Day 1: Lisbon Highlights: Explore the historic Alfama district and iconic Tower of Belem. Visit the Jeronimos Monastery, one of the most stunning examples of Portuguese Gothic architecture.
100-word description: Like Rome, Lisbon is built on seven hills. This hilly city is known for its captivating neighborhoods, historic architecture, and delicious seafood. Apart from exploring Alfama and admiring Belem Tower, you can check out the magnificent 16th century Jeronimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic architecture. You can hang out at the waterfront after exploring the landmarks, and enjoy the sprawling views of the city.
Day 2: Sintra Highlights: The stunning Pena Palace atop a hill, the medieval Castle of the Moors, and the romantic Quinta da Regaleira gardens and palace.
100-word description: Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a romantic town nestled in the hills. Pena Palace is a must-see attraction where you can enjoy amazing views of surrounding hills and valleys. At the same hill, you'll also find the 8th century medieval Castle of the Moors, another stunning site with panoramic views. Finish your day at Quinta da Regaleira gardens and palace, a place that ticks all the boxes for anyone interested in culture, architecture, history, or even fantasy.
Day 3: Coimbra Highlights: The 13th-century University of Coimbra, the UNESCO Convent of Christ in Tomar.
100-word description: In Coimbra, visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, to see the stunning library and the suggestive academic traditions. In Tomar, visit the imposing Convent of Christ, a former fortress and monastery, and get lost in its labyrinthine chambers and gardens.
Day 4: Porto Highlights: The picturesque Ribeira district of Porto, the baroque-style Palácio da Bolsa, the historic Clérigos Tower.
100-word description: Porto, the city of Port wine, is a vibrant, colorful, and textured city that offers an enticing range of experiences. Visit the vibrant and picturesque Ribeira district and take a boat ride on the Douro River. Visit the baroque-style Palácio da Bolsa and the famous Clérigos Tower that offers panoramic views across the city. If you have time, visit the charming nearby town of Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal because it was the first capital of the country.
Day 5: Douro Valley Highlights: Douro Valley Vineyards, the train ride through breathtaking countryside.
100-word description: The Douro Valley is one of the world's oldest wine regions and is a breathtakingly beautiful place to visit. Take a train ride and soak in the picturesque landscapes of the Douro River Valley. Stop for a winery tour where you can discover how local wines are made, and interestingly, the unique design of the vineyard, with the grapevines arranged in long, continuous rows along the hillsides, are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 6: Algarve Highlights: The soothing beaches of the Algarve region, outstanding seafood cuisines.
100-word description: One of the best places to visit in Portugal is the stunning Algarve region. It is also called the "sun-kissed coast" due to the warm weather and stunning views of the beaches. In the Algarve, enjoy the soothing beach views and water activities such as surfing, paddle-boarding, and boating. You can also try some seafood from the region and embrace the local culture on this beautiful coastline.
Day 7: Serra da Estrela Highlights: The beautiful mountainous landscapes of Portugal, cheese tastings.
100-word description: If you like exploring the scenic beauty of mountainscapes, then Serra da Estrela is your place. Stay at a small village on the slopes of the mountain, and visit the beautiful locales, including glacial valley, Poço do Inferno waterfall, and Torre, the highest point in Portugal. Don't forget to taste the local famous cured cheese, made from the milk of Serra da Estrela sheep.
Day 8: Aveiro Highlights: The water canals of Aveiro, Costa Nova, and beautiful Salinas.
100-word description: Your last day in Portugal should be spent in charming Aveiro. Known as the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro's charming architecture, picturesque canals, and beautiful boats make it a place not to miss. Take a boat trip on the canals to soak in the views of brightly colored houses along the waterways. Costa Nova and the beautiful Salinas are places that offer nice shoreline experiences.
Time and Costs Estimates
Lisbon (1 day, $50)
Sintra (1 day, $60)
Coimbra and Tomar (1 day, $40)
Porto and Guimarães (2 days, $100)
Douro Valley Vineyards (1 day, $70)
Algarve (1 day, $80)
Serra da Estrela (1 day, $70)
Aveiro (1 day, $50)
Total Estimated Costs: $520
Transportation
Public transportation is easily accessible and ranges from regular bus and train services to the nation-wide train operators, CP - Comboios de Portugal. Driving is also possible, but it should be noted that Portuguese drivers can be aggressive, and the road system can be challenging for some people. Taxis are available but not very cost-effective. A traveler may need to consider a mix of transportation options to find the best combination of travel time, cost, and convenience.
Useful tips
If you have less than eight days, you can consider removing a place or two from the list depending on your priorities. If you have more days, you can add in the beautiful beaches of Lisbon and the timeless village of Óbidos. In general, you'd want to pack lightly, stay hydrated, and be ready for some incredible experiences.
Airports
Portugal has three main international airports. You can land at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS), Porto's Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) or Faro Airport (FAO) in the Algarve region. Lisbon Portela is approximately 7 km from the center of Lisbon, Francisco Sá Carneiro is about 14 km outside of Porto's city center, and Faro airport is 7.5 km from the city center of Faro.