Spend the day exploring the historic center of Lisbon, including the Alfama neighborhood, where steep streets are lined with colorful houses and traditional Fado music can be heard at night.
Visit the Belém Tower, a symbol of the Age of Discovery, and the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Don't forget to indulge in some of Portugal's delicious pastries at Pastéis de Belém.
Take a day trip to the beautiful town of Sintra and visit the Pena Palace, a fairytale-like castle perched on a hilltop with stunning views. Then, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, a romantic estate with an eccentric palace and lush gardens.
Stop by the historic town center and its famous pastry shop, Piriquita, to try another delicacy, queijadas.
Explore the charming coastal town of Cascais, with its elegant mansions, sandy beaches, and picturesque harbor. Don't miss the Boca do Inferno, a natural cliff formation with a collapsed cave that creates a booming sound.
Admire contemporary art at the Museum of Art in Sintra, housed in a 19th-century villa, before heading back to Lisbon.
Travel to Porto, one of Europe's oldest and most charming cities, famous for its wine, bridges, and historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visit the São Bento Station, known for its beautiful azulejo tiles, and the Lello Bookstore, an exquisite neo-gothic gem.
Take a Douro River cruise, and sample some port wine at one of the many cellars across the river in Gaia.
Visit the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, also UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
See the Bom Jesus do Monte, a baroque sanctuary with a grand staircase and landscaped gardens, and the Sé de Braga, a magnificent cathedral with Gothic and Baroque elements.
In Guimarães, explore the Castle of Guimarães, where Portugal's first king was born, and stroll along the charming medieval streets of the historic center.
Discover the picturesque city of Coimbra, home of the oldest university in Portugal, and a cultural and intellectual hub.
Admire the grandeur of the University of Coimbra, its Baroque library, and the Joanina Chapel. Visit the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha, a ruin turned museum, and the Old Cathedral of Coimbra, a Romanesque gem.
Dine at some of the fine restaurants that offer modern interpretations of traditional cuisine.
Head south to the sunny and scenic region of the Algarve, with its rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque villages.
Relax at the Praia de Benagil, a stunning beach with a sea cave, and visit the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira Museum, a 17th-century fortress turned art and history museum in Lagos.
Indulge in some of the freshest seafood at the numerous upscale restaurants in the region.
Step back in time with a visit to Évora, a well-preserved medieval city that was once a royal residence and an intellectual center.
Admire the Temple of Diana, a Roman temple that stands in the heart of the city, and the Chapel of Bones, a macabre but fascinating display of human skeletons in a 16th-century church.
Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the historic center and taste some of the excellent wines and cheeses of the region.
Return to Lisbon for some last-minute shopping, sightseeing, or relaxation.
Visit the Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the world's largest aquariums, or take a stroll along the Rua Augusta, a lively pedestrian street that leads to the grand Commerce Square.
End your trip with a delicious dinner at one of Lisbon's finest restaurants, listening to Fado music and savoring the local flavors.
Most cities and towns in Portugal are easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Some sites may require a car or a guided tour. For longer distances, consider taking a train or flying between major cities. Taxis and private transportation are also available for hire but may be more expensive. Expect to pay around €100-150 for a car rental for a week and around €50-100 for gas, depending on your route.
If you have more time, consider visiting other cities and regions, such as the Douro Valley, Alentejo, or the Azores islands. If you have less time, you can shorten the itinerary or skip some sites, but make sure to see at least the highlights of Lisbon and Porto. Some sites, such as the Lello Bookstore or the Pena Palace, may have long lines, so plan accordingly or consider booking in advance. Portugal is generally safe and welcoming, but be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
The main international airport in Portugal is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), located 7 km north of Lisbon's city center. Other major airports include Porto Airport (OPO), Faro Airport (FAO) in the Algarve, and Madeira Airport (FNC) and João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in the Azores. LIS is served by various airlines, including TAP Portugal, Ryanair, and easyJet, and offers various connections to other European and international destinations.