8 day trip to portugal

Highlights of Portugal

8 days | eat, dance and travel your way through portugal’s highlights..

Take in the highlights of the sun-kissed splendour of Portugal on an eight-day sightseeing adventure from Porto to Lisbon. Taste port in its birthplace, explore riverfront Coimbra and its historic university, and weave through the verdant countryside all the way to the capital. From the leafy Schist Villages to a traditional Fado show, you’ll be experiencing the best of Portugal’s arts and culture. Oh yes – they have pretty good custard tarts too. Put Portugal on your itinerary today with a small-group journey that gets you to the places you need to see.

Trip overview

• Take a walk through the idyllic coastal city of Porto and understand why the birthplace of fortified wine is renowned for its narrow lanes, charming buildings and delicious cuisine.
• Explore the country’s oldest university when discovering the historic riverfront city of Coimbra – once the capital of Portugal.
• Take in all the highlights of Portugal’s arts and culture scene with an included traditional Fado show in Coimbra.
• Walk through the secluded Schist Villages, a set of 27 settlements hidden between the mountain slopes and away from daily life.
• Join your leader in Lisbon for sunset views while enjoying a glass of local wine and some tapas – this is European living.
• Don’t let the heat keep you from exploring the world! Summer temperatures can be extreme in Portugal (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season. Please note that only some of our hotels and public trains in this region have air-conditioning.
• Less time spent travelling; more time to explore each destination. The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Trains are a fast way to cross long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. They are comfortable and all have toilets, however, can sometimes be quite busy. Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find specifics under ‘Packing’ in the ‘Essential Trip Information’ section.
• Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart.
• If you have more time to explore the region or can't find a suitable date for this trip you may want to check out our other trips in the region, such as 'Explore Spain & Portugal' (trip code ZMSI), or 'Madrid to Marrakech (trip code ZMSH) which continues on into Morocco.
• On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Welcome to Portugal! Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities. Known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes, Porto is also well known for one more thing; surprise surprise – Porto is the birthplace of the fortified wine, port. Today, there’s an important welcome meeting at 6 pm where you’ll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. After your meeting, why not get the crew together and head out to an optional dinner – your group leader will know of some great spots to go.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Take a leader-led orientation walk with your group this morning to get your bearings. Otherwise, the day is free to do as you please. The city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district is packed with twisting alleys, staircases, and baroque churches, and is great to explore on foot. Sao Francisco church is known for its lavish interior with ornate gilded carvings. The palatial 19th-century Palacio de Bolsa, formerly a stock market, was built to impress potential European investors. Make sure you also visit Mercado do Bolhao, Porto's market, one of the city's institutions since 1914. For a sensational view of the whole town head to the Torre dos Clerigos (Clerigos Tower), or head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings. Late afternoon, meet your leader and the rest of the group again to test out Portugal’s famed wine on an included port tasting. Oh, and in the evening, why not book yourself on a Rio Duoro cruise on one of the historic 'rabelo' boats to see the city from the water.

• Porto - Port Wine Tasting
• Porto - Clerigos Tower - EUR8
• Porto - Bolhao Market - Free
• Porto - Livraria Lello - EUR8
• Porto - Serralves Foundation - EUR20
• Porto – Tile-Painting Workshop - EUR45

Please note that Porto is quite hilly, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes for today's orientation walk.

The morning is free for you to explore Porto at your own pace. As you’ll be traveling over to Coimbra after lunch, there will be a place to store your luggage for the day. With early evening arrival at your hotel, you can either relax or embark on a stroll to begin exploring Coimbra.

Enjoy an easy day in Coimbra at your leisure. Sitting dignified on the banks of the River Mondego, Coimbra was once the capital of the country, and its royal heritage can be felt in its historic streets and buildings. Join your group leader on a wander through the lanes and squares of the Old Quarter and be sure to pass by the University of Coimbra – the oldest in Portugal. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy as you please before meeting with your group again for an evening Fado show. Coimbra's version of the fado is linked to the academic traditions of its university and musicians wear the traditional academic outfit: dark robes and capes. The music is characterized by sombre tunes and lyrics, often about the life of the poor, and inspired by mourning and melancholia.

• Coimbra - Evening Fado Performance
• Coimbra - Mondego River Boat Trip - EUR10
• Coimbra - Cathedrals - EUR5
• Coimbra - University of Coimbra and Joanina Library - EUR14

To ensure availability, consider booking your tickets in advance if you plan to visit the University of Coimbra and the Joanina Library.

Travel to Piódão, an enchanting historical Schist Village celebrated for its distinctive architecture and breathtaking natural setting. Tucked away in the Serra do Açor mountains, Piódão resembles a scene from a fairytale, showcasing charming schist and slate houses nestled into the verdant mountainside. Take a leisurely stroll through the village's narrow, winding streets before heading towards Aldeia das Dez, a typical mountain village located on the slopes of Serra da Estrela. Also known as Aldeia das Flores, its inhabitants have it as a tradition to decorate their streets with beautiful and colourful flowers. Experience the allure of rustic beauty, picturesque landscapes, and a slower pace of life, and immerse yourself in the rich local culture, creating lasting memories in a quaint setting that seamlessly blends tradition with modern comfort.

• Guesthouse (1 night)
• Schist Villages - Village Walk

Travel back to Coimbra in a private vehicle and from there transfer to Lisbon by train. After a brief orientation walk, you are free for the afternoon. Much of Lisbon’s character and charm lies in its beautiful renovated buildings, grand boulevards, impressive castles and churches. Maybe visit one of the most symbolic buildings in the city, Lisbon Cathedral, which was built on the site of an old mosque in 1150 by Lisbon’s first bishop, Gilbert of Hastings. Inside are nine chapels, each with their own story to tell, and the wonderful Gothic cloister. Another option is to visit the medieval citadel of Sao Jorge Castle. The citadel dates back to Moorish times and sits on the highest point of the Old Town. Although much of the original castle has been destroyed throughout history, some sections of walls and 18 different towers remain today. Look down on a city swarming with endless angular white houses and buildings with distinct red terracotta rooftops.

Make some further discoveries of Lisbon in the morning at your own pace. Roam through the charming narrow streets of local neighbourhoods do a spot of people watching, visit Belem Tower (a wonderful building originally designed as a lighthouse) and the vast, spectacular Monastery of the Jeronimos. Otherwise, head out for a day trip to Sintra – a royal sanctuary full of pastel coloured Romanticist buildings. In the evening, regroup and experience more of Portugal’s way of life by enjoying a glass of wine and some local bites while watching the sunset with your group.

• Lisbon - Drink and Local Bites
• Lisbon - Oceanarium - EUR25
• Lisbon - Naval Museum - EUR7
• Lisbon - Experience Lisbon Walk Urban Adventure - EUR45
• Lisbon - Puppet Museum - EUR5
• Lisbon - Folk Art Museum - EUR5
• Lisbon - National Art Museum - EUR6
• Lisbon - Gulbenkian Museum - EUR10
• Lisbon - Belem Tower and Monastery - EUR20
• Lisbon - Ginginha Tasting - EUR2
• Sintra - Day Trip - EUR10

With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. That doesn’t mean your Portuguese adventure has to come to an end! If you wish to spend more time in Lisbon, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

7 breakfasts

Train, Private vehicle

Hotel (6 nights), Guesthouse (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, excluding Day 5. Availability is limited due to small property we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Portugal Travel Guide

Experience the best of portugal.

Are you ready for an unforgettable Portuguese adventure? From the golden beaches of the Algarve to the lush vineyards of the Douro Valley and the wild cliffs of the Azores, Portugal is a dream destination that has something for everyone – especially surf lovers!

Whether you want to explore the vibrant streets of Lisbon, sample delicious fresh seafood and traditional pastries like pastel de nata, or surf the iconic waves of Nazaré, this guide will help you plan your perfect vacation in Portugal, no matter when you are visiting this beautiful country.

Best time to visit Portugal

Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Portugal. The countryside is lush and green, making it an ideal time for exploring the Douro Valley, the Alentejo region or hiking in the national parks. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are lively but not yet too crowded, and the weather is perfect for sightseeing.

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, characterised by hot and sunny days, perfect for beach vacations. The Algarve region is especially popular, with its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Festivals and events, such as the popular Festa de São João in Porto, also fill the summer calendar with fun cultural experiences.

Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Portugal. The grape harvest season is an excellent time to visit the wine regions, especially the Douro Valley, where you can experience wine tastings and harvest festivals. Tourist crowds also thin out and the weather remains pleasant, making it ideal for exploring cities, hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.

Winter (December to February) is mild, especially in the southern regions. It is the low season, so it is a quieter time to explore cities and cultural sites without the crowds. The Algarve remains a popular destination even in winter, and it is also a great time for enjoying the local cuisine and indoor cultural experiences.

Things to know about Portugal

Capital : the capital is Lisbon.

Language : the official language is Portuguese.

Currency : the currency is the Euro.

Plugs : the power sockets are the EU standard plug types C and F.

Portugal Travel Guides

• Where to Stay in the Algarve: 8 Best Areas

• 10 Most Beautiful Algarve Beaches, Portugal

• Algarve Portugal Road Trip: Epic 5-Day Itinerary

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Highlights of Northern Spain & Portugal - 8 Days

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Explore the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao
• Visit the Shrine in medieval Covadonga
• Tour Santiago de Compostela's Cathedral
• Taste Port wine in a local Porto cellar
• Stroll through historic Salamanca's Plaza Mayor
• Introduction
• Day 1 (Sunday): Departure from Madrid to discover Zaragoza. and arrive to San Sebastian
• Day 2 (Monday): San Sebastian – Bilbao – Guggenheim Museum’s - Santander
• Day 3 Santillana del Mar - Scenic views Covadonga - Oviedo
• Day 4 Oviedo - Galicia region - La Coruña
• Day 5 La Coruña - Plaza del Obradoiro & Cathedral - Santiago de Compostela
• Day 6 Santiago to Rías Baixas - Vigo - Porto
• Day 7 Porto Discovery: UNESCO World Heritage site
• Day 8 Porto to Salamanca and Madrid

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Operated by

Click Tours

Number of tours

4 to 99 years old

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Customer Reviews

• Tour Operator Click Tours 3.9
• Michael · 9th August 2024 My family had a fantastic time on this tour. Our guide Carlos was helpful, attentive and kind... and he did his best... Show more
• Minal · 4th May 2024 It was well organised tour but had too much free time. They could include more places to see. Comfortable bus but no... Show more
• John · 18th August 2024 This is a really good tour! The tour guide - George - was excellent and could not be faulted. The organisation was... Show more

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Good to Know

• Currency € Euro Portugal and Spain

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Portugal and Spain. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 2nd November 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 2nd November 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Click Tours. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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Where to Eat the Best Bifanas in Porto

Here’s the scoop on the 10 best ice cream shops in lisbon, beyond the pastel de nata: 9 best portuguese foods that are still under the radar, portugal’s best food festivals in august, the 8 best cocktail bars in porto, 5 best street artists in portugal, the history of calçada portuguesa, celebrating august 15th in portugal, portuguese citizens and residents can now visit museums for free for 52 days a year, celtic portugal.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream, but where are the best ice cream shops in Lisbon ? We don’t know about you, but we would happily eat ice cream every day of the year. While you may not think of Lisbon as an ice cream city, we are here to change your mind.  We’ve got the scoop on the shops with the crunchiest cones, craziest flavors, and sweetest sorbets. When it’s hot outside, we’ve got just the way to keep you cool.

I first discovered Davvero in Lisbon’s Time Out Market and fell in love with their wide variety of flavors. They must be doing something right because they have now expanded to six locations in the greater Lisbon area including Mouraria, Oeiras, and Alfama. Like Nannarella, this is another Italian chain. It is available in four sizes: piccolo, medio, grande, and grandissimo. Try their strawberry cheesecake, passionfruit, or watermelon (seasonal) flavors for a sensational summer treat. If your sweet tooth is steering you more towards the tiramisu or hazelnut brownies, you will not be disappointed.  

Open: Every Day, 10:00 am-12:00 am, Hours may vary by location

2. Giola Gelato

Just up the street from Nannarella is one of its newest competitors that’s already attracting ice cream lovers in droves. Some people say it’s even better (gasp!). Giola offers a rich variety of flavors crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients in Praça das Flores, one of the best plazas in the city. The staff at Giola are incredibly friendly and will let you try little tastes of the interesting flavors such as strawberry-mint, lemon with no sugar, and dulce de leche.

Open: Monday-Tuesday, 2:30 pm-10:30 pm, Wednesday-Sunday, 12:00 pm-12:00 am

3. Nannarella

Let’s begin with one of the most popular ice cream shops in Lisbon that now has two locations. The original – and the one we recommend – is in São Bento, just down the street from the Assembly of the Republic, the seat of Portugal’s parliament. Choose from flavors of the month such as “Ricotta Cheese with Pear and Walnuts,” “Madeira Banana,” and “Children’s Day Biscuits” or go for the time-tested favorites such as “Pistacchio” and the “Basil Cream.” This may come as a surprise, but the absolute stand-out here is Oreo, which we cannot recommend enough. Gluten-free cones and chocolate-covered cones are also available. The best place to enjoy Nannarella ice cream is in the Jardim da Praça da Constituição de 1976, but make sure to eat it quickly and bring napkins, as the Oreo, in particular, melts really fast!

If you’re looking for a quick lunch before the ice cream, Nannarella has also opened pizza by the slice next door at La Pizza di Nanna.   

Open: Monday-Saturday, 12:00 pm-12:00 am, Sunday, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Hours may vary by location so double check before you go

4. Bizzarro Gelato

If you’re looking for something truly unique to Lisbon (created by two Portuguese brothers), Bizzarro Gelato is the perfect place for you. This is like no ice cream shop that you’ve ever seen. In fact, you may not even recognize it as an ice cream shop from the outside. Bizzarro Gelato stands out for its one-of-a-kind flavor combinations including – drum roll please – Cacao and Chili, Caramel and Soy Sauce, and Onion and Mango, to name only a few. Many vegan flavors are available in addition to tasting menus of 6 or 12 flavors. Cones also come in four different flavors: traditional, green apple, raspberry, and vanilla. Hang out in the space-ship-like art gallery and make new friends as you try flavors you’ve never tried before. It’s brilliantly bizzarro!

Open: Tuesday-Wednesday, 12:00 pm-7:30 pm, Thursday-Sunday, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm, Closed Mondays

We can’t continue this ice cream article without mentioning Santini, the oldest ice cream parlor in Portugal! As the name might suggest, Santini was founded by an Italian man, Attilio Santini, whose great-grandfather opened the first ice cream shop in Vienna, Austria. Attilio opened his first shop on Tamariz Beach in Estoril in 1949 and fans would come from all over the country to try his original family recipe. After opening his first shop in Lisbon in 1960, Santini perfected the cookie cone recipe that is still used today. Santini sold part of their company in 2009 to local businessmen who have helped expand the number of shops in Portugal. Stepping into Santini is like stepping into history, where they continue to use fresh fruit and natural ingredients with no aromas, dyes, preservatives, or thickeners. They now have over 200 top-secret ice cream recipes, revealed only to their ice cream makers. Be sure to try strawberry, one of their top sellers year after year.   

Open: Every Day, Hours may vary by location

6. Matoli Gelato

Of all the places on our list, Matoli Gelato in Entrecampos has retained one of today’s most coveted status symbols – a five star rating on Google reviews (although there are still less than 250 reviews). The passionate owner Matheus will guide you through your ice cream journey, letting you taste several of their flavors to help you decide. This is essential because the flavors change each week and do not always include the classics that you might expect. Expect high quality at fair prices with unique flavors such as tea-lemon, chocolate berry, and cherry yogurt.  

Open: Every Day, 1:00 pm-8:00 pm

With three locations around the city, we can safely say that Alice is here to stay. I first discovered it on the beautiful Luís de Camões street in Santo Amaro next to Alcântara, but they also have a nice location just around the corner from Bizzarro Gelato near Praça do Comércio. Alice serves unforgettable creamy flavors with interesting options that you wouldn’t expect. I always return for the Arroz Doce (Sweet Rice) flavor, which is a classic Portuguese dessert, but you may also like Strawberry Kiwi, Apple Pie, or Moscatel Wine and Raisins, to name a few. Alice always offers a relaxing, friendly environment and has nice seating upstairs in its Rua da Madalena location or on the street in Santo Amaro. You can always count on Alice for good ice cream!

Open: Monday-Wednesday, 1:00 pm-10:30 pm, Thursday-Sunday, 1:00 pm-11:30 pm, Hours may vary by location

8. Insano Gelato e Pizza

Things have finally turned “ insano ” as we reach No. 8 on our list. While you might think it’s insane to serve both ice cream and pizza at the same location, it’s been going very well for Insano Gelato, whose customers cite it as better than some of the top gelato shops in Italy. Now you really want to try it, right? Despite its small size, it is cozy and serves fresh pizzas and homemade ice cream that will have you coming back for more – even if, like me, you have to travel across town just for another scoop. Trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll find mostly traditional flavors here served in generous portions. Try the pistachio and the mint chocolate chip!

Open: Thursday-Tuesday, 12:00 pm-10:00 pm, Closed Wednesdays

9. Nivá Cremeria Gelateria Italiana

Nivá is another high-quality Italian-style gelateria in Lisbon with locations in Príncipe Real and Alcântara. They serve interesting flavors including salted hazelnut and an açai/banana mix. Like most Italian gelaterias, you also get a free cookie wafer added to the top of your cone to finish off the gelato presentation. The shop in Príncipe Real is a 2-minute walk from Jardim do Príncipe Real, a beautiful place to enjoy your ice cream. There is also a tiny park across from the location in Alcântara and a few tables inside. 

Open: Sunday-Friday, 12:00 pm-12:30 am, Saturday, 11:00 am-12:30 am, Hours may vary by location

10. Amorino Gelato

With five locations in Greater Lisbon and three of these being right in the heart of Baixa-Chiado, Amorino Gelato is one of the most popular gelato chains in the capital. The reason we have put it so far down the list is because it a French multinational with 250 stores around the world. It’s not exactly unique to Lisbon, but it is a huge success for a reason. Not only does it serve ice cream in the shape of a flower, but even if you order the smallest size, you can get unlimited flavors and even top of your cone with a macaron. When I order a small, I usually stop at three flavors. Amorino Gelato also offers waffles, milkshakes, crêpes, and macarons. Try interesting flavor combinations such as mango + lime, chai latte, and honey-lavender. While the presentation is amazing, you can find richer and creamier gelato at Nannarella or Giola.

Open: Wednesday-Monday, 10:30 am-12:00 am, Tuesday, 11:00 am – 12:00 am, Hours may vary by location

Final Thoughts

This list of the 11 best ice cream shops in Lisbon just scratches the surface of what Lisbon has to offer. Find your favorite and sneak in a few return trips during your visit. If we had to choose one can’t miss place on this list, it would currently be Bizzarro Gelato for its sheer originality. Happy ice cream hunting!  

Guide to Lisbon

⬇️ Please share your favorite ice cream shops in Lisbon in the comments below ⬇️

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8 Day Portugal Itinerary: Beaches, Cities, Villages & Vineyards

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 which is why they’re often the focus of every Lisbon food tour .
• 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 Itinerary 8 days (+ 7 to 10 days in Portugal Trip Planner)

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Are you planning a trip to Portugal? This detailed travel guide will be super handy in crafting your perfect Portugal itinerary 8 days, with options to extend the trip to 10 days. 

We have included everything from sightseeing ideas by day, where to stay, and what to eat, plus travel and packing tips. 

Portugal Itinerary 8 days + 7 to 10 days in Portugal Trip Planner

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

8 days in Portugal Itinerary plus ideas for 7 to 10 days in Portugal: A snapshot

• Day 1: Lisbon. Stay in Lisbon for 4 days at Sofitel Lisbon or easyHotel
• Day 2 : Lisbon/Belem 
• Day 3 : Sintra day trip
• Day 4 : Cascais + Cabo da Roca + Sintra Natural Park
• Day 5: Porto. Stay in Porto for 3 days at the Mercure Porto Centro 
• Day 6: Porto
• Day 7 : Douro Valley day trip
• Day 8 : Porto to Coimbra to Lisbon 
• Day 9 to 10: Algarve Region. Stay in Lagos for a night at Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda

Here are additional 7 to 8 day Portugal itinerary ideas covering the best of the northern region as well as the national capital city,

8 days in Portugal Itinerary: Northern Portugal Vacation

• Day 1 – 2: Porto
• Day 3 : Douro Valley wine region
• Day 4: Braga 
• Day 5: Guimares 
• Day 6 – 7 : Aviero and Costa Nova

8 days in Portugal Itinerary: National Capital City Region

• Day 1 – 3: Lisbon and Belem
• Day 4 : Sintra day trip
• Day 5: Cascais and Cabo da Roca 
• Day 6: Fatima
• Day 7 : Beach day in Nazare 
• Day 8 : Obidos day trip

7 days in Portugal Itinerary

• Day 4: Porto. Stay in Porto for 3 days at the Mercure Porto Centro 
• Day 5: Porto
• Day 6 : Douro Valley day trip
• Day 7 : Porto to Coimbra to Lisbon 

Access all of our Portugal Travel Guides here

Getting to Lisbon Portugal for your itinerary

Portugal Quick Facts:

• Capital city: Lisbon
• Currency: Euro
• Tourist Visa : Schengen
•  Language : Portuguese, but English is spoken

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal. It is the perfect destination to kick-start your Portugal itinerary. Lisbon is served by the Humberto Delgado Airport, aka Portela Airport.

It is an international airport and is located about 7 km (4.34 miles) northeast of the city centre of Lisbon. There are many convenient ways to get to the centre from the airport. 

The Lisbon Airport has a Metro (subway) station with a direct line to the city centre. The ‘Aeroporto – Saldanha’ line takes you to downtown Lisbon in about 20 minutes. You can also hop on a bus, and get there in 45 minutes. And the tickets cost 4€.

If you prefer a taxi, it will be about 20€ and approximately 20 minutes to reach your destination. 

There are 2 major bus stations in Lisbon. Sete Rios is located close to the old historic town and offers bus connections to other cities in Portugal as well as to Spain. 

