Overview of the 10-Day Portugal Itinerary

I designed this 10-day itinerary based on my personal travels across Portugal using only public transportation. While in Portugal during July and August, I found that many buses and trains sold out quickly. Therefore, if your travel dates are fixed, it’s wise to purchase intercity bus or train tickets online as soon as possible. For local trips using regional trains or buses, tickets can be easily acquired the morning of your journey.

A remarkable aspect of traveling in Portugal is the train system’s ability to accommodate delays. Almost all of my train rides were late, yet the next trains would wait for arriving passengers to make connections, alleviating much of the travel stress. Buses, on the other hand, were usually frequent and punctual.

I recommend starting and concluding your Portugal adventure in Lisbon, as this city’s airport offers more flights compared to Porto. If you manage to book a flight into Lisbon and return from Porto, you can enjoy some extra sightseeing in Porto!

At the end of this itinerary, I’ve also included an optional extension to the Algarve Coast, which is perfect for those who can extend their trip to two weeks.

Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

Accommodation Suggestion: Lisbon Cheese & Wine Suites or Bairro Alto Hotel

Welcome to Portugal! After arriving at Lisbon’s international airport, you can easily connect to the city center via metro, streamlining your arrival at your hotel (the options above are fantastic!).

If you prefer wandering, you won’t need much advance planning. However, I recommend getting a Lisbon Card for free access to over 50 attractions. The 24- or 48-hour card offers good value, while the 72-hour card is best if you plan a visit to Belem on Day 3.

Feel free to spend your first day exploring the historic center in the Rossio and Baixa-Chiado districts, where you can stroll along patterned sidewalks, view the National Museum of Contemporary Art, and visit the impressive Santa Justa Elevator.

Eventually, walk towards the Praca do Comercio and enjoy the riverside views. Make your way to the bustling Time Out Market for a delightful culinary experience, and snap a few pictures at the famous pink street.

Day 2: Discovering Lisbon

On your second day, start early to experience Lisbon’s iconic Tram #28E. It traverses the city, dropping you off near the Castelo de São Jorge. After exploring the castle, stroll downhill through the charming Alfama district, the only part of the city that survived the 1755 earthquake.

As you navigate the cobbled streets, make time to visit some historic squares and churches. At the bottom of the hill, you can visit the Fado Museum, although I recommend saving that for later as you will have an opportunity to enjoy Fado music further along in your itinerary.

Day 3: Day Trips from Lisbon

Take a break from the city and embark on a day trip to one of the popular nearby destinations: Cascais, Belem, or Sintra.

Option A: Cascais

Cascais is a picturesque town along the coast, perfect for enjoying art museums, architectural monuments, and serene beaches. It’s just an hour’s train ride from Lisbon.

Option B: Belem

Belem is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. A quick 30-minute train ride takes you from Lisbon to Belem, where you can also enjoy the renowned pastel de nata.

Option C: Sintra

Sintra, a picturesque town in the hills, is home to the colorful Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle. It’s accessible via a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon.

Day 4: Obidos

Accommodation Suggestion: Casa Lidador Obidos

Check out of your hotel in Lisbon and head to Obidos, a medieval town that feels worlds away. Enjoy the scenic views from the castle walls as you explore this stunning town. If you happen to visit in July, you might catch the Obidos Medieval Market event!

Day 5: Coimbra

Accommodation Suggestion: Pharmacia Guesthouse

Travel to Coimbra, where you can explore the historic university, one of the oldest in Europe. Don’t miss the stunning Joanina Library and the nearby Botanic Gardens, perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Be sure to experience a free Fado concert at Café Santa Cruz, showcasing this unique and hauntingly beautiful music.

Days 6-10: Porto, Guimaraes, Douro Valley, and Return to Lisbon

Travel to Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, where you can explore vibrant neighborhoods, the stunning riverfront, and indulge in local cuisine such as the famous francesinha sandwich. Consider a day trip to Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal, and don’t miss a tour through the picturesque Douro Valley for some unforgettable wine experiences.

At the end of your adventure, return to Lisbon for your flight home, making sure to stop by the local shops to pick up some wine and souvenirs.