big city-vibe, quite the opposite.

Braga’s attractions are its churches (which are everywhere), and the incredible UNESCO recognized Bom Jesus Sanctuary. The city is also located just an hour away (by train) from Porto, thus been perfect for a day-trip.

As cliche as it sounds, Sintra is like a page torn out of a fairy-tale. One of the most magical places in Portugal (and Europe), the dewy forests, funky palaces, and eccentric gardens of Sintra are surely sight to be seen. It’s also located just an hour (by metro train) from Lisbon. Perfect place to spend a day (or two). A trip to Sintra also gives you the chance to visit the westernmost point of continental Europe – Cabo da Roca.

Évora

Évora is one of Portugal’s most well-preserved medieval towns and an absolute delight to walk around. Imagine a small town with narrow alleys snaking their way around cute white houses. This is Évora. But we won’t go there just to take a walk. Evora is home to one of the most unique (and creepy) attractions in Europe – Capela dos Ossos (a chappel made up of human bones).

The Best Ten-Day Portugal Itinerary

As mentioned above, my 10 days in Portugal itinerary would be focused around the biggest cities in the country – Lisbon, and Porto. Don’t be afraid, though. They may be big on paper, but they certainly don’t have this big-city vibe in them. And we have plenty of day trips to check out the nearby towns.

Castaway Tip Try to arrange your flights to arrive in Lisbon but depart from Porto (or the other way around). This way, you’d save almost a whole day!

• Day 1 – Lisbon

The capital of Portugal welcomed   6mln tourists in 2019   and (most likely) would be the start of your adventure. On my itineraries, I always recommend the arrival day to be left free of tasks. You are tired; you may be even jetlagged, no need to stress yourself extra with a plan for the day.

Just get out and take a walk. Stroll over Rua Augusta, and the vibrant Bairro Alto. No set goal, just wandering around and seizing the city vibe. That’s all for day one.

• Day 2 – Lisbon

Time to start exploring a bit more seriously. On Day 2, we get to know the east part of the city. Your start-point depends on the location of your hotel, but here’s a great route you can adjust according to your needs.

The first thing of the day is the iconic Praça do Comércio, followed by a long walk around the nearby Alfama district. Alfama is the old town of Lisbon and also a great place to have our morning coffee.

Once we see the miradouros (viewpoints), we make our way to the São Jorge Castelo. You can’t visit a European capital and not see a castle, right? São Jorge won’t only teach you more about the city, but will also reveal incredible panoramic views over Lisbon.

The third major highlight of the day is Carmo Convent. A museum located inside the ruins of Lisbon’s  great earthquake of 1755 , Carmo Convent is a great city attraction in a convenient location. On your way there, make sure you check the Dom Pedro IV square and Santa Justa Miradouro (but don’t use the overrated elevator).

In the afternoon, I suggest checking out Igreja de São Roque (the most beautiful church in town) before getting on the Ascensor de Gloria (vintage Lisbon funicular). As for dinner, you may want to check out Mercado da Ribeira.

Now I know this first day of Lisbon sounds like too much. To help with details, I have a  3-day Lisbon guide  where you can get more information about each highlight (prices, working hours, pictures) and a map to help you navigate around town.

• Day 3 – Lisbon

Today we won’t explore as much, but we’re about to see (and taste) some of Lisbon’s most notable attractions. Day 3 would be dedicated to the west side of the city and, more specifically, the neighborhood of Belém.

The first agenda of the day is breakfast at the legendary Pasteis de Belém. At first, they may look like the other Pastel de Natas (popular breakfast pastry you can find everywhere in Lisbon). However, Pasteis de Belém is the place where this delicious dessert was invented, and they still use their own secret formula to make it. If the line is too big, though, you may skip the pastels in the morning and get a pack on your way back.

The Belém exploration continues with the UNESCO recognized Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. This one usually has a nasty line, so I suggest  booking it online . The monastery is not really big, so we have plenty of time to check the nearby Maritime Museum too and learn more about Portugal’s great explorers.

In the afternoon, we see the Monument of Discoveries (you can even climb on top of it) before enjoying a sunset right next to another UNESCO recognized attraction – Torre de Belém.

Psst: Lisbon may look awesome at first glance, but there’re plenty of tourist traps there.  Check out Lisbon’s overrated attractions that you can safely leave out of your itinerary .

• Day 4 – Évora

We saw plenty of Lisbon, and It’s time for our first day-trip. And what better place to go than the medieval city of Évora. One and a half hours away from Lisbon, the windy alleys of Évora offer just enough highlights to fill our day.

They are all right next to each other so you can do them in any order you want. The Sé of Évora (the cathedral) is a beautiful piece of architecture, blending Romanesque with the Gothic. It also offers rooftop views and a picturesque cloister.

The Roman Temple of Diana is right next to the cathedral, and while it’s not out-of-this-world exciting, it’s very well-preserved, and there’s a lovely park next to it you can unwind in.

The biggest attraction of Évora is the Bone Chappel. Lined with the remains of 5,000 monks, Capela dos Ossos is a bizarre but quite unique place that is an absolute must-see.

• Day 5 – Sintra

Sintra is usually done on a day-trip from Lisbon, but I strongly suggest spending the night there. There are plenty of castles and palaces to see, but doing more than two in a day would really drain you.

An hour away from Lisbon (by city train), Sintra is incredibly easy to reach. The first thing we see is the colorful Pena Palace. With it’s yellow and red towers, the romanticist palace is the biggest superstar of the region and get’s crowded quickly. Once finished with the palace, make sure you explore its gardens too.

The second castle of the day would be the Castle of the Moors. This one has nothing to do with the Pena Palace. It was a real fort used to defend the area, and today the remains of its walls offer magnificent panoramic views of the area.

If you have enough energy, you may also check Sintra’s National Palace – a great museum that used to be a residence of the king of Portugal.

Psst: to plan your Sintra trip in detail, check out my  Lisbon to Sintra guide  where you can find useful information about prices, working hours, and of course, plenty of pictures.

• Day 6 – Sintra

On your second day in Sintra, we’re going to check out Quinta da Regaleira in the morning, thus skipping the tourist crowds. The former estate and its quirky gardens are the perfect way to start our day. If you missed Sintra’s National Palace yesterday, you may pay a visit now too or even make a trip to the westernmost extent of mainland Portugal and Europe – Cabo da Roca. 

In the afternoon, we make our way to Porto.  You can find how here.

• Day 7 – Porto

Porto is an incredibly bright and colorful town. It may be the second biggest city in the country, but it’s quite easy to explore. On our first day there, we can see the Harry Potter attractions – Livaria Lello (an antique bookstore that managed to preserve an early 19th-century spirit), The Fonte dos Leões ( a fountain that inspired Gryffindor house) and the Majestic Cafe (where J.K.Rollwing supposedly wrote a few Harry Potter chapters).

We also have time to check out some of the most picturesque places in town. Carmo and Carmelita churches with their stunning azulejo-tiled exteriors ( something Portugal is pretty famous for ) are the perfect place for a new profile picture while the Clerigos Church and its tower offer stunning panoramic views of Porto.

• Day 8 – Porto

Our second day in Porto will start with a walk around the colorful Ribeira district. After having a coffee next to the river, we continue with two of Porto’s most prominent attractions – The Porto Cathedral and the incredibly picturesque church – Igreja de São Francisco.

In the afternoon, we discover why Porto is a city of wine by joining a wine tour and exploring some of the city’s best cellars. At sunset, find a place somewhere around the Gaia district and enjoy the colorful show over the Douro River.

Hey there! You know what? I have a  detailed guide about Porto  too. Check it out to find prices, working hours, plenty of pictures, and a map of the itinerary.

• Day 9 – Braga

The ninth day of our 10 day Portugal itinerary will be spent on a day-trip. I picked Braga because it’s cheaper than the Douro Valley, and it would be interesting for everybody (while the Douro Valley is mainly for wine-lovers).

Braga is just one hour away from Porto and features one of Portugal’s most significant highlights – Bom Jesus Do Monte. The sanctuary and its 577 steps Baroque stairway are absolutely gorgeous and would also give you the chance to enjoy some of the refreshing mountain air of Portugal.

The city is also famous for its churches (which are countless), parks, and theatre.

To find how to reach Bom Jesus Do Monte and what else to do in Braga, you can check out  my detailed Porto-to-Braga guide here .

• Day 10 – Go home

Sadly your 10 days in Portugal are about to end. If your flight home departs from Porto, you can enjoy a leisure day alongside the Douro River. If not, you should have plenty of time to make your way back to Lisbon (around 3 hours by train).

More Than Ten Days in Portugal

You have more time to spend, or you don’t fancy something on the itinerary? Not a problem. Portugal may be small, but it has plenty to offer.

Algarve 

The southern coastline of Portugal is gaining incredible popularity as of late. With its quaint fishing villages, stunning Praia da Marinha beach, family orientated towns, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Algarve is one of the best spots in Europe to go for a beach holiday. If you’re looking for a vacation mostly spend lying on a sunbed (or a surfboard), Algarve (and Praia da Marinha) should be the cornerstone of your 10 day Portugal Itinerary.

Being Portugal’s medieval capital for more than a century, today Coimbra is the university city of Portugal. Combining the youthful student energy of modern Coimbra with the fortifications and gothic buildings of the medieval one, and you got a pretty exciting place to explore.

Nazaré

The picturesque seaside village of Nazaré is a famous touristic spot. Considered to have one of the best beaches in the country, the small resort-town is an excellent place for a family vacation.

Due to the “Nazaré Canyon” (a submarine geomorphological phenomenon ), the village is famous for having perfect giant waves, thus becoming legendary in the surfers’ world.

Douro Valley

Depending on your love for wine, the Douro Valley may very well be an integral part of your 10 day Portugal itinerary. Located 300km (185 mi) east of Porto, the Majestic valley is a popular day-trip option. 

A Unesco World Heritage site since 2001, the Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world. Even if you’re not that big of a wine enthusiast, the views of the valley and its majestic wilderness are something worth seeing.

Berlenga Grande Island

This one I found by surprise. During my 10 days in Portugal, I went for a dive off the coast of the Peniche fishing town. Between dives, my instructor took us to check out the Berlenga Grande, and I was caught by surprise. The rocky landscape of the island is quite a stunning sight on itself but complemented by the São João Baptista fort it becomes a top game-of-thrones-styled place to visit.

Make sure to check the weather forecast before you visit, though. It’s not a rare occasion for the island to be covered in fog.

The Village of Monsanto

You want something unusual on your 10 day-Portugal itinerary? How about a village where houses are tucked under boulders? Hanging on a mountaintop overlooking the Portuguese countryside, the village of Monsanto has hardly changed in hundreds of years. 

Why are the houses sandwiched by boulders?  I have no idea, but I’m pretty sure that’s something you can’t see anywhere else in the world, and a visit there would make for a good story back home. It’s on my 10 days in Portugal itinerary because it’s a little bit away from the other destinations and you need a car to visit it.

The Islands

An honorary mention to the Azores and Madeira. Sadly, you need to have a lot more than 10 days in Portugal to check them out properly. They are so distant and different that I don’t even consider them part of Portugal. A trip to either of them has nothing to do with anything else in the country.

Are they worth it? Absolutely! If you enjoy nature and spending time outside, very few places in Europe can compete with Madeira and the Azores.

Portugal Travel FAQ

What is the best time to visit Portugal ?

The best time to visit Portugal depends on your traveling style and what exactly you plan to do there. Overall, spring and early autumn offer the best temperatures and moderate crowds.

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, those seasons won’t cut it, and you better search for flights around the summer months (July-September). If you’re a budget traveler, avoid the summer (August especially) and the holiday months (April, December). The best prices are in January and February. If you love wine, September – October is the grape-harvesting season, and you can enjoy plenty of activities you won’t find during the other seasons.

You can  see the average temperatures all around the country here .

Is Portugal safe ?

Portugal is an incredibly safe place to visit. It’s regularly voted among the  safest countries in the world , so chances of having any problems during your 10 days in Portugal are close to nothing.

This doesn’t mean you have to skip travel insurance, though. Risking to sound like your mother, anything can happen, and to travel unprepared is an unnecessary hazard. Travel insurance not only covers you if something happened but free your mind of worry, so even if nothing happens, you enjoy your vacation way more. I currently use  HeyMondo  for my travels because they have proven themselves to me more than once over the years. The link above will give you a 5% discount, but If you have another favorite provider, that’s ok. Just make sure you have one because you never know what may happen.

How to get around Portugal ?

While you can always rent a car and explore on your own pace, I suggest using public transport. The train system is incredibly well developed in Portugal. Intercity trains are inexpensive and fast, while the metro trains around the city can also be used to go on some day-trips (like Lisbon – Sintra).

The cities are best explored by foot, but you can use the trams that go virtually everywhere. If you’re lucky, you may get one of the vintage wooden ones!

What currency do I need for Portugal ?

Euro is the official currency in Portugal, and you can’t pay in anything else (including Dollars).

Do they speak English in Portugal ?

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of English spoken in Portugal. Unlike nearby Spain, everywhere I went, people spoke English, and they spoke it quite well. Even if you don’t speak Portuguese or Spanish, you won’t have any trouble with the communication there.

That’s all from me, I hope you enjoy your 10 days in Portugal ! ———————————— If you haven’t planned your trip there yet, find out how I plan my trips! ———————————— I have 17 bucket list ideas for Portugal. See my impossible bucket list of 1700+ adventures!

Is Portugal on your bucket list?

Some of the above are affiliate links and I will earn a percentage of the sale if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you. This helps keep my site running – so thanks in advance for your support!