Gare do Oriente or Lisbon Oriente Station is a stunning bus station located in the Parque das Nações municipality of Lisbon. It is located near the airport.

You can use Lisbon Oriente Station to connect to Porto (high-speed trains) if you are using public transportation.

Note: This 8 days in Portugal itinerary can be used as a road trip itinerary as well.

Day 1 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Arrive in Lisbon & explore

Arrive in Lisbon Portugal, and check in to your hotel.

We stayed at the easyHotel Lisbon . It is a straightforward hotel, with tons of restaurants nearby as well. 

Another great plus is that the hotel is very close to Marquis de Pombal Square and most of the tours can be redeemed here – aka tour starting point. You can book your stay here

Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade is a great option. It is located close to the Praça do Comércio and the Tagus river, and we saw their property and will be definitely staying here next time. 

If you stay at the centre, you are minutes away from the tram station, and other modes of transportation. You can book your stay here

Where to stay in Lisbon : easyHotel Lisbon | Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade

After checking in, head to the Lisbon city centre. 

Chiado is a popular neighborhood to start your sightseeing in Lisbon. It is a very artistic area, filled with restaurants and centuries-old cafes and museums, and theatres. 

Known as the artists and creative people’s neighborhood, you will find statues of poets and writers sprinkled all across this neighborhood. You can stop at a cafe, and grab a bite to eat. If you arrived in Lisbon the day before, have breakfast at Café A Brasileira.

There is a statue of poet António Ribeiro at Chiado Square and this is a good spot to people-watch or capture the famous Lisbon tram going through the quarters. 

Chiado is located between the neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Baixa Pombalina. Bairro Alto is great for nightlife. Rua Garrett is the main street that runs from Baixa to Bairro Alto and is known for luxury shopping!

From Chiado, visit the Carmo Convent Ruins. Carmo Convent was the Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This Catholic convent was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake and later left as is.

At this site, you can check out an archaeological museum called Museu Arqueológico do Carmo. This is also a beautiful spot for photos as it overlooks

One of the coolest and oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon is Alfama. There are quite a few beautiful viewpoints or Miradouros. 

Miradouro das Portas do Sol is an amazing viewpoint from where you can see the red roofs of Lisbon and the Tagus river. This is one of the most beautiful spots in Lisbon – it is just so pretty!

In the Alfama district, there is a Fado museum where you can see exhibitions and displays about fado. The entry fee for the museum is 5 euros. 

Alfama also houses 2 of the most iconic buildings in the city, one is the National Pantheon – a place where many prominent personalities are buried. 

The Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Lisbon. The church had undergone many renovations and survived numerous earthquakes.

Lastly, do explore the Sao Jorge Castle. It is a historic medieval castle dating back to the 8th century. São Jorge castle or Castelo de São Jorge is a must see attraction in Lisbon, and we recommend setting aside 1-2 hours to enjoy it at ease.

The castle is open every day from 09:00 am to 06:00 pm. The entry fee is 8.50 euros. 

Finish the night with dinner at the Praça do Comércio or the Comercio Square by the Tagus River/waterfront plaza. 

Day 2 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Lisbon/Belem sightseeing

On day 2 of your Portugal itinerary, start for the neighborhood of Belem after breakfast. You can take the train from Rossio or hop on a 24-hour sightseeing tour.  

The Belém area is home to the iconic Torre de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, Jardim da Estrela, and the April 25 Bridge. 

The Monument of Discoveries will catch your attention as you approach the heart of Belem. This landmark structure was built in the mid 20th century to commemorate Portuguese sea discoveries of the 15 and 16th centuries

From here the Torre de Belém is located nearby. To access the tower, you have to pay an entry fee. You can still capture the beautiful river, and the tower from outside the gate (without going in). 

Near the Belem tower, you will find cafes and souvenir shops. 

The stunning 25 de April Bridge can be seen from the tower complex. 25 de Abril Bridge looks like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and is often compared to it. 

The date April 25 is to commemorate the date of the Portuguese revolution against dictatorship (Carnation Revolution).

On the other side of the bridge is the statue of the Sanctuary of Christ the King monument. Visiting Alamada is a half day trip in itself if you wish to head to the beach and discover cultural attractions. 

In the afternoon, head to the Jerónimos Monastery . The Jerónimos Monastery along with the Belem Tower is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This monastery was a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome. 

Today it houses a Maritime Museum – Museu da Marinha dedicated to sea discoveries including tales of Vasco da Gama to India. Allot 1-2 hours at the complex. 

In the evening, explore the newer areas of Lisbon. Parque das Nações is one such area. Oceanário de Lisboa – the largest indoor oceanarium in Europe is located in the neighborhood. 

It was built on the site of the 1998 Expo and it is home to 8000 sea creatures. This is one of the most visited places in Lisbon. 

The tallest skyscraper of Lisbon is also located in the Parque das Nações. It is the Torre Vasco da Gama – a 145-metre tower. 

An alternate option is to watch a fado show. This 50 minute Fado in Chiado Show is a must in the city centre. Fado portrays Portuguese cultural nostalgia, pride, and hope in a unique colorful way. It is recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Experience of Humanity. 

Day 3 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Day trip to Sintra

As part of your 8 days in Portugal itinerary, you must visit the stunning Pena Palace in Sintra. Go on a relaxing day trip from Lisbon to Sintra , you can visit on a day tour (with options for multiple cities or nearby towns) or use the metro train system from Lisbon.

To reach Sintra via train, start from the Rossio Station in Lisbon city centre and take the train towards Belem. Sintra train station is 10 minutes away from the town center.

Here are the prime attractions that you must explore.

The Pena Palace is the famed bright yellow and red fairy tale like castle towering from the Sintra hills. The palace dates back to the 19 th century, and many tourists travel to Sintra just to explore the Pena Palace. 

A visit to the palace interiors is a must – we enjoyed the different architectural styles and materials used at the Pena Palace. Prices for visiting the interiors versus the park entry and gardens are slightly different. You can read out entire guide here 

Towering higher than the Pena Palace is the Moorish Castle of Sintra. From the castle, you can soak in views of the city of Sintra. Keep in mind that there is a lot of walking on the castle grounds. There is nothing of the “staterooms” left in the castle, just empty areas and easy to walk through.

Quinta da Regaleira is a beautiful complex set in stone work with romantic palaces and chapels and stunning initiation wells. It was home to wealthy businessmen in the 20 th century, and today is part of the UNESCO World heritage. 

After all the sightseeing don’t forget to settle in for a nice meal at the Sintra Town Center. Also, take the time to wander through the many pretty lanes of Sintra, whitewashed and some painted in yellow. 

Located in the town center is the Palace of Sintra . It is a well-preserved heritage house that was home to many different rulers and dynasties in the nearby Lisbon area. This is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and we are sure you will admire the beautiful staterooms. 

Often ignored by most tourists as the park and Palace of Monserrate is located further away from the town center, it is worth a visit if you are staying in town for a day or two, or just love Indian style gardens. The staterooms and palaces are small but beautiful.  

READ : Detailed 3 day Lisbon Itinerary

Day 4 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Cascais and Sintra Cascais National Park 

If you add a day tour from Lisbon to Sintra, you can check off Cascais and the National Park on day 3, but it will be very rushed. So we recommend adding an extra day to explore these 2 areas (also helpful if you are using public transportation or driving). 

We have included more sightseeing options including day trips from Lisbon , so feel free to swap this recommendation for any other. 

Never heard of Cascais? Cascais is a beautiful coastal resort town near Lisbon. 

From sandy beaches, a bustling marina to the historic old town, Cascais will melt your heart. During our visit, we loved relaxing at the beachside with a book and wandering the old town square.

There are lots of places to eat and stay in Cascais if you wish to extend your visit.

In Cascais visit the Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace – a former royal retreat. 

You can reach Cascais by regional railway. The train departs from Lisbon (Cais do Sodre train station), and takes 30 to 40 minutes. 

Located near Cascais is the Sintra – Cascais National Park. It is part of the stunning coastline of Portugal and is home to Cabo da Roca . 

This is the westernmost tip of the European continent. The location is super stunning with the cliffs and the gushing waters with the lighthouse in the backdrop has been helping explorers over the centuries find their way!

Day 5 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Travel to Porto, and settle in for the next 4 days

To continue the next leg of your itinerary, head to Porto and stay there for 3 days. Porto is the second largest city in Portugal. 

Lisbon to Porto is about 272 km or 170 miles. It will take close to 3 hours to reach Porto by road. 

Public transportation takes an average of 2 hours and 46 minutes for high speed trains. Or regular services with about 14 trains per day, take over 3 hours. Tickets start at $95. 

You will arrive at the Campanhã station (the national railway station) from Lisbon’s Oriente Train Station. For subsequent connections (for day trips), use the São Bento train station in Porto that connects suburban railway lines.

This station is also one of the prettiest in the country, all decorated with beautiful Portuguese tiles – azulejos.

Porto is home to a UNESCO World Heritage centre, and with the charming views of the River Douro with its suspension bridge, you will have a gala time in this city. 

Where to stay in Porto? Mercure Porto Centro Santa Catarina

Mercure Porto Centro Santa Catarina is a beautiful 4-star property located at the historic centre. There is a restaurant onsite (with views). Rooms are of decent size and are wonderfully decorated. You can check out more photos here.

For your first day in Porto, after checking in to your hotel visit the colorful riverside promenade in Ribeira. This is an amazing place with bars and restaurants – perfect to grab a bite to eat or dine depending on your arrival time in Porto. 

If you arrive early into Porto, you can add sightseeing at the Ponte de Dom Luis I bridge, whilst taking in the gorgeous views of the river, and then catch the cable car down into Gaia.

You can check out port cellars and also cellar tours and tastings if interested.

Day 6 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Explore more of Porto

There are a lot of things to do in Porto . 

Visit the Sé do Porto Cathedral,  Episcopal Palace, Praça da Liberdade, and the Torre dos Clerigos Tower in the first half of the day. 

Start the day by exploring the expansive complex of the Porto Cathedral (or Sé do Porto) . It is a National Monument, located in the upper part of the city in Porto. The cathedral grounds look like a medieval fortress from the exteriors. Its construction dates back to the 12th century. 

Located close to the Cathedral is the Paço Episcopal or the Episcopal Palace . This was a Bishop’s Palace (residence), and today it is part of the UNESCO Heritage Site in Porto.  

The palace dominates the skyline of Porto, as it is located on an elevation. You can access both these sites with a combined ticket of the cathedral and the palace.

From the upper town, head to the lower town to the central square – Praça da Liberdade . You must have caught a glimpse of this site on day 5, but set aside a few hours in the afternoon to intimately explore the square, eat out and take photos. 

Praça da Liberdade has a central monument dedicated to King Peter IV. Along the square, there are banks, hotels, restaurants, and offices housed inside vintage/heritage buildings. The City Hall is also located here, and many of the free Porto walking tours also commence at the square. 

There are metro stations located nearby as well to connect to other areas.

Up next is the Clérigos Church, which is a Baroque church. The church along with the bell tower is one of the tallest in the city. The Torre dos Clérigos (the tower) can be seen from most parts of the city and is one of the iconic symbols of Porto.

A few minutes from the Church is the stunning Livraria Lello bookshop . Harry Potter fans should definitely visit his neo-gothic bookshop which inspired JK Rowling as she penned her books. 

Don’t forget to capture the stunning staircase inside.

Day 7 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Douro Valley wine region

On the 7th day of the Portugal itinerary go on a Douro Valley day trip.

We recommend this Get Your Guide Originals Tour that starts from the Porto centre, and takes you to the wine valley (in a comfortable minivan). 

As part of this day tour , round trip transportation is included, along with wine tastings and a traditional Portuguese lunch. You will be enjoying panoramic views of the vineyards as you travel through Northern Portugal.

Wine tasting at the Douro is the highlight of the tour, as you relish some of the finest Port wines. This tour is really good value for money, as it also includes a scenic 1-hour river cruise along the beautiful Douro River, and gives you free time to capture the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can book a Douro Valley tour here

More ideas for day trips from Porto

If you wish to swap the wine valley tour, consider taking day trips to Aveiro (known as Portugal’s Venice), Guimaraes, or Braga, with its hilltop sanctuary Bom Jesus do Monte.

We have included a more detailed itinerary for the northern region below.

Day 8 of Portugal Itinerary 8 days: Porto to Coimbra to Lisbon

This is the final day of 8 days in Portugal. Use it as a travel day to reach Lisbon (to fly back) via Coimbra. 

Coimbra is a beautiful riverfront city , located in central Portugal. So it is a good stop between Porto and Lisbon (highly recommend it if you are on a Portugal road trip itinerary). 

For trains, we recommend hopping on the Express train to Coimbra from Porto and arriving in the city in 1 hour or so. 

Coimbra was Portugal’s former capital, and on a quick day trip visit the medieval old town and the historic University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest in Europe.

The 12th-century Romanesque cathedral Sé Velha is also located in the old town. You can easily find restaurants and souvenir shops at the centre before you make your way to Lisbon.

Arrive in Lisbon by evening. Coimbra to Lisbon is 2 hours by road, and 3+ hours by train. 

Don’t forget to book your hotel for the night. Stay at Sofitel Lisbon or easyHotel

Optional 9 to 10 days in Portugal Itinerary: Algarve Region

If you have additional time in the country, add an Algarve Portugal itinerary for 2 days. 

Although Lisbon and Algarve are about 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours away (depending on the mode of transport), we recommend staying overnight for one day. Trains are the most efficient mode of transportation between these 2 Portuguese destinations, if you are not renting a car. 

Stay in Lagos for the night. Hotel Recommendation: Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda

This hotel is an oceanfront property and is perfect for the night (or two).

The Algarve region is known for its history with Moor-style buildings, sandy beaches, stunning harbors, and picturesque turquoise water. 

Spend a day visiting the popular Marinha Beach in the Algarve. Praia da Rocha and Armação de Pêra are also great options to consider.

If you wish to hike, head to the Seven Hanging Valleys trail for a full day or opt for a shorter route to accommodate beach and resort town wandering time!

Read : Detailed 10 days in Portugal Itinerary

8 days in Portugal Itinerary: Ultimate Northern Portugal Itinerary

With 8 days in Portugal, you can also focus on a particular region and explore charming cities and towns in the area. We will share an epic Portugal vacation for the north!

Day 1 to 2 : Start in Porto, and spend 2 days there. Explore all the iconic landmarks from the Porto Cathedral to Clerigos Tower, Ribeira, and beyond. 

Do include the 6 Bridges cruise to your Porto itinerary . 

Day 3: Thereafter proceed with a day trip to the Douro Valley from Porto.

Day 4 : Visit Braga on a day trip from Porto . The travel time between the two cities is 40 minutes by car. 

Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal, and it has some beautiful architecture and interesting historical sites. In addition to its history, there are plenty of things to do in the area such as museums, galleries, shopping, and restaurants. 

There are also outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking and cycling.

The Bom Jesus Sanctuary in Braga is one of the most popular attractions, with its impressive Baroque-style architecture and incredible views overlooking the city. 

The summit of the hill features numerous caves, chapels, fountains, grottoes, lakes, lookout points, and hotels. You will also find many walking, biking, and hiking trails in the surrounding hills. 

Don’t forget to ride the Bom Jesus Funicular to get up there!

In the heart of Braga lies the charming Cathedral which dates back to the 16th century. It is a Roman Catholic church and is also the oldest cathedral in Portugal. 

Other attractions in Braga include the gorgeous blue and white Casa do Raio (Palácio do Raio), Igreja Misericórdia, Jardim de Santa Barbara (garden), and more. 

Braga is also home to a historic city gate – Arco da Porta Nova , a Baroque and Neoclassical arch, dating back to the late 18th century. Don’t miss out on the gate on your way in or out of the city. 

Day 5 : Next day make your way to Guimares – a city in Northern Portugal with a history stretching back over centuries. It is thought to be the birthplace of the nation itself, and its ancient castle stands as a testament to this rich heritage. 

Guimares offers visitors an array of activities that range from cultural attractions such as museums and churches to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sightseeing. 

You can surely visit Braga and Guimares on the same day, but having an extra day will be nice to enjoy the Old Town attractions, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

The old town is filled with winding cobblestone streets lined with traditional cafés, restaurants, and shops. Here you can find everything from handmade crafts to locally made wines. 

One of the most popular attractions in Guimares is the Castle of Guimarães . The castle was built in the 10th century, and it is a massive medieval military fortification. 

There are exhibits that you can check out inside the castle, and the views from the castle walls are gorgeous!

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza is another medieval landmark that is worth visiting in Guimares. It was the former residence of the first Dukes of Braganza. 

It dates back to the 15th century. Inside the palace are permanent exhibits and rooms that you can visit. 

In the heart of Old Town Guimares, admire the Largo da Oliveira located in the square. The area is very beautiful with a church –  Igreja da Oliveira , and lots of outdoor cafes and restaurants where you can hang out and enjoy a meal. 

Another lovely square and route are the O Largo República do Brasil, with a beautiful garden view. 

There are lots of places to go hiking in and around Guimares. You can get on the Penha Cable Car from Guimares to get to the mountain top and enjoy lovely views of the city below. 

Day 6 – 7 : Spend the next 2 days in the city of Aveiro , and then take a trip to Costa Nova beach. 

Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal due to its network of canals, is a unique place with its beautiful architecture, cobbled streets lined with colorful homes, and charming bridges over canals. 

From the city center you can take a Moliceiro boat tour through the canals and learn about the city’s history. 

Attractions in the centre include the Aveiro Forum, museums such as Averio Museum, City Museum, and the Museu de Arte Nova. Museu Histórico da Vista Alegre (ceramic factory) is also worth a visit. 

One of the coolest things to experience near Aviero is the salt flats. You can book a tour to see them as well (Salinas de Aveiro)

The nearby Costa Nova beach is a great place to relax and take in the beautiful blue waters of the Atlantic ocean. Its golden sandy beaches make for sandcastle-building, sunbathing, and swimming. 

There are plenty of restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes where you can enjoy your lunch looking out onto the ocean. There is also a long pier where you can take a walk and watch the sun go down in the evening.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Aveiro and Costa Nova beach is the perfect place to go. Both these places can be explored on a day trip from Porto as well, but we recommend spending 2 days to intimately explore it!

Day 8 : On day 8, make the return journey to Lisbon to fly out. You can stop in Coimbra for sightseeing if you like. There is a luggage storage option near the Coimbra B Station where you can keep your bags while sightseeing, and then catch a train to Lisbon. 

8 days in Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon City and nearby towns

We will cover another 8 day Portugal itinerary with a focus on Lisbon, and nearby areas. 

• Day 7 : Beach day in Nazaré

For a first time visitor, this is perfect as one can explore the capital city, iconic landmarks such as Pena national palace or Palacio Nacional da Pena and Cabo da Roca, and a mix of beaches, and cultural and religious sites!

This itinerary can be done by keeping Lisbon as a base and doing on day trips using a mix of public transportation and tours. Or you can stay in the Belem area and then use a rental car to explore all the destinations listed. 

Day 1 – 3 : Spend 3 days in Lisbon, exploring the city’s historic sights and attractions. 

Set aside one day to explore Belem neighborhood. Visit Jerominos monastery, Belem tower, Monument of Discoveries, and the cool LX Factory . 

Day 4: Visit Sintra , on a day trip from Lisbon. Explore the iconic Palacio Nacional da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira, Moorish Castle, town centre, and more. There are a lot of day tours that you can choose for your transportation and ease of sightseeing. 

Day 5 : Visiting Cascais and Cabo da Roca from Lisbon are easily done by car or train. The quickest option is to rent a car, but the train is also convenient and takes about 30 minutes to reach your destination.

Located just 31 km (20 miles) away, Cascais, a small fishing village has become a popular day trip destination in Portugal. It is best known for its beautiful beaches, where you can relax and go swimming or sunbathing. 

There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants, as well as a lively market selling fresh produce and local handicrafts.

Cabo da Roca is located just outside of Cascais and is known for being the westernmost point in all of Europe. Here, you can take stunning photos from high cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 6 : The city of Fatima , located about 125 km (77 miles) north of Lisbon, is a great place to visit for those who are interested in religious history and pilgrimage.

Reaching Fatima from Lisbon is relatively easy and can be done by car or public transport. The quickest option is to rent a car, which will take about one and a half hours. 

Fatima is most well-known for being home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima , which attracts thousands of Catholic pilgrims each year. 

The Sanctuary complex includes several chapels, basilicas, and monuments, as well as a museum containing religious artifacts.

Day 7 : The coastal town of Nazaré is a great place to visit from Lisbon. 

Located about 122 km (76 miles) north of the capital, this fishing village is known for its stunning beaches and unique culture. 

Getting to Nazare from Lisbon is relatively easy and can be done by car (1 hour and 30 minutes) or bus (2+ hours). 

Nazare’s two main attractions are its beachfront promenade and nearby cliffs with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean like the North Beach (Praia do Norte) . 

You can enjoy a stroll along the promenade, watch the sunset over the horizon, or try one of Nazare’s famous seafood restaurants.

The town also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, such as surfing and paragliding . 

Day 8 : The town of Obidos is a great place to visit from Lisbon. It is best known for its beautiful medieval castle and winding cobblestone streets.

Reaching Obidos from Lisbon is easy by bus or by car (about an hour). Buses are much cheaper to get there.

As soon as you enter the town, you will see the beautiful Porta da Vila (gate), then make your way into the narrow lanes – soak in the view of the charming brightly painted houses, colorful flower pots, shops, and cafes. 

Stop at a cherry liquor store (ginjha) and give it a try!

One of the main attractions in Obidos is the imposing 12th-century castle, and it is open to visitors. We recommend visiting the castle interiors. 

You must also walk through the castle walls for a lovely view of the town and the surroundings around it!

Extending your trip: 2 weeks in Portugal Itinerary

Want to see more of Portugal and you got 14 days? Here is a suggested 2 week in Portugal itinerary with or without a car.

Day 1 – 3: Explore the city of Lisbon along with Belem in 3 days 

Day 4 : Visit Sintra on a day trip

Day 5 –  6 : Start for Porto from Lisbon (by train or car rental). Once in Porto, spend 2 days exploring the city highlights and viewpoints. Don’t miss out on Gaia

Day 7: Join a Duoro Valley wine day tour

Day 8: Explore both Braga and Guimares on a day trip . Explore Bom Jesus, and Braga Cathedral, have lunch, and then travel to Guimares. Visit the Castle of Guimares and the Palace of Braganza. Hit the charming old town square and the Largo da república do Brasil (avenue). 

