The best Portugal Itineraries

Portugal is a destination that caters for both short holidays and long trips. But what is the ideal Portugal itinerary? Truth be told, the perfect itinerary is different for each person. Factors such as the time available, budget, interests and whether you are travelling with family, friends or alone will influence your travel plan. Whatever your schedule and budget, we've put together some sample Portugal itineraries to inspire you to travel. Found one that catches your eye? Contact a local Portugal expert to book your trip today.

Recommended Portugal itineraries

To fully experience the diverse charms of Portugal, it is important to follow a well thought out itinerary. Here are some Portugal itineraries for different lengths of stay:

• 7 days in Portugal: Ideal for those who want to explore Portugal's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. This quick tour can include highlights from Lisbon's historic districts to picturesque Porto.
• 10 days in Portugal: This extended itinerary gives more time to explore the highlights of Portugal, including exploring the bustling streets of Lisbon, the enchanting Douro Valley and perhaps a trip to the stunning beaches of the Algarve.
• 14 days in Portugal: A two-week trip gives you the opportunity to see a wider range of sights, from magical Sintra to the serene beaches of the Algarve, and even north to culturally rich Porto, with plenty of time for leisurely sightseeing.

Each itinerary is designed to suit different preferences and paces, ensuring that your visit to Portugal is as rich and enjoyable as possible.

Portugal itinerary 7 days

This 7-day action-packed trip will take you to the vibrant cities of Porto and Vigo, exploring the rich culture of Portugal and Spain.

• Day 1 - Arrival in Porto: Start your adventure by landing in Porto, where a driver will take you from the airport to your hotel. Check into your hotel and begin to soak up the local atmosphere of this charming city.
• Day 2 - Discover the historic heart of Porto: Explore the historic heart of Porto on a private walking tour. Visit the city's most iconic neighbourhoods and landmarks to truly experience its rich culture and history.
• Day 3 - An adventure on the Arrabida Bridge: Add some adventure to your trip by climbing the Arrabida Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of Porto's cityscape from this unique vantage point.
• Day 4 - Travel to Vigo, Spain: Depart for Vigo to cross the border into Spain. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel and begin your exploration of this vibrant city.
• Day 5 - Maritime culture in Vigo: Immerse yourself in Vigo's maritime culture with a tour of its famous old town and lively fishing port. Experience the vibrancy of this coastal city first-hand.
• Day 6 - Day at leisure: Spend this day at your leisure. You might consider a trip to the beautiful Cies Islands or a historical excursion to Santiago de Compostela to further enrich your travelling experience.
• Day 7 - Departure: Finish your journey by heading to the airport, taking with you a treasure trove of memories of the scenic vistas and vibrant cultures of Portugal and Spain.

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Rough Guides tip: Want to explore Spain and Portugal in one go? Choose one of our itineraries combining the best of both countries.

Portugal itinerary 10 days

This extended 10-day itinerary in Portugal covers some of Portugal's most enchanting destinations - Madeira and the Azores - combining exploration and relaxation in Portugal's most scenic corners.

• Day 1 - Arrival in Funchal, Madeira: Land in Funchal and check into your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, explore the city centre or make use of your hotel's facilities.
• Day 2 - Getting to know Western Madeira: Embark on a journey through the western part of Madeira, where you'll see the Encumeada Pass, the natural pools at Porto Moniz and the breathtaking Cabo Girao ski walk.
• Day 3 - Adventure in the east of Madeira: Discover Madeira's east side, from a traditional sugar cane factory in Porto da Cruz to unique triangular houses in Santana and a scenic walk through the Laurissilva forest.
• Day 4 - 6 - Relax in Funchal: Spend three days at leisure in Funchal. Options include swimming in the ocean pools, taking the cable car up Monte, visiting the Tropical Garden and exploring Funchal's vibrant Botanical Gardens.
• Day 7 - Fly to São Miguel, Azores: Depart Madeira for São Miguel in the Azores. Begin with a half-day excursion to the mesmerising Sete Cidades Lagoon.
• Day 8 - Exploration of the Furnas Valley: Visit the Furnas Valley, famous for its volcanic phenomena and stunning Terra Nostra Garden. Enjoy a unique dish of ‘cozido das Furnas’, cooked underground using geothermal heat.
• Day 9 - Sailing around São Miguel: Spend the day sailing around São Miguel. Swim in the crystal clear waters and observe dolphins and other marine life.
• Day 10 - Departure from Ponta Delgada: Finish your journey by departing from Ponta Delgada Airport.

