Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is also known as the “City of Seven Hills”. The city has a great mix of the old and new with various historical landmarks, museums, modern architecture, and cuisine. Begin by visiting the historic Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and taste Portugal’s famous pastries, Pastel de Nata, in the nearby Pastéis de Belém. Later in the day, tour around Alfama, Lisbon's old town, and visit the stunning Castelo de São Jorge. End the day watching the sunset at the miradouros, hilltop viewpoints.
Only 30 minutes away from Lisbon by train, Sintra is a cultural and natural heritage of humanity by UNESCO since 1995. The town is surrounded by enchanted landscapes and romantic palaces. Start the day by visiting the colorful Pena Palace, one of the most notable places in Portugal. Next, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, an estate with unique gardens, wells, underground tunnels to explore. End the day by visiting the mysterious masonic-style Initiation Well and the impressive “Palace of the National Sintra”.
Portugal’s famous northern city, Porto, is known for its famous Port wine, charmingly dilapidated baroque architecture, and ribeira, the UNESCO World Heritage neighborhood. First day explore the town center, visit the São Bento Railway Station and walk down Avenida dos Aliados surrounded by historic buildings. Spend the second day visiting the Port Wine Cellars and cruise down the Douro river. For an adventurous end to the day, take a hot air balloon ride over the Douro Valley for a panoramic view of the vineyards.
The Douro Valley is famous for its landscape, vineyards, and the famous Port wine. Start your day with a riverside bike ride towards Quinta dos Murças to enjoy their wines, explore the vineyards, and enjoy the food. The next day, visit the Douro Internacional Natural Park, get a hiking trail and visit the Peneda-Gerês National Park to get a view of stunning granite villages and hilltop castles.
Coimbra is a city that bears witness to more than nine centuries of history and is known for its university, the oldest and most distinguished in the Portuguese-speaking world, and the magnificent Joanina Library. Have a delightful lunch at Arcadas Saudade, and take a nocturnal walk on Largo da Portagem or through the Botanical Gardens. The next day, head to the Serra da Lousã mountains for rock climbing, mountain biking, and trekking, and end the day by bathing at the natural river beaches in Góis and Poço da Cesta.
Lastly, head to Lagos to enjoy the sun and surf along the coast of the Algarve. On the first day, rent a personal watercraft or kayak and paddle among the sea caves and grottos from the Ponta da Piedade cliffs. In the afternoon, take a relaxing catamaran tour down the coast to see the sunset. The next day, take a trek to Ponta da Piedade, relax and feast on some fresh seafood at the marina, and end the day kayaking down the nearby Rio Alvor.
The easiest way to get around Portugal is by train. Buy a 10-day Portugal rail pass for €120 to save costs. Take an overnight train from Lisbon to Porto to save time and accommodation. Use local transport like buses and trams instead of taxis for cheaper travel costs. Explore the cities on foot, except on adventure activities where transportation is already included in the price.
If you have more time, explore the Alentejo region and enjoy the natural wonders and fishing towns of the Costa Vicentina. If you have less time, cut off the Douro Valley or spend less time in one of the cities. Portugal has beautiful beaches like Nazaré, Figueira da Foz, Comporta, and Almograve, which can be added to your Lagos day. Lastly, try the sardines – grilled or canned!