Day 9: On day 9, return to Lisbon with a stop in Coimbra 

Day 10: Travel to Lagos Algarve from Lisbon (set aside extra time if traveling by public transportation). Plan to stay at the centre to explore the town on your first day here

Day 11 – 13 : Explore more of Lagos including taking a day trip to the Benagil Caves in the Algarve

Day 14: Return to Lisbon (with an optional half-day tour of Fatima)

Best Portugal Tours and Experiences

Portugal has much to explore and discover. From natural landscapes to vibrant cities, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for a city break, beach holiday, or adventure trip – Portugal has it all!

If you’re looking for the best tours and experiences in Portugal, here are some of our top picks:

Lisbon City Tour : Explore the sights and sounds of Portugal’s vibrant capital. See iconic landmarks such as St George’s Castle, Belem Tower, and Jeronimos Monastery. You can join a Tuk Tuk tour such as this one , or an Essentials History tour covering the best sights on foot

Douro Valley Wine Tour : Enjoy a day trip to the famous Douro Valley from Porto, renowned for its stunning vineyards and wine production. Visit the local wineries and sample some of Portugal’s finest wines. This is a full day tour with round-trip transportation, samplings, a one-hour river cruise, and more.

Porto Tour: Explore the vibrant city of Porto and its surroundings on this guided tour . See iconic landmarks such as Clerigos Tower, Sao Bento train station, and the city’s many bridges over the Douro River. 

6 Bridges Cruise : One of the must-do activities in Porto is to join an hour of sightseeing cruise that takes on the Douro River to see the 6 bridges and learn about its history. It is also one of the cheapest tours to take in the city.

Algarve Coast Tour: Explore some of the best beaches in Europe on a coastal tour . Enjoy views of dramatic cliffs juxtaposed with soft sandy bays, as well as amazing wildlife along the way.

Azores Island Tour : Take a multi-day tour of the beautiful Azores Islands and discover their unique culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Visit small fishing villages, lush forests, volcanic craters, and grassy hillsides. Don’t miss the gorgeous São Miguel Island!

These are just some of the incredible tours available in Portugal – there are many more to explore! From cooking classes , sunset cruises, and food to fado tours, there is so much to see and do in this amazing country!

Transportation in Portugal 

When traveling to Portugal, there are various transportation options available. 

Trains are one of the most popular modes of transport in Portugal, with numerous routes connecting all major cities across the country. 

The train network is well-developed and efficient, allowing you to reach many places quickly and easily.

If you prefer more flexibility, consider renting a car. We will cover more details below. 

Trams are another great option for getting around in Portugal. They’re mainly concentrated in the major cities, with Lisbon and Porto having good tram networks. 

Buses are also a great option for reaching places that the train or tram network doesn’t reach, and they’re usually quite cost-effective.

Taxis are available in most cities and can be a convenient way to get around if you don’t want to use public transport. However, they can be more expensive than other forms of travel. 

If you want to explore Portugal by water, there are several river cruises available . These range from one hour sightseeing cruises and day trips to extended tours lasting multiple days, allowing you to explore Portugal in a unique way.

Overall, there is a range of transportation options available for traveling in Portugal. Which one you choose will depend on where you want to go, how much time you have, and your budget. 

Car Rental in Portugal: Road Trip Tips

When traveling in Portugal, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the country. 

Although public transportation is available, it can be slow and limited and the ability to go where you want when you want is much more convenient with your own vehicle.

Portugal has good roads compared to many European countries and driving in the major cities is relatively easy. The highway system is well-developed, with highways connecting most of the major cities. 

In rural areas, roads are generally good but some may be winding and narrow in places so it’s important to drive carefully. Watch out for livestock on the roads.

Before going on a road trip to Portugal, there are a few things you should be aware of. The speed limit in Portugal is 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph), and 120km/h (74 mph) on motorways. Always remember to watch for signs and respect the speed limits.

It’s important to also be aware of parking regulations in urban areas as it can be difficult to find public parking spaces, so you may have to pay for a private space.

Reserve Car Rental: Prepare Ahead

If you need a car rental, we recommend comparing and checking prices on Discovercars.com to book yours.

Overall, renting a car in Portugal is a great way to explore the country and its beautiful landscapes. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with the speed limit, parking regulations, and other road rules before you set off on your journey.

Note: The emergency number in Portugal is 112.

Additional Portugal Travel Tips

Here are some useful tips to help plan your trip to Portugal (or Europe if this is your first ever visit to the continent), 

• Travel Documents: Portugal is located in Europe, and is a European Union member. Travelers with US – United States or Canadian passports can travel visa-free for up to 90 days. Non-visa-exempt passport holders have to apply for a Schengen Visa prior to visiting Portugal. 
• Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to insure your trip against medical emergencies, cancellations, and delays. Check out free insurance quotes here from Safety Wing
• Budget for Portugal : Portugal is pretty affordable when it comes to meals, and transport and you can easily find accommodation or a hotel at a budget rate. Plan to spend around $85 to $100 USD per person per day (depending on the season, and hotel luxury level)
• When is the best time to visit Portugal: Portugal is best explored during shoulder seasons – spring or autumn (September and October). During this time the weather is not super hot, and it is perfect for sightseeing. If you are planning to hit the Algarve region, plan to head there in the winter time. 
• Pastéis de Nata (sweet) : Egg custard tart
• Bifana: This is sautéed marinated pork inside a roll
• Portuguese Francesinha Sandwich (bread and ham) 
• Sardinhas (fish)
• Piri Piri Chicken: This is an Algarvian specialty. Chicken cooked on a hot grill brushed with Piri Piri sauce
• Ham (try ham roll or sandwich – so yummy)
• Azeitão Cheese (made from raw sheep’s milk)
• Ginjinha (liquor) 

At a minimum, one week in Portugal is enough to explore two of the main cities – Lisbon and Porto (2 days each, one day travel time), and then set aside 1 day each to venture on day trips. We have a suggested one week Portugal itinerary below,  Portugal Itinerary 7 days Day 1 & 2 : Arrive in Lisbon, explore Day 3: Day trip to Sintra Day 4 & 5 : Travel to Porto, explore Day 6: Day trip to the Douro Valley or Aveiro  Day 7 : Travel back to Lisbon from Porto with a stop in Coimbra

The best time to explore Portugal is in the months of early spring and autumn (September and October). During this time the temperature is perfect for being outdoors and going sightseeing minus large crowds. The weather is not hot at this time. Many prefer visiting beach towns in Portugal to beat the winter blues in Europe. Note that November is the rainy season in Portugal.

Here is a 10 day Portugal itinerary, Day 1: Lisbon. Stay in Lisbon for 4 days at Sofitel Lisbon or easyHotel Day 2 : Lisbon/Belem  Day 3 : Sintra day trip Day 4 : Cascais + Cabo da Roca + Sintra Natural Park Day 5: Porto. Stay in Porto for 3 days at the Mercure Porto Centro  Day 6: Porto Day 7 : Douro Valley day trip Day 8 : Porto to Coimbra to Lisbon  Day 9 to 10: Algarve Region (Stay in Lagos) and explore the popular beaches, go on hikes

5 days in Portugal can be well spent by staying in the capital city and going on day trips. Or just focusing on the two major cities. Here are two samples for Portugal itinerary 5 days  Portugal Itinerary 5 days – Lisbon and day trips Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon, and explore the old town area Day 2 : Lisbon/Belem  Day 3 : Sintra day trip Day 4 : Day trip to Cascais + Cabo da Roca + Sintra Natural Park Day 5: Day trip to Fatima or Obidos  Optional: You can also spend 2 days in the Algarve region instead of Cascais (day 4), and day 5 listed above. Portugal Itinerary 5 days – Lisbon and Porto combination Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon, explore the old town area Day 2 : Lisbon/Belem  Day 3 : Explore Sintra in the morning, and then travel to Porto in the evening Day 4 : Porto sightseeing  Day 5: Half-day Porto exploration, and leave/fly out 

As compared to countries like Iceland, Switzerland or France and the UK, Portugal is one of the cheapest destinations in Europe. It is also a complete package with amazing cities full of history, and architecture, and a stunning coastline and cuisine.  We recommend booking a trip in February or September/October to take advantage of lower hotel and Airbnb prices (starts at $30 USD per night). Food is affordable, and the weather is very pleasant at this time. 

You must not miss the fascinating cities in Portugal, particularly Lisbon which is a great spot to appreciate maritime history, soak amazing city views, and of course, don’t skip their beaches and delicious food!

We hope you found this post useful in planning your itinerary. You can also use this Portugal travel guide in the form of a road trip, and customize the sightseeing spots as per your personal taste. 

Portugal is one of our favorite countries in the world, and we are sure you will have an amazing time!

Pin: How to spend 8 days in Portugal: Portugal Itinerary Planner

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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8 Days in Portugal – Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & Douro Valley Itinerary and Map

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Who’s the guide?  Our savvy traveler,  KATY .

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Categories Lisbon , Rest of Portugal

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Learn More About This 8 Days in Portugal Itinerary  – Click button above to download detailed itinerary & map!

This itinerary is for an 8 day adventure to Lisbon and up the north coast to Sintra, Porto and the Douro Valley. Katy, our savvy traveler, went on this adventure with a friend.  They hit all the sights sought out the local hotspots for food and drinks.  They spent 3 nights in Lisbon, 1 night in Sintra, 2 nights in Douro Valley, and 2 nights in Porto.  Although They ate at top restaurants and above average lodging, the trip was affordable because Portugal is cheap! This itinerary is very much on-the-go, but if you want a slower-paced trip, just pick the activities that most appeal to you.

Why Visit Lisbon and Porto?

Katy chose Lisbon, because it’s a must if visiting Portugal for the first time.  Then she chose to head north to Porto instead of south to the Algarve, because of her love of wine made the Douro Valley a must.

Here’s a preview of what this 8 Days in Portugal Itinerary from Katy:

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 1

We arrived mid-morning and spent the afternoon in Belem. So long as you arrive by lunchtime and it’s not a Monday, I suggest starting with the TimeOut Market for lunch then spend the afternoon in Belem visiting Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower/Torre Belem and Padrão dos Descobrimentos.  You’ll have time for a siesta before dinner (or take a nap before if you arrive on a redeye).

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 2

Spend the day walking around the heart of Lisbon.   The earlier you get started, the more you’ll see.  Be prepared for hills and tired legs!

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 3

Explore the Alfama neighborhood.  The Alfama neighborhood is a lot quieter than Barria Alto but it’s full of historical sites and a great place to unwind.  This day wasn’t as packed, so enjoy the gorgeous views at the Alfama and the deck/pool if it’s nice weather.

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 4

Head to Cascais then north to spectacular Sintra. We picked up our rental car in the morning and after stop in Cascais headed to Sintra,  a unique village full of palaces and castles.  We left the rental car place at about 10:15am, and we wished we’d left a little earlier to give us more time in Sintra.  I’d recommend trying to leave by 9am.

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 5

Drive north to the Douro Valley stopping in Obidos and Nazare.

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 6

Have a lazy morning or try a walk, bike ride or boat ride. Next is lunch, wine tastings and an early dinner at DOC.  During the busy season, or if you want to go at specific times or book a tour, you will need to call ahead to book the wineries.  Try to get to Quinta do Tedo right before it closes at 7pm to see the sunset. That will get you to DOC at 7:30pm when it opens.  After an afternoon of wine tasting, we were ready for an early dinner.

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 7

Breakfast in the Douro Valley then drive about hour to Porto to explore.

8 Days in Portugal Itinerary – Day 8

Wander Porto and do a port tasting on your last day. In the morning, wander the streets. We’ve listed some of our favorite highlights to stop at on your way.  In the afternoon, head over to Ribeira de Gaia (across the river from Porto) for a tour of one the Port houses.  You can either try to do the last tour and stay over for dinner or you could do an earlier tour and come back for a little siesta then head back out for a later dinner.  The second option is best if you want to try and see Porto’s nightlife, which starts late.

Need more ideas for Lisbon or more itineraries for Portugal? Check out the other Travel Honey’s itineraries and guides for Portugal and our collection specifically for Lisbon .

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Ultimate 8-Day Portugal Itinerary

by Maggie McKneely | Nov 8, 2019 | Portugal | 24 comments

Last Updated on August 28, 2024 by Maggie McKneely

To ease your trip planning, check out this one week Portugal itinerary to make sure you hit the country’s highlights!

*This post contains affiliate links. That just means that if you happen to click on one of those links and end up making a purchase, I make a small commission (and you will have made my day!)

One Week in Portugal Itinerary

For such a tiny country, Portugal is jam-packed with beautiful places to see, mouth-watering food to eat, and blue-tiled towns to visit. It’s a tiny slice of the Iberian Peninsula and dwarfed by its neighbor Spain. But Portugal’s year-round good weather, friendly people, and unique culture make it one of the best destinations in the world.

While 8 days isn’t enough time to explore the country in-depth ( 2 weeks in Portugal is even better!), it is enough to give you a taste. Because it is so small, you can cover a lot of ground in just a week! But choosing just what to see and how long to spend where can be daunting. To help you out, here’s a perfect one week in Portugal itinerary.

Getting Around Portugal

Portugal has pretty great public transportation. You can get to almost any main town via train, and many more obscure places via bus. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are also very common. We rented a car because we prefer to have the flexibility that comes with having your own car, and Portugal has one of the most amazing highway systems I’ve seen. For a complete guide, visit this guide to transportation in Portugal.

This itinerary will assume you’ve rented a car and are taking a road trip through Portugal , but it’s doable via other transportation methods.

Day 1: The Douro Valley

The first stop of this itinerary is the birthplace of Portugal’s most famous export: port. For wine aficionados, it’s a must-visit as its the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Hundreds of “quintas” are spread throughout the region, some of which have been producing wine for centuries.

But even if you’re not a port drinker, the Douro Valley is absolutely stunning. For miles, rolling hillsides are covered in carefully planted grapevines, with the Douro River winding its way between them. It’s a place where time moves slowly, and where old-time traditions, like barefoot grape stomping, meld harmoniously with modernity.

My mom and I flew into Lisbon, picked up our rental car and headed north. From Lisbon, the Douro Valley is about 3 hours by car. You could also fly into Porto, which is only about 1.5 hours from the Douro region.

Wherever you come from, the drive to and through the Douro Valley is breathtaking. The N-222 between Peso de Regua and Pinhao has been named one of the most scenic roads in Europe. Take the afternoon to enjoy it! When you arrive at your hotel, rest up from traveling and get ready for Day 2 of your Portugal itinerary.

Sunset in the Douro Valley

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in the Douro Valley

For travelers with larger budgets, many of the wineries also operate as high-end inns or “ wine hotels .” But there are also great options if you’re trying to be more economical. My mom and I stayed at an amazing family-owned bed and breakfast, Casa Cimeira. I can’t recommend it enough!

Casa Cimeira

Day 2: Douro Valley

Spending a full day in the Douro Valley is well worth your time. There are hundreds of wineries to explore and a plethora of historic villages to visit. Spend your time exploring towns like Pinhao, famous for its beautiful train station, or Lamego, with its instagrammable hillside staircase. And of course, be sure to take a tour of a vineyard or two. If you have time, don’t miss out on a boat trip on the Douro River itself!

Steps of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios in Lamego

If you want to make planning your day easier, there’s an alternative to picking what to do and see on your own. My mom and I typically prefer to do things on our own, but to make the most of our day, we actually hired a private tour guide to show us around. I definitely recommend doing that (especially if you want to do any amount of port tasting – those mountain roads are nerve-wracking when completely sober!).

This Douro Valley tour was excellent. For one flat fee, we got to do everything in the Douro Valley we wanted to without having to navigate its tiny, curving roads. And because our tour guides were locals, we got to learn so much that we never would have if we’d just explored on our own. They took us to several different wineries, a divine lunch of gourmet Portuguese cuisine, and a relaxing boat cruise down the river. You should definitely consider adding a Douro Valley tour to your Portugal itinerary!

Chocolate on chocolate on chocolate dessert at Quinta da Pacheca in the Douro Valley

Day 3: Douro to Porto

On to day 3 of your itinerary – it’s time to travel to the incredible city of Porto. Porto is Portugal’s 2nd largest city. Its eclectic personality is infectious, its old-world architecture and colorful alleyways charming, and its multitude of port wine cellars delectable. It’s a city that will grab hold of you and make you not want to leave.

Being a relatively small city, it’s easy to hit the highlights in two days (though you’ll wish you had more time to explore everything it has to offer.) The first part of the day will be spent traveling from the Douro Valley and checking into your Porto hotel. Then you’ll have the rest of the day to explore.

Things you should check out on day one in Porto are things that don’t require an early start in the day and are close to each other.

Things to do in Porto:

• Sao Bento train station and its beautiful blue-tiled (“azulejos”) walls
• Chapel of Souls – An internet-famous church covered in azulejos
• Carmo and Carmelitas churches – These are two beautiful churches with, yes, more blue tiles. But they are perhaps even better known for having the country’s tiniest home wedged between them!
• Francisco Cathedral – It’s said that when it was first built, the interior was considered to be too extravagantly decorated with gold to be used as a church, so it was closed for many years.
• Porto Cathedral – The Porto Cathedral is built on the highest point in the city. Of all the churches in Porto, this one is considered the most important.

Day 4: Porto

Day 4 of this itinerary is dedicated to everything else you need to see in Porto that you missed on day 3. To beat the crowds, start your day early!

More things to do in Porto:

• Livraria Lello – also known as the Harry Potter bookshop, this beautiful place is famous for its curving wooden staircase, said to be the inspiration for the moving ones at Hogwarts. While it’s definitely worth visiting, it’s a top tourist attraction. Get tickets ahead of time online, and be in line no later than 9 AM.
• Clerigos Church and Tower – the baroque-style church sits in the heart of the city, and its tower looms can be seen from almost any part of Porto. For a small fee, visitors can climb the 240 steps to the top for an amazing view of the city.
• Cais de Riberia – this is Porto’s picturesque, if touristy, waterfront district. It’s packed with restaurants and gift shops. You may not want to spend too much time here, but it’s certainly worth visiting.
• Port cellar tour – you can’t really visit Porto without taking a Porto wine tour ! Some cellars require reservations ahead of time, so just do some research before you go (or check out my guide on Porto wine tours ).

Croft port cellars

Where to Stay in Porto

Porto has tons of amazing lodging options, from gorgeous, high-end hotels to adorable boutique B&Bs and apartments. My mom and I stayed in a chic and modern apartment called Douro Riverside Apartments . Located on the banks of the river with amazing views of Porto, it was affordable and absolutely perfect.

Getting Around Porto

Porto is a very walkable city because of its small size, but it’s also extremely hilly. Every street is either straight up or straight down. Fortunately, if you’re not up to that kind of walking, Porto has great public transportation.

Metro : Porto has a pretty nice metro system with 6 lines that’ll get you anywhere you want to go. One ticket is €1.20 (unless you get a Porto card; more on that below).

Bus : Like most cities, Porto does have public buses. They’re most useful if you’re headed to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia since they drop off much closer than the metro does. They cost €1.85 per ride without a Porto card.

Taxis : Porto also has official city taxis, which charge between €4-6 per ride. However, there’s also an abundance of Uber drivers if you prefer that.

Porto Card: The  Porto Card  is a great option if you’re planning on using public transport, or visiting several qualifying museums and attractions. For one base price, the Porto Card lets you ride the metro and buses for free, gives free admission to a number of museums, discounts on various other admission prices, and a 15% discount in participating restaurants.

Don’t have two days to explore? Check out this article if you only have one day in Porto !

Porto’s azulejos

Day 5: Porto to Lagos

Portugal’s Algarve region is blessed with natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, exquisite sea caves, and pristine beaches. You could easily spend 7 days in the Algarve and not get bored! So although it’s not exactly close to Porto, I squeezed it into my Portugal itinerary. You may not think the long drive is worth it for a day, but I certainly did!

From Porto, the town of Lagos is a 5 hours drive. This road trip is a great way to see more of Portugal’s countryside, particularly its Alentejo region, with its groves of cork trees and rolling fields of wheat and grapevines. You can even add a few stops along the way, such as Aveiro, the “Venice of Portugal,” and Nazare, home to the largest waves ever surfed. (If you’re an avid surfer, make sure to add nearby Ericeira to your list too!

Overlooking Nazare

Why is Lagos on this Portugal itinerary as opposed to any of the other cities on Portugal’s southern coast? Unlike Faro or Albufeira, Lagos doesn’t have many beach resorts and has relatively fewer crowds. And it’s closer to some of the well-known natural wonders that I was interested in seeing.

After a long day on the road, treat yourself to dinner at one of Lagos’ amazing seafood restaurants, such as beachside Campimar .

View from Campimar in Lagos

Where to stay in Lagos

Lodging in Lagos is limited, but it does have several centrally located hotels and apartments. We spent our one night there at Casamar, a spacious and comfortable multi-room apartment set-up.

Day 6: Lagos to Lisbon

Day 5 of this Portugal itinerary was spent mostly on the road, so take day 6 to actually explore Lagos.

When I originally planned our Portugal trip, I booked a sea cave kayak tour – just off the coast from Lagos are several stunning sea caves, and several companies offer boat and kayak tours to see them. Being kayak lovers, I jumped all over that opportunity. Unfortunately, on the day of our tour, strong winds blew into the area and it was canceled. BUT – if you go to Lagos, definitely sign up for one of those tours (and tell me if it’s as amazing as it sounds!)

Other things to do in Lagos:

• Visit Ponta da Piedade – Just a few miles south of downtown Lagos is a natural wonder of red cliffs, outcroppings, and towering stacks of sandstone jutting out from the ocean. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Lagos . There are several trails leading from the parking down into the cliff and to the ocean. While the view from the top is lovely, definitely make the trek to the bottom to get up close and personal with those amazing rock arches!
• Old Lagos – The 16th-century architecture is still mostly in place, with streets paved with granite and houses built of white-smooth stone. Take some time to wander down its streets, explore the shops, and grab lunch at one of its authentic Portuguese cafes.
• Forte da Ponta da Bandeira – When you drive through the old town, you can’t miss this stone fort guarding the city. You have to cross a drawbridge to enter the 17th-century structure, built during the Portuguese Restoration War.
• If you have extra time, explore some of the best beaches in the Algarve region along the Costa Vicentina .