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Portugal itinerary 14 days

If time permits, choose this 14-day grand tour of Portugal that takes you from the historic streets of Porto to the charming Algarve coast. Each day opens a new chapter in this scenic journey through Portugal's most enchanting destinations.

• Day 1 - Welcome to Porto: Arrive in Porto and settle into your hotel. Begin to absorb the rich cultural atmosphere of the city.
• Day 2 - Porto's Historic Core: Discover Porto on a private walking tour, visit key landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's historic charm.
• Day 3 - Culinary Masterclass and tour of Porto's markets: Explore local markets with a chef and then attend a hands-on cookery workshop where you'll learn how to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes.
• Day 4 - Douro River Cruise: Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Douro Valley on a river cruise that includes visits to several quintas and wine tasting.
• Day 5 - Travelling to Lisbon: Travel from Porto to Lisbon, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture and picturesque waterfronts of Portugal's capital city.
• Day 6 - Food Roots of Lisbon walking tour: Explore Lisbon's culinary scene and history on a walking tour of the city's little-known neighbourhoods.
• Day 7 - Fado Dinner in Lisbon: Enjoy the soulful sounds of Fado music paired with traditional Portuguese dishes.
• Day 8 - Day at leisure in Lisbon: Enjoy a relaxing day in Lisbon, with time to stroll, shop or simply relax in your hotel.
• Day 9 - From Lisbon to the Algarve: Head south to the Algarve, where stunning views of the Ria Formosa Lagoon in Lagos await.
• Day 10 - Swimming from Lagos to Sagres: Set sail along the coast from Lagos to Sagres, enjoying coastal views, hidden beaches and water activities.
• Day 11 - Jeep tour of Western Portugal: Explore historic Silves and picturesque Monchique on a jeep tour, including a visit to Foia, the highest peak in the region.
• Day 12 - Transfer to Faro: Depart for Faro, the lively capital of the Algarve, known for its historic old town and beautiful marina.
• Day 13 - Ria Formosa Islands cruise: Discover the Ria Formosa Islands on a day cruise, exploring their wild beaches and sampling local seafood.
• Day 14 - Farewell to the Algarve: Finish your journey with a transfer to the airport.

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How to plan your Portugal travel itinerary

Getting around Portugal

Portugal offers a wide range of ways to get around to suit different styles and preferences. Here's a list of the best ways to get around and explore Portugal's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities:

• Travelling by train: Trains in Portugal are reliable, and affordable and connect major cities and regions, making them a fantastic option for sightseeing.
• Car rental: Hire a car to explore the country at your own pace. Drive around iconic locations such as the Algarve's coastal roads or the historic sites of central Portugal.
• Local and intercity buses: Buses are a budget option to reach areas not easily accessible by train. They cover the whole of Portugal, connecting even remote villages.
• Cycling through urban and rural areas: For eco-friendly and leisurely journeys, cycling is ideal in cities, as well as in the countryside where you can enjoy the natural beauty at a slower pace.
• Rental scooters and mopeds: Rent a scooter to get around the narrow city streets or travel through the countryside. This option offers a fun and flexible way to get around, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors.
• Domestic flights: For travelling quickly between remote regions, such as from Lisbon to Madeira or the Azores, you can take domestic flights on carriers such as TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair, which are efficient and often reasonably priced.
• Taxis and ride-sharing apps: Uber and other ride-sharing services are available in major cities and tourist areas, offering convenient and direct transport to your destination.

Also don't miss our guide on how to get to Portugal.

Is Portugal expensive?

Portugal is recognised as a relatively budget destination. A daily budget of 45-90 EUR is usually sufficient for a comfortable stay, making Portugal an attractive option for travellers. If you are looking for a more luxurious holiday, you can count on 180-270 EUR per day. 

When it comes to accommodation, Portugal is tailored for different levels of affordability: from economical hostels priced from 9 to 18 EUR per night to high-end five-star hotels, which in major cities such as Lisbon and Porto can cost around 180 EUR per night.

Eating out in Portugal is also very favourable. Many local restaurants offer hearty Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau or piri piri chicken for as little as 4.5-9 EUR, allowing you to enjoy the country's culinary delights without overpaying. The cost may increase if you opt for more exclusive restaurants or take advantage of private tours and upscale resorts.

How many days do you need in Portugal?

The required length of your stay in Portugal can vary depending on your interests, but here's how to maximise your time:

If you have a week at your disposal focus on major cities like Lisbon and Porto to enjoy their rich culture and history without rushing.

Extending your trip to ten days will allow you to visit the stunning Algarve coastline or the historic gems of central Portugal, such as Obidos and the monasteries of Batalha and Alcobaça.

A two-week stay allows you to thoroughly explore the mainland, combining the north and south of the country with natural wonders such as the Douro Valley.

Three weeks will give you enough time for a deeper dive, perhaps visiting the Azores or Madeira, while a full month allows you to leisurely explore little-known regions and take part in local festivals.

Best places to add to your travel itinerary Portugal

Estremadura and Ribatejo

Now rebranded as South Centro de Portugal and northwest Alentejo, the historic districts of Estremadura and Ribatejo have some of the most famous buildings in Portugal. The monastery at Alcobaça, the extraordinary abbey at Batalha and the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Tomar are all easily accessible, even by public transport, and offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s tangled past. 

Other attractions are equally high profile, from the walled medieval town of Óbidos to the tremendous castle at Leiria, while the obscenely ornate palace-monastery of Mafra always intrigues. Heads are also turned by the shrine at Fátima, the country’s (and, indeed, one of the world’s) most important pilgrimage sites.

Coimbra and the Beira Litoral

The province of Beira Litoral is dominated by the city of Coimbra, which, with Guimarães, Lisbon and Porto, forms the quartet of Portugal’s historic capitals. Situated on a steep hill above the Rio Mondego, it’s a wonderfully moody place of ancient alleys and lanes, twisting and climbing around the country’s oldest university. 

As a base for exploring the region, the city can’t be beaten, with Portugal’s most extensive Roman site, Conímbriga, 16km to the southwest, the castle at Montemor-o-Velho, 32km west, and the delightful spa town of Luso and ancient forest of Buçaco under an hour’s journey to the north.

Beira Alta and Beira Baixa

The two historic mountain provinces of Beira Alta (Upper) and Beira Baixa (Lower) feature some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, from upland plains of enormous boulders to towering mountain peaks. This harsh but beautiful landscape was home to the mighty warrior Viriatus, who used its remote wildness to his advantage when repelling the Romans. Later, as Portugal strived for nationhood, many of the towns along and near the disputed border with Spain acquired mighty castles, still in existence today.

Porto and the Rio Douro

Lisbon might be the country’s capital, but Portugal’s second city, Porto, is certainly not second best. Dramatically situated at the mouth of the Rio Douro, it’s a massively atmospheric place that’s well worth a couple of days of your time – more if you plan to make a serious assault on the famous port wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia, located just across the river. 

For a convenient trip to the seaside, the pretty town of Vila do Conde, 45 minutes to the north, offers a taste of what’s to come as you head up the coast towards the Minho. East of Porto, meanwhile, the N15 or much faster A4 motorway runs inland to the vinho verde-producing towns of Penafiel and Amarante, the latter perhaps the single most attractive town in the region, set on the lazy Rio Tâmega.

