A 7-Day Portugal Itinerary: Your Ultimate Journey Through Culture, Food, and Scenic Beauty

portugal itinerary 7 days

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, tantalizing cuisine, and stunning landscapes of Portugal? If you’re like me, planning a trip to a place as beautiful and rich in history as Portugal can be a bit overwhelming. There’s just so much to see and do! From the bustling streets of Lisbon to the tranquil beaches of the Algarve, it’s tough to fit it all into one week.

But don’t worry — I’ve crafted the perfect 7-day itinerary for you that captures the best of Portugal without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone who loves beautiful landscapes, this itinerary will make sure you experience all that Portugal has to offer.

So let’s dive right in and see what a week in Portugal looks like!

Quick Look: Your 7-Day Portugal Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of your 7-day adventure through Portugal. Each day is carefully crafted to give you the perfect mix of cultural exploration, stunning landscapes, and delicious food.

 

Day Destination Highlights
Day 1 Lisbon Alfama district, Tram 28, Belém Tower, Pastéis de Belém, Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Day 2 Sintra and Cascais Palácio da Pena, Quinta da Regaleira, Cascais beaches and seafood
Day 3 Porto Ribeira district, Dom Luís I Bridge, Port wine tasting, Livraria Lello
Day 4 Douro Valley Scenic drive through vineyards, winery visits, Douro River boat ride
Day 5 Coimbra University of Coimbra, Biblioteca Joanina, Fado performance
Day 6 Évora Roman Temple, Chapel of Bones, Alentejo cuisine
Day 7 Algarve Praia da Marinha, Benagil Cave, sunset over the Atlantic Ocean

Day 1: Arriving in Lisbon – The Vibrant Heart of Portugal

Let’s face it, when you first land in Lisbon, you’ll be eager to hit the streets and discover the charm of this stunning city. But before we dive into the beauty, how about getting to your accommodation first? Lisbon’s public transport system is incredibly convenient.

  • Metro: You can hop on the red line straight from the airport. A quick ride to the city center costs just €1.45, which is perfect for those who want to save a little extra for their adventures.
  • Taxi or Uber: If you’re looking for convenience and don’t mind splurging a little, taxis or Ubers can get you straight to your hotel for about €10-15, depending on traffic.

Now that you’re all settled, let’s really begin exploring.

Exploring Lisbon’s Charm

Wander through Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood. The winding streets and pastel-colored buildings will instantly make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. For a deeper dive into the city, hop on the iconic Tram 28, which will take you through the heart of Lisbon, offering views of the São Jorge Castle and other must-see landmarks.

No visit is complete without stopping by Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. But, let’s be real, the real star here is the pastéis de nata. Head over to Pastéis de Belém to get the freshest and most delicious version of this custard tart.

Evening Tip:

Finish your day with a breathtaking view of the city from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Trust me, the sunset here will stay with you long after you’ve left Lisbon.

Day 2: Sintra and Cascais – A Fairytale Day Trip

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a fairytale, Sintra is the place to make that dream come true. Just a short train ride from Lisbon, this magical town will steal your heart with its stunning palaces and lush gardens.

Palácio da Pena:

The colors of the Palácio da Pena are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Perched on a hill, the castle offers panoramic views that are so Instagram-worthy. It’s a perfect blend of history, art, and fairy-tale vibes.

Quinta da Regaleira:

Next, let’s head over to Quinta da Regaleira, an estate so mysterious that it feels like you’ve entered a hidden world. With secret tunnels and the iconic Initiation Well, you’ll feel like you’re part of a medieval adventure.

After soaking in the magic of Sintra, we’ll make our way to Cascais—a charming seaside town where you can unwind, enjoy fresh seafood, and even take a sunset stroll along the beach.

Day 3: Porto – The City of Bridges and Port Wine

The third day of your Portugal journey brings you to Porto, a city that’s as rich in history as it is in wine. After taking a scenic train ride from Lisbon, you’ll find yourself walking along the vibrant Ribeira district, with colorful buildings and bustling cafes.

Dom Luís I Bridge:

You can’t miss crossing the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, which offers jaw-dropping views of Porto and the Douro River.

Port Wine Tasting:

For wine lovers, Vila Nova de Gaia is a must. Explore the Port wine cellars and indulge in a tasting session that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. You’ll even learn about the history of this beloved Portuguese wine.

And don’t forget to stop by Livraria Lello, a bookstore that served as an inspiration for the Harry Potter series. With its stunning architecture, it’s a dream come true for book lovers.

Day 4: Douro Valley – Wine, Vineyards, and Scenic Beauty

By now, you’re probably ready to relax a little and soak in the beauty of Portugal’s natural landscapes. On day four, head to the Douro Valley, one of the most scenic regions in the world.

Here, you can take a leisurely drive through rolling hills lined with terraced vineyards. Stop at family-owned wineries for a personal wine tasting experience, and take in the lush beauty surrounding you. Don’t forget to hop on a Douro River boat ride to see the valley from a completely different angle.

Day 5: Coimbra – A Step Back in Time

Day five takes us to Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. The University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Biblioteca Joanina is nothing short of breathtaking. The intricate woodwork and the rich history of the place will captivate you for hours.

In the evening, let the soulful sounds of Fado music fill the air. You’ll find local performers singing traditional songs that tug at the heartstrings.

Day 6: Évora – Stepping Into the Past

On day six, we head to Évora, a city steeped in history. Marvel at the Roman Temple, one of the best-preserved ruins in Portugal. And if you’re feeling brave, take a visit to the Chapel of Bones, where the walls are adorned with human bones—a chilling but fascinating sight.

Indulge in Alentejo cuisine—hearty and full of flavor. It’s the kind of food that makes you want to stay forever.

Day 7: Algarve – Sun, Sea, and Stunning Views

To end your Portuguese adventure, head south to the stunning Algarve region. With dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

Start your day at Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Afterward, hop on a boat and take a tour of the Benagil Cave, a natural wonder that will leave you speechless.

As the sun sets over the Atlantic, reflect on the incredible week you’ve had in Portugal. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to this beautiful country.

Conclusion: Your Perfect 7-Day Portugal Adventure

From Lisbon’s vibrant streets to the tranquil beaches of the Algarve, this 7-day Portugal itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Each day is designed to immerse you in the essence of Portugal, so you can truly experience its magic.

If you’re already dreaming about your own trip, let this itinerary be your guide. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or someone who just loves good food and stunning views, Portugal has something for everyone.

Which day of the itinerary are you most excited about? Let me know, and let’s get planning for your adventure!