Ponta da Piedade

After you’re done exploring Lagos, start the 2.5-hour drive back north to Lisbon. If you rented a car, I suggest dropping off your car at the rental place and using public transport for the rest of your time in Lisbon. Lisbon is NOT car-friendly, and very easy to get around using other means.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Being Portugal’s capital and largest city, there is no shortage of lodging options for travelers with every size budget. However, I recommend staying in Lisbon’s historic Alfama district. It’s very centrally located, and the only part of the city not destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Its quiet, narrow alleyways are Lisbon at its most authentic.

My mom and I opted for Cosy Alfama , an adorable apartment in Alfama. We loved our room so much that we ended up coming back earlier in the evening than we had planned just so we could enjoy it!

Day 7: Lisbon

This day on your Portugal itinerary is dedicated to exploring the delightful capital city of Portugal, Lisbon. With buildings decked out in canary yellow, cobalt blue, and every shade of pastel, and with more sunshine year-round than any other European city, Lisbon is guaranteed to charm. One day really isn’t enough, but it’s enough time to check out the must-sees and realize that you’ll just want to plan another future trip to Lisbon.

Colorful Lisbon

Things to do in Lisbon:

• Pasteis de Belem – Portuguese egg tarts, “pastel de nata,” are light, gooey, delectable treats created by angels (or so I’m convinced). And the best place to eat one is at the only bakery that has the original recipe, Pasteis de Belem. Get here early though, since every other Lisbon tourist also wants a taste of this Portuguese delicacy.
• Jeronimos Monastery – This was the home of the monks who invented egg tarts, but it’s more famous for being arguably the most stunning piece of architecture in all of Portugal.
• Belem Tower – This 16th-century tower was built as part of Lisbon’s defense system, but is now Instagram-famous for the way it rises conspicuously out of the waters of the Tagus River.
• Discoveries Monument – This impressive sculpture on the banks of the river was built in the 1960s to commemorate Portugal’s history of exploration and discovery.
• Miradouro do Senhora do Monte – For the best view of Lisbon, head to this amazing vista. This small romantic park is perched on top of one of Lisbon’s many hills and offers a full panoramic view of the city.
• Alfama – This is the oldest neighborhood in all of Europe. When most of Lisbon was damaged in the 1755 earthquake, Alfama remained intact. Its labyrinth of tiny streets and alleyways and collection of authentic restaurants and shops are worth exploring!

Sweet-tooth loving breakfast at Pasteis de Belem

Getting Around Lisbon

Metro : Lisbon’s  metro is clean, safe, reliable, easy to use, and convenient – it can get you close to almost anywhere you’d want to go. It was the method of transport we used the most while we were in Lisbon. The metro operates from 6:30 AM-1 AM; a single ride ticket costs €1.45 (or free with a Lisboa Card).

Bus : The bus system is the next best mode of transportation after the metro. If there’s somewhere the metro can’t get you to, the bus can. We used the bus system a couple of times and found it to be safe and convenient for where we needed to go. And again, with the Lisboa Card, the fare is free. Go  here  for more info on routes and timetables.

Tram : The tram may be Lisbon’s most famous transportation system, but it’s also the least recommended by experts and locals. The trams are a notorious haven for pickpockets (since it’s mostly tourists who ride them). They’re also very slow and don’t go to many places. Many visitors to Lisbon think they have to ride the famous No. 28, the yellow tram, to have a full Lisbon experience.  But you’re better off just taking a picture instead.

Belem Tower

Lisboa Card

If you’re spending at least one day in Lisbon , get the Lisboa Card. For just €20, the  Lisboa Card  gets you free unlimited travel on all public transportation in the city, free train tickets to Sintra and Cascais, free admission into most main attractions, and steep discounts in many restaurants and stores. Buying a Lisboa Card is the smartest investment you’ll make in Lisbon.

Check out my full guide to spending one day in Lisbon !

Jeronimos Monastery

Day 8: Sintra

The grand finale of this Portugal itinerary is the country’s city of castles. Yes, you read that right;  Portugal has a town filled with castles. Located just outside of Lisbon is Sintra, a real-life fairytale village. For centuries, Portugal’s wealthy have been building homes in the heavily forested hills of Sintra. Today, many of them are open to the public. Since it’s just an hour via train from Lisbon, a day trip to Sintra is a must-do part of any Portugal itinerary.

Pena Palace in Sintra

Sintra Highlights:

• Pena Palace – This castle looks like it has come straight out of a fairytale. Its many hues of red, yellow, and purple, and its cartoonish spires and accents make Pena Palace one of the most visited sites in all of Portugal. Be sure to include it in your Portugal itinerary!
• Castle of the Moors – Built in the 8th century, this is Sintra’s oldest castle, and the only one built for defensive purposes. Climb atop its stone walls for epic views of Sintra, Lisbon, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Quinta da Regaleira – This estate was commissioned by a 19th-century millionaire. While the house is certainly impressive, it’s the gardens that will amaze you. It’s an outdoor playground with hidden caves, grottoes, and fountains.

Castle of the Moors

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon:

The easiest way to get to Sintra from Lisbon is via train. Starting at 7 am, trains leave for Sintra from the Rossio station around every 30 minutes. The trip takes about 40 minutes. Roundtrip tickets are €4.50 (as of April 2019).

Check out my full guide on avoiding the crowds during Sintra day trip from Lisbon !

Spiral well at Quinta da Regaleira

Day 9: Home

One week in Portugal is a whirlwind trip, jam-packed with amazing architecture, mouthwatering food, and gorgeous countryside. One week isn’t long enough, so maybe spend your flight home planning your next trip Portugal road trip itinerary!

Goodnight from Porto!

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24 Comments

Great guide! Bookmarked it for my trip there in a few weeks!

This is a great itinerary for Portugal! I’m considering a trip to Portugal next year so this is great inspiration as you visited all of the spots I’m interested in. The food looks so yummy.

What a lovely trip you must have had! Portugal looks so beautiful, I’m in love with the buildings and architecture. Your post is making me want to go even more. Thanks for all the tips and it’s great to know that public transportation is good even though I love road trips too!

Portugal is top of my travel list, it looks like such a gorgeous place!

I love Portugal! Such great recommendations. 🙂

What a beautiful country to explore. I see great things about Portugal so good to hear you talk about some of the fun things to see and do. The colors in the country are incredible. So photogenic

I agree, I like to travel with my own car as well so that we can come and go as we please. It saves wasting time waiting around for public transport or an Uber. I’ve never considered hiring a tour guide, but sounds like it was worth your while. I want to visit the Harry Potter bookshop – it sounds glorious!

This is perfect and give you what do you need in portugal. Amazing place!

Portugal is one of the best countries in Europe! I love that you have included Porto and Sintra on your itinerary as these are must-sees in Portugal.

Such a wonderful itinerary for Portugal! I’m saving this for future reference. The country seems to have everything – beautiful buildings, gorgeous landscapes, and awesome food. I am inspired to consider planning a trip now!

I spent 2 weeks in Portugal a few years ago, but only in Lisbon and Porto (with a trip to Sintra) I am DYING to go back and spend more time, there are some great spots on your list! I love this country!

So many things to do in Portugal! I’m planning a week in Lisbon next year but I think I should add Sintra as it’s not too far. I would love to see Porto too but I don’t think we’ll have enough time…

I love the colors (and flavors) of Portugal. It’s such a vibrant country and I mean that in every sense of the word. There’s just so much to love about Portugal.

Portugal is a beautiful country – great job!

Portugal is such an amazing country, and not just because of all the amazing food options and wine (port too). I think I could spend the entire week just in Lisbon, though your itinerary is an invitation to experience more.

I hope I will manage to use your itinerary, I will just try to stay in each place at least two or three days

Perfect timing! Am just finalising our european itinerary for next year and there is a ‘chance’ portugal may be on it. I especially want to get to Cintra. Pinned.

I loved exploring more of Portugal with you. While I didn’t get to do and see much during my one visit (a business trip to Lisbon), I did get to eat some AMAZING food. Yum!

I was only in Portugal for a couple of days and sounds like I missed out on a TON! I definitely want to check out the Azores next time.

Driving in a foreign country is super scary for me but the scenery I’m sure makes up for any fears. Great for you and your mom to do so!

I am glad to know that one can cover so many places to visit in Portugal in 9 days. I am bookmarking this guide so that I can follow this itinerary of yours whenever I get to visit Portugal.

I’m heading to Portugal this week so this post was very helpful! Thank you so much!

Love this! So helpful. I’ve been hearing amazing things about Sintra lately, so this will be great to plan my trip!

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

I’m so glad to see Lagos on this list! It’s the best kept secret in Portugal, which is the best kept secret in Europe! From Lagos you can easily get to the western most point in Europe. And even though Lagos lacks beaches, you can do cliff-walking, which is stunning. Great article – thanks!

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I’m Maggie, a 30-something politico from Washington, DC, who always has one foot off the ground, looking for adventure. I work full-time in the Swamp, but use travel as a way to stay sane! Read on for my crazy stories from the road, and tips to help you in your own travels! Learn more about me

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Portugal 8 Day Itinerary – 3 EXCELLENT Options

Looking for the perfect Portugal 8 day itinerary?

Embarking on an 8-day journey through Portugal will be a blast!

You’re likely seeking that perfect itinerary to fit your timeline, interests, and budget – a plan that captures the essence of Portugal without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

That’s where we, Kelsea and Nicholas, step in. After spending a month road-tripping across Portugal in 2023, we have distilled our adventures into three epic options to experience Portugal in 8 days .

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or someone who wants a bit of everything, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll help you navigate through these choices and give you activity and accommodation recommendations, ensuring your Portuguese adventure is as epic as possible.

Ready to explore Portugal with us? Let’s dive in! 🇵🇹✈️🗺️

Portugal 8 Day Itinerary Overview

Portugal is pretty large, so when it comes to planning the perfect 8 days in Portugal itinerary, we recommend evaluating the areas of Portugal that are the most important for you to experience!

For this reason, we’ve put together 3 different itineraries .

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant history and picturesque streets of the North , the sun-soaked beaches and captivating cliffs of the South , or a delightful mix of both , we’ve got you covered.

Each one is packed with our personal experiences and designed to make the most of your time in this beautiful country.

Below is a quick overview of the Portugal 8 Day itinerary options. If there is one that catches your eye, you can click on the header to jump directly to that section to see all the details.

💡 Note : Day 8 is designed to be either a half or full day depending on if you are flying out that night or the next day

Portugal 8 Day Itinerary Options

Northern Route

Day 1 – Lisbon

Day 2 – lisbon, day 3 – sintra.

• Day 4 – Nazaré
• Day 5 – Coimbra 

Day 6 – Douro Valley

Day 7 – porto , day 8 – aveiro.

Southern Route

Day 4 – Evora

Day 5 – faro , day 6 – carvoeiro, day 7 – lagos , day 8 – sagres.

A Bit of Everything

Day 1 – Porto

• Day 2 – Douro Valley

Day 4 – Lisbon

• Day 5 – Lisbon 

Day 6 – Evora

Day 7 – carvoeiro , day 8 – lagos, can you do portugal in 8 days.

Is 8 days in Portugal enough? Great question!

Do we think it is enough to see everything Portugal has to offer? No.

Is 8 days in Portugal enough to have an epic trip and see some of Portugal’s highlights? ABSOLUTELY!

Especially if you pick a region (ie: North or South) to explore instead of jumping all over.

8 days is a good amount of time to explore Portugal, having both a relaxing and adventurous trip!

Portugal 8 Day Itinerary – Northern Route

If your ideal Portugal 8 day itinerary includes strolling through historic streets , savoring the rich flavors of world-renowned port and wine , and immersing yourself in a tapestry of cultural heritage, the Northern Route is *PERFECT*.

From the vibrant energy of Lisbon to the quaint charm of Aveiro, each day is filled with Portugal’s diverse sites.

Before we dive into the details of each day, here is a breakdown:

Now, let’s dive into the details of each of these 8 days in Portugal itinerary – Northern Route Edition!

Welcome to Lisbon! It is day 1 and you may have a bit of jetlag, so we kept your 1st day easy but fun.

The goal for day 1 is to get a really fantastic overview of Lisbon, particularly the main neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa.

We highly recommend taking this walking tour – the guide does an excellent job telling the tales of Lisbon!

If you would prefer to avoid the hills of Lisbon, opt for this Tuk-Tuk tour instead! The guide is excellent as well so you’ll get a lot of great information while saving your legs.

After the tour, we suggest continuing to explore Alfama. Be sure to check out the incredible views at Miradouro das Portas do Sol and maybe grab an espresso at the local cafe!

Next, take a fantastic Lisbon Food Tour ! This is an excellent way to learn about the food of Lisbon, Portugal, and how to experience the best of Portuguese cuisine during the rest of your 8 days in Portugal!

Picking a reputable company is so important! Below is the company we trust to give you the best experience: Treasures of Lisboa Food Tours

The plan for Day 2 in Lisbon is to hang out by the water – there are so many incredible places to explore on the waterfront!

First up is the Time Out Market – The Time Out Market in Lisbon is a culinary hub where you can experience a dazzling array of Portuguese flavors and international cuisines under one roof.

It’s a great opportunity to sample dishes from some of the city’s top chefs and local artisans. Plus, there are some excellent stores to shop in!

After the market, take this Tuk Tuk tour to the cute neighborhood of Belem. On the tour (or after), be sure to try a Pastéis de Nata at Pastéis de Belém .

We tried a lot of Pastéis de Nata… Pastéis de Belém is the BEST!

After the tour, we recommend hanging out in Belem. If you didn’t go into Iglesia de Santa María de Belén on the tour, we recommend popping into this beautiful church.

While the Jeronimos Monastery has an entry fee, the church does not, and the architecture is very cool.

In the afternoon, take this Sunset Sailboat Ride – it was one of our very favorite things we did in Lisbon. It is relaxing and the views are simply amazing!

After the tour, grab dinner at SUD Lisboa for an excellent meal accompanied by a great view.

Want more Lisbon tips or options? Check out our Lisbon-specific itinerary .

Close to Lisbon are the beautiful towns of Sintra and Cascais. Sintra is known for its storybook charm and castles while Cascais has stunning beaches.

We 100% recommend taking a tour today with a small group – this will make your journey stress-free and will maximize the number of things you can see.

We LOVE this tour because of the itinerary and the fantastic guides. They go above and beyond in delivering an excellent experience.

You’ll see the cute town of Sintra, explore Quinta da Regaleira (our favorite), Pena Palace , Cascais, the sea arch known as Boca do Inferno, and Praia das Azenhas do Mar. It is a really wonderful tour !

Want to explore Sintra on your own? Check out our guides on how to get around Sintra , the best tours in Sintra , and how to prioritize Pena Palace vs Quinta da Regaleira .

Click HERE to Get to Portugal 8 Day Itinerary Southern Route

Day 4 – Nazaré and Coimbra

To kick off your 4th day, we recommend renting a car. The remainder of this epic Portugal 8 day itinerary will be most easily accomplished by car.

Personally, we found Portugal to be a very enjoyable place to drive! We always rent our car with Discover Cars to get the best deal. Plus, we prefer to opt for the coverage plan!

Once you have your car, head up to Nazaré. The drive from Lisbon will take about 1.5 hours. Nazaré, we would head straight to Sitio de Nazaré. We parked here .

Sitio de Nazaré sits atop a large hilltop. You can explore this cute area – there are frequently local vendors set up.

Don’t skip checking out Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazareth , Miradouro do Suberco , or walking down to Farol da Nazaré .

Farol da Nazaré is the best spot to see the giant waves Nazaré is known for . If you are lucky, you might even see professionals surfing!

💡 Pro Tip: walking back up the hill from Farol da Nazaré can be a bit rough – there is generally a shuttle service for a few Euros that you can pay to take you back up the hill!

✨ Alternative Option ✨ Visiting Fatima would be a great alternative to Nazaré! See more on Fatima here .

Before you leave Nazaré, get some tapas for lunch at Restaurante Sitiado , and then make the 1 hour and 15-minute drive to Coimbra.

Once in Coimbra, settle in at your hotel – we recommend Hotel Oslo . They make parking easy, the rooftop is gorgeous, the breakfast was yummy, and the rooms were very comfortable!

Then, head out and explore! We suggest using this awesome self-guided walking tour . We did it and were really impressed by the tour as well as the technology .

After, you MUST partake in this Fado experience . It was one of our very favorite Portugal experiences. They do a fantastic job performing Fado as well as explaining its rich history.

Lastly, end your evening with a terrific dinner at Restaurante Solar do Bacalhau (incredible cod) or Restaurante Zé Manel dos Ossos (get the Feijoada boar).

Day 5 – Coimbra and Lamego 

Start day 5 with a delicious breakfast at Hotel Oslo , and then head to Coimbra University for a guided tour .

A tour is the best way to experience the University! This is one of the oldest universities in Europe and has some really cool history, so be sure to prioritize this experience.

After the University of Coimbra tour , it is time to drive towards the Douro Valley. We recommend first heading to Lamego which is an hour and 50 minute drive from Coimbra.

Lamego has an absolutely GORGEOUS church, Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios , which has a massive staircase leading down from it to the town . It is a site worth stopping by!

After, head to Ragusa which is where we recommend staying in the Douro Valley. Specifically, we recommend staying at Quinta da Pacheca – a winery with really amazing rooms as well! Look at the suites you can book in giant wine barrels!

Finish your afternoon at Quinta da Pacheca and then enjoy dinner at the incredible restaurant DOC (make a reservation here in advance!)

For day 6 of your Portugal 8 day Itinerary, we *highly* recommend taking this full-day tour with Antonio.

We took this tour and it was our single favorite day of our entire month in Portugal ! The itinerary Antonio has put together is perfect. The boat ride, port, knowledge shared, and food are all incredible.

Plus, you have a designated driver! It would not be safe to do port/wine tastings and drive in the Douro Valley. The roads are very narrow and windy.

Book the tour – we promise you won’t regret it! Not convinced? Check out these other great Douro Valley Wine Tours.

Only 2 days left of your Portugal 8 day itinerary! Day 7 is dedicated to Porto. You’ll start the day with the hour-and-a-half drive to Porto (warning: the drive is very windy).

When you get to Porto, we recommend parking at this deck . Parking in Porto can be a bit tricky but this deck is in a great spot and has lots of spaces.

Porto has a lot of history and this walking tour is a really excellent way to get an appreciation for it. The guide does a great job of telling the story of Porto!

After the walking tour, we suggest enjoying Porto’s famous sandwich, the Francesinha, at  Café Santiago . We split 1 it was so big – it is indulgent but delicious!

Next, head to Livraria Lello – the bookstore that is given credit for inspiring the Hogwarts staircase. You will need to buy tickets online for a timeslot to skip the line.

After the library, you can head down to the water in the Ribeira neighborhood.

We highly recommend taking a Douro River Sailboat Tour – you’ll get to see the bridges that Porto is known for as well as enjoying the incredible views from the water.

Enjoy your day with a delicious dinner at Muro do Bacalhau and stay at the wonderful ICON Duplo Ribeira .

It’s day 8, so we’ve saved a special town for the last adventure of your 8 days in Portugal.

Aveiro is sometimes referred to as the “Little Venice” of Portugal . It is situated on canals and lined with brightly colored buildings.

Aveiro is only an hour’s drive from Porto. When you get there, start your adventure with a walking tour to learn more about the town and its hidden gems .

After the tour, grab a ride on one of the famous and traditional Moliceiro boats .

Now, if you need to get back to Lisbon for a flight, you can make the 2-hour and 45-minute drive back.

If you have more time, we suggest checking out the Salt Pans ( Salinas de Aveiro ), strolling the I nfante Dom Pedro Park , and/or having a lovely meal at one of the following restaurants.

• Restaurante Picota
• Food Kor’T

Have time to stay the night? We suggest staying at Hotel Aveiro Palace .

We hope you have an absolute blast exploring with this Northern Portugal 8 day itinerary! If this doesn’t look like your cup of tea, no worries! Let’s dive into the southern route option.

Portugal 8 Day Itinerary – Southern Route

For those dreaming of a tropical escape peppered with fascinating history, our Southern Route is an IDEAL choice for your Portugal 8 day itinerary.

This journey blends the sun-kissed beaches and coastal beauty of the Algarve with captivating historical sites , offering a taste of Portugal’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

Before we unveil the daily adventures that await, here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

Days 1, 2, and 3 – Lisbon, Sintra, and Cascais

Follow the same details for days 1 through 3 laid out in the Portugal 8 Day Itinerary Northern Route section. Jump up to those details by clicking here !

There is a link to get back here at the end of the day 3 section 😃

To start your 4th day, we recommend renting a car as the rest of this Portugal 8 day itinerary is best accomplished by car.

We found driving in Portugal to be enjoyable, and we suggest renting a car with Discover Cars to get the best deal. We always opt for the coverage plan for added peace of mind.

Once you have your car, it is time to start your Lisbon to Algarve road trip and head to Evora – a 1 hour and 30-minute drive from Lisbon. When you get to Evora, park in this lot . It is right on the edge of the old town.

To kick off your Evora exploration, we recommend a walking tour ! Evora is relatively compact but there is SO much history. You will likely miss a lot if you don’t have a guide.

This tour is our favorite due to the great guide and the fantastic itinerary. You’ll visit all the top sites like the Bone Chapel , the Temple of Diana, the aqueduct, and many more sites!

After the tour, grab a delicious lunch at Páteo .

Next, explore the “ Portuguese Stonehenge “. We 100% recommend doing this with a guide or else it can feel like you’re just looking at rocks.

This Megaliths Expedition with Archaeologists is the perfect way to explore the megaliths , as well as see the Cork trees in the countryside surrounding Evora.

When you get back to Evora, try Alegrias e Vinho Tinto Botequim for dinner! It is a lovely family-run place with big flavors and a great wine selection.

For your hotel, we recommend Templo Boutique Hotel . It is lovely and in a great location.

