Portugal is a fantastic country to explore for a week. It’s compact, so you can easily see a lot without feeling too rushed. From the stunning coastline of the Algarve to the historic streets of Porto and Lisbon, there’s plenty to experience. Below is a 7-day itinerary that will give you a taste of Portugal’s charm, history, and natural beauty.
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
Start your journey in the capital city. Lisbon is full of life, history, and culture. Spend your first day soaking up the atmosphere and getting to know the city.
Morning: Explore Alfama and São Jorge Castle
Kick off your day by wandering through the streets of Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest districts. The narrow, winding alleys are filled with small shops, cafés, and historic buildings. You’ll often hear Fado music—a reminder of Portugal’s deep culture.
After that, head to São Jorge Castle for breathtaking views over the city. This ancient fortress is one of the most notable landmarks in Lisbon, offering plenty of history and some spectacular photo opportunities.
Afternoon: Baixa and Praça do Comércio
In the afternoon, head to Lisbon’s downtown area (Baixa). Visit the famous square, Praça do Comércio, and stroll along the Rua Augusta Arch. This area is perfect for people-watching and grabbing lunch at one of the outdoor cafés.
Evening: Bairro Alto for Dinner and Drinks
End your first night in Bairro Alto, a neighborhood known for its lively nightlife and restaurants. Taste some Portuguese tapas (called “petiscos”) and try a glass of vinho verde. The atmosphere here is friendly and relaxed.
Day 2: Lisbon Continued—Belém
Spend your second day exploring the Belém neighborhood. This area is a must-see for any visitor to Lisbon, offering historical monuments and traditional food.
Morning: Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
Start at the iconic Belém Tower, which used to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbor. From there, walk along the waterfront to Jerónimos Monastery, one of the most beautiful buildings in Portugal. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are steeped in history.
Afternoon: Taste Pastéis de Nata
Don’t leave Belém without trying the famous Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese egg tarts) from Pastéis de Belém. This bakery has been serving up delicious sweets since 1837, and the pastries are unforgettable.
Evening: Sunset at the LX Factory
To wrap up your day, take the tram to the LX Factory, an old industrial area transformed into a trendy spot. Here you’ll find artsy murals, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy some cocktails while watching the sunset from one of the rooftop bars.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
On your third day, make a day trip to Sintra, just a short 40-minute train ride from Lisbon. Sintra is a fairytale town known for its stunning palaces and mystical landscapes.
Morning: Pena Palace and Gardens
Start your visit at the colorful Pena Palace. The palace sits on a hill and is straight out of a storybook with its vibrant colors and unique architecture. Take a stroll through the surrounding gardens for some peaceful nature.
Afternoon: Quinta da Regaleira
Once you’ve finished at Pena Palace, head to Quinta da Regaleira. This mysterious estate is full of hidden tunnels, secret symbols, and lush gardens. The “Initiation Well” is particularly impressive.
Evening: Return to Lisbon
You’ll likely be tired after exploring Sintra, so take the evening to relax back in Lisbon. Grab a quiet dinner in one of the city’s many restaurants and recharge for the next leg of your trip.
Day 4: Travel to Porto
On Day 4, it’s time to head north to Portugal’s second-largest city: Porto. You can take a train from Lisbon’s Oriente Station, which will take around 2.5-3 hours.
Morning: Arrive in Porto and Explore the Ribeira
Once you arrive in Porto, start by exploring the Ribeira, the city’s picturesque riverside district. It’s full of colorful buildings, charming streets, and views of the River Douro. Sit by the water, grab a coffee, and enjoy the slow pace.
Afternoon: Dom Luís I Bridge and Gaia Wine Cellars
In the afternoon, cross the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. This area is home to many of the port wine cellars. Take a tour of one of the cellars to learn about the production process and enjoy a tasting session.
Evening: Sunset at Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Head over to the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal for a peaceful evening among gardens and beautiful viewpoints. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring while taking in the sunset over the city and the Douro River.
Day 5: Porto Continued—Historical and Cultural Spots
Today, dive deeper into Porto’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Morning: Livraria Lello and Avenida dos Aliados
Start your morning at Livraria Lello, considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. If you’re a fan of Harry Potter, this spot will be particularly special as it is said to have inspired some parts of the series.
Afterward, walk down Avenida dos Aliados, the heart of Porto. Admire the stunning buildings that line the square, built in a variety of architectural styles.
Afternoon: Clérigos Tower and Church
Next, visit the Church of Clérigos and climb its tower for one of the best views of Porto. It’s a bit of a trek up the stairs, but the view is worth the effort.
Evening: Fado Show
Cap off your night by attending a Fado show. While Lisbon is traditionally known for Fado, Porto also keeps the tradition alive with some intimate performances in smaller venues. It’s a beautiful way to experience Portuguese music and culture.
Day 6: Day Trip to Douro Valley
No visit to Porto is complete without a trip to the Douro Valley, Portugal’s famous wine-growing region.
Morning: Take a River Cruise or Scenic Train Ride
Start your day with either a river cruise along the Douro (which leaves from Porto) or take the scenic train ride through the valley. Both options offer stunning views of the terraced vineyards and rolling hills.
Afternoon: Wine Tasting at a Vineyard
Spend your afternoon visiting one of the many wineries in the Douro Valley. Most offer tours and wine tastings where you can try the region’s famous reds and ports. Some even offer lunches with a view!
Evening: Return to Porto
After a relaxed day in the countryside, head back to Porto. Enjoy a quiet dinner in one of Porto’s local restaurants before winding down your trip.
Day 7: Porto or Head Back to Lisbon
Depending on your travel plans, you can either spend your last day in Porto or head back to Lisbon for your return flight.
Morning: Bolhão Market
If you stay in Porto, visit Bolhão Market. It’s a bustling spot where you can sample fresh seafood, meats, fruits, and pastries. It’s the perfect spot to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or snacks.
Afternoon: Museu Serralves
For your final afternoon, head to the Museu Serralves. The museum features contemporary art exhibits, and the surrounding gardens are peaceful and beautiful.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
If you’re still in Porto, head to a restaurant along the riverside for a final meal while watching the lights reflect off the Douro River. If you’re back in Lisbon, see if you can spend your last evening overlooking the cityscape from one of its famous miradouros (viewpoints).
This 7-day itinerary balances culture, history, food, and relaxation. It gives you enough time to explore Portugal’s must-see attractions without feeling rushed, letting you enjoy the country at your own pace.
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