I still remember my first evening in Lisbon—the melancholic notes of a Fado singer drifting from a tiny Alfama restaurant, cobblestones still warm from the day’s sun, and the air sweet with grilled sardines and pastries. Portugal has a way of getting under your skin, and with this carefully crafted 7-day Portugal itinerary, I promise it will capture your heart too. As an experiential travel strategist with over a decade in the field and more than a month cumulatively on the ground in Portugal, this isn’t just another generic guide. It’s a strategic itinerary built from real journeys, extensive research, and the distilled wisdom of fellow travelers who’ve shared their wins and mistakes.
Planning Your Perfect 7-Day Portugal Trip: Pre-Trip Essentials
Is 7 Days Really Enough for Portugal?
The honest answer is that seven days is the perfect “appetizer” to Portugal’s rich culture and landscapes. It’s enough time to fall in love with the country but not nearly enough to see everything. The single biggest mistake first-time visitors make is trying to do too much—cramming Lisbon, Porto, AND the southern Algarve coast into one week creates a rushed, surface-level trip spent mostly in transit.
The fundamental challenge for any one-week adventure in Portugal is managing the desire to see it all against the reality of travel time. The consensus from experienced travelers is clear: pick two regions at most. The logistical reality is that traveling from Lisbon to the Algarve consumes the better part of a day. Therefore, this guide presents the Lisbon and Porto combination as the primary recommendation because it offers a perfect blend of city life, culture, history, and food for a first visit.
However, some travelers find the pace between two major cities can feel rushed, especially during peak season when attractions are crowded. The alternative Algarve-focused itinerary works better for those seeking relaxation over cultural immersion.
Best Time to Visit for Your 7-Day Portugal Adventure
The sweet spot for visiting Portugal is undoubtedly the shoulder seasons: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for walking through the hilly cities, the countryside is in full bloom in the spring, and the Douro Valley buzzes with the grape harvest in the fall.
Summer (June to August) offers perfect beach weather but comes with significant downsides. The heat can be intense, especially in central Portugal, and coastal areas become packed with tourists, causing accommodation rates to skyrocket. Winter (November to February) provides a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers focused on city exploration and museums, though there’s a higher chance of rain, and many older accommodations lack adequate heating.
Transportation for Your 7 Days in Portugal
For the most efficient use of your time, the “open-jaw” flight hack is a game-changer. Fly into one city and out of another—arrive in Lisbon (LIS) and depart from Porto (OPO). This simple strategy saves you from a half-day of backtracking.
To travel between Lisbon and Porto, the train is king. The high-speed Alfa Pendular or slightly slower Intercidades trains are comfortable, scenic, and efficient, taking approximately 3 hours. A critical piece of advice: book these train tickets in advance. A ticket purchased a month ahead might cost around €10, while the same ticket bought on the day of travel could be €35 or more.
For the primary Lisbon-Porto itinerary, do not rent a car. Driving in these cities is notoriously difficult due to narrow, winding streets, aggressive local drivers, and a severe lack of parking. However, some travelers find that missing the flexibility of a car limits spontaneous discoveries, especially for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Days 1-3: Lisbon – City of Seven Hills and Fado Music
Where to Stay in Lisbon
For your home base, different neighborhoods suit different traveler profiles. Chiado offers a fantastic all-around choice with its central location, charm, and a great selection of restaurants and shops. Baixa is flatter and more modern, making it easier to navigate. Alfama is steeped in history and atmosphere, but be prepared for steep, winding hills that can be challenging for those with mobility concerns.
Day 1: Arrival and Historic Heartbeat (Alfama and Baixa)
Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport (LIS), take an Uber or taxi to your accommodation. After settling in, the best way to get your bearings is with a free walking tour, typically starting in Rossio Square and providing a great overview of the Baixa and Chiado districts.
In the late afternoon, make the rewarding climb up to Castelo de São Jorge. The panoramic views over the city’s terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River at sunset are simply breathtaking. Even in shoulder seasons, Lisbon can be crowded, so booking castle tickets online in advance is wise. For the evening, immerse yourself in the ancient Alfama district. Get lost in its narrow, labyrinthine streets and find a small, family-run restaurant for an authentic Fado performance—the soulful, melancholic music is a quintessential Lisbon experience.
The main challenge with Day 1 is that jet lag can make the steep climbs to viewpoints more difficult than expected, and many first-time visitors underestimate how much walking is involved in Lisbon’s hilly terrain.
Day 2: Age of Discoveries and Modern Cool (Belém and LX Factory)
Start your day by taking a tram or Uber out to the historic district of Belém. Here, you’ll find two UNESCO World Heritage sites that are monuments to Portugal’s Golden Age of Discovery: the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower.