Day 5 of the Southern Route version of Portugal in 8 days starts a bit early with a drive to Faro, which will take just shy of 3 hours from Evora. The drive is mainly highway and easy!

In Faro, stretch your legs with a free walking tour ! It is a good introduction to the old town (once the capital of Portugal). While it is “free”, please tip your guide 10-15€ per person.

After, get the cataplana (delicious seafood stew) at À do Pinto . It is incredible!🤤

For the afternoon, head out to the Ria Formosa Natural Park and Islands on a Boat Cruise ! There is so much to see – the boat tour does a great job of taking you to all the highlights.

After, grab dinner at Cantinho da Ronha and check out Faro’s nightlife .

We 10/10 recommend staying at 3HB Faro – it is in a great location, the rooftop pool is amazing, and the staff was simply wonderful!

For day 6, you will travel towards Lagos from Faro with the majority of the day being spent in the town of Carvoeiro.

First up is the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail . Drive to Praia da Marinha (1 hour from Faro) to start the trail.

The trail goes 4 miles along the coast and ends at the town of Carvoeiro. We recommend only hiking 1-way and then getting a Taxi in Carvoeiro to take you back to your car.

In total, the hike will take you about 2 hours . There are 7 valleys you go down into and back out of which makes this hike more of a moderate difficulty.

It is really beautiful, so we took many breaks for pictures and to rest which made it very manageable.

Additionally, the first half mile is a good indicator of the difficulty , so if it is more difficult than you’d prefer, you can turn back. If you rather skip the hike, head here and just do the Carvoerio boardwalk!

When you get to Carvoeiro, enjoy a delicious lunch. We suggest Tapas da Vila and gelato at Gelados & Companhia .

Next, you’ll head to the city of Portimão (a 30-minute drive) to take a boat tour .

This tour will go along the coast you just walked (and more) and take you inside multiple caves , including the famous Benagil Cave .

We LOVED seeing the Algarve coastline from both perspectives – it was crazy how unique the experiences felt.

After the tour, you’ll continue to Lagos (a 40-minute drive) and check into your hotel. We love Hotel Marina Rio for its location and great amenities. For dinner, we suggest Marisqueira “O Perceve” .

Second to last day on this Portugal 8 day itinerary!

On Day 7, you’ll dive into everything Lagos has to offer. Lagos has a very interesting past – this Old Town tour does an excellent job telling you the story and taking you to the hidden gems.

You’ll go to the market, venture past some of the amazing street art, learn about Lagos and the slave trade, and how the geography of the city has changed over time.

After the tour, we suggest grabbing some oysters at the super cute food truck, Pearl Food Trailer .

Next, take a boat tour to Ponta da Piedade . We thought it was incredible! You’ll see some amazing rock formations and weave in and around them in a boat.

Once you’re back on land, head to the beach to relax for a few hours. Lagos has fantastic beaches! We suggest Meia Praia or Praia Dona Ana .

To close out your evening in Lagos, take this Food Tour ! We loved it! You go to several restaurants and try a large variety of foods. It is a great way to learn about the cuisine of the Algarve.

It’s the last day, so let’s make the most of it and head to the southernmost point of Portugal, Sagres.

You can go there on your own (check out our recommendations here ), but we would recommend taking a tour to get the most out of your time!

This company is excellent! If you have to head back to Lisbon (3-hour drive) today, then opt for option #5 “ Half Day Sagres & Natural Park ” tour (you may need to expand the menu to see this option).

If you have the full day, select option #3 “ Full Day Sagres & Natural Park “.

Both options will take you to Sagres where you can see the fort, the epic coastline, and explore by off-roading in the countryside.

It will be a day you definitely remember and a great way to conclude your 8 days in Portugal!

Portugal 8 Day Itinerary – A Bit of Everything

For those who wish to savor the full spectrum of Portugal’s wonders in a compact Portugal 8-day itinerary, our “A Bit of Everything” route is the right choice.

This itinerary is meticulously crafted to showcase the very best of Portugal, from its vibrant cities to its serene landscapes.

You’ll enjoy an unforgettable adventure that takes you from the charismatic charm of Porto to the sun-kissed beaches of Lagos.

Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick overview:

If you are starting your trip in Lisbon, we recommend taking the fast train which takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. You can buy tickets online .

For this itinerary, we also recommend traveling back to Lisbon from Porto on day 3 by fast train.

Whenever you arrive in Porto, start off with this amazing Porto walking tour . The guide is fantastic, bringing the city’s story to life in a captivating way!

Post-tour, treat yourself to Porto’s legendary Francesinha sandwich at Café Santiago . We shared one because they’re generously sized – indulgent but absolutely scrumptious!

Then, make your way to Livraria Lello, the enchanting bookstore rumored to have influenced the design of Hogwarts’ staircases. Remember to book your tickets online to secure a timeslot and avoid the queue.

Following the bookstore adventure, stroll down to the riverfront. We can’t recommend the Douro River Sailboat Tour enough – it’s a fabulous way to see Porto’s famous bridges and enjoy stunning riverside views.

Cap off your day with a delightful meal at Muro do Bacalhau and a comfortable stay at the lovely ICON Duplo Ribeira .

Day 2 – Douro Valley Day Trip from Porto

For day 2, take a day tour from Porto to the Douro Valley . This area of Portugal is gorgeous!

We highly recommend taking this tour to the Douro Valley because the guide is excellent and the schedule is really well made. Local producers are prioritized which is great!

You’ll have easy transportation (the drive between Porto and the Douro Valley is windy) which is a huge bonus.

Enjoy the day learning about this UNESCO World Heritage site, try different types of port , go on a boat ride , and enjoy some delicious traditional food . It is a day you will definitely remember!

Day 3 – Lisbon

To kick off day 3, take the train from Porto to Lisbon. Once in Lisbon, check into your hotel (we recommend Hotel da Baixa ), and then head to Time Out Market .

This food hall showcases a stunning variety of Portuguese and international cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to try the creations of some of Lisbon’s finest chefs. And don’t miss out on the superb shopping opportunities here!

Next, embark on a fun Tuk Tuk tour to the charming district of Belem . While exploring (or afterward), make sure to try a Pastéis de Nata at Pastéis de Belém .

Trust us, we’ve tasted many, and theirs is simply unbeatable!

Spend some time in Belem post-tour. If you haven’t yet visited the Iglesia de Santa María de Belén during the tour, it’s worth a stop.

The church is free to enter, unlike the Jeronimos Monastery, and its architecture is truly impressive.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a Sunset Sailboat Ride . It was one of our highlights in Lisbon – the views are out of this world!

Wrap up your day with dinner at SUD Lisboa , where you’ll enjoy a fantastic meal with an equally impressive view.

Today’s mission is to immerse yourself in the charming neighborhoods of Alfama and Baixa.

To accomplish this, we recommend a guide. We absolutely love this walking tour – the guide is a storyteller at heart , bringing the city’s legends and lore to life!

If tackling Lisbon’s hills isn’t your cup of tea, then this Tuk-Tuk tour is a fantastic alternative. It’s not only easier on your legs but also offers loads of insightful information from another excellent guide.

Post-tour, we recommend meandering through the winding streets of Alfama.

Don’t miss the breathtaking views from Miradouro das Portas do Sol , and perhaps stop for a quick espresso at a quaint local café.

Then, embark on the fabulous Lisboa Food Tour . It’s a perfect way to dive deep into Lisbon’s culinary scene and have an evening of fun!

Day 5 – Sintra 

Just a stone’s throw from Lisbon, you’ll find the enchanting towns of Sintra and Cascais.

Sintra , with its fairytale-like castles and whimsical charm, and Cascais , boasting breathtaking beaches, are must-visits.

We strongly suggest opting for a small group tour for this day. It’s a hassle-free way to see more and truly enjoy each moment.

We’re big fans of this particular tour , thanks to its well-planned itinerary and outstanding guides. They really go the extra mile to ensure a memorable experience!

You’ll be charmed by the quaint town of Sintra , be awestruck by the magical Quinta da Regaleira (our personal favorite), marvel at the Pena Palace , wander through Cascais, gaze at the stunning Boca do Inferno sea arch, and relax at Praia das Azenhas do Mar .

This tour is an absolute delight!

Begin Day 6 of your 8 days in Portugal itinerary by renting a car, an essential step as the rest of this trip is best navigated with your own wheels.

We had an enjoyable time driving around Portugal.

For a great deal on car rentals, we recommend checking out Discover Cars . We always go for the coverage option for that extra sense of security.

Once you’re set with your vehicle, start your Lisbon to the Algarve road trip by making your way to Evora, a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Lisbon. Upon arrival, use this convenient parking lot located at the edge of the old town.

Dive into Evora’s rich history with a guided walking tour. The city may be compact, but it’s brimming with historical sites that are easy to overlook without a knowledgeable guide.

This tour has an excellent guide and well-crafted itinerary. It covers must-see landmarks like the eerie Chapel of Bones , the ancient Temple of Diana , the historic aqueduct , and much more!

Post-tour, treat yourself to a mouth-watering lunch at Páteo .

Afterward, venture out to the Evora Megaliths . It’s best experienced with a guide to truly appreciate its significance – otherwise, it might just seem like a collection of rocks.

The Megaliths Expedition , led by archaeologists , offers an enlightening journey through the megalithic sites and the picturesque cork tree landscapes around Evora.

End your day back in Evora with dinner at Alegrias e Vinho Tinto Botequim , a charming family-run establishment known for its robust flavors and impressive wine list.

For your night’s stay, Templo Boutique Hotel is our recommendation – it’s charming and ideally located.

On Day 7, set off towards Lagos, dedicating most of your day to the charming town of Carvoeiro. Your initial drive from Evora will take about 2 and a half hours.

Your adventure begins with the 7 Hanging Valleys Trail. Head to Praia da Marinha to commence this scenic hike.

This stunning coastal trail stretches 4 miles and concludes in Carvoeiro. We suggest hiking one way and then catching a taxi back to your car from Carvoeiro.

Expect the hike to last about 2 hours. The trail meanders through 7 valleys, offering moderate challenges.

The initial half-mile gives a good sense of the hike’s difficulty , so feel free to turn back if it’s too challenging. Alternatively, if hiking isn’t your thing, head straight to Carvoeiro and enjoy the lovely boardwalk there!

Once in Carvoeiro, enjoy a delightful lunch. We recommend Tapas da Vila for some savory bites and Gelados & Companhia for irresistible gelato.

Next up, drive to Portimão (30 minutes away) for a boat tour.

This tour will glide you along the coast you’ve just traversed and guide you through several caves, including the iconic Benagil Cave .

Experiencing the Algarve coastline both by foot and by sea is truly unique – each perspective offers its own magic.

Conclude your day with a drive to Lagos (about 40 minutes). We’re fans of Hotel Marina Rio for its prime location and excellent amenities.

For dinner, Marisqueira “O Perceve” is our top pick.

It’s Day 8! Let’s finish this epic Portugal 8 day itinerary by soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Lagos.

The city’s rich history is fascinating, and this Old Town tour is the perfect way to uncover it.

You’ll discover hidden gems, experience the market , admire stunning street art , delve into the history of the slave trade in Lagos, and see how the city’s geography has evolved.

Post-tour, we highly recommend stopping by the Pearl Food Trailer for some delicious oysters.

Then, embark on an amazing boat tour to Ponta da Piedade . This experience is nothing short of amazing, with its stunning rock formations and the thrill of navigating through them!

After your boat adventure, you can either head back to Lisbon (a 3-hour drive) if you need to get back for your departure or unwind at one of Lagos’ beautiful beaches.

Meia Praia and Praia Dona Ana are our top picks for some seaside relaxation.

Finish your evening with a delightful exploration of local flavors on this Food Tour . We absolutely adored it!

This concludes your fantastic Portugal 8 day itinerary with a bit of everything!

Other Great Places to Explore to Extend Your Trip

Able to add a few more days to your trip? Or want to swap out a city on one of the itineraries above?

These are some of our other favorite towns in Portugal! They would be the perfect addition to any trip.

Albufeira is a vibrant town in the Algarve known for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife.

Some of our favorite sites in Albufeira are:

• Praia da Falésia : A beautiful, long stretch of golden sand flanked by cliffs.
• Old Town Albufeira : Wander the charming streets lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
• Marina de Albufeira : A colorful and lively area perfect for leisurely strolls and dining.

If we were visiting Albufeira, we would prioritize the Jeep Safari tour in the Algarve Mountains !

Beja is a tranquil town in the Alentejo region, steeped in history and characterized by its serene landscapes.

Some of our favorite sites in Beja are:

• Castelo de Beja : A well-preserved medieval castle offering panoramic views.
• Museu Rainha Dona Leonor : A museum showcasing regional artifacts in a former convent.
• Núcleo Visigótico : Explore remnants of the Visigothic era housed in the Church of Santo Amaro.

If we were visiting Beja, we would prioritize Grande Prova Honrado Vineyards , which is a bit to the north.

Braga is known as the religious heart of Portugal. Braga blends ancient history with a youthful spirit.

Some of our favorite sites in Braga are:

• Bom Jesus do Monte : An iconic sanctuary with stunning baroque architecture.
• Braga Cathedral : The oldest cathedral in Portugal, full of historical significance.
• Jardim de Santa Bárbara : Beautiful gardens adjacent to the Archbishop’s Palace.

If we were visiting Braga, we would prioritize tasting the best wines of the region with a Sommelier .

Elvas is a UNESCO World Heritage site near the Spanish border, famous for its star-shaped fortifications.

Some of our favorite sites in Elvas are:

• Forte de Santa Luzia : A massive 17th-century fort offering historical insights and views.
• Aqueduto da Amoreira : An impressive four-tiered aqueduct.
• Elvas Castle : Explore the history and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Fátima is a world-renowned pilgrimage site with a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima : The heart of the pilgrimage site, with the Chapel of the Apparitions.
• Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary : A stunning basilica housing the tombs of the visionaries.
• House of the Little Shepherds : The home of the visionaries, offering a glimpse into their lives.

If we were visiting Fátima, we would prioritize a Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide.

Óbidos is a charming medieval town encased within well-preserved castle walls.

• Óbidos Castle : Wander the ramparts of this impressive medieval castle.
• Rua Direita : The main street, lined with vibrant shops and traditional houses.
• Porta da Vila : The main gate into Óbidos, adorned with beautiful azulejos tiles.

If we were visiting Óbidos, we would prioritize a Óbidos a Medieval Tale & secrets spots tour.

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal

Visiting Portugal is a delight year-round , as each season brings its own unique charm and advantages.

While there’s really no bad time to explore this beautiful country, the best time for your visit may depend on what you’re looking for in terms of weather, crowd levels, and your travel preferences.

• This is a wonderful time to visit, with mild temperatures and the countryside bursting into bloom.
• Crowds are thinner, making it ideal for exploring cities and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Lisbon and Porto are especially lovely, and the Algarve’s beaches begin to warm up.
• Expect warm to hot temperatures, perfect for beach holidays in the Algarve or the coastal regions.
• This is peak tourist season , so popular spots will be busy .
• Early summer (June) can be a good compromise with slightly fewer crowds and enjoyable weather.

• The weather remains pleasant, with warm days and cooler nights.
• It’s grape harvest time in the Douro Valley , a must-see for wine enthusiasts.
• Tourist crowds start to thin out, offering a more relaxed experience.
• Generally mild, especially in the Algarve, though it can be cool and rainy in the north.
• This is the quietest time for tourism, making it perfect for those who prefer a more peaceful travel experience.
• Christmas festivities in Portugal are also quite magical.

Overall, the best time to visit Portugal is whenever it works for your schedule!

Whether it’s soaking up the summer sun, enjoying the springtime blooms, harvesting grapes in autumn, or exploring festive winter markets, Portugal offers a rich experience any time of the year.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Portugal

What is the best way to get around Portugal? That depends on what you’re doing!

For the North and South routes of our Portugal 8 day itinerary, we would recommend renting a car. This is to make it easy to get to some of the smaller towns and maximize your time.

For the “A bit of everything” 8 days in Portugal itinerary, we suggest using a mix of trains and a rental car.

Driving is a good experience in Portugal – the road infrastructure is great, the signage is good, and finding parking is typically pretty simple.

We always rent our cars in Portugal with Discover Cars for a couple of reasons:

• They have the best prices.
• You can easily compare the available companies and see relevant information, like if they are onsite at the airport or offsite.
• When driving in another country, we always get the coverage plan for added peace of mind on our trip. We are there to have fun and we don’t want to stress because someone dinged the car in a parking lot.

The train system is pretty good in Portugal! For all 3 of the Portugal 8 day itineraries, you could use the trains to get to most of the towns.

The main train hubs are Lisbon, Porto, and Albufeira.

If you are interested in booking trains, use Portugal’s train operator CP – Comboios de Portugal .

In general, a train or rental car is going to be more convenient than a bus in Portugal. The bus system in Portugal is better for traveling from one regional town to the next.

For example, from Carvoeiro to Lagos can be easily accomplished with the bus system in the Algarve ( Vamus ).

The main bus operators around Portugal are FlixBus , Rede Expressos (which also runs Renex and Mundial Turismo), and Vamus Algarve .

Cost for 8 Days in Portugal

The cost for 8 days in Portugal can range pretty dramatically based on when you visit. During the peak season of summer, hotel and experience prices tend to go up a lot.

If you are traveling in the winter, early spring, or late fall, you are more likely to catch a break on cost.

We spent over a month in Portugal in February/March and we averaged a cost of €145 per day per person on food, hotel, transportation, and activities. We had mid-range budget spending habits.

For this reason, we would budget €900 to €1,300 per person for your 8 days in Portugal Itinerary if you fall into the mid-range category.

This is probably higher than you’ve read in other places… Our #1 goal is to properly set your expectations based on experience.

Can you budget less per person and still enjoy 8 days in Portugal? Absolutely! There are definitely ways we could have brought our average down and been more budget-friendly.

Can you spend way more? For sure! Portugal has options for a range of budgets which is why we love traveling there.

Hotels will be the most expensive in Lisbon and Porto but you can find budget options everywhere. In general, these are the prices you can anticipate:

• 1 to 2 Star Hotels: €40 – €120
• 3 and 4 Star Hotels: €120 – €280
• 5 Star Hotels: €280 – €550

You can use this map to help you find the best hotel deals all over Portugal:

Food can be a great way to maximize your budget! We spent around €20 per person on food a day.

We mostly ate breakfast at the hotel if it was included, lunch at a local vendor, and a nice dinner in the evening.

In general, you can expect:

• Breakfast: €3 to €8
• Lunch: €4 to €15
• Dinner: €8 to €20
• Upscale Dinner: €20 to €40

Experiences

Experiences are definitely where you can easily drop some euros!

Tours and Guides can range from €10 to €300 a person depending on the activity and the duration of the experience.

Since this is where the true memories are made on your trip, we suggest allocating the bulk of your budget to experiences .

Some days will be more expensive than others. We averaged about €60 per day per person on experiences.

Transportation

For transportation, you can expect to spend around €30 to €60 per day for a rental car depending on the time of year.

If you are not renting a car, you will likely spend roughly the same amount on the trains and buses to navigate around.

Tips for Spending 8 Days in Portugal

There are so many amazing things to experience during your 8 days in Portugal!

Here are our top tips for making the most out of it:

Best Foods to Try in Portugal

You may have noticed by our itineraries… we love food and highly prioritize food experiences! Portugal has excellent food.

These are some of the dishes/items to keep an eye out for during your 8 days in Portugal:

• Bacalhau (Salted Codfish) : Often called Portugal’s national dish, there are said to be over 365 ways to cook Bacalhau, one for each day of the year. Popular preparations include “Bacalhau à Brás” (shredded cod with onions, straw potatoes, and scrambled eggs) and “Bacalhau com Natas” (cod with cream).

• Cozido à Portuguesa : A hearty stew made with a variety of meats, sausages, and vegetables. It’s a comfort food staple in many Portuguese homes. Look for it in the Douro Valley!
• Francesinha : Originating from Porto, this sandwich is made with bread, wet-cured ham, linguiça, fresh sausage like chipolata, steak or roast meat, and covered with melted cheese and a hot thick tomato and beer sauce, often served with french fries.
• Pastéis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts) : These world-famous custard tarts have a crisp, flaky crust filled with a rich, sweet egg custard. They are often enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.

• Arroz de Marisco : A seafood rice dish that’s similar to a paella but with a richer, tomato-based sauce. It typically includes a variety of seafood such as shrimp, clams, and mussels. Common on menus in seaside towns!
• Sardinhas Assadas : Grilled sardines are a summer staple. They are usually grilled whole and served with a slice of bread or a salad. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish in Lisbon during the summer, especially during the Festas de Lisboa in June.
• Açorda : A traditional bread soup from the Alentejo region, often made with garlic, cilantro, olive oil, water, salt, eggs, and sometimes seafood. Look for it in Evora!
• Cataplana: A stew that features a medley of seafood such as clams, shrimp, and fish, often combined with chorizo, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. White wine or stock is added to create a rich, flavorful broth. It is cooked in a special “clam” like pot. Order it in the Algarve!

Language in Portugal

The official language of Portugal is Portuguese !

If you’d like to learn a bit of Portuguese before your Portugal 8 day itinerary, we recommend heading to YouTube – this person has a great intro .

Portugal Portuguese is not the same as Brazilian Portuguese which is what is commonly found on language apps like Duolingo.

Internet in Portugal

We used Airalo to get an eSim Card (no physical installation required) for internet in Portugal and had EXCELLENT service the entire time .

You can get internet using Airalo for your entire 8 days in Portugal itinerary for as little as $7… which is likely less than you would pay for 1 day for an international plan with your provider.

Airalo is super easy to set up – this, plus the really great coverage, is why they are our #1 choice for internet in Portugal.

Money in Portugal

Portugal is a part of the European Union and uses the Euro.

We found that we could use credit cards to pay for things 90% of the time , but it is always good to have some cash as well.

Packing Tips for Portugal 8 Day Itinerary

On all of the Portugal 8 Day itineraries, you are moving around Portugal a good amount. For this reason, it is important to pack efficiently . Moving a big bag every couple of days is a hassle!

Additionally, we cannot stress enough the importance of really great, comfortable shoes. You will be walking a lot and on uneven cobblestones, so good shoes are non-negotiable.

