Visiting Portugal for the first time can be an exciting and fascinating experience, but you may be overwhelmed by the choices. Should you explore the bustling capital city of Lisbon, the authentic raw power of Porto, the medieval castles in the rural countryside, or sunbathe on one of the many beautiful beaches along Portugal’s vast coastline? Here’s a comprehensive 7-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to Portugal, ensuring you don’t miss out on the country’s must-see attractions while still having time to relax and enjoy yourself. This itinerary is designed to be car-free, making it easy and convenient for travelers. Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- No car needed for this itinerary
- Focus on Lisbon, Sintra, Coimbra, and Porto
- Optional day trips to Nazaré or Coimbra
- Experience local culture, food, and history
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon
Most tourists will be flying into the Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon. After a long flight, you may be jet-lagged, so I recommend staying in or near the charming neighborhood of Príncipe Real. This area has some of the best restaurants in Lisbon and is a perfect place to call your home base. Avoid the very touristic areas as they can be noisy.
If you’re not too tired, there are plenty of places to walk to for dinner in this area that are very much worth it.
Day 2: Explore Historic Lisbon
Start your day at the Praça do Comércio, one of the most famous places in Lisbon. Located on the Tagus River, this plaza is a great spot to get a sense of the city. From here, you can explore the Baixa district, but be cautious as many restaurants and cafes here are tourist traps.
In the evening, head to Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest areas. The best place to see the sunset is from the Castelo de São Jorge. Afterward, enjoy a Fado show at a local Fado house like Mesa de Frades, where you can experience Portugal’s famous Fado music and traditional Portuguese food.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
A day trip to Sintra is a must. The National Palace of Pena is one of the most photogenic locations in all of Portugal. The views and beauty of this area will give you a glimpse into the captivating and rich history of Portugal.
Return to Lisbon in the evening and spend a night out in the Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré areas, which are bustling with restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Day 4: Coimbra or Nazaré
You have two options for a day trip on your way to Porto: Coimbra or Nazaré.
- Coimbra: Home to Portugal’s oldest library and one of the most romantic and authentic bigger cities in Portugal. Coimbra is also known for its tragic medieval love story of Pedro and Inês.
- Nazaré: Famous for its massive waves, especially during the big wave season from November to March. It’s a cool fisherman village with incredible seafood and a huge beach.
Day 5: Arrival in Porto
Stay in the Cedofeita area, which is centrally located and within walking distance to many attractions. Spend your evening exploring the area and getting a feel for the city.
Day 6: Explore Porto
Start your morning at Mercado do Bolhão, a great place for coffee and breakfast. Walk through Rua de Santa Catarina, one of the busiest streets in Porto. Then, visit the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, a beautiful garden with sculptures and a treetop walk.
Don’t miss trying Porto’s famous Francesinha, a sandwich loaded with Portuguese linguiça, sausage, steak, ham, and lots of cheese, smothered in a special beer sauce.
Day 7: Douro River and Vila Nova de Gaia
Take a boat tour on the Douro River, an experience you can’t miss. Then, visit Vila Nova de Gaia, where all the famous Port houses are located. You can book tours to see where the wine is fermented and learn about the process and history.
Finally, take the 3-hour and 15-minute bus back to Lisbon the night before your flight out the next day.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of Portugal’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Lisbon, the romantic alleys of Coimbra, or the scenic beauty of Porto, this guide ensures you make the most of your first trip to Portugal. Enjoy your journey!
