7-Day Portugal Itinerary
The Best Sights, Activities, Food & More!
19 February 2023
This is the ultimate 7-day Portugal itinerary, currently featuring the Ribeira district, Douro River, Clérigos Tower, Foz do Douro, and São Bento train station in Porto, a day trip to Guimarães and Braga, Alfama, Bairro Alto, Jerónimos Monastery, and Belém Tower in Lisbon, a day trip to Sintra and Cascais, and more! Whether you’re solo traveling or going with a group, this is a great guide for what to do in this beautiful area as well as recommendations for food, activities, accomodations, and more.
Overview
Day 1-2: Porto
Day 3: Day trip to Guimarães and Braga
Day 4-5: Lisbon
Day 6: Day trip to Sintra and Cascais
Day 7: Lisbon
Pre-Travel Guide
Where to Get The Best Flight Deals: Some Tips & Tricks
Google flights and Skyscanner are definitely my top choices for finding amazing deals on flights since you can track flight prices and compare deals from different airlines.
Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels & Hostels
I strongly suggest booking accommodations and tours as soon as you decide to go because these are very popular travel destinations, especially in the peak seasons! This itinerary will have you only staying overnight in two cities, so it should be relatively simple to find accommodations.
Porto
$$$: Torel Avantgarde
$$$: Porto Bay Flores
$$: Porto Bay Treato
Lisbon
$$$: Hotel Avenida Palace
Best Times to Visit
Portugal is a great destination to visit year-round, as each season has its own unique charms and experiences to offer.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to avoid the peak tourist season, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. In March, you may still experience some rain, but by April and May, the weather is generally warm and sunny.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the peak tourist season in Portugal, with lots of visitors coming to enjoy the beaches and the warm weather. The temperatures can get very hot, especially in July and August, but the coastal breezes help to keep things comfortable. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during this season.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another great time to visit Portugal, as the weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller than in the summer. This is a great time to visit the wine regions and enjoy the harvest festivals that take place in September and October.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the quietest season in Portugal, but it can still be a good time to visit if you don't mind cooler temperatures and the occasional rain. The Algarve region is still mild and sunny in the winter, making it a popular winter destination for Europeans.
How to Get Around Portugal
If you plan to stay in the major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Faro, etc, public transportation, taxi, or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are the best options. Major cities have a reliable and affordable public transportation system, including buses, trains, and subways. I highly suggest not renting a car in those cities as traffic can be very bad, and it may be extremely difficult to find parking.
But if you want to explore the countryside or smaller towns, renting a car may be a better choice as you can see those areas at your own pace.
Travel Insurance
You should consider buying travel insurance in case of illness, baggage delays, flight delays or cancellations. Check with your credit card company to see if they offer any insurance. Some recommended companies are World Nomads and Allianz Travel Insurance.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
7-Day Portugal Itinerary!
Day 1: Arrive in Porto, Ribeira District, Douro River, Port Wine Cellar
Welcome to Portugal! Arrive in Porto and settle into your accommodation — then, start exploring the nearby area!
Stop 1: Ribeira District & Douro River
The Ribeira district is a historic neighborhood located on the banks of the Douro River in the city of Porto, Portugal. The district is known for its picturesque, narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively atmosphere. The Ribeira is a popular destination, and many visitors come to enjoy the restaurants, cafes, bars, and street performers that line the riverfront.
If you want a guided tour or an amazing view of the river, book a Porto city highlights bike tour or a Douro River panoramic view boat cruise!
Stop 2: Port Wine Cellar Tour
Portugal is known for its wine, so a wine cellar tour is an absolute must-do! There are plenty of options for tours — here are some of the most popular ones:
Lastly, enjoy dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant!
Day 2: Porto Historic Center, Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello, São Bento Train Station & Foz do Douro
Stop 1: Porto Historic Center, Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello & São Bento Train Station
Explore Porto's historic center and see sights such as the Clérigos Tower, the Livraria Lello bookstore, and the São Bento train station! The Clérigos Tower (left image) is a baroque bell tower located in the city center of Porto. It was built in the 18th century and is the tallest bell tower in Portugal, standing at 76 meters tall. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city!
The Livraria Lello (middle image) is a historic bookstore located in the center of Porto. It is known for its ornate neo-gothic facade and interior, including a grand wooden staircase, stained-glass skylight, and shelves lined with books. The bookstore is also famous for its association with the Harry Potter series, as author J.K. Rowling lived in Porto for a time and reportedly found inspiration for the Hogwarts staircase in Livraria Lello's staircase!
The São Bento train station (right image) is a historic railway station located in the center of Porto. The station is covered in over 20,000 azulejo tiles that depict scenes from Portuguese history.
Stop 2: Foz do Douro
Visit the Foz do Douro neighborhood and stroll along the beachfront! It’s one of the most picturesque places in Porto and a very romantic area.