Katherine Schmidt

Monday 27th of March 2023

I enjoyed reading through your suggested travel itinerary. Can you tell me what type of transportation you used to get around? Did you rent a car or use the train? Thanks

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

I used the cheapest one - buses (except for Sintra, where I went via a Lisbon train). Rented cars and trains would be good options too, though. Portugal's train system is extensive, and their roads are well-maintained. Have fun in Portugal, Katherine :)

Cindy Peters

Monday 2nd of January 2023

Slavi- Do you offer tours? Thanks! Cindy

Tuesday 3rd of January 2023

Hi Cindy, I just help people make their own tours. Portugal is easy to navigate, you don't really need an orginized tour :)

Friday 11th of November 2022

Very good suggestion, helpful info and reasonable comment, thank a lot!👍👍👍👏👏😎

Tuesday 15th of November 2022

Glad I could help :)

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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!

Portugal 2-Week Itinerary – How to Spend 14 Awesome Days in Portugal!

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

If you’re planning to spend two weeks in Portugal, but aren’t exactly sure where to go or what to do, you’ve come to the right place!

After years of wanting to go to Portugal, this summer I had the opportunity to spend 14 days in Portugal, road tripping across the whole country, and I was ecstatic to say the least.

Portugal is home to many gorgeous natural landscapes, stunning architecture, a rich history, great surfing beaches and delicious food. In short, it has everything I could possibly want from a trip.

In this Portugal two-week itinerary I have included everything you need to know to plan the perfect Portugal trip. Including must-see highlights as well as hidden gems, where to stay, where to eat and how to get around.

It’s a very varied itinerary, which includes culture, history, nature and beaches in equal measure. This 14-day Portugal itinerary is perfect for those who want to get a flavour for Portuguese culture, and see as much as possible in two weeks.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the day-by-day breakdown of your future Portugal trip!

• 1 Do you need travel insurance for two weeks in Portugal?
• 2 How to get around Portugal in two weeks
• 3.1 Day 1 in Portugal: Arrive in Porto
• 3.2.1 The Chapel of Souls
• 3.2.2 Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
• 3.2.3 Igreja dos Clérigos
• 3.2.4 Livraria Lello
• 3.2.5 Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• 3.2.6 Porto Cathedral
• 3.2.7 Ribeira neighbourhood
• 3.2.8 Douro River Cruise
• 3.2.9 Sunset at Kittie Rock Viewpoint
• 3.3.1 Hiking in the Douro Valley
• 3.3.2 Wine Farms in the Douro Valley
• 3.4.1 Aveiro
• 3.4.2 Bucaco National Park
• 3.4.3 Coimbra
• 3.5.1 Batalha Monastery
• 3.5.2 Alcobaca Monastery
• 3.5.3 Faro de Nazare
• 3.5.4 Old Town Nazare
• 3.5.5 Miradouro do Suberco
• 3.5.6 Funicular
• 3.5.7 Bairro dos Pescadores
• 3.6.1 Obidos
• 3.6.2 Peniche
• 3.6.3 Surf in Ericeira – Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas
• 3.6.4 Explore the Old Town of Ericeira
• 3.7.1 Palacio Nacional da Pena
• 3.7.2 Castle of the Moors
• 3.7.3 Quinta da Regaleira
• 3.7.4 Sintra Old Town
• 3.8.1 Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
• 3.8.2 Rossio Square
• 3.8.3 Rua Augusta
• 3.8.4 Santa Justa Lift
• 3.8.5 Praca do Comercio
• 3.8.6 Pink Street
• 3.8.7 Time Out Market
• 3.8.8 Elevador Da Bica
• 3.8.9 Lisbon Cathedral
• 3.8.10 Alfama
• 3.8.11 Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
• 3.9.1 Belem Tower
• 3.9.2 Jeronimos Monastery
• 3.9.3 Eat a pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belem
• 3.9.4 Old Town Cascais
• 3.9.5 Relax at a beach in Cascais
• 3.10.1 Evora Cathedral
• 3.10.2 Chapel of Bones
• 3.10.3 The Roman Temple
• 3.10.4 Old Town Centre
• 3.10.5 Monsaraz
• 3.10.6 Mertola
• 3.11.1 Tavira
• 3.11.2 Faro
• 3.11.3 Albufeira
• 3.12.1 Kayak to Benagil Cave
• 3.12.2 Relax at Praia do Marinha
• 3.13.1 Praia do Camilo
• 3.13.2 Ponta do Piedade
• 3.13.3 Praia de Dona Ana
• 3.14.1 Explore Sagres Town
• 3.14.2 Surf at Praia do Amado
• 4 Portugal 14-day itinerary – beyond mainland Portugal

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

Do you need travel insurance for two weeks 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!

Enjoying the sunset over Lisbon from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

How to get around Portugal in two weeks

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 itinerary, a car is the easiest way to get there.

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 there are places you can visit on organised day trips and 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!

Enjoying the view over Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

14-Day Portugal Travel Itinerary – Day-by-Day breakdown

Deciding which region to visit, what to do, and where to stay can be a challenge when you’re on the road. But if you follow this guide, you simply can’t go wrong.

This Portugal 2-week itinerary isn’t the exact one I followed, but it’s still based on my trip.

If I were to do the trip again, this is the itinerary I would follow. After wasting lots of hours driving back and forth, I can confidently recommend this itinerary as the most time efficient.

Here’s exactly what you should be getting up to during your 2 weeks in Portugal.

Exploring Ribeira and Cais da Ribeira in Porto, Portugal

Day 1 in Portugal: Arrive in Porto

On your first day in the magnificent country, you should have one goal. And that’s to get to the magnificent coastal city of Porto.

Depending on where you’re arriving from, and your time of arrival, you may even have some time left over to explore the quaint cobbled streets and pop into a cafe or two.

The city is known for the famed wine that the region produces. So it’s just about essential that you sip on a glass of Porto while enjoying a decadent dessert on your first night in Portugal.

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

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 a great place to stay in Porto since it’s located right in the centre of Porto, and will be a great starting point for your Porto walking tour on day two of this itinerary.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Do Norte!

If you want something a bit fancier, I have listed below other accommodation options 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!

Enjoying the sunset over Porto and the Douro River from Kittie Rock

Day 2 in Portugal: Explore Porto

The second day of your Portugal trip itinerary is dedicated to getting to know the exquisite town of Porto a little better. Just follow my Porto itinerary and you will hit up all the highlights that Porto has to offer.

The Chapel of Souls

If you’re staying at Hotel do Norte, the Chapel of Souls is the perfect place to start your itinerary.

The Chapel of Souls has become increasingly popular over the years as influencers and social media gurus have made it a must-see on every traveller’s list.

The entire exterior of the building is covered in blue and white azulejos tiles which make it an incredibly captivating site.

The Chapel of Souls in Porto, Portugal

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Just a short walking distance from the Chapel of Souls, you’ll come to Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, which is a popular shopping and dining street in the area.

Here there are more buildings covered in the signature white and blue tiles. But this area is best enjoyed at one of the street cafes, so you’ll certainly want to stop for a bite to eat.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso in Porto, Portugal

Igreja dos Clérigos

This Baroque church is perched on a hilltop, making it rather easy to find. The church has a beautiful bell tower, an iconic sight that can be seen from just about anywhere in the city.

If you’re up for climbing the Torre dos Clerigos, then you’re in for a real treat as the views from the top are simply unbeatable. Make sure to book your Torre dos Clerigos entrance online beforehand , so you can avoid the queues!

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

Igreja dos Clerigos in Porto, Portugal

Livraria Lello

While books aren’t on everyone’s list of things to see, this library is something that just about everyone can appreciate. It recently became famous for being JK Rowling’s inspiration for Harry Potter.

But aside from that, it’s actually the oldest bookstore in Portugal – often being described as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

You have to book online to visit the inside of the bookstore. The ticket is 5 EUR but it’s discountable from a book purchase.

The shopfront of Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

To escape the hustle and bustle of the town for a while, head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal .

These landscaped gardens were designed in the 1800s and contain winding paths and tranquil fountains. You can also take in views over the Douro River before continuing with your Portugal trip.

Porto Cathedral

From the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal head to Porto Cathedral. You’ll cross some of the main streets of the city, exploring the cute architecture of Porto.

The cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church, as well as being one of the oldest monuments of the city and an important local Romanesque monument. You can visit the interior for 3 EUR, or just stick to the imposing exterior and stunning views.

View over Porto from Porto Cathedral

Ribeira neighbourhood

From the cathedral head down to Ribeira neighbourhood, Porto’s famous riverside quarter. Here you will truly get a feeling for Porto’s quaint and cobbled streets, as well as its colourful houses.

Douro River Cruise

If you’d like to enjoy Porto from a different perspective, then take some time out of your day to enjoy a relaxing Douro River cruise . You can spend time in a typical Rabelo boat while taking in views of the town’s shoreline.

Click here to book your Douro River cruise in Porto , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

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

Sunset at Kittie Rock Viewpoint

Once you return from your Douro River Cruise, you can cross the famous Ponte Luis bridge and get ready to enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

Most people stop at a viewing point just across the river, but if you want to avoid the crowds and see a truly stunning spot, head over to Kittie Rock viewpoint.

From here you can enjoy romantic views of the city, the Ponte Luis bridge, and the Douro River, without the huge crowds. It’s the perfect place to end your first full day in Portugal.

After enjoying the sunset you can head back to Ribeira, to taste some delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the many riverfront restaurants.

Enjoying the sunset over Porto and the Douro River

Day 3 in Portugal: Day Trip to the Douro Valley

Day 3 of your trip to Portugal should be an awesome day trip to the Douro Valley . It’s a renowned wine region that is scattered with vineyards and wineries. But, the lush area has more to offer than a mere day drinking excursion.

To get there you can either drive, take the train or join a tour. Being one of the most popular Porto day trips , there are plenty of tours you can join, which in my opinion is the most convenient way to get there. 

This also allows you to take in scenic views of the area en route, without having to worry about organising anything.

Hiking in the Douro Valley

If you plan to take full advantage of the scenic beauty of the area, doing a hike in the Douro Valley is a wonderful way to do it.

While many of the hiking trails have unreliable markings, many of the wine farms offer visitors a map that outlines the farm’s layout so you can enjoy the walking trails without the stress.

If you’re not confident in your ability to navigate the area, it may be best to hire a guide or take a tour of the area to ensure you don’t get lost.

Click here to book your Douro Valley hiking tour on GetYourGuide or Viator , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The green rolling hills and vineyards of the Duoro Valley in Portugal

Wine Farms in the Douro Valley

Visiting a wine farm is going to be exactly what the doctor called for after a hike or walk exploring the area. You can enjoy views of the lush Douro Valley while sipping on some of the region’s finest wines.

Whether you opt for an exquisite tasting or you indulge in a boozy lunch alongside a sought after bottle of wine, you’ll be having a wonderful afternoon.

Some of the most famous and best wine farms to visit in the Douro Valley are; Quinta da Pacheca, Quinta da Roêda, Quinta das Carvalhas, Quinta de La Rosa and Quinta do Crasto.

To make things easier for you, you can also join a Douro Valley wine tour with cruise and pick up in Porto. That way you don’t have to worry about getting there, and they’ll take you directly to all the best wineries!

See prices and availability for your Douro Valley wine tour with cruise on GetYourGuide or Viator here!

The green vineyards of the Duoro Valley in Portugal

Day 4 in Portugal: Road trip to Coimbra

And after thoroughly exploring Porto and its surroundings, it’s time to hit the road! Day 4 of your Portugal 2 week itinerary will be spent driving to Coimbra from Porto.

Coimbra is located in central Portugal and used to be the capital city. It’s known for its historical and medieval architecture and its river-facing views.

The drive takes around an hour and 15 minutes, but there are plenty of spectacular stops that you can take along the way.

This is a small city in Portugal that sits along the shore of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. It has some beautiful art nouveau buildings and the stunning Cathedral of Aveiro.

The lagoon is littered with colourful boats, and the canals make for a quaint atmosphere.

Even if your stop in the town is brief, it’s worth popping by for a stroll along the lagoon to stretch your legs and take in the quaint feel of the city.

The colourful boats and riverfront houses of Aveiro

Bucaco National Park

Your next stop en route to Coimbra should be Bucaco National Park. It’s a walled arboretum that goes back to ancient times. It’s a stunning place to go for a nature walk and even has one of the best dendrological collections in Europe.

I can confidently say it’s one of the places on this Portugal itinerary that amazed me the most. I hadn’t heard much about Bucaco National Park before visiting it, and I was surprised at how gorgeous it is.

While not being entirely off the beaten path, it’s extremely underrated and well deserving of a visit. You can spend a few hours walking around the lush green forest, taking in the stunning views and admiring the ruins dotted around the park.

If you want someone explaining the history of this gorgeous park, you can also join a guided tour of Bucaco National Park .

See all the details for your Bucaco National Park tour on Viator and GetYourGuide here!

Enjoying the views over Bucaco National Park in Portugal

Exploring Bucaco National Park in Portugal

Once you’ve had your green fill, it’s time to drive to your final destination for the day, the beautiful city of Coimbra.

Although you might want to relax, it’s a town worth exploring, if only briefly. So before settling down at one of the charming diners lining the river, be sure to pop into some of the best attractions in the city.

Start by strolling through the University of Coimbra, one of the main attractions of the city.

The university is home also to Biblioteca Joanina, a gorgeous Baroque library, and the Chapel of São Miguel, a Manueline chapel founded in 1290.

Exploring the main square of the University of Coimbra

The beautiful facade of a church in Coimbra

In the medieval old town of Coimbra you will also find many churches, as well as the Old and New Cathedrals.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around Coimbra, taking in the picturesque city sights and history of the town.