Here are other items to consider when packing:

• Luggage: Carryon Backpack – roller bags are not fun on cobblestone. These water-resistant backpacks have been with us all over the world and do a great job
• Packing Cubes – these are our favorite!
• Toiletry Bag – this is our favorite!
• Packable Rain Jacket – our favorites: his and hers
• Packable Down Jacket if you are traveling in winter – our favorites: his and hers
• Europe Charging Adapter – this is our favorite!
• Power Bank – this is our favorite!
• Laundry Detergent Sheets – this is our favorite!
• Collapsable Water Bottle
• Packable Kettle and a Collapsible Pour Over – If you love espresso, you can forgo these items! If you don’t prefer espresso or an Americano, we recommend packing these items.

FAQs for Portugal 8 Day Itinerary

How many days in lisbon and algarve .

We think this Portugal 8 day itinerary is a good amount of days to see both Lisbon and the Algarve! We suggest 3 to 4 days for Lisbon and 4+ days for the Algarve.

See all our 5-day to 10-day Lisbon and Algarve recommendations here !

View 5-day to 10-day options for your Lisbon and Algarve trip here!

Is a week too long in Portugal?

A week is definitely not too long in Portugal! There is so much to see and do. We spent an entire month in Portugal and it still didn’t feel like enough.

A week is a good amount of time to get an overview of Portugal or really explore a region.

Can you get around Portugal without a car?

Yes! The easiest way would be with trains, buses, and tour operators.

A car, however, allows you greater flexibility to visit smaller towns.

Is Portugal cheap or expensive?

Portugal has a lot of variety which lends itself well to being a place where you can see a lot on a budget…. or have a luxury trip! In general, we would say Portugal falls into the middle of the European pack when it comes to the cost of visiting.

In Conclusion: Portugal 8 Day Itinerary

As we wrap up planning for your Portugal 8 day itinerary, we hope you’re as excited by your upcoming adventure as we were experiencing and curating it.

From the historic streets of Lisbon and Porto to the breathtaking beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a mosaic of experiences.

Whether you choose the Northern Route, with its rich history and exquisite wine, the sun-drenched Southern Route, or a blend of everything with the ‘Bit of Everything’ itinerary, Portugal promises a journey filled with discovery, flavor, and unforgettable moments.

Boa viagem! (Have a great trip!)

We wish you the best travels and don’t forget to set your “ Out of Office !” 

🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey — buy us a coffee! ☕️

Read More About Portugal

• Portugal 8 Day Itinerary – 3 EXCELLENT Options
• Lisbon and Algarve Itinerary: GREAT 5 to 10 Day Options

Central Portugal

• How Many Days in Lisbon Do You Need
• Lisbon Itinerary 4 Days – The Perfect Guide
• Lisbon to Algarve: 7 Best Options Explained
• 13 BEST Tours in Sintra
• Getting Around Sintra: 10 Great Options
• Pena Palace or Quinta da Regaleira: Which is Better?
• Visit the Evora Chapel of Bones + Top 10 Evora Attractions
• 16 BEST Evora Tours: 2024 Travel Guide
• Guide to Evora Megaliths: Portuguese Stonehenge

Northern Portugal

• The PERFECT 48 Hours in Porto Itinerary
• Is Porto Worth Visiting? An Honest Review
• Best Douro Valley Wine Tours: 2024 Travel Guide
• Is Coimbra Worth Visiting? 23 Great Reasons to Visit Coimbra
• 15 BEST Coimbra Tours
• 18 BEST Day Trips From Coimbra
• Bussaco Forest Guide: Top 10 Sites & Best 5 Hikes

Algarve (Southern Portugal)

• AWESOME Lisbon to Algarve Road Trip Itinerary
• 15 Best Day Trips from Lagos, Portugal
• How to Get from Lagos to Sagres
• 15 Best Algarve Towns Ranked
• 21 BEST Day Trips from Albufeira
• 11 Best Things to Do in Faro Old Town
• Faro Nightlife: 46 BEST Things to Do at Night in Faro
• 17 BEST Hotels in Faro with Pools
• Faro in Winter: 13 FUN Things to Do
• Faro to Albufeira: 9 EASIEST Options

Portugal Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Portugal?

Yes  —  Renting a car  is a necessity in most of Portugal if traveling between cities!

If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in Portugal.

📲  Will my phone work in Portugal?

Maybe, but it will be expensive — Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe.

To use your phone in Portugal and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo . Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel.

There is not a lot of free WIFI in Portugal, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.

🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in Portugal?

While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime.

NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Portugal accommodations?

Our go-to for Portuguese hotels is  Booking.com . They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy f lights to Portugal?

For finding cheap flights to Portugal, we recommend  Kayak . Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive.

TAP Air Portugal is usually our airline of choice while in Portugal.

🚐 Should I book tours in Portugal? Do the guides speak English?

We LOVE taking tours in Portugal.

We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English.

For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk .

🚑  Should I buy Portugal travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Portugal has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Portuguese citizens and legal residents!

Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend  Safety Wing  – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical !

💧 Can you drink the water in Portugal?

Sometimes  — In many areas of Portugal, the water is safe to drink. However, there can be variations in water quality from one location to another.

In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high.

For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a  LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.

🎫  Do I need a visa for Portugal?

Likely Not  — US passport holders don’t need Portuguese visas for travel less than 3 months . If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa .

Meet Kelsea and Nicholas, the dynamic team behind Out of Office Mindset. They're on a thrilling quest to visit all 7 continents in 5 years, traveling non-stop. So far, they've had an epic year-long US road trip and visited 20 countries (and counting!). They're all about diving into different cultures and learning from their experiences. As avid explorers, they know how a well-planned trip can change you. Their mission? Helping every visitor to Out of Office Mindset plan their next awesome adventure with ease.

Lisbon to Porto drive-8 day Portugal road trip in a campervan

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Plan your Lisbon to Porto road trip with our eight-day itinerary. This itinerary is highly flexible and you can start at either Lisbon or Porto, but we do recommend a minimum duration of eight days. There is so much to see once you get out of Lisbon, and the west coast is full of places to visit and explore.

From the bustling city vibe of Lisbon, through to the beaches and surf of towns like Cascais, Nazare and Ericeira and the green rolling hills of the Douro Valley, you’ll cross into areas over and over that have a changing landscape and feel to them. There are university and fishing towns, wineries and a never-ending supply of castles, palaces, churches and historical monuments to explore.

Itinerary – main destinations

• Day 1 Cascais – transit day from Lisbon to Cascais
• Day 2 Nazaré – a day spent in Sintra and along the west coast of Portugal
• Day 3 Coimbra – a day spent in Coimbra 
• Day 4 Lamego – a day spent in Aveiro and Lamego
• Day 5 Douro Valley – a day spent in Douro Valley
• Day 6-7 Porto – two days spent in Porto
• Day 8 – final time in Porto and departure

• Why you should do a Lisbon to Porto road trip

Why would you do a road trip from Lisbon to Porto? The transport system is good enough in this country for anyone to easily jump on a bus or take a train. This is a great idea if time is not on your side, but if it is, there’s nothing better than taking the trip along the west coast and into some of the centre of Portugal in a leisurely manner.

Portugal is a very easy country in which to do a road trip.  There is approximately 830 km of coastline that borders the Atlantic Ocean and 1,200 kilometres of a land border shared with Spain.  As the crow flies, it’s a very rough 800 km from north to south and only about 200 km wide. It’s small and therefore any road trip doesn’t require onerous distances to be travelled.

For a really cool visual representation of how the size of Portugal compares to your own country, check out this country comparison website.

The driving is also relatively easy, with only a few locations that have hills, mountains and winding roads.  This allows you to cover a lot of distance, if you wish, or to take it much more slowly. The only winding roads exist mainly in Sintra and the Douro Valley .

Having your own vehicle also gives you complete freedom, flexibility and independence. It means you can stay as little or as long as you like, or you can avoid the times of day when you know that certain areas will be heaving with people. Use it to your advantage and get to the popular sites early before the buses of day-trippers arrive, or leave it until later, once they’ve all gone home.

The beauty of this eight-day itinerary is that you can swap it around by starting in Porto instead, or you can simply use it as a base for a more extended journey.

Road trips in Portugal are easily done by car, but we chose to do ours in a campervan.  The duration of the road trip and the small distances that we were going to be travelling meant that we only needed a smaller campervan this time.  It was of a similar size to the campervan we used on our road trip in Iceland .   

More reading >> Our detailed review of our campervan hire in Portugal

Driving from Lisbon to Porto

Day 1 lisbon to cascais, day 2 cascais to nazaré, day 3 nazaré to coimbra, day 4 coimbra to lamego, day 5 lamego to douro valley, day 6 and day 7 douro valley to porto, day 8 porto and drop off, distance travelled, pros and cons of motorhome travel in portugal, where to stay overnight in a motorhome, best time for road trips in portugal, driving tips to help you in portugal, more reading to help you plan a trip to portugal, useful travel resources.

We made the most of three days in Lisbon , before starting our road trip. Driving from Lisbon to Porto in a campervan makes for a perfect eight-day road trip.  We didn’t want to lose any of those days by having to return the campervan back to Lisbon.  Indie Campers made this easy by providing the opportunity to pick up and drop off in two locations, for a very reasonable hiring fee. 

Across the eight-day itinerary, we drove only 730 km.  Only one day was above 200 km and several were well under 100 km.  When you look at the country map further down, you’ll see just how much coverage we made across Portugal, despite only driving such short distances.

Pro tip : If you are starting your trip with a few days in Lisbon, there is no need to have a car with you. Save yourself the energy and cost of hiring a vehicle and just pick one up when you are ready to leave. It’s difficult to find parks in Lisbon and they are heavily policed, with hefty fines, if you overstay your welcome.

We made very few plans for the Lisbon to Porto road trip.  In fact, we had our pickup and drop off date and that was about it.  We knew we wanted to spend two days in Porto and venture into the Douro Valley, but that was all.  The rest was “as it comes”.  The friendliness of the Portuguese people and the way in which they welcome visitors doing road trips make it all the easier.  We travelled in peak season and still, we found it very easy to pull up in some incredible locations along the way.  We never stayed at a campsite for the entire duration.

Pro tip : If you are starting or leaving from Portugal to/from another European destination, we recommend Anywhere Campers , who have excellent one-way hire options.

Wooden boats bob on the water, resplendent in their bright colours.  They are a floating throwback to the days when Cascais was an important fishing village, west of Lisbon.  Then along came King Luis, back in the 1830s and life in this tiny town got a lot more privileged.  

His contribution whilst he made the town his summer seaside retreat was to inspire a generation of opulent architecture, much of which is still here today.  A quick drive through the small streets surrounding the centre of town showcases many large mansions.  The historical feel continues throughout with nary a highrise or modern building to be seen.

The old fort sits high on the rocky cliffs at the entrance to town and many other grand 19th century stone buildings line the waterfront.  Cascais also has the best of both worlds when it comes to beaches.  The calm beach of Carcavalos is on the protected eastern side of the bay.  Guincho caters to the surfing crowd and their love of big waves.

The streets and cobbled laneways behind the beach are filled with boutique shops, wine bars and way too many English pubs.  This is, after all, a tourist town and it’s very easy to see who their primary market is.  Still, it’s quaint, very well maintained and shows off the old buildings in deserving style.

This is Lisbon’s playground.  It gets extremely busy here in summer.  It’s also the home of some of the rich and famous.  If you are planning on booking a hotel, book well in advance.

Cascais hotspots

• The city centre – Stop at one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars for a bite to eat, a glass of wine or simply to people watch. There’s also plenty of boutique shopping. Visiting the centre is worth it just to see the incredible tiled laneways.
• Citadel of Cascais – 15-17th century fortress built right on the mouth of the Tagus River as part of the military’s defence strategy.
• Beaches – you won’t be able to see them all but there are enough of them close by to spend some time on a beach. Praia da Ribeira de Cascais and Prais da Rainha are the closest to the central part of town and there is always plenty of action here in summer.
• Boca do Inferno – this impressive coastal area was once a cave but years of ocean degradation have worn most of it away. Still, an archway still exists here and it’s a great place to see the ocean side of Cascais.

Motorhome stopover

Normally we might find that a town this small, and this popular would be less than appreciative of the value that motorhome travellers might bring to their community.  Not so in Cascais, where excellent daytime and overnight parking facilities are provided, just a few kilometres out of the city centre.  At Parque Praca de Touros, (which translates to Old Bullring) there are 153 generously sized, hardstand parking spaces. 

There’s a smattering of trees around to give it a nice feel, and it’s not on a busy main road.  Best of all, it’s free.  There are no amenities. Cycles can be hired at the front of the park and a local bus also stops by here.  We walked into the city, but I would only recommend this for those without any mobility issues as it is a reasonable walk. The walk takes about 15 minutes at an average pace.

Location : Av. Pedro Álvares Cabral, 2750-184 Cascais, Portugal

Pro tip : It’s easy to visit Lisbon from here. The train from Cascais to Lisbon takes about 40 minutes. If you have a campervan or motorhome, it would be easier to come to Cascais first, park here and do day trips via train into Lisbon and Belem.

We drove the 20 kilometres or so to Sintra, a town with a huge reputation and on the must-visit list for Portugal.  Sintra is home to the famous and very colourful Pena Palace and many other impressive palaces and castles.  There are also a number of other things to do here, but Pena Palace is the drawcard.

I’d set us a challenge this day.  All of my pre-reading about access to Pena Palace didn’t hold out any great hope for those who drove here.  We’ve come across a few places like this as we’ve travelled around Europe in a motorhome, and honestly, it’s a pain if you aren’t prepared, or can’t handle the pressure of finding a park. 

However, I also don’t like to take these comments always at face value, as sometimes people who write this kind of thing, aren’t always honest, or just don’t like driving.  Therefore, I wanted to check it out for myself, so that I could write an honest appraisal of the situation.

So, we set off early, to allow us enough time to get there, survey the town and surrounding areas for parking options and then get ready to spend some time at Pena Palace. 

If you are planning on driving to Sintra, please note that the rules have changed in 2021 with regard to where you can drive and park. Our detailed article below not only gives you a comprehensive guide to what to see and do in Sintra but also tips for driving and parking in Sintra. It can be done, you just need to know how to do it as easily as possible.

Read more>> How to survive in Sintra when you are on a road trip – plus other great Sintra travel tips.

Sintra hotspots

• The historic city centre – Do it early or late, not in the middle of the day, unless you are hungry! It’s a beautiful old town full of historic buildings and some awesome pastries too.
• National Palace of Pena – Located right in the historic city centre
• Pena Palace/Sintra Castle – this is what everyone visits Sintra to see and for good reason
• Moorish Castle – military fort from the eighth century and close by Pena Palace.
• Monserrate Palace – Built in the mid-1860s, this architectural delight is now a national monument.
• Cabo da Roca – more spectacular coastline. Visit either before or after Sintra.
• Seteais Palace – one built for politicians and royalty, it is now a luxury 5-star hotel, but you can still visit the gardens
• Regaleira Palace – 20th-century residence with beautiful gardens

Buy skip the line tickets for Sintra Castle and all other monuments here .

From Sintra, we drove on along the west coast of Portugal, passing through many of the small beach towns along the way.  Before making Nazaré our final destination for the day, we checked out Ericeira.

Like many of the towns along this part of the coast, they are all about the beaches and the waves.  The blue Atlantic ocean and white beaches provide an inviting backdrop, as do the buildings that line the high cliffs.  These areas of Portugal are known for producing some huge waves, some of them have, at times, been the largest in the world.

At Ericeira, the city hangs on the edge of sandstone cliffs, fortified by bricks and blocks.  Down below, striped umbrellas signal it’s summertime, as do all of the families frolicking about in the water and on the sand.

Ericeira hotspots

• Surfing – Ericeira and Nazare are known for their surf beaches and are part of the World Surf Reserve. If you are not a surfer, find yourself a location high up on the cliffs, or down at the beaches and watch the surfers in action. Either way, it’s just something that has to be done in Ericeira.
• Beaches – like surfing, it’s a must. With five beaches all near the city, there’s no excuse. If you are looking for where the photographers hang out, head to Praia de São Julião.
• Praca da Republica – the shops and cafes of this oceanfront town.
• Views – Ericeira is built along spectacular coastline and you can get a view from almost any of the cliff tops.

Nazaré

We couldn’t come to Nazaré and not hang out for a while.  Like Cascais, it’s an old fishing village, and for the most part, still has the old-world charm covering it like a cloak.  Similar to Ericeira, there’s a high cliff that overlooks the city and the entrance to one of the best surfing beaches in Portugal is here also.  Much closer to the water, there’s a promenade, perfect for those who want to take a leisurely stroll along the oceanfront. 

Here, you’ll see fisherman drying their daily catch and the wooden boats that are used by them.  The boats, with their eyes painted on the front to ward off superstitious events, remind me of those used in Malta .  The promenade is lined with shops and cafes and parking for vehicles and campervans is easy enough here.

Nazaré hotspots

• Surfing -Like Ericeira, Nazaré is THE place to surf on the west coast of Portugal. Nazaré was the location of the world’s largest waves ever ridden
• Alcobaca Monastery – UNESCO World Heritage site and the first Gothic-style monastery in Portugal
• Ermida da Memoria – a small chapel that stands above a grotto

Coimbra was one of my favourite cities in Portugal.  An old medieval city, with a university to match, there’s plenty to keep you occupied here.  On one side, a modern city blends with the river, offering water sports and a green space that is filled with people playing, drinking and eating. 

On the other, the city is full of small laneways, centuries-old buildings and plenty of history.  It’s also a very hilly city, with the university located right at the top.  It’s a worthwhile trip just for the views, but the university is something special.

Coimbra hotspots

• The city centre – like many of the towns along the west coast, the historic city centres are a must-visit. Coimbra’s is particularly special, and you can spend hours just wandering the laneways.
• Coimbra University – it’s a university town with a stunning university built high on a hill. Visit for the views, climb the tower, explore the incredible chapels and libraries and so much more. Not to be missed. We did this Coimbra University walking tour.

Overnight we stayed at a dedicated motorhome and campervan park by the river, called Parque Verde do Mondego. It was a hardstand location with some water and waste facilities.  Access to the city is via the bridge and will take approximately 15 minutes or a quick bike ride.

Location : Av Ines de Castro 40, 3000 Coimbra 

After leaving Coimbra, we wanted to position ourselves to be close to the Douro Valley so that we could explore the next day.  One of the great aspects of doing a road trip in Europe in summer is the usability of the days.  With long hours of sunlight and a lengthy twilight, you can drive much later at night, not that we really did too much of that.  

Before we got to Lamego, we stopped by Aveiro and I wouldn’t have missed this for the world.  Every country, every region seems to have their own version of a mini Venice.  For the Portuguese, Aveiro is theirs.  Bright wooden boats called moliceiros ferry large numbers of visitors around channels. Tour guides provide some general commentary as they pass by the key features of this town.

Aveiro is also well known for a seafood restaurant linked to the fish market, which we were more than happy to test out.

Aveiro hotspots

• Ride a moliceiro – the colourful traditional boats that resemble Venetian gondolas
• E at seafood – Buy fresh seafood from the market or eat at a seafood restaurant
• Tour the city – Explore the art nouveau buildings

Lamego sits within the Douro Valley, nestled amongst its slopes.  It’s a town known for a cured meat called presunto and sparkling wine.  Both must be tasted!  Lamego, known for the church that sits aloft around 600 steps is the feature of the town. 

The steps are decorated with traditional Portuguese tiles.  We climbed every step, in the heat, but it’s a climb that must be done if you can.  The church at the top is beautiful as are the various fountains along the way.

Lamego hotspots

• Climb the steps – of the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios
• Eat local food – the speciality of Lamego is presunto and sparkling wine

We parked at a large carpark overnight near the Centro Multiusos de Lamego (sports and cultural centre).  It’s a large carpark in the centre of town, and adjacent to the church steps.  Parking is free and there are hundreds of spaces.  It’s safe and well lit.

The Douro River runs for almost 900 kilometres, from the middle of northern Spain to the Atlantic via Porto in Portugal.  Despite its length, only a small amount of the river is actually navigable.  Through these parts, the riverboats take guests on a scenic cruise among the vineyard-covered rolling hills.  We couldn’t drive the west coast of Portugal and not take a peek at the Douro Valley and sample the wine and port.

Taking a road trip through the Douro Valley is highly recommended.  Take it slowly, the roads won’t let you go fast anyway.  Wind your way along the river as it snakes and turns.  Stop in at the little villages you see along the way or pop into one of the many vineyards you’ll find along the way.  Our favourite town in the Douro Valley was Pinhão, located right on a bend in the river, where some of the riverboats dock. 

The town is very small but it makes for a perfect spot to have a coffee or lunch as you overlook the water.  We came also to see the railway station which has some beautiful hand-painted tiles.  Unfortunately, we were not able to access the room upstairs which (so we are told) has an incredible display of Portuguese tiles.

Douro Valley hotspots

• Wine tasting – do a wine tasting at one of the many Quintas in the Douro Valley
• Riverboat – take a tour along the Douro River
• Pinhao train stations – admire the traditional tiles at the station in the centre of town

Porto has come to the attention of millions of visitors over the past few years and rightly so.  Known for its colourful images of buildings that line the water and a magnificent bridge, it draws people to it like moths to a flame.  Porto is so much more than this, and you need a few days at least to be able to really do it justice.  Porto is definitely somewhere you don’t want to miss if you are heading to Portugal.  

More reading >> How to spend two days in Porto Portugal

Porto hotspots

• Wander the city – get lost in the myriad laneways you’ll find all over Porto
• Wander the waterfront – the Ribeira is the place to be on the Porto waterfront or head across the river to Nova de Gaia
• San Luis Bridge – walk across the river via this magnificent bridge
• Go church hopping – from the Monastery of Serra do Pilar to many smaller ones dotted all over the city, you’ll find it hard to get to them all
• Livraria Bookstore – rumour has it that JK Rowling got her inspiration from Harry Potter here. It’s a magnificent looking store in its own right.
• Climb the tower – the Clerigos Bell Tower offers a great view over Porto
• Catch the #1 tram
• Visit Foz – head out to the ocean for a slower pace
• Sao Bento Railway – the architecture and the tiles at the station are worth the stop

Since Porto was our final destination and we had planned to stay several days, we found a great location just outside Porto that was both our daytime parking and our overnight location. Incidentally, parking in Porto is not something that can be done easily in a large vehicle.