For lunch, you must try the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém. Here’s crucial insider advice: the line to sit down is often immense, but the “to-go line” moves much faster. Grab a box of warm, creamy custard tarts and enjoy them in the peaceful Jardim da Praça do Império across the street.
In the afternoon, shift from historic to contemporary with a visit to LX Factory. This revitalized 19th-century industrial complex is now a vibrant hub of creativity, filled with quirky independent shops, artist studios, and unique cafés. For a memorable dinner, make a reservation well in advance at Ponto Final, a simple restaurant located across the river in Cacilhas, famous for incredible sunset views of the 25 de Abril Bridge.
While Belém offers incredible historical value, some visitors find the area can feel touristy and crowded, especially around the pastry shop, where lines can exceed an hour during peak times.
Day 3: A Fairytale Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon
Prepare for a day of enchantment with a trip to Sintra. The logistics are straightforward: take the train from Rossio station in central Lisbon. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs around €5 for a roundtrip ticket. A critical tip: you must validate your paper ticket in the small machines on the platform before boarding to avoid a hefty fine.
Sintra is a place of immense beauty but can be overwhelmingly popular. To avoid frustration, focus on just two main sites. The top choices are the whimsical, multi-colored Pena Palace, a masterpiece of 19th-century Romanticism, and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, an estate filled with grottoes, hidden tunnels, and the famous inverted tower known as the Initiation Well.
To manage crowds, it’s absolutely essential to start early by catching one of the first trains from Lisbon and to book all palace tickets online for specific time slots well in advance. The major downside is that even with advance planning, Sintra can feel rushed and overcrowded during peak season, sometimes detracting from the magical atmosphere the palaces are famous for.
Day 4: High-Speed Train to Porto
Enjoy a final Lisbon breakfast and perhaps one last pastel de nata. Head to either Santa Apolónia or Oriente train station to catch your pre-booked train to Porto. The journey itself is an enjoyable part of the experience, offering a window into the changing Portuguese landscape as you travel north.
You’ll arrive at Porto’s Campanhã station; from there, it’s a short local train or Uber ride to the city center. Many travelers choose to get off at the stunning São Bento station to be greeted by its famous tile murals. After checking into your accommodation, preferably in or near the historic Ribeira district for walkability, take your first walk down to the riverfront. The initial view of the Douro River, the majestic two-tiered Dom Luís I Bridge, and the colorful houses of the Ribeira is an unforgettable moment that defines Porto.
Days 5-6: Exploring Porto, Home of Port Wine
Day 5: Riverside Charm and Port Wine (Ribeira and Gaia)
Begin your exploration in the heart of the city, the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From there, walk across the upper deck of the Dom Luís I Bridge. This vantage point offers the most breathtaking panoramic views of both Porto’s old town and the Port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia on the opposite bank.
Spend the afternoon in Vila Nova de Gaia, immersing yourself in the world of Port wine. Take a guided tour and tasting at one of the many historic Port lodges, such as Graham’s, Sandeman, or Cálem, to learn about the history and production of this famous fortified wine. In the evening, watch the sunset from Jardim do Morro, a lovely park situated at the Gaia end of the bridge’s upper level. For dinner, head back across the river to Porto and seek out a traditional restaurant like O Buraco or Antunes for an authentic and affordable taste of the city’s hearty cuisine.
While the Port wine experience is universally praised, some visitors find that multiple tastings can become expensive quickly, and the steep climb back up from the riverfront can be challenging after wine tastings.
Day 6: Azulejos, Books, and City Views
Start your day at São Bento Station, not to catch a train, but to admire its magnificent vestibule. The walls are covered with over 20,000 blue-and-white azulejo tiles that depict scenes from Portugal’s history, creating a stunning open-air art gallery.
From there, make your way to Livraria Lello, the ornate bookstore often cited as an inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s depiction of Hogwarts. This is one of Porto’s most popular attractions, and it’s crucial to book your entrance voucher online in advance to avoid waiting in very long lines. In the afternoon, climb the 240 steps of the Clérigos Tower for spectacular 360-degree views of the city.
Afterward, wander through the streets seeking out other beautiful tiled facades, like the striking blue and white exterior of the Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls). For your final evening meal, you must try Porto’s signature dish: the Francesinha. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an event—a hearty creation with layers of cured meats, covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a rich, savory tomato and beer sauce.
The main drawback of Day 6 is that Livraria Lello has become so popular that even with advance booking, the experience can feel rushed and crowded, sometimes not living up to the magical expectations many visitors have.