Stop 3: Francesinha for Lunch & Wine Bars
Enjoy a traditional Francesinha for lunch (left image), a typical Porto sandwich made with several types of meat and covered in cheese and a spicy tomato sauce. After lunch, you can continue exploring the area before spending the evening at one of Porto's many wine bars.
Day 3: Day trip to Guimarães and Braga
Take a day trip to the historic cities of Guimarães and Braga, both of which are easily accessible from Porto by train! If you would prefer to go with a guide, there are great options for guided day-trips that make stops at all of the most famous places in these cities! Some even include lunch or entry tickets to the sights.
Stop 1: Guimarães Castle
In Guimarães, visit the medieval castle and the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important and well-preserved castles in Portugal and is considered a national monument.
Stop 2: Sé de Braga & Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary
The Sé de Braga (left image), also known as the Braga Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral with a long and rich history. The cathedral features a beautiful interior with stunning stained glass windows, ornate altars, and a magnificent organ.
The Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary (middle and right images) is a popular pilgrimage site known for its stunning Baroque staircase, which consists of 17 landings and is flanked by fountains, sculptures, and chapels. The sanctuary offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular destination as well as a site of religious significance.
Day 4: Travel to Lisbon, Alfama & Bairro Alto
Travel by train or car to Lisbon, Portugal's capital city, and then start exploring the city's historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto! Consider booking a guided tour like this best of Lisbon guided walking tour or this private food tour featuring 10 tastings recommended by locals.
Stop 1: Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge, Tagus River
Alfama (left image) is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, and is known for its narrow, winding streets, colorful houses, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to wander and explore, taking in the sights and sounds of traditional Lisbon. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, listen to traditional Fado music, visit the Castelo de São Jorge (middle image), and enjoy the stunning views over the city and the Tagus River (right image)!
Stop 2: Bairro Alto, Bars, Live Music
Bairro Alto is a historic district known for its nightlife and entertainment. During the day, visitors can explore the neighborhood's winding streets and charming architecture, with its colorful buildings, historic squares, and traditional shops. In the evenings, the neighborhood comes alive with bars, cafes, and restaurants, offering a wide variety of food, drinks, and live music. Make sure to take a tram ride through the city's narrow streets!
Enjoy dinner at one of Lisbon's many seafood restaurants, and check out the bars for drinks!
Day 5: Lisbon, Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, Museu Nacional do Azulejo & LX Factory Neighborhood
Stop 1: Belém Neighborhood
Visit the Belém neighborhood and see sights such as the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower!
The Jerónimos Monastery (left image) is a stunning example of Manueline architecture and features intricate stone carvings, stunning stained-glass windows, and a beautiful cloister.
The Belém Tower (right image) is another iconic symbol of Lisbon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower was built in the early 16th century as a fortress to defend the city from invaders and as a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon.
Stop 2: Pastel de Belém!
Try a Pastel de Belém, a traditional Portuguese custard tart that is a must-try when in Lisbon. Pastéis de Belém is the origin of these delicious tarts!
Stop 3: Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, which houses a large collection of Portuguese tiles. You can learn about the history and techniques of tile making, as well as the social and cultural importance of tiles in Portuguese art and architecture!
Stop 4: LX Factory Neighborhood
For the perfect evening activity, explore the trendy LX Factory neighborhood! This area is home to many unique shops, bars, and restaurants.
Day 6: Day trip to Sintra and Cascais
Take a day trip to the beautiful town of Sintra, which is known for its many historic palaces and castles. There are also many tour packages available as this is a very popular day trip from Lisbon! Here are a few recommended ones:
Stop 1: Sintra, Pena Palace, Moorish Castle & Quinta da Regaleira
Visit the Pena Palace (left image), a brightly colored, whimsical palace that sits on top of a hill overlooking Sintra! You can tour the palace's many rooms, including the ballroom, the dining room, and the chapel, as well as the palace's extensive gardens.
Next, go to the Moorish Castle (middle image)! This is a fortress located on a nearby hilltop where you can explore the castle's walls and towers, which offer panoramic views of Sintra and the surrounding countryside.
Lastly, head to the Quinta da Regaleira (right image), a unique estate in Sintra that was built in the early 20th century. It features a palace, a chapel, a garden, and a series of underground tunnels and grottoes. The estate is known for its elaborate symbolism and includes features such as an inverted tower, a well with a spiral staircase, and a lake with a waterfall.
Stop 2: Cascais
In the afternoon, head to the nearby coastal town of Cascais and enjoy the beach and the town's many shops and restaurants!
Day 7: Lisbon
Spend your final day in Lisbon visiting any sights you may have missed earlier in the trip, such as the Castelo de São Jorge or the Oceanário de Lisboa aquarium.
Spend your final evening enjoying a Fado performance, a traditional style of Portuguese music that is often accompanied by singing and guitar.
And That’s A Wrap!
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