Make sure to head also to the Machado de Castro National Museum and the Monastery of Santa Cruz. If you want to make sure you’ve seen everything, you can join a guided city tour.

That way you will not only see all the attractions, but also have a guide tell you about the fascinating history of Coimbra.

After your explorations, be sure to have a restful night as you’ll be setting off for Nazare the very next day.

Wandering the streets of Coimbra in Portugal

Where to stay in Coimbra

I listed below some accommodation options for every budget in Coimbra.

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!

Sé Velha, the old cathedral of Coimbra

Sé Nova, the new cathedral of Coimbra

Day 5 in Portugal: Drive to Nazare

After waking up in Coimbra, you’ll be taking a one hour and ten-minute drive to Nazare. There are a couple of stops you should make along the way to break up the drive and keep your travel interesting.

Batalha Monastery

Batalha Monastery is a Dominican convent in the town of Batalha. It’s a gorgeous building with stunningly intricate architecture that combines Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance styles.

I’m not usually a museum or church person, but I loved visiting Batalha. If you only visit one monastery during your time in Portugal, make sure it’s this one.

Entrance is 7.50 EUR and includes the church, cloisters and unfinished chapel. You can easily spend an hour just wandering around the monastery, taking in the beautiful architeture and learning about its history.

Click here to purchase your skip the line entrance to Batalha Monastery , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

Discovering the cloisters of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

The unfinished chapels of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

Alcobaca Monastery

While Alcobaca monastery is not as beautiful as Batalha, it’s a nice stop if you’re looking to break up the drive with one more activity. It’s not a must-see, but certainly makes for a splendid visit if you enjoy monasteries.

Personally we only visited the free section of the monastery, without going in to see the cloisters and museum. Even without seeing it all, you’ll get a feeling for this imposing building.

Once you get to Nazare, there are a few more places to visit before calling it a day.

The imposing facade of Alcobaca Monastery in Portugal

Faro de Nazare

The Faro da Nazare is an absolute must-visit. It’s a viewing point with a lighthouse where you can see the whole coastline and watch some of the biggest waves in the world rolling in (during the winter months).

They turned the lighthouse in a surf museum, showcasing the boards and personal stories of the big wave surfers who have surfed in Nazare. There is also a section explaining why the waves that form here are so huge.

It’s a really interesting place to visit, even if you’re not a surf fan.

The famous Faro de Nazare in Portugal

Some of the surf boards on display at the museum in the Faro de Nazare, Portugal

Old Town Nazare

From the Faro de Nazare you can walk on to Nazare old town, or O Sitio, located high on the cliffside.

Amble between the houses or walk along the cliffside walkway to enjoy views of the beach and a portion of Nazare down below.

Miradouro do Suberco

Located high on the cliffs of O Sitio, Miradouro do Suberco is a viewing point that gives you stunning views of the town and the beach below. This is a particularly beautiful viewing point for sunset watching.

The funicular connects the fisherman’s district to O Sitio, which is located high on the hillside.

Although you can drive to O Sitio, taking the funicular is a far more scenic way to make the journey as you look out over the rooftops and shoreline of quaint Nazare.

The funicular leading down to Nazare from the old town

Bairro dos Pescadores

Bairro dos Pescadores is the fisherman’s district in Nazare and feels as if nothing has changed about it in hundreds of years.

It’s where many of the locals stay in little white houses with narrow streets. It’s a fun place to explore as it gives you insight into how the locals really live.

From there you can also walk along the beach of Nazare, enjoying the sunset and tasting delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the many seafront restaurants. We had an amazing octopus dinner at Pangeia By the Sea .

Sunset on the beach in Nazare

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!

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!

View over Nazare from Miradouro do Suberco

Day 6 in Portugal: Explore Obidos & surf in Ericeira

After a restful overnight stay in Nazare, you’ll be on the road again in the morning. On the way to Ericeira, there are a few pit stops you can make along the way.

After just a 35-minute drive you will reach the town of Obidos . Obidos is an adorable medieval town that has quaint and well preserved pedestrian streets lined with white houses.

Walking down the streets of Obidos will feel like stepping back in time. One of the must-do activities in Obidos is to visit the old town walls and see the views of the town from above.

From here you can see the contrast of the white houses with the red roofs, and the Portuguese countryside surrounding you.

Make sure to visit also Igreja de Santa Maria. Unlike most of the churches you will have seen in Porto, this one seems nondescript from the outside, but actually hides a marvelous interior decorated entirely with azulejos.

You can also do a guided tour of Obidos , to make sure you see all the highlights!

Book your guided tour of Obidos here!

View over Obidos from the castle walls

The interior of Igreja de Santa Maria in Obidos, Portugal

Walking the castle walls of Obidos in Portugal

If you want to do one more stop on the way to Ericeira, Peniche has the most beautiful beaches with clear turquoise waters.

It’s a great spot to stop for a dip in a tidal pool or stroll along the shore during the warmer months. You’ll find also many surf schools here, although it’s not as famous a surf spot as Ericeira.

One of the beaches in Peniche, Portugal

Surf in Ericeira – Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas

After you spend the morning exploring the medieveal town of Obidos and relaxing in Peniche, make sure to arrive in Ericeira by early afternoon at the latest.

That way you’ll be able to spend a full afternoon enjoying the beaches, and maybe getting some surfing in!

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is known for being one of the ultimate surf spots close to town. A post-drive surf to cool off will be an absolute treat.

There are surf schools located on the beach so you can arrange a surf class or rental on the moment, or you can book one online beforehand if you want to be sure it will fit in your schedule.

Click here to book your surf lesson in Ericeira!

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas in Ericeira seen from above

Explore the Old Town of Ericeira

After spending an afternoon surfing head back to your accommodation, shower, relax and get ready to explore the actual town of Ericeira.

WIth its quaint streets and sidewalk cafes, the Old Town of Ericeira is definitely worth exploring.

We had an amazing seafood dinner at Mar d’Areia , then spent some time wandering around the cute streets of the old town.

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 7 in Portugal: Explore the castles of Sintra – expand this!

On day 7, you’ll wake up bright and early for your 30-minute drive to Sintra. Located at the foot of the Sintra Mountains , the forested landscape makes for a completely unique experience during your road trip.

The town itself of Sintra is also unlike anything I have ever seen. Sintra has been a longtime royal sanctuary, and is home to a high number of villas, castles and palaces.

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Portugal, so make sure to buy tickets to the castles you want to see online beforehand.

I was visiting Portugal in August and I was honestly shocked at the queues for the in person ticket office or machines. Your Portugal itinerary only has time for one day in Sintra, and you don’t want to spend it queueing!

Here are the castles and places you must absolutely visit during your Sintra day trip .

Exploring Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Palacio Nacional da Pena

Pena Palace was home to the Portuguese royal family in the 19th century.

With its colourful walls and a view of the surrounding landscape that stretches on for miles, it’s not hard to see why it’s amongst the most popular sights in Sintra.

If you want to visit the interior of the palace there is an additional queue, which can get very long in high season. Personally we only visited the courtyard and castle walls, and found it to be enough to enjoy this unique palace.

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

The distinctive architecture of Pena National Palace in Sintra

Castle of the Moors

This 8th and 9th century Moorish Castle is very underrated. It receives a quarter of the visitors of Pena Palace, and actually offers much more interesting views.

With its unique architecture and historical significance, you can’t miss it.

It was once used as a strategic point in medieval wars, but now you can visit the well preserved ruins and enjoy the view over the stunning surrounding landscape.

Click here to purchase your Castle of the Moors skip the line entrance ticket!

Exploring Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

Quinta da Regaleira

This is an incredible Romantic palace and chapel with a beautiful park. The lush garden contains grottos, fountains and lakes, all worth exploring.

Quinta da Regaleira is also home to the famous Initiation Well. You have probably seen photos of the iconic spiral staircase, winding down to the tunnel system of Quinta da Regaleira.

At the end of a long day of exploring Sintra, hope in the car and drive 30 minutes on to Lisbon, where you will spend the night.

Sintra Old Town

Sintra Old Town is a cute-as-a-button town that is easily explored on foot. Be sure to take a quick break to try some delicious pastel de nata while you’re there.

If you want to make sure you hit all the main highlights of Sintra, while also not having to worry about moving from one palace to the next or queuing at the entrance, you can also join a Sintra guided tour.

Check out here prices and availability for a Sintra guided tour on GetYourGuide and Viator !

Wandering the streets of Sintra Old Town in Portugal

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 a great place to stay in Lisbon , thanks also to the central 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 accommodation options 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, regardless of how many days you have in Lisbon .

Book your stay at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel here!

The view from the rooftop of This Is Lisbon hostel

Day 8 in Portugal: Explore Lisbon

After waking up in Lisbon, you’ll have plenty to do for the day, so it’s best to get an early start. This Lisbon itinerary is what you should be getting up to on day 8 of your itinerary for Portugal.

Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

This is a quaint viewing point that allows you to look out over the city and enjoy views all the way to the ocean. It’s a relaxing spot where you can sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the sleepy city slowly awaken.

The view over Lisbon from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Rossio Square

Just a 20-minute walk from the viewing point, Rossio Square has been one of the main squares in Lisbon since the middle ages.

Shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars surround the square, so it’s a good place to stop for breakfast or a quick cup of coffee.

Rua Augusta

Located right next door to Rossio Square, Rua Augusta is one of the best shopping streets in the city. It’s lined with eateries and shops, making it a great place to do a bit of shopping, or window shopping at the very least.

Walking along Rua Augusta in Lisbon

Santa Justa Lift

Just a 4-minute walk from Rua Augusta, the Santa Justa Lift connects central Lisbon’s lower streets to the much higher Largo do Carmo.

Although there are many lifts throughout the hilly city, this is a particularly magnificent one because of its French Eiffel style architecture.

The famous Santa Just lift in Lisbon

Praca do Comercio

Just a few minutes walk from the lift, Praca do Comercio is a big square that overlooks the river and harbour.

Spend some time wandering around the square, taking in the beautiful architecture and pop into one of the restaurants for a bite to eat while you’re there.

Praca do Comercio in Lisbon, Portugal

Pink Street

Rua Nova do Carvalho or Pink Street is only a 10-minute stroll from Praca do Comercio.

The aptly named street’s floor has been painted bright pink, and it revolutionised the area. It has become one of the trendiest places in Lisbon (especially in the evenings).

The famous Pink Street in Lisbon

Time Out Market

The Time Out Market is a great place to rest your legs after a long day of exploring.

They serve everything from burgers to sushi, and traditional pastel de nata if you’re up for a treat. The food is prepared fairly quickly, which is exactly what you need when you’re on a tight schedule.

Elevador Da Bica

This funicular railway, built in 1892, has become an iconic sight in the city.

Although getting into the fantastic yellow tram is a great experience, you can simply walk alongside it if you don’t want to pay. And this is where you get the best photos anyway.  

Walking next to the famous Elevador da Bica in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon Cathedral

This Roman Catholic cathedral is just a 20-minute walk from the funicular and is the oldest church in the city.

It contains many architectural styles as pieces of it have been renovated and restored over the years. If you’re a fan of churches, you can meander the inside and learn about the history of this cathedral.

Getting up close to Lisbon cathedral

Alfama is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city and filled to the brim with traditional shops and quaint cafes. Take the tram 28 that winds its way through the area, offering you the perfect sightseeing experience.

If you want to be sure you see all the main sights in Lisbon, you can also join a Lisbon guided tour . That way you will also have a guide tell you about the history of the Portuguese capital.

Click here to book your Lisbon Essential Tour , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

Walking along the narrow streets of Alfama neighbourhood in Lisbon

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

This is the last stop of the day and one that holds magnificent views.

It’s the perfect place to watch the sun setting over Lisbon and bathing everything in golden light – one of the best ways to see Portugal is while the sun is setting.

This viewing point can get rather busy, so be sure to get there early to claim your spot.

Day 9 in Portugal: Belem & Cascais

When you’re planning a trip to Portugal, you need to visit all the best locations.

Admittedly, moving on from Lisbon central can be hard as it’s really a city that captures your heart. But don’t worry, there are plenty of places with just as much charm in this Portugal tour itinerary.

I recommend that you explore Belem before you head to Cascais. It’s a wonderful neighbourhood, known for its colourful houses, seafood restaurants and scattering of famous landmarks.

Belem Tower

The Tower of Saint Vincent, or the Belem Tower as it has come to be known, is a fortification that was built in the 1500s and served as a ceremonial gateway to the city.

The tower is built in typical Portuguese Manueline style and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So it’s definitely a not to be missed activity on your 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary.

It’s often visited on a day trip from Lisbon , but I think it’s better to fit it as a stop on a longer Portugal road trip itinerary .

Admiring Belem Tower in Lisbon

Jeronimos Monastery

This was once the monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome, built in typical Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline architectural style. It boasts such intricate detailing that you could wander the monastery for hours.

Make sure to purchase your ticket online beforehand , so that you can skip the queue and head straight to exploring the beautiful monastery. The cloisters are without a doubt the highlight of the monastery.

Click here to purchase your skip the line entrance ticket to Jeronimos Monastery , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The beautiful Geronimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal

Eat a pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belem

Pasteis de Belem is a pastelarias in Belem that serves arguably the best pastel de nata in Portugal. While you’re sure to eat plenty of pastel de nata while you’re in Lisbon, these are a must-try.

This tasty treat is one of the best in Lisbon, a city that leaves a great taste in your mouth!

After exploring Belem and refuelling on pastel de nata, it’s time to head to Cascais, just a 20-minute drive away.

You have to try a delicious pastel del nata!

Old Town Cascais

Cascais is a fishing village turned quaint and fairly wealthy town. The old town is covered in narrow cobbled pathways and colourful houses, perfect for exploring on foot.

There are also lots of cute shops, bars and restaurants. There are also a few famous sights like the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace, a former royal retreat.

You can easily spend an hour while simply wandering around the quaint streets of this town. When you’ve had enough of the old town, head down to the harbour to enjoy views of the open ocean.

Wandering the cute streets of the Old Town of Cascais

Relax at a beach in Cascais

Cascais is littered with some of the best beaches on the Portuguese coastline. You can go for a pleasant walk along the coast, admiring all the best beaches and choosing one to spend the afternoon.

It’s worth seeing them all, but because you’re on a time crunch, you may want to choose just one or two to actually sit, tan and go for a dip in the sea.

Some of the most famous beaches in Cascais are; Praia da Rainha, Praia da Duquesa, Praia da Conceição, Tamariz Beach and Praia de São Pedro do Estoril.

Once you’ve had your fill of sun and beach, it’s time to hop back in the car and take the one hour and 40-minute drive to Evora, where you’ll be spending the night.

One of the beautiful city beaches in Cascais

Where to stay 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 main square in Evora, Portugal

Day 10 in Portugal: Evora & Mertola

After waking up in Evora , you’ll want to explore the town before moving on for the day. These are the must-see sights in Evora to add to your Portugal vacation itinerary.

Evora Cathedral

Evora Cathedral sits on the highest point of the city and is one of the most important monuments in the area.

The Roman Catholic church is absolutely beautiful inside and out, but the cloister and the rooftop are particularly awe-inspiring.

From the rooftop you can get an incredible view over the rooftops of Evora, as well as the surrounding countryside.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan you will enjoy wandering around the cloisters, as they will give you very strong Hogwarts vibes. Entrance to the cathedral is 1.50 EUR, or 3.50 EUR with the rooftop and cloisters.

View over Evora and the countryside from the rooftop of Evora cathedral

Exploring the cloisters of the cathedral in Evora

Chapel of Bones

But the most famous attraction in Evora is whtout a doubt the Capela dos Ossos, also known as the Chapel of Bones. It’s one of Evora’s most famed monuments, and it’s easy to see why.

The interior walls, columns and ceiling of the small chapel are decorated with human bones. It took an estimated 5000 corpses that were exhumed from the medieval cemetery to adorn the chapel.

While it’s without a doubt an eerie, and slightly macabre sight, it’s an interesting place to visit, where you can learn more about its history.

The famous Chapel of Bones in Evora, Portugal

The Roman Temple

Another unique sight is the Templo de Diana, or the Roman Temple of Evora. It’s part of the historical centre of the city, and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to make sure you hit all the sights, while also having a local guide tell you about the local history, you can join a guided tour of Evora .

Click here to book your guided tour of Evora!

The Roman Temple in Evora, Portugal

Old Town Centre

Before heading to the next stop in your Portugal itinerary, be sure to amble through the old town centre of Evora.

The narrow streets are lined with white houses with colourful yellow window frames – making for an absolutely picturesque scene.

After exploring the old town, hop in the car and get ready for the one hour and 40-minute drive to Mertola. But there is at least one stop you should be making along the way.

Exploring the cute streets of Evora in Portugal

There are many pretty towns on the drive from Evora to Mertola, but if decide to visit only one of them, then make sure it’s Monsaraz.

Monsaraz is located en route to Mertola and is a beautiful medieval town perched on a hilltop. Just like many other towns in the region, it’s complete with cobbled streets lined with white houses and a medieval castle.

From the castle walls and various spots of the town you will get epic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s an incredibly picturesque sight and a must on any Portugal itinerary.

If you’re looking for other stops to make along the way, consider stopping at the towns of Moura and Serpa.

Enjoying the view over Monsaraz and the surrounding countryside

When you get to this scenic medieval town, be sure to do a little exploring. The town is perched on a hill, with the Castle of Mertola sitting on the highest point.

You can spend some time wandering through the cobbled streets and white houses of Mertola, but make sure to dedicate some time to the castle.

From the castle you’ll be able to appreciate views of not only the town, but also the river and surrounding countryside. There are also panels that tell you about the history of the town.

Paired with Monsaraz, it’s one of the most picturesque and unique medieval towns you will see in Portugal.

View over Mertola, the Guadiana River and the surrounding countryside from the Castle of Mertola walls

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 11 in Portugal: Drive to Algarve

Portugal itineraries would be incomplete without the inclusion of Algarve, Portugal’s most famous beach destination. And that’s exactly where you’ll be heading on day 11.

The drive from Mertola to Albufeira, where you will be spending the night, is just a 1.5 hours, but there are a couple of places worth visiting along the way.

This small town and its attractions are definitely worth exploring.

It has a long sandy beach, perfect for stretching the legs. There are also salt pans that attract birds like flamingos and spoonbills, which makes for an interesting sight.

The town itself is also worth a visit. Similarly to some of the other Portuguese towns you’ve visited in this itinerary you will find pretty white houses, cobbled streets and a well preserved local castle and church.

Rooftop views in Tavira, Portugal

Exploring Tavira in the Algarve by tuk-tuk

Faro is the capital of the Algarve coast, with many landmarks and monuments filled with a rich history. Moorish walls, 13th-century cathedrals, and 16th-century convents are all ready to be explored when you stop at Faro.

I didn’t personally love Faro, but being the capital of the Algarve, it feels like one of those places you should at least briefly stop at.

The old town is the prettiest part of the city, with those characteristic white houses and cobbled streets.

Sunset in Faro Marina, Portugal

This coastal town was once a small fishing village but has now turned into a holiday hub where travellers can enjoy tranquil beaches and buzzing nightlife.

Albufeira is different from other beach towns in the Algarve in that it has an old town perched on top of a hill, overlooking the main beach and new town. Along the beach you will find a strip of bars, restaurants and shops.

You can spend your afternoon exploring the old town, then wandering through the attractions of the new town and then relaxing on the beach. If you want to explore the Portuguese nightlife, this is the place to do it!

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Where to stay in Albufeira

Deciding where to stay in the Algarve isn’t always easy, as each town has a distinctive vibe. To get you started, 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 12 in Portugal: Benagil Cave & Praia do Marinha

Day 12 of your itinerary for Portugal will see you immerse yourself in the incredible natural features that this area has to offer. It was one of my favourite ideas of the whole itinerary.

Kayak to Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is a huge sea cave that is only accessible via the ocean, so you have to jon either a boat , kayak or SUP tour to reach it.

The cave has two entrances facing the ocean and one hole in the ceiling, allowing the perfect amount of light to enter the cave.

It’s one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, so I highly recommend joining a sunrise tour to visit it. We did a kayak sunrise tour to Benagil Cave and loved the experience.

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak sunrise tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

The tour started at 7AM and lasted 2 hours, including around 30 minutes inside Benagil Cave to enjoy the stunning natural rock formations. Besides Benagil Cave we kayaked along the coast and explored a couple more sea caves.

I was afraid it would be one of those Instagram vs reality moments, but I was happy to find it genuinely stunning even in real life.

If you visit later in the day however, when the cave is overrun by boats, kayaks and people, it probably won’t give you the same impression.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING BENAGIL CAVE |

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Relax at Praia do Marinha

Praia do Marinha is one of the most iconic beaches of the Algarve coastline. After your Benagil Cave tour you can hike to Praia do Marinha, walking part of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail along the coast.

The hike takes around 45 minutes. There are stalls in the parking area above the beach and a bar on the beach itself where you can buy food and drinks.

The beach is famous for its turquoise water, fine sand and the dramatic golden cliffs that surround it.

Don’t get a spot too close to the water, since when the tide starts going up you’ll find yourself having to shuffle back up the beach!

Once you’ve relaxed and recovered from the early start it’s time to hop back in the car and head to Lagos, where you will be spending the night.

The drive is only 45 minutes, but you can do a few stops along the way to break up the journey.

Some towns worthy of a visit are Carvoeiro and Ferragudo. Lagos itself is also a very cute town, which you can enjoy wandering around in the late afternoon and evenings.

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 13 in Portugal: Explore the beaches in Lagos & Ponta do Peidade

Your Algarve itinerary continues on day 13 with a few more beaches and expeditions.

Praia do Camilo

Start your day at Praia do Camilo, one of the most famous beaches in Portugal.

If you’ve seen photos online of a small beach with turquoise surrounded by tall golden cliffs, a wooden staircase leading down to it, this is the beach.

It gets very busy so make sure to get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Once the big tourist crowds start arriving, you can head off on a hiking adventure to Ponta da Piedade.

Walking down the famous wooden stairwell of Praia do Camilo in Portugal

Ponta do Piedade

At Ponta do Piedade, you can walk along the cliffy coastline, stopping at each viewing point to have your breath taken away from you. It’s easy to see why this part of Portugal features on so many Europe bucket lists .

At Ponta da Piedade you will enjoy stunning views of the turquoise ocean and craggy cliff faces. You can also join a boat tour , which will allow you to see these stunning rock formations from a different angle.

Click here to see prices and availability for a Ponta do Piedade boat tour, or check them out in the calendar below!

The stunning views of Ponta da Piedade, Portugal

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

Praia de Dona Ana

Once you’re done hiking and exporing Ponta da Piedade, you can head back towards Lagos and stop at Praia de Dona Ana. This beach is just as scenic as Praia do Camilo, but it’s much bigger.

That means you won’t have to fight with as many tourists, and even if you arrive later in the day you’ll likely still find a spot to lay your towel and relax.

Relaxing at Praia de Dona Ana is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Lagos .

View over Praia de Dona Ana in the Algarve, Portugal

Day 14 in Portugal: Surf in Sagres

For your final day in Portugal, you should drive for 40 minutes to Sagres, and get ready to enjoy unique shops, bars, restaurants and surf spots.

Explore Sagres Town

Although Sagre isn’t as quaint as many of the other towns on your itinerary, it’s worth a visit for its spectacular viewing point, Cabo de São Vicente. The viewing point is best visited at sunset.

It’s also worth strolling through the old quarter of town, where you can find many of the best bars, restaurants, and cafes.

The sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

The cliffs of Cabo de Sao Vincente at sunset

Surf at Praia do Amado

There are many famous surfing beaches in this part of the Algarve. Some of the most famous are Praia do Telheiro, Castelejo Beach and Praia do Amado. Praia do Amado was my personal favourite.

Even if the surfing isn’t good, the beach is beautiful, with cliffs to one side and dunes to the other. You can book your surf class online beforehand, or just wait to get there and see what the waves are like.

Sagres is a great place to end your Portugal itinerary. After spending 14 days on the road, hopping from one place to the next, it’s a great place to sit back, chill and enjoy the vibe.

If you have more than 14 days, you can also stay here longer and enjoy the surf beaches. You can then fly out from Faro airport, which is around 1.5 hours drive away.

Praia do Amado in Portugal

Portugal 14-day itinerary – beyond mainland Portugal

If you have more than 2 weeks in Portugal, you should definitely consider heading to the Portuguese islands. Sao Miguel and Madeira are the most famous, but don’t limit yourself just to those.

There are lots of things to do on Sao Miguel , but the other islands also offer stunning opportunities. I spent  10 days in the Azores Islands , exploring Terceira , Pico, Sao Jorge and Faial Islands, and can honestly say it’s one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen.

The Azores are a place of stunning natural beauty, where you can go on epic hikes , swimming in natural rock pools, exploring cute colonial towns and on thrilling whale watching tours .

Enjoying the view over the Simao Dias natural pools on Sao Jorge island

Enjoying the view from the Miradouro Serra do Cume Viewpoint in Terceira Island

Final thoughts on my Portugal Itinerary | 14 Days of Exploration

There you have it, the ultimate Portugal 2-week itinerary! Have you been to Portugal before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

If you’re lucky enough to spend a whole two weeks in Portugal, then you need a game plan for your trip. Deciding which region to visit, what to do, and where to stay can be a challenge when you’re on the road.

But if you follow this two weeks in Portugal itinerary, you simply can’t go wrong. This Portugal itinerary takes you to explore everything that mainland Portugal has to offer.

From the main cities to the small medieval towns, from dramatic beaches to green valleys, it’s a perfectly balanced itinerary that touches a bit of everything.

I hope you find this itinerary useful in planning your time in Portugal. I had an incredible two weeks in Portugal, and I hope you do to. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

10 Days in Portugal: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

Portugal is a fantastic destination for travellers looking to explore a hidden gem of Europe. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient ruins and castles, Portugal has it all! From exploring its bustling capital city Lisbon to discovering Porto, there’s so much to see and do here over 10 days that you won’t want your journey to end!

This 10 days in Portugal itinerary will start and end in Lisbon and will cover Lisbon and Portugal with a few day trips sprinkled in.

10 Days in Portugal: The Perfect 10 Day Itinerary for First-Timers

When planning for your 10 days in Portugal, look for a flight where you arrive at least early in the afternoon to Lisbon. To get over jet lag, it’s best that you spend your first day exploring a little bit to try and acclimate to the time change.

Quick Overview of your 10 Days in Portugal

Day 1: explore the alfama district, visit miradouro de santa luzia, time out market, day 2: walking tour, time out market, half-day trip to belem, day 3: day trip to sintra & cascais, visit miradouro de sao pedro de alcantara, day 4: travel to porto, walk av. dos aliados, day 5: food tour, sao bento train station, rua de santa catarina, day 6: explore ribeira & vila nova de gaia, visit sao francisco church, day 7: day trip to douro valley, day 8: day trip to braga, day 9: travel back to lisbon, explore baixa district (rua de augusta), day 10: travel home, where to stay for 10 days in portugal, how to get around 10 days in portugal, the best time to visit portugal, how to pack for 10 days in portugal, – is 10 days enough to see portugal, – should i rent a car for 10 days in portugal, – is english spoken in portugal, share this:.