Day 7: Douro Valley Wine Tour or Final Porto Exploration
Option A (If you have a full day and late flight): A guided day trip to the Douro Valley is consistently rated by travelers as a highlight of their entire Portugal trip. This is the best way to experience the world’s oldest demarcated wine region without the stress of navigating winding roads yourself. A typical full-day tour includes visits and tastings at two different quintas (wine estates), a delicious traditional Portuguese lunch with vineyard views, and a relaxing one-hour cruise on the Douro River.
Option B (If you have a morning/afternoon flight): Enjoy a final leisurely Portuguese breakfast. Do some last-minute souvenir shopping for ceramics or cork products along the charming Rua das Flores. Be sure to grab one last pastel de nata from Manteigaria, a local favorite that rivals Lisbon’s best. Finally, head to Porto Airport (OPO) for your flight home, filled with memories of a wonderful week.
Alternative 7-Day Portugal Itineraries for Different Travel Styles
The Sun-Seeker’s Dream (7 Days on the Algarve Coast)
This itinerary is designed for travelers who prioritize beautiful beaches, dramatic coastlines, and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. A rental car is essential to properly explore this region, and the best plan is to fly directly into Faro (FAO).
Split your time between the western and eastern parts of the coast. Make Lagos your home base for the first 3-4 nights. It has a charming historic center and provides easy access to the Algarve’s most iconic, cliff-backed beaches like Praia do Camilo and Praia Dona Ana. From Lagos, take a boat or kayak tour to explore the stunning Ponta da Piedade rock formations and the world-famous Benagil Cave.
For the latter part of your week, relocate to a quieter base in the eastern Algarve, such as Tavira or Olhão. This area is characterized by the tranquil lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and long, serene sandbar islands accessible by ferry.
The Algarve offers incredible beaches and outdoor activities, but many visitors find that a week focused solely on this region can feel repetitive, and the summer crowds can be overwhelming. Additionally, accommodation prices during peak season can be 40-50% higher than in other parts of Portugal.
The History Buff’s Road Trip (7 Days in Central Portugal)
This road trip is perfect for travelers fascinated by Roman ruins, medieval castles, and the rich history of the Knights Templar. A rental car is required for this route, which can be done as a loop beginning and ending in Lisbon.
Start by driving east from Lisbon into the heart of the Alentejo region to Évora, a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage city. Spend the first two days exploring its incredible Roman Temple, the formidable Sé Cathedral, and the hauntingly beautiful Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones). Next, drive north to Tomar to visit the magnificent Convent of Christ, a sprawling former Knights Templar stronghold.
Visit the Batalha Monastery, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and consider a stop at the nearby Roman ruins of Conímbriga. Spend a day in Óbidos, a picture-perfect medieval town completely encircled by fortified walls.
While this itinerary offers incredible historical depth, it requires comfortable driving on sometimes narrow, winding roads, and some visitors find that without a strong interest in history, the pace can feel slow compared to the energy of Lisbon and Porto.
Top 10 Portugal Travel Mistakes to Avoid on a 7-Day Trip
- Overscheduling your trip: Don’t try to see it all. Portugal’s charm lies in its unhurried pace. Leave room for spontaneous moments.
- Packing the wrong shoes: The beautiful calçada portuguesa (traditional cobblestone sidewalks) are charming but uneven and can be incredibly slippery when wet. Comfortable, supportive sneakers with good grip are non-negotiable.
- Relying only on credit cards: Many smaller establishments, local markets, and cafes are cash-only. Always carry some Euros.
- Confusing Portugal with Spain: The two countries have distinct cultures, histories, and languages. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will be warmly appreciated.
- Skipping the ‘Prato do Dia’: For the most authentic and best-value lunch, look for handwritten signs advertising the Prato do Dia (Dish of the Day).
- Ignoring ticket validation: On local trains, you must validate your paper ticket before boarding or face fines.
- Bringing a giant suitcase: Many charming, older hotels don’t have elevators. Pack light in a manageable bag.
- Falling for ATM currency conversion scams: Always choose to be charged in Euros, not your home currency.
- Thinking you can just ‘show up’ at top attractions: Book tickets online for specific time slots days or weeks in advance for popular sites.
- Underestimating the hills: Lisbon is built on seven steep hills. Use public transport or Uber for the steepest inclines.
A well-planned 7-day Portugal itinerary is the perfect introduction to the undeniable magic of this country, effortlessly blending grand history with warm, contemporary energy. Whether you choose the classic city combination of Lisbon and Porto, the sun-drenched Algarve coast, or the historic heartland of the Alentejo, you’re guaranteed an experience rich in culture, flavor, and unforgettable scenery. Portugal rewards curiosity, so go, wander, get a little lost, eat that extra pastry, and let the country’s warm, unhurried rhythm guide your perfect week-long adventure.
Read more:
