Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
After arriving in Lisbon, settle into your accommodation and take it easy. You’ll want to save your energy for the days ahead. In the afternoon, go for a casual walk through the Chiado and Baixa neighborhoods. These are central areas full of local shops, cafes, and vibrant squares.
Stop by Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s largest square, which sits right by the Tagus River. It’s a good spot to grab a drink, people-watch, and take in your first sights of the beautiful pastel-colored buildings that make Lisbon unique.
Day 2: Explore Lisbon
Start your day with a visit to Belém. This historic district is home to Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites and absolute must-sees. Don’t miss grabbing a “pastel de nata” (Portuguese custard tart) from the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
In the afternoon, head to the Alfama district. This is Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. It’s known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and local Fado music. You can simply wander around or visit landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and São Jorge Castle, which offers amazing views of the city.
Day 3: Sintra Day Trip
Sintra is a magical town just 30 minutes outside Lisbon by train. It’s where Portuguese royalty used to vacation. Visit Pena Palace, a stunning and colorful hilltop palace that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. The views from the palace are incredible.
Next, head to Quinta da Regaleira. This estate features extravagant gardens, including the mysterious Initiation Well, which is one of Sintra’s most intriguing sights. If you still have time, stop by the ancient Moorish Castle for more scenic views.
Day 4: Head to Porto
Catch a morning train or a bus to Porto. It’s about a three-hour ride. Once you arrive, settle into your accommodation and take a stroll along the Ribeira by the Douro River. This is one of Porto’s most charming districts with narrow streets and colorful buildings.
In the evening, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge for great views of the city and river. End your night with dinner in a traditional riverside restaurant and maybe a glass of port wine. You’re in Porto, after all!
Day 5: Explore Porto
Start with a visit to the Clérigos Tower. It’s one of Porto’s most iconic landmarks, and climbing the 240 steps to the top gives you panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to Livraria Lello, an old bookstore rumored to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series.
Don’t miss the Porto Cathedral, which offers more impressive views of the city. In the afternoon, cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the many port wine cellars for a tasting session. It’s a local experience you can’t skip!
Day 6: Douro Valley Tour
Spend the day exploring the Douro Valley. It’s one of Portugal’s most scenic regions and a famous spot for vineyards and wine production. You can book a day trip from Porto that takes you on a wine-tasting tour and includes a scenic boat cruise on the Douro River.
This day will be all about beautiful views, slow-paced relaxation, and, of course, a lot of wine. You’ll be back in Porto by the evening, just in time for a relaxed dinner by the river.
Day 7: Coimbra
In the morning, take a train to Coimbra. This town is small but has a lot of history. Coimbra is home to Portugal’s oldest university, and visiting the University of Coimbra’s Joanina Library is a highlight. It’s a stunning Baroque-style masterpiece.
Take a walk through Coimbra’s medieval streets, and visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. If you have time, stop by the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe.
Day 8: Head to the Algarve – Lagos
Travel to the Algarve region, specifically to Lagos. You can either take a bus or rent a car for more flexibility. Lagos is known for its stunning coastal cliffs, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
Once you arrive, relax at Praia Dona Ana or Praia do Camilo, two of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve. In the evening, discover Lagos’ old town center. It’s a lively but relaxed area with cobbled streets, street performers, and local restaurants.
Day 9: Explore the Algarve Coast
Spend your day exploring the Algarve’s coastline. You can hike along the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade for jaw-dropping views and hidden coves. If you’re up for it, book a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the sea caves. The Benagil Cave is especially popular and is one of the Algarve’s most iconic spots.
End your day with a visit to Sagres. This small town is known for its dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline. Don’t miss Cape St. Vincent, the westernmost point in mainland Europe. The sunsets here are out of this world!
Day 10: Farewell to the Algarve
Take the morning to relax before heading back to Lisbon. If you have extra time, stop by Silves, a quiet inland town that offers a taste of the Algarve’s history. You can visit the well-preserved Silves Castle and enjoy a stroll through its orange groves.
Once back in Lisbon, spend your last evening enjoying one final meal. Opt for some seafood or anything “bacalhau” (salted cod), which is a Portuguese favorite. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your Portugal adventure.
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