• Day 1: Explore the Alfama district , Castelo de Sao Jorge , visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia
• Day 2: Walking tour, day trip to Belem, Time Out Market
• Day 3: Day trips to Sintra & Cascais , visit Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
• Day 4: Travel to Porto , walk Av. dos Aliados
• Day 6: Explore Ribeira & Vila Nova de Gaia , Visit Sao Francisco Church
• Day 9: Travel back to Lisbon , explore Baixa district (Rua de Augusta)

After landing in Lisbon , make your way to your hotel. It may be too early to check in, but you can typically drop off your luggage for holding. Then head out to start your 10 days in Portugal by getting your first sights of Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal!

The Alfama district is one of the oldest in Lisbon with its winding cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and its abundance of restaurants, bars, and cafés. Historically, the Alfama district was set outside the castle walls and catered to the poor, and was influenced by the Moor people. However, as Lisbon grew, it is now a unique and colorful part of the city.

Visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia for some stunning views of the city. Miradouro means “viewpoint” in Portuguese, and Lisbon is full of them! Santa Luiza is a romantic miradouro with colored tiles and a sitting viewpoint overseeing the Alfama district and the Tagus River.

After getting the best views, head over to Castelo de Sao Jorge , the former Moorish castle overlooking Lisbon. You can walk through the castle and explore the old ruins. It’s also a great place to get some more photo opportunities in the city.

While you’re in the Alfama district, make sure to keep an eye out for painted murals along the walls. These were ordered to make the district more appealing and approachable because of the district’s history.

Once you’re ready to get some food, check out the Jardim de Tabaco, Tobacco Garden Rock, which used to house the city’s tobacco. This area is now a trendy and hip place filled with waterfront restaurants.

The best way to understand a place is to explore it on foot. Today is the perfect day to take a walking tour of Lisbon . You can sign up for a free walking tour with a local guide to learn about Lisbon’s history and culture as you wander through its cobblestone streets. The guide will also point out interesting places and hidden gems that you can come back to visit later.

On your way to Belem, visit the Time Out Market for lunch. This indoor market is filled with vendors selling various Portuguese foods from bifanas and bacalhau (codfish) to pasteis de natas and super bock, the local Portuguese beer.

In the afternoon, take a half-day trip to Belem which is a 40-50 minute train ride away from Lisbon. The area is known for its architectural masterpieces like the Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site with ornate decorations and architecture. You can also tour the Torre de Belem (Tower of Belem) and the Monument of Discoveries, which features some of Portugal’s most prominent explorers.

Before heading back to your hotel, grab a sandwich at Pao Pao Queijo Queijo and a pasteis de nata, which originated in Belem.

Start your day early and take a train to Sintra , a charming town filled with palaces, gardens, and parks. Here you’ll find two of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks: the Palace of Pena and the Castle of the Moors.

The Palace is a Germany-style castle with bright yellow turrets, extravagant interiors, and sprawling gardens. The Castle of the Moors is a fortress and ruins from an 18th-century Muslim settlement with stunning views of Sintra.

After exploring the palaces of Sintra, you’ll also want to make a stop at Cabo da Roca, or Cape Roca, which is the westernmost point of continental Europe. Bring a jacket as it can get pretty windy and chilly!

Then take the train to Cascais for some beach time along the Atlantic Coast. This luxury resort town is known for its sandy white beaches and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants and have some fresh seafood. The gelato at Santini’s is some of the best–make sure to grab dessert before heading back.

You can also choose to do a Sintra and Cascais guided tour that will provide transportation and a local guide to the palaces, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais and make navigating all these locations a little easier.

On your way back to Lisbon, swing by Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara for some more gorgeous views of Lisbon’s cityscape. This terrace is located in the Bairro Alto district and offers panoramic views of the Tagus River and Alfama District. On the weekends, you can find food vendors here and musicians playing their tunes.

To get to Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, you can take the Gloria Tram up to the viewpoint from Restauradores Square.

Today, you’ll be traveling north to Porto , the second-largest city in Portugal. This city is known for its distinctive architecture and colorful buildings along the Douro River. Take the Alfa Pendular train, Portugal’s fast train, for 3 hours to Porto. Keep an eye out as you get closer to Porto–you’ll be able to see Vila Nova de Gaia and the Douro river as the train pulls in!

Once you arrive, start your day by walking down Av. dos Aliados , which is home to some of the most beautiful Baroque-style buildings in Porto. Stop by the Town Hall to admire its intricate design and colorful tiles.

You can also visit one of the most decked-out fast food restaurants in Europe, McDonald’s Imperial. You’ll notice a regal eagle out front. As you walk in, chandeliers top the ceilings and beautiful stained glass shines behind the counters. Even if you don’t eat here, a picture is worth the visit!

Other places to see around here are the Clerigos Tower, Jardim da Cordoaria, and the Livraria Lello bookstore, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s writings of Harry Potter.

Before heading to dinner, walk within the vicinity to take pictures of the beautiful churches such as Sao Bento da Vitoria Church and Igreja de Santa Clara, which have stunning Portuguese glazed tile facades.

Head to Gazela’s for Portuguese hot dogs. These delicious hot dogs are grilled with cheese and ladled with chili oil and served with a side of fries.

Start your day by taking a guided food tour , where you can sample some traditional Portuguese dishes such as francesinha, a cheese and steak sandwich served with french fries and covered in beer sauce. You’ll also enjoy other local specialties like bifanas, and pasteis de nata. And don’t forget to try a glass of port wine–Porto is home to some of the best port wineries!

Before visiting the train station, see the magnificent Se do Porto (Porto Cathedral). From here, you can view the Douro River and various red rooftops of Porto. Then, make your way down the hill to Sao Bento Train Station , which is one of the most ornate train stations in Europe. The entrance has 20,000 azulejo tiles that depict Portugal’s history.

Next up is Rua de Santa Catarina, known as one of the main shopping streets in Porto. Here you’ll find typical Portuguese products like leather goods and handmade jewelry! You’ll also find the elegant Majestic Cafe here. If you continue walking north, you’ll come upon the Chapel of the Souls whose facade is covered in azulejo tiles. It is free to see the inside, but be respectful to those who are inside.

End your day with a stunning view of Porto at Miradouro da Vitória, a free viewpoint to see Ribeira, the Douro River, and the sunset from above. Make sure to wear a light jacket as it can be chilly in the evening.

The Ribeira is the historical district of Porto, with its colorful houses and buildings leaning to one side. Take a leisurely stroll along the Douro River and past the quay-side cafes and shops. You’ll see musicians entertaining people so take in the lively atmosphere.

Continue your journey across the Dom Luis I Bridge, which takes you to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to more than 20 port wineries! You can take a tour of some of these wineries and taste the different types of port wine.

If you’d like to take a Douro River cruise tour, you can book a half-day Porto tour with the cruise and port wine tasting. The river cruise takes about 50 minutes and shows you the 6 bridges that cross the Douro River.

For food in the Ribeira district , check out Restaurante Mercearia’s Portuguese meats and seafood, Taberna Dos Mercadores for their salmon or flaming sea bass, or enjoy the views and Angus steak at the RIB Beef & Wine restaurant, located on the Vila Nova de Gaia side of the river.

After eating, head beyond the waterfront of Ribeira and explore Rua do Infante D. Henrique. Swing by Sao Francisco Church–built in the late 1700s, this baroque-style church features a breathtaking staircase made from golden wood and detailed azulejo tiles depicting religious scenes on its walls.

You can also visit Palacio da Bolsa, a grand palace built for the stock exchange in the 1800s. Be sure to take pictures of its gothic rooms and intricate frescoes on its ceilings. There are limited guided tours, so make sure you sign up for an English one before heading there!

On Day 7 of your 10 Day Portugal Travel Itinerary, you’ll travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Douro Valley , on an excursion to explore the region’s vineyards and sun-soaked hillsides. It’s best to book a guided tour to Douro Valley for transportation and to learn more about the history of this beautiful area.

The local guide will also know which wineries to take you to and give you tips on exploring this gorgeous countryside of Portugal!

On the tour, you’ll visit the Pinhao train station, where you can see the azulejos tiles depicting the vineyards and the Douro river. You’ll also have a chance to visit Casal de Loivos Viewpoint which has some of the most stunning views of the Douro Valley and even take a river cruise on the Douro River.

Lunch is included in the tour as well as port wine tastings at two of the leading port producers. It’s a great way to experience the Douro region, and learn about the area’s winemaking traditions!

Before heading back to Lisbon, explore the city of Braga —the oldest city in the country with more than 2,000 years of history! Also known as the “Rome of Portugal,” Braga is located in northern Portugal and is the country’s main religious center.

When you arrive in Braga, take a stroll around the city center and visit some of its most famous landmarks such as the Arco da Porta Nova which is the archway into the oldest part of Braga. You’ll also want to see Se de Braga, the Braga Cathedral, which is the oldest church in all of Portugal. Don’t miss the Avenida de Liberdade or the Palacio de Raio.

For food in Braga, check out Cafe Vianna, one of the oldest cafes in Braga, and try their version of the Francesinha then head on over to Tibias a Braga for some dessert. The Tibias pastry is shaped like the tibia bone so you’ll know what it looks like when you see it!

The biggest draw to Braga is the Baroque-style Braga Cathedral, Sanctuary Bom Jesus do Monte—an 18th-century pilgrimage site with stunning views of the city. The Sanctuary is accessible by foot up 500+ steps or by taking a funicular powered by water.

To get to the Bom Jesus do Monte, you can take the public bus #2 or hire a tuk-tuk guide to get you up there and bring you back.

On your last full day in Portugal, you’ll be heading back to Lisbon and exploring the Baixa District. This district is known for its large squares and grand monuments. One of the most impressive buildings here is Praça do Comércio , the grand arcade that was once a royal palace; it’s flanked by two statues depicting King José I and the Marquis of Pombal.

Explore other sites such as the Santa Justa Lift, an iron elevator; and the Rua de Augusta, a vibrant pedestrian street that is well known for its restaurants, shops, bars, and cafes. Take a stroll down this street to get a feel for the culture and energy that makes Lisbon one of the best cities in Europe!

While here, you’ll also want to get a taste of Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur that the locals love. Finally, get our last bite of traditional Portuguese food at one of Baixa District’s restaurants. Some of our favorites are bifanas, pregos, and bacalhau.

Your 10 days in Portugal have come to an end! You’ll be catching your flight from Lisbon airport and heading back home. As you say goodbye to this beautiful country, make sure to take some time for reflection.

Think about the many memories and experiences that you’ve had during your trip. From the days spent at Belem Tower to exploring Douro Valley and Braga, you’ll definitely have some amazing stories to tell your family and friends.

As you travel back home, make sure that you bring with you a piece of Portugal—perhaps an azulejo tile or a bottle of port wine—as a reminder of the incredible time that you had while in this country!

In Lisbon, the best places to stay are in the city center to get the most out of your time. For a budget stay, check out the Rossio Hostel or a mid-range stay at the Esquina Cosmopolitan Lodge . Both of these accommodations are in excellent locations with easy access to public transportation, dining, and sites.

As you head north to Porto , you’ll also want to be close to the city center so you can have easy walking access to all the best sites! Though the Ribiera district is bustling with people and activity, this is one of the most expensive places to stay. For a budget stay, Boavista Guest House is a great option for a mid-range stay at YOUROPO Market .

Portugal is a highly walkable city. You can easily get around Lisbon and Porto on foot. However, it is highly recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be walking up and down a lot of hills.

Public transportation is widely available in both Lisbon and Porto. There are trams and buses that run throughout the cities as well as the metro. In addition to ground transportation, you can also take a train to explore other parts of the country.

You can also purchase the Lisbon or Porto Cards for either 24, 48, or 72 hours to use on public transportation. You’ll also have free entrance to specific museums and sites with the use of these tourist cards.

There is the option of hiring a taxi if you need to get to the train station or the airport, but keep in mind that this will be more expensive than public transportation.

The best time to spend 10 days in Portugal is from April to May when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, you’ll have sunny days with bearable temperatures ranging from 50°-70° Fahrenheit.

Avoid going to Portugal during the heat of the summer in July and August as you’ll not only get the heat, but also the crowds.

When packing for this 10 day Portugal Travel Itinerary, always remember to pack light and comfortably. Pack items that can mix and match with each other so you don’t have to bring a lot of clothes.

Basics like jeans, leggings, and t-shirts are essential for sightseeing. Make sure to get comfortable walking shoes for all the walking you will be doing. For day trips, you’ll want to have a day bag with you, and a water bottle.

FAQs: 10 Days in Portugal

As with any trip, 10 days is only scratching the surface of seeing what Portugal has to offer. Experiencing this 10 Day Portugal Travel Itinerary, is enough to explore the best of Lisbon, Porto, and a few other cities around the country. You’ll be able to visit some of the major attractions in both cities, take a day trip outside of the city, and sample traditional Portuguese cuisine.

If you have more time to spend in Portugal, you can take a trip south to the coast of the Algarve and Lagos.

Car rental is not necessary when traveling on your 10 days in Portugal. The roads are narrow for driving and you’ll also most likely be operating a manual car if you decide to rent a car. If you feel comfortable driving in such conditions, you can rent a car to get from Lisbon to Porto.

Yes, English is widely spoken in Portugal. Most locals speak at least some English and you’ll be able to communicate with them easily. The younger generations typically speak better English than the older generations, but both should be able to understand basic conversation.

In addition, most signs and menus will have translations into English so it’s easy to get around without speaking Portuguese.