This area called Parking Venda Nova is provided by the local council and while it is mixed-use, contains areas large enough for large motorhomes to park.  There are also motorhome waste facilities here.  Across the road is a tram stop.  We used this to get into Porto every day, taking around 30 minutes to get into the city.

Location: Prof. Dr. Anibal Cavaco Silva, 4435 Rio Tinto, Porto, Portugal

More reading >> Day trips from Porto (you can visit all the towns mentioned above)

This was the final day of our eight-day road trip through Portugal.  It was a relaxed trip, with no driving issues or vehicle issues to speak of.  Portugal is a very motorhome/campervan friendly county.  They provide good services in so many locations to allow those who are on a road trip to park easily, stay overnight or have access to facilities. 

No-one looks at you strangely, even in such a bright looking vehicle, when you park next to a car in the main street of a town.  They actually welcome you.  Of course, all of this will only continue if those who choose the road as their way of travelling, continue to look after the locations they stop in.  Litter and rubbish in some parts of Portugal is a problem in general, but we didn’t see anyone in camping locations who looked as though they were contributing to the problem.  

Driving from Lisbon to Porto can be done easily in a day in a traditional vehicle.  If you’ve got more time to spare, seriously consider hiring a campervan and live as we did.  It’s great fun.

We saw so much of this country during this time but still only drove 720 kilometres, allowing us to spend quality time in the locations we chose.  The average kilometres was 90 per day but some days we didn’t drive at all or did very little.  The largest driving day was only 199 kilometres, and that was split over several stops.

• Allows for flexible, independent travel
• Cost-effective – while the cost of hiring a motorhome or campervan in Portugal is more than a standard vehicle, this type of vehicle means you don’t pay more for your accommodation
• Your accommodation is always with you
• Portugal is a motorhome-friendly country
• You can buy your own food supplies to save on eating out, making it an even more cost-efficient way to travel
• One way motorhome hire companies like Anywhere Camper make planning an itinerary from Lisbon to Porto even easier
• A broad range of places you can stay overnight
• Motorhomes are of course larger vehicles so they are more difficult to drive into some cities where small cars are more suited. this can be easily overcome however by finding parking facilities on the outskirts of the cities.

In July 2021, Portugal outlawed ‘wild camping’. Wild camping means different things to different people, but here in Portugal, it means you can’t pull off the road and park up overnight beside a beautiful lake that isn’t part of a regulated overnight stopover area. You can’t drive for miles into a national park, hoping to find yourself a piece of solo paradise either. What you can do is stay in official caravan parks and campgrounds, dedicated parking areas that allow for overnight stays, at areas deliberately set aside by local councils called ASAs, or on private property (similar to the France Passion network that operates in France).

• Official camping sites – Camping.info
• Private property locations – Portugal Easy Camp | Camperland | Home Camper
• Municipal service areas for motorhomes – Called ASAs

We are always respectful of the land that we travel of. We leave no trace, ever. We have fully self-contained vehicles and all wastewater and waste are dealt with in accordance with regulated methods for disposal.

There’s another reason why everyone loves Portugal – the weather.  With the better part of the year bathed in sunshine, you can road trip virtually all year round.  From the middle of October until April or May, you will find fewer people on the roads and the prices for rentals will also be cheaper.  September is also wine harvesting time, which is fun if you make a trip into the Douro Valley. Booking vehicles and campervans in the peak months of June through to September will attract much higher rates and more demand, so remember to book early.

Looking to keep roadtripping from Portugal into other areas of Europe? We recommend Anywhere Campers for one way hire in Europe .

• Like anywhere, the drivers here can be a little crazy at times, and really slow at others. Be especially mindful of cars merging onto the highway. In the regional areas, there are fewer cars and traffic issues so most of the time you’ll have a comfortable drive. As mentioned above, don’t bother hiring a car in Lisbon itself. You won’t need one in Porto either.
• Book your car, campervan or motorhome as early as possible, especially if your trip will be in peak season.
• Make sure you have comprehensive vehicle insurance for whatever vehicle you are hiring.
• Be aware that there are toll roads in Portugal. Our journey didn’t include a single toll road, but it really depends on how much time you have. Sometimes if you need to get from A to B quickly, you might need to use a toll road. Electronic toll booths are becoming more popular now in Portugal, replacing the older toll system. To make things complex, the two systems are still being run in tandem, and both operate slightly differently. The traditional toll booths are manned and you can still pay by cash here. They will also have dedicated ‘green’ lanes for the automatic payment via the Via Verde transponder installed in the vehicle. don’t go through these lanes unless you have one. the other system is the fully electronic tollway. These can only be paid automatically. For options on prepaid toll cards click here .
• The roads can be a bit hit and miss in Portugal. While the highways are quite good, many of the regional roads are average. There’s no need to drive fast here and besides, there’s so much to see, so slow down and take it all in.
• Parking can be problematic in the cities, so do your homework in advance to find car parks. There are usually always options just out of the main cities, provided you are able to walk in. If you have a larger campervan or motorhome, it’s best to keep them out of the city centres if you can.
• Hiring a vehicle is easy in Portugal. We recommend Anywhere Campers for motorhome hire and Rentalcars.com for regular vehicles.
• Pasteis de Nata : Finding the best Portuguese custard tarts in Portugal
• How to make the most of 3 days in Lisbon Portugal
• One way motorhome rental in Europe
• Rent a motorhome one way in Europe with Anywhere Campers
• One day in Sintra Portugal (and why it’s still ok to drive there)
• 2 days in Porto – a comprehensive itinerary
• Day trips from Porto Portugal
• 5 of the best things to do in Belem in one day

Book your flight:  Flights are an important part of travel and we’re always looking for the best deals. If you can travel mid-week and be flexible, you’ll often find great deals on flights. We also use  Skyscanner  and  Expedia for flight bookings. Dollar Flight Club is a great resource for getting special advance offers and even error fares directly to your inbox.

Book your accommodation:  We all love to stay in different places, from the comfort of a self-contained apartment or house to a resort or luxury hotel. Sometimes we need something quick, easy and comfortable for an overnight stay. 

We use all of the following online booking portals depending on where we want to stay and the type of accommodation we are looking for.

• VRBO and Stayz (in Australia) – great for holiday rentals of more than seven days and often have discounts for longer periods.
• Booking.com and Expedia – two of our favourites due to their cancellation and refund policies.
• Trip Advisor – perfect for getting reviews, checking availability and pricing comparisons all in one place.

Book your rental car or motorhome:  We always use  Discover Rental Cars  anywhere in the world for car hire.  Anywhere Campers  is our preferred motorhome hiring company in Europe, especially if you want to be able to pickup and drop off at different locations (even countries) in Europe. If you’d like to buy your own motorhome in France , we use and recommend  France Motorhome Sales . Use our code FMS1022 or tell John we sent you!

Book a tour:   We travel independently, but when we do book we book them with reputable companies who have a great cancellation and refund policy. If you are looking for advance tickets to an attraction, group or private tours, we use and recommend  Get Your Guide  and  Viator . Both have a great range of tours and flexible cancellation policies. If you are looking to do a food tour in Europe, we also recommend  Eating Europe Tours .

Be covered:  We always travel with  travel insurance . We did it before the pandemic and it’s even more important for us to do so now. We use Cover-More in Australia.  SafetyWing  has great rates for travellers who are away from home for extended periods. 

Be ready : Make sure you pack a few essentials: universal adaptor ,  power bank  and  noise-cancelling headphones

About The Author

Kerri McConnel

A former corporate business executive, Kerri is the content creator for Beer and Croissants, a trusted source of detailed guides on motorhome travel, road trip itineraries, and destinations.

Together with Stirling, they are motorhome experts, having independently road-tripped their way across much of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand since 1995. Back home in Australia, they own their own motorhome and can always be found on a regional road trips, taking in towns that often no one has heard of.

They are responsible travellers; long, slow trips in motorhomes, spending time in small regional communities where the tourists usually don't wander, and spending money in their small economies. And where possible, they travel in shoulder and off seasons, so they don't add to the tourist rush.

As an Honorary Barge Lady for Barge Lady Cruises and a regular on European Waterways vessels, Kerri is also an expert on luxury barge travel in Europe, having completed five barge cruises in France and Scotland.

Kerri is a Digital Travel Publisher Member and former board member and treasurer of the Australian Society of Travel Writers (2020-2023).

Everything written and produced on this site is our own work. there's no AI and if we've written about it, you can trust we've been there, done that!

Read more about Kerri here

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A Detailed 8-day Itinerary to Go Offbeat in Spain and Portugal

When it comes to Europe, it’s never been easy to tick everything off in one go. And you shouldn’t try as well. Realise a multi-country vacation in Europe rooting for culture and culinary endeavours across boundaries. Let’s start with the astonishing Iberian beauties of Europe —

Here’s a detailed 8-day itinerary to unwrap the best of both Spain and Portugal!

4 days in portugal:.

What to skip: ➤ Trade the top-rated attractions like Viana do Castelo for countryside wanders or offbeat culture expeditions. This is the best way to escape eternal queues and tourist crowds in Portugal. ➤ If you fancy travelling like a local and get under the skin of Portugal, trade luxury hotels and high-end restaurants for Tascas. Tascas are all about authentic food and socializing with locals.

2 Days in Porto

How to spend 48 hours in Porto

Morning: After flying into Porto, ease into Portugal by devouring some delightful papo secos and pastel de nata, typical Portuguese breakfast. Head on to exploring Ribeira , the most picturesque and antique district in the whole of Portugal. Stroll through its vibrant streets laden with quaint little homes stacked above the Douro riverbank.

Afternoon: Douro lunch cruise : Have a laid back river cruise that lets you soak up Porto’s culture in its entirety. Tasting delicious local wines, adoring scenic riverside villages and unraveling mythical ancient castles are just a few amongst the many enchanting offerings of this cruise!

Evening: Leisure walk in Rua Santa Catarina: Reason is, it’s in this stretch where Porto’s vivid nightlife comes into life. Stop at Cafe Majestic, that which has been soaking up Porto’s coffee talks from the 1920s. Also this is where Portugal found inspiration for many of its cult literature.

Morning: Vila Nova de Gaia tour : Get high on the sassiest corners of Vila Nova de Gaia, the wine hub of Portugal. So what it’s morning you’re on a vacation and it’s a sin not to devour down a glass of vintage wine on the brinks of Douro.

Afternoon: Clerigos church tour : Unleash your artistic lenses to inspect this paradigm of baroque architecture, which gracefully took over the legacy of the preceding renaissance era.

Evening: Geeky tour to Livraria Lello : Portugal’s literature stacked in glorious neo-gothic architecture is an absolute show-stealer. Readers are welcomed to lose their hearts in Liraria Lello, one of the best bookstores in the world.

2 Days in Lisbon

How to spend 48 hours in Lisbon

Morning to Afternoon: Take a train ride to Lisbon. Spend the time gawking at Portugal’s stunning vistas for the 2:30 hours(usual) of travel time.

Evening: Belém District and the Salazar Dictatorship Legacy – private walking tour : Explore Lisbon at its best. In the west corners of Lisbon lies this charming district laden with many iconic attractions.

Morning: Sao Jorge castle tour : Marvel at the stunning views of the Baixa district from this ancient citadel deep-seated in Portugal’s history. All lit up in golden at night, this fairy castle only gets better at night!

Afternoon: Parque das Nacoes tour : Where modernity meets medievalism. Encounter the otherwise antique Lisbon in a whole new light. Amongst the many attractions that await you are Vasco da Gama bridge, Theatre Camoes and Europe’s largest indoor aquarium.

Evening: Jeronimos monastery tour : On the brinks of Tagus river lounges, this most ornated of the churches, as a fervent symbol of the European age of exploration.

4 Days in Spain:

What to skip: ➤La Rambla, the famous shopping street in Spain, is good for window shopping and people watching. It doesn’t sell traditional Catalan savouries, no meaningful souvenirs—you will mostly find overpriced miniature versions of famous attractions. ➤ Spend time in gaining experiences rather than sightseeing —Try Flamenco dance, watch a cultural show while sipping on Sangria rather than getting stuck in Puerto del Sol(It’s a good experience though, maybe next time, when you have more number of days to spend!)

2 Days in Barcelona

How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona

Morning: Take your flight to Barcelona, which typically takes 1:40 hours. Check in to your hotel.

Afternoon: Casa Mila tour : Looks like Antoni Gaudi, the Catalan modernist had little or no interest in building something usual. With a sumptuous wavy facade that challenges every architectural style ever, Casa Mila of Spain will truly stand the test of time.

Evening: Wooden Boat Cruise in Barcelona : Fall in love with the radical views of Barcelona’s cityscape as you luxuriate along the Mediterranean coasts packed with many attractions including the Montjuic hill and Sagrada Familia.

Morning to Afternoon: Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya tour : Catalan modernism at the end of 19th century swayed the European architecture with style and the ripples are still felt. This museum keeps stashed in itself thousand years of art from the various eras of European architecture.

Evening: Casa Bacardi Sitges tour : Casa Bacardi illustrates how the phenomenal Bacardi brand came alive. Also, learn about the fascinating thread that connects Bacardi’s history with the city of Sitges.

2 Days in Madrid

How to spend 48 hours in Madrid

Morning to Afternoon: Take a train from Barcelona to Madrid, which usually takes around 2:30 hours.

Evening: Explore Madrid by a Segway night tour : The beauty of Madrid at night is unparalleled. Meander through the instagrammable streets of Madrid and stop along the way to adore the Temple of Debod, Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace.

Morning to afternoon: Stroll the shopaholics’ paradise, El Rastro: Shop till you drop at the largest flea market of Spain, El Rastro where the fads of Spain fashion start. While you’re there make a visit to La Latina, the liveliest Madrid street laden with many tapaz bars and tavernas.

Evening: Casino de Madrid tour : Take a recreational tour to what started as a social resort where people can rendezvous in peace by the dissident youth of the 1830s.

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Akshaya Devi

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Scared of driving in Chennai traffic but also planning a solo bike trip to Ladakh. Don't be surprised if you find me all hyper, someone somewhere in the world must've misquoted Martin Scorcese or justified a bad coffee saying "C'mon, coffee is coffee".

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The Perfect 15 Days Portugal Itinerary

• May 31, 2022
• Europe Portugal

A not so big country on Europe’s map, but with a lot of things to do and see, when you start to research a little bit. Portugal packs anything from golden beaches to a buzzy capital, maritime history, medieval castles, huge surfing waves and hiking paths. It is pretty hard to choose when you have limited time. After spending almost a month in Portugal, we’ve created a step-by-step 15 days itinerary with our top picks to help you get started. Portugal is a wonderful country and definitely worth at least two weeks for exploring the continental part. Who knows, maybe you’ll even want to return for more of its unique culture and atmosphere.

Throughout this guide, we’ll share our favorite stops, things to do and experience in Portugal. Of course, from an ultimate itinerary, Lisbon, Porto and Algarve can’t miss, but terraced vineyards, cork plantations and less known cute towns might also come in as a pleasant surprise. Spice everything up with good wine and tasty food. If you have less or more time, we’ll also include options for shorter and longer trips.

Planning a trip to Portugal?

Before we get stated, here’s a list of our other Portugal travel guides you might want to check out:

• What is Portugal famous for?
• Port wine – everything you need to know about it
• 30 things to do in Porto in 3 days, Portugal
• 35 things to do in Lisbon in three days
• Top 7 day trips from Lisbon, Portugal
• Sintra: the ultimate guide for planning a day trip from Lisbon
• Evora: 15 best things to do on a day trip from Lisbon, Portugal
• Obidos: 10 things to do on a day trip from Lisbon, Portugal
• Best things to do in Algarve, Portugal
• Top 10 Day Trips from Porto for cities, wine, nature and more
• Douro Valley: best things to do in Portugal’s famous wine region
• Aveiro: 15 cool things to do on a day trip from Porto, Portugal
• Coimbra – the best things to do and see with map (Portugal)
• Guimaraes – best things to do and see on a day trip from Porto
• 17 Best things to do and see in Faro, Portugal
• Day trip from Porto to Arouca Bridge and Paiva Walkways
• 25 Stunning Places to Visit in Portugal (+ map)

How to plan an amazing Portugal itinerary?

What is the best time to visit portugal.

The weather in Portugal is much milder than in the rest of Europe. This means it’s an almost year-round destination, as long as you go there with the right expectations. I’m pretty sure Algarve is not great in winter for beach lovers, just as Lisbon is better visited outside July and August. This being said, the best seasons for a visit are spring and autumn, when the crowds are fewer and the temperatures are decent. We were in Portugal in September and October and had mostly sunny days and only one day of rain. The evenings started to be a little chilly at the end of our trip, but there was no need of more than a sweater.

How many days do you need in Portugal?

This is a tough question. We recommend at least two weeks in order to be able to see the three major destinations, Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, with a few less known places in between. Three weeks would allow for more time to really enjoy the places and relax. If you only have one week or less, I’d focus on one of the three, south, center or south, depending on the airport you fly to. There are plenty of things to do in any of them. 10 days would probably allow you enough time to see two of them, without feeling rushed, but not all three, if you don’t just want to speed through the country.

How to get to Portugal?

Portugal has three main airports, in Lisbon, Porto and Faro, the capital of Algarve. If you plan to either start or end your trip in the Algarve, it might be cheaper to use Seville in Spain as a hub and transfer from there. Check flights on Skyscanner .

The option we chose before tailoring our itinerary was to fly in and out of Lisbon. However, even if chosen by many, looking back, this was not the best option. If you plan to travel the country from north to south, it would be much better to fly in to Porto or Faro and out from the other one.

The difference in cost for the tickets will probably be more or less the same as the train from Lisbon to Porto added with the one from Faro to Lisbon. In terms of comfort and time, this would make a major difference.

As we created this Portugal itinerary as an almost perfect recommendation, fixing the errors we did, we’ll start from Porto and continue to the south to Lisbon and the Algarve, ending with Faro.

How to travel around Portugal?

Many people choose to rent  a car and travel through the country on a road trip. However, given the fact that you’ll probably spend at least 6 days in the big cities, where driving and parking are a nightmare, I’d say think twice. Public transport is very good in Portugal. They have regular trains that reach up to 200km/h. If you buy tickets few days in advance, discounted rates apply. Buses are also largely available. Omio shows you all the options for getting from one city to another in one place. Besides, wine is great in Portugal and you’d probably have to give up on it if you hire a car for the entire period.

Some great day trips from Lisbon and Porto and fairly easy to go on by public transport. It is fast, reliable and you don’t have to look for a parking spot, especially during the high season. Also some places are better seen on a guided tour, like Douro valley (because of tasting, information and so much more) or the Arouca Bridge and Paiva Walkways (where you’d have to walk 8km more otherwise).

Should you rent a car in Portugal?

We’ve stayed for one month in Portugal. During this time the only place where I really felt the need of a car was Algarve. The trains there are infrequent, buses once a day. Doing a tour that includes several stops is almost impossible there, by public transport. There’s still the option of organized tours, but if you’re staying longer in the area and don’t want to lie on a beach all day long, renting a car is a great option.

The best 15 days Portugal itinerary at a glance

As a guide for a first two weeks trip itinerary in Portugal, we’ve structured it around Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. By following it, you’d spend around five days in each of the regions and have enough time to enjoy them and see the differences. We also decided alternating the day trips with days in which you stay put in one of the major cities. This way you won’t be exhausted by too much commuting.

We also added a few suggestions as 5 bonus days, in case you have more time to dedicate to Portugal. Feel free to tailor it according to your preferences and time, but we trust this is a good starting point.

• Day 1: Arrive in Porto and explore the city
• Day 2: Full day in Porto
• Day 3: Day trip to Douro Valley
• Day 4: Day trip to Arouca Bridge and Aveiro
• Day 5: Full day in Porto
• Day 6: Travel to Coimbra and visit the city
• Day 7: Travel to Lisbon in the morning and explore the city
• Day 8: Day trip to Sintra
• Day 9: Full day in Lisbon
• Day 10: Day trip to Evora
• Day 11: Lisbon + travel to Faro (around 4 hours in the evening)
• Day 12: pick up rental car in the morning and tour the Algarve to Lagos
• Day 13: Algarve – Carvoeiro, Ferragudo, Albufeira
• Day 14: visit a cork plantation, reach Faro in the afternoon and take a catamaran tour of Ria Formosa
• Day 15: Faro

Bonus day: Day trip from Porto to Guimaraes and Braga

Bonus day: day trip from porto to serra da estrela and the schist villages.

• Bonus day: Day trip from Lisbon to Nazare, Fatima, Batalha, Obidos

Bonus day: Day trip from Lisbon to Peniche and the Berlanga islands

• Bonus day: Algarve – Tavira and the east

The Complete 15 Days Portugal Itinerary for First Timers

Portugal itinerary – days 1, 2, 5: porto.

Spread on the hills that overlook the Douro River, Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and an increasingly popular destination in Portugal. With its 14th century walls, medieval winding streets, colorful houses and medieval winding alleys, it’s easy to see why. The historic center is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. A few years ago Porto was on nobody’s radar. As our guide to Paiva said, you couldn’t see the tourists among the locals. Now, you can barely see the locals among the tourists, especially around the city center. But Porto has indeed a personality of its own and it would be a huge mistake to skip it.

Climb up the Clerigos Tower for the best views over the city. Find out where the author of Harry Potter took her inspiration from. Walk around the Ribeira riverfront, listen to some live music and watch the boats float past. Then, cross Luis bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and enjoy a glass or more of port wine at the best centuries-old cellars. Finally, watch the most wonderful sunset in Porto from Jardim do Morro.

Accommodation:  Where to Stay in Porto?

Pro Tip: You can’t go in Porto and not taste port wine. Here’s a tour that takes tourists to three cellars in Vila Nova da Gaia .

