Begin your journey in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. Start your day by exploring the historic district of Alfama, with its narrow streets, vibrant buildings, and stunning views of the Tagus River. Visit the Belem Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to appreciate the grandeur of Portuguese architecture. End the day by watching the sunset from the Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, a popular viewpoint.
Take a day trip to the enchanting town of Sintra, known for its unique architecture, lush greenery, and romantic atmosphere. Visit the brightly colored Pena Palace, the medieval Castle of the Moors, and the romantic Quinta da Regaleira, famous for its mysterious grottos and tunnels.
Travel to Porto, a charming city in the north of Portugal famous for its delicious wine and stunning architecture. Explore the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and cross the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Douro River. Visit the Sao Francisco Church, known for its opulent Baroque interiors, and end the day by taking a wine tour in one of the many famous cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Take a day trip to the charming city of Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal, and explore its medieval streets, picturesque squares, and historic monuments. Visit the Guimaraes Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, with its impressive collection of paintings and tapestries. Relax in the Largo da Oliveira, a popular plaza full of cafes and shops, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Visit Coimbra, the famous university city in the central region of Portugal. Explore the beautiful campus of the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its stunning Baroque library. Visit the Old Cathedral, the Romanesque Church of Santa Cruz, and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha for a glimpse of the rich religious heritage of the city. End the day by wandering the charming streets of Baixa, full of cafes, shops, and live music.
Explore the stunning coastline of Algarve, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and impressive cliffs. Visit Ponta da Piedade, one of the most scenic viewpoints in the region, and take a boat trip to explore the hidden caves and grottos along the coast. End the day by visiting the charming town of Lagos, with its historic walls, trendy bars, and open-air markets.
Return to Lisbon for a final day of adventure. Visit the National Azulejo Museum, dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, with its impressive collection of European and Asian art. Enjoy a stroll along the trendy Avenida da Liberdade, full of stylish shops and cafes, and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. End the day by tasting Portuguese delicacies at Time Out Market, a famous food hall with a wide variety of local dishes.
Portugal has a well-developed transportation system, with buses, trains, and rental cars available in most cities. The best way to travel between cities is by train, with frequent connections and affordable prices. Renting a car is also a good option if you want more flexibility and independence, but be prepared to face some tolls and narrow roads. Flights between Lisbon and Porto are also available, with a travel time of around 1 hour. It is recommended to book your transportation in advance, especially during high season, to avoid sold-out tickets.
Estimated transportation costs for this itinerary:
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Braga, a beautiful city full of historic churches and museums. Or, if you are interested in nature and outdoor activities, visit the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where you can hike, ski, and stargaze. On the other hand, if you have less time, consider skipping Algarve and spending more time in Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, which offer a rich cultural experience and stunning architecture. Also, keep in mind that Portugal can be very crowded during the summer months, so plan accordingly and be prepared to face lines and crowds.
Portugal has three main international airports:
All of the airports are well connected to the city center by public transportation, taxi, and rental cars.