Overall, Portugal is an incredible destination to visit! From stunning architecture to delicious cuisine and vibrant culture, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this beautiful country. With its welcoming people, alluring scenery, and rich history, Portugal is the perfect destination for your 10-day vacation, and this is the perfect 10 Day Portugal Travel Itinerary for first time travellers to Portugal.

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5 days in Portugal itinerary for first time visitors

With just 5 days in Portugal, you can visit the charming capital of Lisbon, experience authentic culture in Lisbon, and explore the palaces at Sintra – and more! This 5 day Portugal itinerary shows off the best of the country in a short amount of time, making it the perfect introduction to first time visitors to Portugal, as well as those on a time crunch.

Follow this 5 day Portugal itinerary to explore both Lisbon and Porto as well as head out of the city to admire the palaces at Sintra. Get to see and understand the Portuguese heritage as you compare both cities – Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is utterly charming with its iconic yellow trams and narrow streets yet it has nightlife on a part with Barcelona and Milan. Porto meanwhile, is a fusion of old and new, the place to enjoy authentic Portuguese culture with an eclectic twist. If on the other hand, you are visiting Spain on the same trip have a look at this Spain and Portugal itinerary .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me in this way.

Table of Contents

Is 5 Days In Portugal Enough?

An entire country in 5 days? That may seem ambitious…and it is. 5 days in Portugal is not enough if you want to see ALL of the country, it’s true. There are very few countries in the world where 5 days would allow you to see it all!

Instead, this 5 day Portugal itinerary focuses on two main cities – Lisbon and Porto – with a visit to Sintra. That gives you two full days in both Lisbon and Porto, which allows enough time for a proper introduction to each city, as well as a day in Sintra to appreciate the palaces.

If you have more time, you can easily combine this itinerary with visits to cities like Ericeira , Amarante , and Obidos or spend even more time in Lisbon .

How to Get Around Portugal

Most people arriving to Portugal will fly into Lisbon, which is where our itinerary begins. I’ve included several options below for how to get to Lisbon from the airport. But once you’re in Portugal, what’s the easiest way to get around?

Trains. While buses and planes are both options, trains are usually the best option when you compare price vs comfort. Traffic can be bad so I don’t recommend trying to take the bus, especially between Lisbon and Sintra. Flying between Lisbon and Porto is an option, depending on your budget.

In the cities themselves, you’ll be able to walk between most attractions and public transport options are available. In Lisbon, the Lisbon Card will give you unlimited access to free public transportation.

5 Day Portugal Itinerary: The Best of Lisbon, Sintra and Porto

We’ll begin in Lisbon, since that’s where most international flights land, and end in Porto, where you can easily find a flight, train, or bus connection to your next destination.

5 days in Portugal: Day One – Lisbon

How to get from Lisbon Airport to the City Centre

Lisbon International Airport (Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport is otherwise known as Portela Airport) is located 7km (4.3miles) from the city center so you’ll soon be off the plane and into the city no matter which transport method you choose.

  The red metro line runs from the airport to Saldanha station which is in the finance district of Lisbon. If not staying in this part of the city, you can change trains at Saldanha onto one of the other 3 lines and continue your journey into the heart of the city center in another 10 minutes. Metro trains operate from 6 am-1 am daily.

Time: 15-25 minutes depending on destination

Cost: 1.40 EUR

Express Airport Bus

Aerobus is an express bus service with 2 lines that run every 20minutes from 8 am-9 pm. The vehicles have luggage racks inside the vehicle, perfect if you’re traveling with large suitcases, and benefit from screens clearly showing you the next stop.

Aerobus 1 goes to Rossio (the city center) calling at 7 stops on the way. Aerobus 2 goes to Cais do Sodre (the finance district) stopping at 8 places on the way. Check routes here .

Arriving after 9 pm? Catch the night bus (No 208) to Cais do Sodre. The first night bus departs Lisbon airport at 11.42 pm with buses every hour after 12.42 am until 3.42 am and a final night bus service at 4.12 am.

Time: 30 minutes

Cost: 3.60 EUR on AEROBUS (1.80 EUR on the night bus)

Plenty of taxi’s wait outside the arrivals hall exit. Taxies are metered so the cost depends on traffic and your final destination. There is a surcharge for excess luggage and for night time journeys. Note that if there are 4 of you traveling, the taxi driver may refuse to take all 4 of you at night due to safety concerns of having 1 passenger sitting in the front seat, not behind the protective barrier.

Time: 10-15 minutes

Cost: Average 15-25 EUR

Private Transfer

I used Welcome Pickups to go from Lisbon airport to the city center and I highly recommend them. The company charges a flat fee and uses English-speaking, drivers who are friendly and helpful so it’ll feel like a friend is collecting you from the airport, there to meet you outside of the arrivals hall and push your luggage to the car. They also sell SIM cards, wifi hotspots, and tickets to the major attractions which saves you time in hunting out the tech and queuing for tickets!

Time: 10 minutes

Cost: 24-26 EUR

Click here for more information and to book your transfer.

Tip: A great way to save money and time is a 24, 48, or 72-Hour  Lisbon Card that includes free admission to more than 23 attractions, many discounts and free and unlimited access to the public transportation system.

Make the most of your 1 st day by exploring in the heart of Lisbon . The Baixa district (officially Baixa Pombaline) was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755 and is set out in grid-like fashion. It’s an elegant district with plenty to see and do.

Praça do Comércio

Start your sightseeing explorations from this large grand square, the square of commerce located on the bank of the River Tagus. Otherwise known as Terreiro de Paco (Palace Yard), it was once the site of the Royal Palace (until the 1755 earthquake) but today is visited for the stunning view across the Tejo Estuary and the iconic yellow Pombaline architecture. At the center of these government buildings stand the decorative Arco da Rua Augusta, a tall triumphal arch-like building adorned with statues depicting historical Portuguese figures and on the very top, Glory rewarding Valor and Genius.

Santa Justa Lift

This famous and historical lift (the only vertical, conventional elevator to remain) measures in at 45metres (147feet) high and connects the lower Baixa district with the upper Largo do Carmo district, allowing both locals and tourists to quickly and easily move between both districts, whilst enjoying the view!

Be Patient – The lift can carry 20 people on the journey up (and only 15 people on the journey down) so you may have to queue a while to make this iconic journey between the 2 districts but it’s worth the wait.

Free entry with a Lisbon Card.

Rossio Square

A popular central square in Portuguese culture since the Middle Ages, this square (otherwise known as Pedro IV Square) is surrounded by shops and cafes and also contains the beautiful neoclassical Dona Maria II National Theatre. Used as a place of public execution in the past, you’re as likely to see a protest as you are a celebration in the square today. At either side of the square stand 2 baroque fountains whilst in the center, you cannot miss the 27-meter high monument to Dom Pedro IV.

Praça Dos Restauradores

The most unique square in Lisbon, Praça Dos Restauradores contains 17th-century neoclassical architecture, the Restauradores Obelisk, the pink Foz Palace (now home of the tourist information office) as well as Art Deco Eden Theatre (now a hotel). Enjoy a spot of people watching here as you stop for a drink/snack.

Elevador da Gloria

Close to Praça Dos Restauradores is the iconic 2-carriage yellow tram (1 of two 19 th century funiculars, the other being the Bica Elevador) that carries passengers up the steep hill. Hop on board to explore the districts of Chiado and Bairro Alto which are full of boutique shops, cafes, bars, and more tourist attractions.

Praça da Alegria Viewpoint

Sit and admire the panoramic view overlooking Baixa from this viewpoint before seeing what trinkets the market/street vendors are selling. You might also want to see (and photograph) the bronze bust of Alfredo Keil, a 19th-century Portuguese painter, and composer as you make your way around the paths lined with banyan trees and palm trees.

Igreja de Sao Roque

The first Jesuit church in Portugal, and in fact one of the first Jesuit churches in the world, the church of Sao Roque might not look much from the outside with its simple whitewashed exterior but step inside and have your breath blown away. Inside you’ll find an exquisite gilded interior with some of the finest examples of Jesuit sacred art. A museum is located next door to the church for visitors who want to learn more.

Fado in Bairro Alto

Depending on how you’re fairing after your journey to Lisbon, spend the evening in the city’s hip and happening Bairro Alto district where you can enjoy traditional fado musical performances whilst sipping a drink. You’ll find many touristic venues offering fado (a traditional genre of romantic Portuguese music) but for the best experience, wander the neighborhood seeking out a smaller, more intimate bar. If you’re too tired to do this on your first night in Lisbon, be sure to head back before you leave!

Click here for more information and to book your tickets.

Selected Tours in Lisbon

• Get Your Guide is a great company to book your tours and tickets.
• 2 hour sailing tour with champagne . On this 2-hour sailing cruise along the river, you will see Lisbon’s famous landmarks from a different angle while enjoying champagne and snacks.
• Lisbon Street Art tour. Discover the street art of Lisbon on this private guided tour.
• 2,5 h Hills tour with Electric Bike . In this 2,5 hour, an electric bike tour explores Alfama, Mouraria, and Graça with minimum effort.
• Lisbon Gourmet Walking tour with Tastings . Enjoy the flavors of the Portuguese cuisine in Lisbon’s traditional places on this 3 -hour food tour.

5 days in Portugal: Day Two – Lisbon

Mosteiro dos Jeronimos

An outstanding example of Late Gothic Manueline architecture, the 500-year-old Jeronimos Monastery complex is huge, spanning a large city block. Be sure to visit the cloisters and the Church of Santa Maria as you admire the highly ornate Manueline (maritime) decoration and learn the connection and history of the early sailors (explorers) including Vasco da Gama who spent his last night here before his voyage to the Far East.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Standing opposite the Jeronimos Monastery, moments away from where the Portuguese navigators set sail for India and China in the 15 th and 16 th centuries, stands a monument that celebrates the Age of Discovery. Figures of Henry the Navigator, Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan and more than 30 other people make up part of this imposing monument.

– 20% with Lisbon Card

Torre de Belem

Built on the shore of a small island to guard Lisbon harbor, The Tower of Belem (or the Tower of Saint Vincent as it’s otherwise known) made up part of the city defenses in the 16th century. Mostly featuring Manueline architecture, Moorish styles can also be seen on the tower which was both a fortification and a ceremonial gateway, the starting point of many seafaring voyages of discovery.

Pastéis de Belem

Has the sea air made you peckish?! Stop by Pastéis de Belem and delight your tastebuds with a Portuguese egg custard tart dusted with cinnamon. These traditional treats are called Pastel de Nata and it was at this very patisserie where they were first sold in a shop, the ancestors of the family who still own the shop to this day, buying the original recipe off of the local monks.

Time Out Market

Ready for lunch or a snack? Head to the massive food hall located within the Mercado da Riberia market to find some of Lisbon’s best chefs cooking up a storm. As well as some of the best restaurants’s in the city you’ll find many cultural events taking place at the market too.

The Castelo de Sao Jorge

This 12th century Medieval castle sits at the top of the Alfama district, towering over the city with magnificent views out to sea. Much of Lisbon Castle was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake so what you see today has mostly been restored but that doesn’t stop visitors from enjoying a tour to understand the turbulent history of this castle that has witnessed it all; the fall of the Romans to the Visigoths, the conflict between the Arabs and Christians, and the sieges by the Castilians.

The Portas do Sol viewpoint

Located between the cathedral and the castle you’ll find one of the best viewing points of Lisbon, which also makes it one of the most popular. You’ve probably seen photos of this view, photos that made you want to come to Lisbon in the first place! Well, stand here and admire the view of whitewashed buildings with red-tiled roofs with views out to the Tagus estuary for yourself.

Sé de Lisboa

The imposing-looking 12th-century Romanesque cathedral (known as  The Sé) managed to withstand the earthquake of 1755 and is the oldest church in Lisbon. It stands on the site of a mosque and from the outside, looks rather like a medieval fortress, but step through its doors and you’ll be able to see the Baroque interior with a detailed nativity scene in the chapel, and historical font where St Anthony was baptized in 1195, the patron saint of Lisbon.

Miradouro da Graça viewpoint

Ready to admire more of the city views whilst resting your feet?! The popular Miradouro da Graça viewpoint has extensive views across the castle with superb views of the castle. If too busy to be enjoyable, head to an alternative viewpoint; Miradouro da Santa Luzia. You’ll find the same views hidden behind a small church in a shady garden lined with picturesque blue and white tiles but without the hustle and bustle of all the other tourists!

One of the oldest in Lisbon, as well as the most iconic, Tram 28 travels along one of the most scenic routes in Lisbon making it a popular tourist attraction in its own right. Hop onboard tram 28 and wind your way through the steep and narrows streets of the Alfama, Baixa, Graca, and Estrela districts.

Wander in the Alleyways

Hop off the tram at any point along its iconic route and get a real taste for Lisbon life by leaving the tourist trail behind and wandering along the alleys that lead off of the main streets. Local shops, residential property, and a kaleidoscope of street art can all be found around the next corner. Enjoy!

If you decide to spend just  one day in Lisbon you can check out this itinerary.

5 days in Portugal – Day Three Sintra

Known for its many picturesque and colorful palaces, the charming Portuguese town of Sintra is just 25km from Lisbon and well worth a visit.

How to Get to Sintra from Lisbon

Traffic is a problem in Sintra so for the fastest/easiest journey, the train is highly recommended.

Direct trains (run by CP) depart Rossio train station in the Baixa district (opposite the Rossio green line metro station) for Sintra station every 15-30 minutes. Once in Sintra you can walk to the historic center from the train station (if you’re fit and able to walk steep hills!) or take the 434 bus (6.90 EUR) which does a one-directional loop of the town passing the most important sights and dropping passengers off near the Pena Palace and Moorish castle.