READ ALSO: 30 THINGS TO DO IN PORTO IN THREE DAYS, PORTUGAL

Portugal Itinerary – Day 3: Day trip from Porto to Douro Valley

A trip to the north of Portugal would be incomplete without a tour of the Douro valley. The Douro river, once a wild and turbulent river, was tamed by the construction of 8 dams and now is the perfect place for a peaceful ride on a rabelo boat that one can take from Pinhao. From its tranquil waters, you’ll be able to admire the rolling hills full of vineyards and almond trees. This area supplied for centuries the grapes for the best port wines that brought Portugal international recognition. Carrying port from farms to the mouth of the river was the initial purpose of the old rabelo boats.

You’ll see the names of the major companies in Porto proudly displayed on the surrounding hills. If you happen to be there in autumn, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the colorful vineyards. Actually, fall season or not, visiting one of the vineyards is still a must, in order to find out more about the history of port, wine production and taste it right there, where it was born. The entire landscape east of Porto is an UNESCO World Heritage site as one of the oldest wine regions in the world. While one can take in the views from the train that crosses Douro Valley, I’d recommend  a tour, that will also take care of the visits to the farms and the boat ride for you .

READ ALSO: DOURO VALLEY: BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORTUGAL’S FAMOUS WINE REGION

Portugal Itinerary – Day 4: Day trip from Porto to Aveiro, Arouca Bridge and Paiva Pathways

Paiva walkways and Arouca suspended footbridge are located just outside Arouca, 80 km away from Porto. The 8 km path is a bit challenging, but will reward one with outstanding beauty, a peaceful woodland, tumbling waterfalls and pristine gorges. It’s now accessible for almost everyone, as a wooden  boardwalk was build along the trail that meanders through the UNESCO Arouca geopark.

READ ALSO: DAY TRIP FROM PORTO TO AROUCA BRIDGE AND PAIVA WALKWAYS

There are quite a few stairs on the way. Thus, it will still test one’s physical state. The trek takes around 2.5 hours to complete. If you decide to do it, remember to pack some snacks, a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. At the start of the path, one can also cross Arouca suspended footbridge, the newest attraction in the area. This is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world. While crossing it, enjoy the breathtaking view over the valley and Aguieiras waterfall.

There’s no public transport to the bridge and pathway. If you don’t have a car, you could join  a small group tour  from Porto, as we did. The guide took care of the tickets, transport and an awesome traditional lunch. Of course, he also gave us a lot of useful information about the area and much more.

Pro Tip: If I were to recommend just one tour out of all we did while in Portugal, this would be the one . The landscapes and experiences were unique, but the guide couldn’t have been better either. On the way back, you also get to visit Aveiro and Costa Nova, which was a great combination.

READ ALSO: AVEIRO: 15 COOL THINGS TO DO ON A DAY TRIP FROM PORTO

Portugal Itinerary – Day 6: Coimbra

Leave from Porto in the morning, so that you have enough time to visit Coimbra. The city is simply beautiful and hides a lot of surprises, but I don’t recommend having your luggage on you while walking around the city. It’s not a small city and the main attraction stands high on a hill. Sleep there over night and head to Lisbon next morning.

Home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, that’s also an UNESCO World Heritage site, everything in Coimbra seems to revolve around students. The city is far less touristy than the previous two, but still full of history and culture. I’d dare to say it was my favorite city in Portugal, if I could stop thinking about the beautiful sunsets in Porto and Lisbon.

Coimbra has probably the most beautiful parks we’ve seen during our month in Portugal. Start with Penedo da Saudade, full of poems from former students, and continue with the peaceful oasis Jardim da Sereia and the botanical garden with a real bamboo forest. Many places in town are connected to love stories of former inhabitants, like Pedro and Ines bridge or the mysterious  Quinta das Lágrimas . Other historical gems are Santa Cruz church, part of which was turned into a pretty cafe and Santa Clara-a-Velha Convent. As a city of students, in Coimbra evolved a different and unique form of fado, sang by groups of male students. Some songs were dedicated to girls, while others are about knowledge and life.

Accommodation : This is the  hotel we stayed at in Coimbra  for one night. It’s not the best looking one, but it’s central and the owner was more than willing to help us and accommodating when we got there very late because of a transport strike. We could also check out late.

READ ALSO: COIMBRA – THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE WITH MAP (PORTUGAL)

Portugal Itinerary – Days 7, 9, 11: Lisbon

Being the capital of Portugal and its largest city, as well as a World Heritage site, Lisbon is an obvious place to start.  It’s an amazing mix of old and new, starting with Moorish quarter Alfama and ending with the modern Parque das Nações in the east. Go on a walk through the narrow lanes of the capital’s diverse neighborhoods. You’ll find gothic cathedrals, local cafes, traditional shops, incredible street art, beautiful azulejos and lovely squares around every corner. Enjoy a tasty pastel de nata and try to hear the dramatic rhythms of fado.

Don’t just hop on the famous vintage tram 28, but explore also other routes and most importantly, walk, walk a lot. Lisbon is not exactly pedestrian friendly, as it was built on a series of hills. But this also translates into gorgeous viewpoints called miradouros and postcard-perfect panoramas. Lisbon will also reward you with beauty, charm and authenticity that you don’t find in many other European capitals.

Accommodation:  Where to Stay in Lisbon?

READ ALSO: 35 THINGS TO DO IN LISBON IN THREE DAYS

Portugal Itinerary – Day 8: Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra

Just 40 minutes away from Lisbon sits Sintra, the wonderland of Portugal, with historic castles and idyllic mansions that one could explore for days. The most known of them all is Pena Palace, set high up on a hill surrounded by exotic trees. If you’ve ever seen a photo of Sintra, it’s probably one of its red and yellow-painted walls. But there are many others.

Next door to Pena Palace spread the ruins of the 8th century Castle of the Moors. Even if very little is left out of the fortress, the views and the walk on the long walls are jaw-droppingly. In the town center, the most famous castle is Sintra Palace, with its twin iconic chimneys. Another quirky palace is Quinta da Regaleira with its mysterious initiation well, underground tunnels and masonic symbols. A little further away, Montserrate Palace is one of the most beautiful and underrated of the architectural jewels in Sintra. These are just a few of the castles and palaces in Sintra, but I hope more than enough to  make you want to pay it a visit .

READ ALSO: SINTRA: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR PLANNING A DAY TRIP FROM LISBON

Portugal Itinerary – Day 10: Day trip from Lisbon to Evora

In case you think I skipped from day 8 to day 10, this is not entirely true, as this is listed as spent in Lisbon. And this is intentional. After the day trip to Sintra we really don’t think you should take a new day trip the next day. It’s exhausting. We partly did this mistake and went to Obidos the next day, which is much smaller than Evora, and it still felt a little bit too much.

As it’s close to Lisbon, located in Alentejo wine region and an Unesco World Heritage site, Évora attracts a pretty large number of tourists. Its history dates back more than 2000 years and the town flourished under Roman rule.

The main spots to see are the Cathedral of Évora, the largest medieval church in Portugal, the Temple of Diana and the Chapel of Bones. The last one displays exactly what the name says, the bones of over 5000 former residents moved there from the nearby cemeteries. An unusual and eerie place in Portugal, it was “decorated” by some monks that wanted to remind people the transience of life.

But the best of Évora is the atmosphere, given by the white-washed houses, Moorish courtyards, medieval squares and the 16th century aqueduct. Even if it doesn’t meet its initial role anymore, it’s been fully integrated in the life of the modern town, with cozy cafes, attractive restaurants and quirky shops built right under its arches.

READ ALSO: EVORA: 15 BEST THINGS TO DO ON A DAY TRIP FROM LISBON, PORTUGAL

Portugal Itinerary – Days 12-14: Tour the Algarve

There are many beautiful beaches in Portugal, but the ones in Algarve are definitely some of the best. They can’t miss from a complete Portugal itinerary. Located along Portugal’s south coast, at the Atlantic shore, these region is considered by many the ultimate summer destination with top beaches, striking rocky cliffs and scenic landscapes. But even if you prefer going off-season to avoid the crowds, there are still plenty of things to do in Algarve.

Lagos is a jewel of the Algarve region. It has everything a charming Portuguese town should, but also a stunning countryside and coastline that surrounds it. A short walk away from the center is Ponta de Piedade, a beautiful rock formation looking like a bridge nestled in the ocean. A great location to see the sunset at the Atlantic ocean is the lighthouse there.

The main historical attractions are the Municipal Museum and Church of St. Antonio. Other fun activities one can do in Lagos include kayaking tours, boat trips, snorkeling, stand-up paddle, rock climbing and many more. Lagos is a popular day trip from Faro, the capital of Algarve, or the other resorts in the region. But one could also spend one or two nights in it with no regret.

Take a boat trip to explore some of the dramatic cliffs or a boat ride to some of the most spectacular caves and grottos. Benagil cave is the most popular one, due to its roof hole that lets the light in, but there are many more. Besides, even without entering any cave, the rugged coastline is a marvel to look at from the sea. Or maybe you prefer hiking the Seven Hanging Villages Trail .

Even in winter the weather is mild enough to allow one to explore and discover, not only the beaches and unique rock formations, but also cork forests, Roman ruins and historic tiny towns where you can get to know the true Portugal hospitality and culture. It also offers some of the best golf opportunities in the country. Did I mention the tasty cuisine? Traditionally it consists mostly of fresh seafood, fish, fruit, almonds and carob beans. Some of the dishes tourists will only find in this part of Portugal.

Accommodation:   Where to Stay in Algarve?

READ ALSO: BEST THINGS TO DO IN ALGARVE, PORTUGAL

Portugal Itinerary – Days 14-15: Faro and Ria Formosa

Algarve doesn’t only have wonderful beaches and a rigged coastline, but also one of Portugal’s natural wonders, the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This is a protected habitat consisting out of marshland, shallow water lagoons, saltpans and sand dune islands set just next to Faro. In fact, one of the best things one can to in Faro is to  go on a small group boat tour  of this beautiful spot.

The land park is crisscrossed by a series of trails which allow visitors to admire the abundance of flora and fauna. Some of the rare species one can spot here are the purple gallinule, flamingo, egret, heron, fishing eagle and spoonbills. It’s indeed a fantastic way to spend a tranquil afternoon.

Faro is the capital of Algarve and definitely one of the best places to visit in Portugal. However, many visitors skip it in favor of the most famous holiday resorts. We didn’t do it and we are really glad with our choice. Before getting to Coimbra, I thought this was the perfect city in the country, just the right mix of bustle and peace. At the same time, we deeply disliked Portimão as a basis for exploring the region. Anyway, there is no accounting for tastes.

Let’s get back to Faro! Stepping into the old town is like going back in time. The main site is the old cathedral. For a small fee, you can climb up the tower, visit the church, museum and a small bone chapel. The city has a small marina from which you can easily get to the islands in order to enjoy a day at the beach. Ria Formosa lagoon, also set nearby is a great place for exploration and bird-watching. Seafood and fish are fresh and tasty everywhere and the most traditional dish is cataplana.

Accommodation:   Here is a beautiful accommodation in a traditional Algarvian house

READ ALSO: 17 BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN FARO, PORTUGAL

A 10th century castle with panoramic views over the city and surroundings and its overall royal ambiance convinced UNESCO to recognize this place as a world heritage site. If this was enough for them, I think it should also make the cut for our bucket list. But just in case, let me add some more things.

Guimarães has a special value for the Portuguese people as it’s considered that this was the place where the country’s roots were set, during the Battle of São Mamede in 1128. The first king of Portugal won and decided to found this beautiful country. Next to the castle, which is pretty much in ruins, but still has spectacular views, there’s the Grand Dukes of Braganza Palace built in the 15th century. This was now turned into a museum, which is the most visited tourist attraction in the north part of the country. Rua de Santa Maria, in the old town, is one of the most beautiful streets in town, but the city hall square is even more charming.

Portugal’s third-largest city is home to great restaurants, an university and historic sites. These would make a visit worth it by themselves. But Braga also has Roman ruins, pretty squares and an 18th century palace. However, the most famous tourist attraction stands just on its outskirts. Even UNESCO recognized its value as a world heritage site. Bom Jesus do Monte, as this is the church I’m talking about, is world-famous for its gorgeous baroque staircase which penitent pilgrims used to climb on their knees. The city center has a lively and youthful ambiance, thanks to the great number of students, full of cheap cafes, bars and restaurants.  Braga  is not only the religious center of Portugal, but also a modern city and one of the best places to visit in Portugal.

Pro Tip: If you want to visit both cities, you had better choose a guided tour that checks the main sights in them and takes care of the transport. We tried to do this on our own and failed, as we missed the bus from Guimaraes to Braga. If you don’t have much time and want to make sure you visit both cities , here is a  tour that includes both Braga and Guimaraes on a day trip from Porto!

READ ALSO: GUIMARAES – BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE ON A DAY TRIP FROM PORTO

Serra da Estrela is home to 27 cute villages made out of a traditional stone called schist. Go on a thrilling drive to discover them or a relaxing hike. The most famous ones are Talasnal, Casal Novo, Linhares, Valezim, Aigra Velha, Aigra Nova, Comareira and Pena. These are also Portugal’s highest mountains. Thus there is no lack of scenic rugged cliffs. Serra de Estrella is probably the best place in Portugal for outdoor adventures. In this range, one will also stumble upon Portugal’s only ski slope. But don’t get over excited about it, as Portugal has the shortest ski season in Europe.

Also called the  star mountains , Serra da Estrella rise up to 1993 meters above see level, but the maximum height in continental Portugal got to 2000 m when a tower was put on top of the highest peak. Along the roads, one will also come across the Serra da Estrela sheepdog, a breed unique to Portugal. The mountains are home to the delicious and creamy Serra cheese, a delicacy on sale in the local villages. However, not all trails are well signposted. So it’s be best to go together with a local guide .

Bonus day: Day trip from Lisbon to Obidos, Fatima, Batalha, Nazare

The ancient walled town of Obidos is one of the most pretty towns in Portugal. Centuries ago, Queen Isabel fell in love with it and her husband decided to give it to her as a gift. To understand what enchanted her so much, you must visit it and see for yourself. Encircled by walls, with whitewashed houses and a medieval castle on one side, now turned into a hotel, Obidos transports its visitors directly into the era of ladies and knights. Its labyrinth of cobblestone alleys dotted with cafes and shops are a marvel to explore.

The vineyards around and isolation add even more to the picturesque of the location. The town is also an UNESCO recognized Creative City of Literature. One of the churches was converted into a library, as well as one of the cellars. But many other places have collections of books, to sell or just as decorations. The coolest and most unusual hotel that will transpose one instantly into the local ambiance, is the  The Literary Man Óbidos Hotel .

Nazare is a fishing town with rugged costal cliffs and beautiful beaches. But this seaside location has also gained international recognition due to its enormous waves reaching more than 30 meters. These are caused by an undersea canyon and you can find all about it at the small surf museum there.

Although the monster waves only happen during a short period of time every year, Nazare is still one of the best destinations in Portugal year round. With a rich fishing tradition, dating back hundreds of years, it’s also home to fantastic seafood restaurants. Visitors can relax on its golden sands, check out some of the historical churches and chapels or take the funicular from the beach to the top of the cliffs.

Visit Obidos, Nazare, Fatima and Batalha on a day trip from Lisbon!

READ ALSO: OBIDOS: 10 THINGS TO DO ON A DAY TRIP FROM LISBON, PORTUGAL

Peniche is a tiny town set on a peninsula surrounded by the sea. Here’s set the seaside fort where Salazar used to detain political prisoners. This is also the main tourist attractions. However, the walled old town is nice and romantic. It also boasts gorgeous beaches perfect for water sports. Berlengas Islands Nature Reserve, just a boat ride away from Peniche, is one of the most beloved holiday destinations of the Portuguese people. When I asked our guide to Arouca about his favorite destinations in Portugal, this was the first one he mentioned.

The Berlengas Islands are not quite as famous as the Azores or Madeira. But they are close to the mainland and one of the favorite destinations in Portugal of the locals. In order to get to them, one first has to reach Peniche and take a boat ride from there. These rocky islands, dramatic and barren, are considered a natural reserve. As a result, one can only spend the night in Berlenga Grande. Here’s also the highlight of the islands, the St. John the Baptist fort sitting on a small rocky outcrop. But there’s not much to do there during the night.  A day trip might be best . During the day, be prepared to go hiking, snorkeling, birdwatching or swimming  in picturesque caves and grottos.

Bonus day: Tavira and the east of Algarve

Tavira is one of the most picturesque towns in the Algarve, with an unique appearance and culture, being close to the border with Spain. It has cute churches, castle ruins and countless buildings with elaborate tiled facades. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit it, even if we wished. Here’s an article in case you want to check it out.

Final thoughts on my two weeks Portugal Itinerary | 15 Days of Exploration

This was our ideal two weeks itinerary in Portugal. I’m sure it doesn’t include all the beautiful places in this small, but wonderful country. However, it includes the most common ones for a first time visitor, as well as a few less known places, to help you get away from the crowds and be more among the friendly locals. A little bit of everything.

Have you ever been to Portugal or would like to go? What do you think? What would you include in a two weeks Portugal itinerary? Let me know in the comments section below!

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Spain and Portugal Trip: The Perfect 8 Day Itinerary

While there is much to do in both Spain and Portugal and you could easily spend weeks in each country, they are side by side and can easily be combined into a Spain and Portugal trip. For those looking for a quick trip to visit some of the top spots in each country, we have developed an itinerary that allows the best of each country to be highlighted.

In order to fit both countries into this short amount of time, we will be concentrating on a route from Lisbon to Madrid. The northern parts of both countries, as well as the eastern part of Spain, to include Barcelona and Valencia, will not be part of this itinerary. We will focus on 4 cities to lay our heads at night, but will include day trips to make the most of each stop. Nobody likes to pack more than they have to, so we will try to limit our hotel hopping. However, with only eight days, we will not be taking a leisurely pace.

Read More: International Travel Checklist For Before You Go!

Table of Contents

Lisbon Portugal

Since we are starting here and will need time to adjust to new time zones, consider spending more time here than other destinations. After all, Lisbon is one of the best walking cities in the world. Plus, it has so many options for day trips. You could stay your entire trip in Lisbon and never get bored. Lisbon has such a great atmosphere and its size makes it easy to manage.

Consider taking a walking tour on your first day to get acquainted with the city. Lisbon is such a vibrant city so make sure you bring your camera to your walking tour.

The azulejo ceramics are everywhere in Lisbon. They were used to cover the bland exteriors to buildings left over from the Gothic period. When the tiles first began appearing on the building exteriors in the 15th through 18th centuries, they were mostly blue and white but over time more colors were added to the mix. Now, they are what come to mind when one thinks of Lisbon. A fun idea during your trip is to make your own azulejo.

When in Lisbon, you must ride the trams. It is one of the most recommended tourist activities. The Remodelado trams are the quaint yellow trams that rattle and screech through the narrow streets of Lisbon. The most scenic route is the 28 E, which crosses the Alfama district which is on the opposite side of the river from Lisbon.

Possible Lisbon Day Trips

An eccentric place that deserves a visit. There are so many palaces to see: Palacio da Pena, Palácio Nacional de Sintra, and Palácio de Monserrate, but you are only here for a day trip from Lisbon so you do not need to spend your precious time here touring palaces. All you need to do is walk the grounds and enjoy the atmosphere.

During your trip to Sintra, make sure to visit Cabo de Roca which is the most western point in continental Europe. These stunning views that should not be missed!

Estoril and Cascais

These are the beach towns north of Lisbon that can be reached on a day trip, but you will be heading to the shoreline when you leave Lisbon. However, if you love all things related to the sea, make a day trip here.

Obidos is one of the most picturesque and well preserved medieval cities in all of Europe. You could wander around here for hours, but do not spend your entire day here because we have a special treat for you if you are visiting during the right time of year.

If you are visiting Portugal during big wave season, October through March (and sometimes April), you must witness the largest waves being surfed in the world. Visit the lighthouse and see the largest waves in the world being surfed. To give you an idea of the size of these waves, Rodrigo Koxa conquered an 80-foot wave in 2017. And those are just the waves being surfed, there are bigger ones not being surfed! They really have to be seen to be believed!

If wineries are your thing, then consider a visit to Evora. It is a beautiful small town that is part of the Alentejo region was elected by USA TODAY readers as the best wine region to visit in the world. The Herdades and Quintas (wineries) are part of its culture and identity and are definitely a must tour in the Alentejo journey.

Algarve Region – Portugal

Take your time making your way from Lisbon to this southernmost region famous for its beaches and golf course. The coastline is stunning. After your busy days in Lisbon, you deserve to relax in Algarve.

Read More: International Travel Checklist Departure and Arrival

Seville spain.

You are now in Spain, time for tapas, paella, gazpacho, and tempranillo. And because you are in Seville, it is also time for Flamenco.

Flamenco  is a Spanish art form made up of three parts: guitar playing, song, and dance.  It is a mesmerizing art form to witness, and seeing it performed must be done in its birthplace.

Seville is also famous for its Moorish architecture and many festivals. It is a hub of Spanish culture. A visit to Seville’s central cathedral, which is a UNEXCO world heritage site and the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, is a must. Alcazar’s palace took over 100 years to build and is one of the finest examples of Moorish architecture in Spain. Another example of Moorish architecture is the Plaza de España which was built for the Ibero-American Exhibition of 1929

Seville Day Trips

Ronda & The Pueblos Blancos

This city’s two halves lie either side of the El Tajo gorge and are connected by the spectacular “New Bridge”. Ronda can be combined with the Pueblos Blancos during a day trip from Seville. The Pueblos Blancos are picturesque hilltop villages of the Andalucia region of Spain.

Read More: 16 Excellent Traveling Apps For Tourists

Toledo spain.

You thought Madrid was where you should end your trip, didn’t you? While Madrid is technically the ending point of this quick jaunt around Portugal and Spain since you will fly out of the Madrid Airport. However, we recommend you stay in Toledo which is a little over an hour away from the airport by train and subway. Simply put, Toledo is breathtaking. It is a treasure of art and history.

While in Toledo, make sure to go up the hill to visit El Greco’s viewport. Also, please do not skip the Toledo Cathedral which the apex of Iberian gothic architecture.  Spend as much time as possible walking the walls of this impressive medieval city.

Please note that no recommendations were given on how to divide your time between each place. That is a matter of personal choice based on your interests. However, the combination of these cities will allow you to make the most of your quick Spain and Portugal trip.

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Consider taking your kids with you to these family friendly countries. Read this article for more tips about Traveling with Kids Around the World .

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