The Minho

It’s around 100km from Porto to the mouth of the Rio Minho, a broad river of even broader historical and cultural significance for the Portuguese since it marks the border with neighbouring Spain. The river has lent its name to the entire northwestern province, the Minho – which tourists may see referred to as a rebranded sub-region of Porto and North Portugal. This area encompasses a range of postcard-worthy landscapes and features that could almost be Portugal in a microcosm: dreamy river scenes, high mountains, rolling vineyards, historic towns, dramatic Atlantic beaches, ancient religious foundations and mysterious archaeological sites. 

Add a modern network of roads – it takes only an hour or so to get from the main towns to remote hiking villages – and a useful regional bus and train network ensures the Minho is an instantly appealing region to visit, as a sort of Portugal-in-a nutshell experience, easily accessible straight out of Porto airport

Alentejo

The Alentejo covers a huge area, around a third of the country, stretching south from the Rio Tejo to the northern mountain ranges of the Algarve – the name derives from the words além do Tejo, beyond the Tejo River. This is Portugal’s garden, the bulk of the region given over to huge cork plantations, wheat fields and vineyards – and though much of it is flat, the region repays exploration, offering unexpected surprises, from ancient dolmens and superbly sited castles to Roman ruins and sweeping Atlantic beaches. 

Much of the population makes a living from the huge agricultural estates known as latifúndios, which are handed down from generation to generation – many have been in existence since Roman times. The vast farms are generally wildlife-friendly – the Alentejo is home to wild boar and hundreds of species of bird, from black stork to great bustard.

The Algarve

With many of the country’s safest and loveliest beaches and a year-round balmy climate, it is not surprising that the Algarve is Portugal’s most popular region for holidaymakers. Inevitably, this also means that stretches of the coast – in particular from Faro West to Albufeira – are heavily developed, though even here the beaches are first-rate, as are the facilities. Elsewhere in the Algarve, especially around Sagres and Tavira, the surroundings are more attractive, with laidback resorts and low-key development.

When's the best time to visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal, or ‘high season’, is usually from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach holidays and exploring the cities without the inconvenience of rain. This period is ideal for outdoor activities such as visiting vineyards, hiking in national parks and the many festivals taking place throughout the country.

Portugal's 'low season' lasts from October to April. During these months you can expect cooler temperatures and more rainfall, especially in the north of the country. However, there are fewer tourists and travel and accommodation prices drop. The landscapes are very green and periods of rain are often followed by clear and crisp days. This season has its own charm if you appreciate quiet travelling and the picturesque, misty landscapes of Portugal's scenic spots.

Price difference

The cost of travelling to Portugal varies between high and low seasons. During high season, accommodation and airfares can increase significantly due to increased demand. For popular destinations such as the Algarve or Lisbon, it is recommended to book tickets in advance.

Conversely, in the low season, prices will be lower due to fewer tourists. Choosing accommodation in central areas, such as Baixa in Lisbon or Ribeira in Porto, can be more affordable and you will still be close to the main attractions. If you are flexible with dates and don't mind the rain, travelling in the low season can be very economical.

Want to explore Europe even more? We have prepared the most convenient European itineraries for you to explore the continent.

Do you need a visa to enter Portugal?

UK Citizens

UK citizens planning to visit Portugal can enter the country without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. This applies to both tourist and business visits, allowing you to enjoy Portugal's rich culture, beautiful scenery and historical sites without the need for a visa.

US Citizens

US citizens can also enter Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days within 180 days. This makes travelling to Portugal easy, whether you are coming for leisure, business or both.

For stays of more than 90 days, UK and US citizens need to apply for a visa appropriate to the nature of the visit (e.g. work, study or long-term tourist). This can usually be done through the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country.

To ensure a smooth trip, also read our essential Portugal travel tips for year-round trips.