Time: 40minutes

Cost: 4.30 EUR return ticket

Free transportation with the Lisbon Card.

Alternatively, you can book a small group full day tour from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais.

Things to see in Sintra: 

Palacio da Pena

The most iconic and famous of all the Sintra palaces with its hilltop location and colorful yellow and red facade, Palacio de Pena is located in the beautiful Sintra Mountains above the historical old town. The palace and park (forest and landscaped gardens containing 500 different species of tree) were created by King Ferdinand II in 1843 and are built upon an old monastery.

-10% with Lisbon Card

Castelo de los Mouros

The ruins of this 8th-12 th century Moorish Castle were restored in the 19 th century in the Romanesque style by Dom Fernando II. The ruins, now interwoven with the forest, are located along the same mountaintop ridge as the Pena Palace. Be sure to climb to the top to take in the breathtaking views as well as see the Moorish Cistern and the so-called Royal Tower.

-15% with Lisbon Card

Palacio Nacional de Sintra

The National Palace of Sintra was a favorite of the Portuguese Royal Family from the 15th-19th century and stands in the historic centre of town. With its white Gothic exterior, the Medieval palace couldn’t appear more different than the vibrant Palacio da Pena but as you know, no book nor building should be judged by its cover. Step inside the National Palace of Sintra and you’ll see it’s just as elaborate as the palace on the hill.

5 days in Portugal – Day Four Porto

Pack your bags, it’s time to leave lively yet lovely Lisbon behind and head north to Portugal’s second city; Porto. Famous for its Port wine, Porto is a city steeped in history and culture that somehow feels more authentically Portuguese. The city’s compact size makes Porto perfect for a walking tour. 

How To Get from Lisbon to Porto

There are 2 direct train services departing Lisbon for Porto. The Alfa-Pendular train (AP for short) is the fast modern train with WIFI onboard whilst the Intercidades train (the Intercity train) is the slower of the two with older trains offering less comfort. Both services depart from the same stations, either Santa Apolónia train station (the old station in the historic center) or Oriente station (the modern train station close to the airport). All trains stop at Campanhã train station in Porto but if you wish to reach the historic center and are traveling on the AP service you must switch trains to continue on to São Bento train station.

Time: 2.35 – 3.10 hours

Cost: 25 – 45 EUR average

Express Coach

Rede Expressos is the coach company traveling from Lisbon to Porto, look for the white buses with a red stripe. At least 20 coaches depart daily, the first coach departing just after midnight and then more regularly every 30-60 minutes from 7 am-9.30 pm from Lisbon’s Sete Rios Bus Station (jump on the blue line metro getting off at Jardim Zoológico Metro Station in order to reach the bus station). The drop off point in Porto is at Terminal Rodoviario on the Campo 24 de Agosto, it’s, close to a metro station that will take you into the historic city.

Time: 3.5-4.5 hours

Cost: 19.00 EUR average

Both cities have airports with several daily flights to choose from, most operated by TAP or Ryanair but taking into account waiting time at the airport, not to mention getting to/from each airport, it’s often faster and easier to take the train or coach.

Time: 55 minutes

Cost: 20-50 EUR

Porto São Bento Train Station

If you’ve taken the train from Lisbon to Porto (or even if you arrived a different way!) the São Bento Train Station is a must-see, both the exterior and the interior with the 20,000 azulejo tin-glazed ceramic tiles cover the walls, all with a story to tell.

Porto Cathedral

The 12th-century cathedral (known as The Se) towers above the city and is a national monument of Porto being one of the oldest and most important buildings. Looking more like a fortress than a church at first glance, Porto Cathedral combines a mix of Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic styles of architecture. Take a walk along the magnificent Gothic cloisters noting the bible scenes depicted in the painted tiles after you’ve seen the interior.

Clérigos Church + Clérigos Tower

This beautiful Baroque church has an 18th-century tower measuring 75.6 meter high making it one of the most iconic structures in the city. Inspired by the campaniles of Tuscany, it can be seen from all corners of the city. If you have a head for heights, climb the 240 steps to the top to admire the views over Porto and the Douro Valley.

Marvel at the McDonald’s in Liberdade Square

Don’t worry, you read that right! The McDonald’s in Liberdade Square is the most beautiful McDonald’s in the world as it’s located inside what was once the Café Imperial, a renowned 1930’s Art Deco coffee shop. Step inside through the entrance that’s adorned by a giant bronze eagle and enjoy your burger sitting beneath crystal chandeliers and besides stained-glass windows.

Church of the Convent of Saint Francis

Built in 1425, this was the last Gothic monument to be built in the city and is one of the most beautiful churches in the world. Its most dazzling feature is the Baroque interior in which all of the ornate surfaces, everything from the walls, pillars, vaults, arches, and ceiling have been sculpted or painted and decorated with gold leaf to form golden angels and cherubs, golden birds, and golden foliage throughout, it’s certainly a sight to sit back and admire.

Note – Photography is not allowed inside the church but this shouldn’t deter you from going to see inside anyway, take it all in with your eyes rather than capturing a bad snapshot.

Palácio da Bolsa

Book yourself on a guided tour to see the neoclassical former stock exchange palace which was built in the 19 th century. The most impressive room is the Arab Room which was modeled on the Alhambra in Granada, Spain but you can also admire the Golden Room (it’s covered in gold leaf hence the name!), the General Assembly Room, and the huge granite staircase.

Tip – Tours take place every 30 minutes but it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time to make the most of your precious time.

Port Tasting at Calem

End your day on a wine tasting tour at Porto Calem on the Southside of the Douro River as you learn the history and process of making the famous port wine at one of the Vila Nova de Gaia wine cellars.

5 days in Portugal – Day Five – Porto

Livraria lello.

One of the most beautiful bookshops you’ll ever visit with its bright red art nouveau staircase and stained-glass ceiling, Livrario Lello dates back to 1906. It is supposedly what inspired J.K Rowling when she came up with Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series. Entry costs 5 EUR but this entrance fee will be deducted from the price of any books you purchase.

Tip – Try to arrive 15 minutes before opening time to enjoy a less crowded experience. You can reserve tickets online .

Cais da Ribeira and Ribeira Square

On your last morning in Porto, enjoy a leisurely stroll past the pastel-colored houses and flat-bottomed boats on the waterfront. Explore the medieval lanes and alleyways whilst keeping your eyes peeled for the array of street art that dots the city. Stop for a coffee at one of the many cafes and enjoy the views of the of double-decker iron Dom  Luís I bridge – If you have the time, you can walk across the pedestrian walkway taking in the picture-postcard views above the Douro River.

Cruise Down the Douro

Before you pack your bags and leave Porto behind, take a cruise down the River Douro. The 50 minute ‘Six Bridges’ cruise is a good tour that follows the route of the old Rabello boats that used to transport the port from the Douro Valley, passing beneath 6 of Porto’s most historic bridges that connect Porto to the Porto wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia before the mouth of the river opens up to meet the Atlantic Ocean.

How to get to Porto Airport from the City Centre

Porto Airport (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport) is located 11km (6.8miles) outside of the city center and is easily accessible by public transport.

Line E of the metro (the overground purple line) runs every 20-30minutes from Estádio do Dragão to the airport between 6.10 am and 12.50 am.

Time: 35minutes

Cost: 2.60 EUR (2EUR if you already have a rechargeable ticket you can put credit onto)

The local bus companies STCP and Resende depart the city center and surrounding area for the airport with regular services (approximately every 30 minutes during the day) and night buses which run every hour.

Lines 601, 602, and 119 run from Cordoaria bus station to the airport from 5.30 am until 12.30 am.

Line 3M is the night bus, it runs from  Avenida dos Aliados to the airport from 12.30 am until 5.30 am.

Time: 40 minutes

Cost: 2.00 EUR

Metered taxi can be hailed in the street or booked in advance (you must book in advance if you need a vehicle capable of carrying more than 4 passengers). Journeys cost 20% more at night (9 pm – 6 am) and on weekends and holidays.

Time: 20 minutes

Cost: 20-30 EUR

Welcome Pickups can be booked online and paid for in advance, a friendly English-speaking driver collecting you from your hotel at your chosen time and taking you to the airport for a fixed price.

Cost: 24-27 EUR

Click here for more information and to book your private transfer.

5 days in Portugal allows you a great introduction to the country, allowing you to visit the most memorable sights in both Lisbon and Porto on 1 trip. Hopefully, it will whet your appetite for exploring more of what the country has to offer on a future trip!

Is A Quick Trip To Portugal Worth It?

Even if you’re in Portugal with just enough time to complete this 5 day itinerary, a trip to Portugal is definitely worth it.

Planning a trip to Portugal? You might be interested in:

A guide to 4 days in Lisbon including Sintra.

What to do in Porto for 2 days recommended by a local.

How to spend one day in Porto.

What to do in Amarante, Portugal.

Things to do in Ericeira, Portugal.

The best day trips from Lisbon.

A day trip from Lisbon to Evora.

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28 countries for $25K? Princess' World Cruise will offer 'more all-inclusive experience'

On Princess Cruises’ 2026 world cruise, the line will one-up itself.

The 114-day sailing will visit 52 ports, the most destinations for any of the line’s world cruises.

Terry Thornton, the line’s chief commercial officer said the voyage “addresses a growing interest in longer voyages that make stops at more exotic destinations, and the urge to do it as part of a more all-inclusive experience,” according to a news release .

“Our 2026 World Cruise offers our most destination-rich itinerary ever so guests can immerse themselves in a global experience rich with landmarks, ancient ruins, unique landscapes, wildlife, gastronomy, cultures and heritage,” he added.

What is a world cruise? It's not a 'shoot-from-the-hip decision'

When is Princess’ 2026 world cruise?

The cruise will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 5, 2026, on the line’s 2,000-guest Coral Princess ship.

 Guests can also opt to sail round-trip from Los Angeles on Jan. 21 instead.

Where will the cruise go?

Guests will sail to 28 countries on six continents, and the stops will give passengers access to 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The itinerary also features late departures from more than a dozen ports, including Honolulu, Hawaii, Singapore, and Sydney, Australia. Guests will also stay overnight in Hong Kong.

The cruise will include the line's first-ever stop in Boracay, an island in the Philippines, and Coral Princess will make new world cruise calls to Puerto Chiapas, Mexico and Ponta Delgada in Portugal’s Azores Islands . Guests can enjoy destination-specific programming on board, such as themed deck and sail-away parties, lectures on Mediterranean history and art, World War II and more.

How much does the cruise cost?

The round-trip Fort Lauderdale departure currently starts at $25,214 per person based on double occupancy, while the Los Angeles option starts at $24,004, according to the line’s website .

Guests who book by Oct. 31, 2024, will get a complimentary Princess Premier package that includes Wi-Fi, premium alcoholic drinks, specialty coffee and more; $500 in onboard credit each for two passengers; and transfers from local airports, among other perks.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

• Miranda do Douro
• Viana do Castelo
• Corvo, The Crow Island of the Azores
• Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
• Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
• Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
• Pico, The Black Island of Azores
• Santa Maria, The Sunshine Island of the Azores
• São Jorge, The Brown Island of Azores
• São Miguel, The Green Island of Azores
• Terceira Island, The Festive Island of Azores
• Central Portugal
• Lisbon and Tagus Valley
• Porto & Northern Portugal
• Portugal Survival Guide
• Entering Portugal
• Guide to Learning Portuguese
• Portugal Holidays
• Average Temperatures in Portugal
• Weather in Portugal
• Portugal Visa Guide
• Golden Visa Portugal
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2023
• D7 Visa Guide
• D2 Visa Guide
• Food & Drink
• History and Culture

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Every year, Portugal’s tourism industry keeps growing as more and more people realize all that it has to offer. However, unfortunately, many tourists only spend a week in Portugal, usually in Lisbon, and miss out on the rest of the country.

The longer you spend in Portugal, the better! If you are looking to explore as much of Portugal in a three-week time frame, our 21-day itinerary has got you covered.

Starting in the north of Portugal and going all the way south, this route is best achieved by car. In reality, except for the main cities, Portugal is not very well traveled by public transport, so driving is your best option. 

Also, keep in mind that you do not necessarily need to sleep in each of the following places for a successful trip. Some places are close to each other and if you find a better hotel deal elsewhere, stick to what best fits your budget.

Day 1: Arrive in Porto

Our 3 week itinerary of Portugal begins in the great city of Porto , the second-largest in Portugal and one recently booming with tourism. Porto lies along the Douro river and features one of the oldest historical centers in Europe, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

Particularly if you are coming from far, your arrival day will probably consist mostly of getting settled and relaxing. However, we do recommend exploring the historical center on your first day, walking around to get situated. 

For a quick walk, find the outside of Livraria Lello, one of the oldest bookstores in the country, founded in 1906. Igreja do Carmo is also close by, 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. 

Then walk by the large  Clérigos Tower, built in 1763 by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, the Clérigos Tower offers a panoramic view of the historical center of Porto. At 75 meters high, visitors can climb 225 steps to the top of the tower, which is worth the workout but perhaps not if you’re jet-lagged.

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 2 & 3: Explore Porto

Day 2 is really the first day of your Portugal trip. We recommend starting the morning at one of the most famous monuments in Porto – Bolsa Palace.

Palacio da Bolsa’s construction began in 1842 by the Porto Commercial Association on the ruins of the Saint Francis Convent. The name Palácio da Bolsa translates into “Stock Exchange Palace”. 

Then head to Porto Cathedral, known as Sé do Porto. This Roman Catholic cathedral is a national monument and the most important religious building in all of Porto. The Porto Cathedral still holds a mass every day at 11 am that you can attend for free. 

Do not miss Sao Bento Railway Station. A 20th-century railway station in the historical center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, São Bento Railway Station is a lot more than just a place of transport.

Home to over 20,000  azulejo tiles, it is a place of culture. The station was built in 1903 and is covered with thousands of these tiles made by Jorge Colaço. His work covers an area of over 550 m2 and depicts important moments of Portuguese history including the Discoveries.

Also, if you haven’t yet gone inside Livraria Lello, this would be the day to do it. Entrance to Livraria Lello used to be free, but they were getting 4,000 visits a day with long lines and less than 5% would buy a book. Now the tickets cost €5. Kids under three years old have free entrance.

If you are up for a scenic walk of the Douro river, walk the Dom Luis I bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia. Built in 1886 by designer and co-founder of the Eiffel company Théophile Seyrig, visitors can walk across the 60-meter-high bridge on the upper level of the bridge.

Walking through the 1-kilometer bridge, you will have one of the best views of the Douro river, as well as easy access to Vila Nova de Gaia. If you’re up for dinner in Gaia, head to Enoteca or Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau. 

We also recommend heading to a fado house, especially at night. Most fado houses offer you a Port wine glass to enjoy with the live show.  Book this Fado Live Show  in Porto for an intimate setting in Casa da Guitarra near Sé. 

For day 3, why not partake in a unique experience where you get to see more of the city in a unique way? A tuk tuk tour is a great way to see the whole city, getting to places that might be tiring and time-consuming on foot. 

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

Day 4: douro valley.

Porto’s unique location offers incredible access to the region of Douro. The Douro Valley was made a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the early 2000s. Departing from Porto and ending in Spain, the Douro river flows in the middle of the Douro Valley, a cultural landscape of vineyards where Douro wines are grown and produced.

The best way to visit the Douro Valley is by booking a tour as transportation is scarce in the area, especially if you want to visit multiple vineyards for wine tastings. We, therefore, recommend booking a Douro vineyard “hopping” tour  so that you can experience a variety of locations.

For a more elevated 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. Our favorite vineyards to visit are:

• Quinta da Roêda (Pinhão): Along with wine tastings, this vineyard offers picnics, workshops, and more. You can explore the gorgeous vineyard with a guided tour and have a tasting of three wines for only €12 per person. Their packages go up to €44 per person for a larger number and variety of wines.
• Quinta do Crasto (Sabrosa): One of the Top 20 of the World’s Best Vineyards, the wine tasting here lasts around 90 minutes where you get to taste 5 of their wines, visit the wine cellars, and more for €29 per person.
• Quinta do Seixo (Valença do Douro): This place has over 100 hectares of vineyards. Their cheapest visit is €15 for a 40-minute tour of the winery and tasting of 2 port wines. Their most luxurious option is a 3-hour picnic in the vineyard where you can taste their wines and enjoy Douro cuisine for €40 per person.

Book a Douro vineyard experience

Day 5 & 6: Braga

Only a 45-minute drive from Porto, Braga is the largest city in the region of Minho. We recommend spending a night or two here, at least. It is the oldest city in Portugal, boasting over 30 churches. 

We recommend heading to the city’s main attraction first, the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Locate on the top of a hill, you will have to climb a large staircase. However, the view is worth it! 

Once you reach the top, behind the church, you can explore a park with several chapels, flower beds, secluded benches, and caves surrounded by vegetation, as well as a lake with rowing boats.

Then, go to Republic Square, where a beautiful fountain and a sign with the name of the city welcome visitors. It is the perfect place for a photo!

In this same square, Rua do Souto begins, the main street of the historic center and closed for pedestrians only, you’ll find that Braga’s main points of interest are all within walking distance. The Torre de Menagem is also a beautiful sight, as well as the Cathedral de Braga.

Also, head to the Image Museum, 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. 

You will also find a display of cameras from throughout the decades, as well as a library with magazines and photography books.

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 7: Monsanto

Some might disagree on this one due to the distance, but the interior of Portugal should not be forgotten! 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.

A 3:30 hour drive from Braga, 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! 

The main attraction in the village is Monsanto Castle. Sitting on top of the hill, this fortified castle was built in 1165 by Gualdim Pais, master of the Knights Templar.

The Monsanto ruins can be visited at the top of the hill, where you will find views that stretch as far as the Serra da Estrela and Spain. Next to the castle, you will find unique ruins of a Roman chapel.

You should also head to 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. In 1938, Monsanto village received the award “of the most Portuguese village in Portugal” in the Galo de Prata awards, given by the dictator Salazar himself. 

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.

You can then enjoy a walking tour through the historic area of the village, stopping at the most important points, including the Lucano Tower, the Monsanto Castle, and beautiful churches.

The end of your trip stops at Penha Garcia, where you will see the windmills and the waterfall of the river beach.

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 8 & 9: Coimbra

A 2-hour drive from Monsanto, Coimbra should be your next stop. We recommend staying for two days at least.

Your first stop should be the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world. To get to the university, start from the Almedina Tower, the entrance gate forming part of the wall surrounding the old city situated in the lower section of the city. Here, you can explore the alleys that date back to the 8th century.

Visit 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.  For a full experience, book a tour of the university.

We also recommend taking a walk in the Botanical garden, one of the oldest in Portugal. With 13 hectares of beauty, the garden was established in 1772 by the Marquis de Pombal with the purpose of supplementing the study of medicine and natural history at the University of Coimbra.

Book University of Coimbra Tour

Next, visit the Santa Cruz Monastery and the Convent of Santa Clara, built in 1314. If you still have time, head to Quinta das Lagrimas. This estate has been the setting for the forbidden romance between King D. Pedro I and Inês de Castro. The gardens have a canal, “Fonte dos Amores” that, according to the legend, transported love letters between the Estate and the Royal Palace.

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 10: Fatima

A 1-hour drive from Coimbra, Fatima is a hot spot for religious tourism. However, you do not need to be religious to enjoy this city due to its cultural value. Fátima is therefore not only known as a religious site, but the city is also filled with cultural activities.  From lighting a candle at the sanctuary for a loved one to visiting local villages, the city has a lot to offer.

We recommend visiting the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima first. The main square of the Sanctuary of Fátima is huge! The perfect place to start. It’s larger than the square of the Vatican and can hold thousands of people. You can gauge the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and enjoy how enormous, but yet peaceful, the whole religious site feels.

Inside the sanctuary, you will find the basilica, known as “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. Inside, the church has a 12,000-piece organ, 14 altars, and incredible stained-glass windows.

However, there are also great activities outside of Fatima. Known as “Gruta de Moinhos Velhos,” this cave is over 9 kilometers in extension and a 20-minute drive from the sanctuary. It is the biggest cave found in Portugal. The cave was first entered by humans in 1947. The caves are located in the Limestone Mountains, which form the Estremadura Limestone Massif.

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. Its located around 10 kilometers from Fátima in the heart of the Serras d’Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park.

The footprints are over 175 million years old and were created by sauropods, dinosaurs with small heads and long tails and necks. This place has some of the longest dinosaur tracks in the world, with the longest footprint measuring 147 meters long.

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 11: Nazare

Nazare is home to the largest surfable waves on the planet, particularly Praia do Norte. Nazare became the stuff of surfing legend in 2011 when Garret McNamara conquered the world’s biggest wave at Nazare’s Praia do Norte.

Since then, it has become a place of pilgrimage for the world’s most dauntless surf riders, with Brazilian surfer Rodrigo Koxa outdoing McNamara and setting the world’s Guinness record for surfing the world’s largest 24.4m wave in 2017.

Besides spotting some waves and surging, there is a lot to do in Nazare. Nazare boasts a beautiful funicular trip. This is like a modernized 19th-century train that connects downtown and sitio , the uptown of Nazare. You can walk between these two main areas, but for the best view of Nazare, we recommend the funicular. 

The funicular of Nazare runs every 15 minutes and is 318 meters long. You will get views of the town, beach, and the vast Atlantic ocean.

When you get o  sitio , we recommend walking around the square and streets, offering cute stores with hand-crafted souvenirs. There is also a range of seafood restaurants you should not miss.

We also recommend visiting a stunning 16th-century church known as the church of the Nossa Senhora das Areias, this beautiful building looks similar to other Portuguese churches on the outside.  However, when you walk inside, you get to witness the unique and rich architecture of this Catholic church. An altar stands in the middle of the church in gilded gold, with other gold accents throughout the building. 

There is no better place to experience the authentic atmosphere of a seaside town than at the local market. The Mercado Municipal de Nazare boasts a lively and inviting environment featuring colorful stalls of all kinds. From organic vegetables and fresh fish to Portuguese pastries, this place is bound to call your name.

Best Hotels in Nazare

Hotel praia, hotel miramar sul, hotel mar bravo, hotel magic, best restaurants in nazare, a tasquinha, restaurante maria do mar, rosa dos ventos, restaurante casa pires, day 12 & 13: ericeira.

A one-hour drive away from Nazare, Ericeira is a seaside town in Mafra, Ericeira 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. 

If you want to do some surfing while you’re there, we recommend  booking a surf class ! Being labeled a surfing reserve, Ericeira is a protected surfing area covering 3 kilometers of great wave quality. 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. The river Lizandro flows through this beach onto the ocean, providing a warmer alternative to those who do not wish to swim in the colder and more volatile sea.

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.

Ericeira is also well-known for hikers as it has several trails, providing both a rural feel and breathtaking ocean views. You can check these out on official trail maps or ask 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.

On one of your days in Ericeira, we recommend visiting 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.

This four-square-km palace is open to the public and includes the royal palace and chapel, a monastery, and one of the most stunning libraries in Portugal with over 30,000 books. There are over 1,200 rooms in the place and two bell towers housing the world’s largest bell collections.

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 14 & 15: lisbon.

Lisbon is a 40-minute drive from Ericeira. On your first day, we recommend heading to Sao Jorge Castle. The 5th-century palace was restored in 1938 by the dictatorship of Salazar to look the way it is presented now.

Tourists can visit the castle complex, which consists of the castle itself, the ruins of the royal palace, gardens, and a terraced square with panoramic views of the city. A ticket to visit costs between €5 and €10. You can also pay a little extra to skip the line .

A 5-minute walk away, head to Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and the home of fado. Explore the neighborhood and look out for Fado spots, as well as historical monuments such as the Lisbon Cathedral, the Convent of the Grace, and more.

After that, take the train to Belem. Belem lies along the Tejo Estuary and is home to two UNESCO sites, Torre de Belem and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. 

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a former monastery in Belém constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style, and you can visit the church for free. A 2-minute walk from the monastery, head to Pasteis de Belem where the traditional Portuguese custard tart was first invented.

If you’re looking for a night out, walk to Bairro Alto, the most popular area for drinking outdoors. Tons of locals and tourists line the streets of Bairro Alto with a beer in hand. We recommend Ze dos Bois Gallery, a musical center that has live music and serves tasty drinks. 

On your second day, we recommend a guided tour of Lisbon so you get to see as much as you can of the capital. For your second day in Lisbon, here are the best-guided tours to explore the city:

• Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk : This tuk-tuk tour rides up and down the hills of Lisbon, going through the city’s oldest neighborhoods and main attractions.
• Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour:  Book a 24-hour ticket which includes an audio guide. This affordable ticket allows you to visit different routes and hop in as you would like. 
• Lisbon 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike:  This tour allows you to cycle through Lisbon on comfortable e-bikes with a guided tour. You will get to visit different viewpoints and historical attractions.

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 16: Sintra & Cascais

If you’re in Lisbon, you need to visit Sintra and Cascais . We recommend spending the morning in Sintra and the afternoon in Cascais. The first thing to do when you arrive in Sintra – grab a “travesseiro”, a Sintra staple at Piriquita, in the heart of the city.

Then 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.

Palacio da Pena is another must-see. 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. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale. Tickets cost around €15.

For lunch, drive towards Cascais and stop 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. 

After lunch, discover the town of Cascais, located on the Portuguese Riviera. One of the richest municipalities in the country, it is home to the best hotels and beaches. Head to “Praia da Rainha,” a secluded  beach  with a wonderful view, perfect for a family photograph.

Then, walk for a minute toward “Frederico Arouca” street. This is essentially the high street with the major stores, as well as smaller vendors selling Portuguese souvenirs. 

From there, walk toward 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. The cobblestoned streets are the highlight of this square. 

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. You can also pick between a shared or private tour. The tour includes free time and transportation. 

Day 17 & 18: Vila Nova de Milfontes

The last portion of your trip consists of relaxing on beaches and eating amazing food. A 2-hour drive from Lisbon, Vila Nova de Mil Fontes is a town located in the Alentejo. It 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. The best beaches to visit in Vila Nova de Mil Fontes are Praia da Franquia, Praia das Furnas, and Almograve, 10 kilometers away. 

Spend the next two days relaxing on these beaches and exploring the town of Vila Nova. 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 19 & 20: Tavira

A 2-hour drive from Vila Nova, Tavira is a town in the Algarve. Tavira was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses, and features golden beaches with warm water. While the small city is mostly known for its beaches, the quaint town allows you to visit some attractions, as well as explore shops, restaurants, and more.

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. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity. 

Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira. If you want to discover multiple beaches, this affordable 4-hour boat tour  takes you on an octopus tour and stops at multiple beaches.

Walk through Tavira, exploring the chapel of Sao Bras and the hundreds of other churches. The historic center also features a castle and a convent. Book this 100% electric 1-hour tuk-tuk tour  if you want a guided tour of the city from a local’s perspective. 

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 21: Fly back from Faro

Since you are already in the southern part of Portugal, there is no point flying back from Porto, which is in the north. Fly back home through Faro airport in the Algarve, a 30-minute drive from Tavira. You can usually return car rentals at Faro airport; make sure to ask about this before booking.

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