How Long to Spend in Portugal (Top Itineraries and Side Trips)

Although Portugal may be a small country, it offers a diverse range of destinations waiting to be explored. From magnificent castles and palaces to beautiful gardens, charming small towns, captivating volcanic islands, and stunning beaches, Portugal has it all. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the coastal beauty, this article will help you plan your trip to Portugal by providing itinerary ideas and suggestions.

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1. How Many Days to Spend in Portugal

How long you should spend in Portugal depends on your preferences, budget, and the destinations you want to explore. However, generally speaking, it is recommended to spend at least 7 to 10 days to fully experience the highlights of Portugal's historical sites and attractions.

If you have limited time, focusing on specific regions, such as Lisbon and Porto, would be a great choice. These cities offer a combination of historical sites, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Spending about 3–4 days in each city would allow you to explore their main highlights thoroughly.

For a more comprehensive experience, you could allocate additional time to visit other regions, such as the Algarve in the south, which is known for its stunning beaches. The Douro Valley is another region worth visiting, offering wine-tasting experiences and scenic views. Exploring charming towns like Sintra, Évora, or Coimbra would also be worthwhile additions to your itinerary, depending on your interests.

2. Portugal in 7 Days — A Classic Itinerary

With 7 days in Portugal, you have the opportunity to explore the highlights of the country, visiting Porto and Lisbon. You could dedicate 3 days to Lisbon and Sintra, 3 days to Porto and the Douro Valley, and reserve the last day for your departure from Porto. Here is an example of a classic itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Lisbon (visit the highlights of Lisbon)
• Day 3: A day trip to Sintra (palaces and castles)
• Day 4: Lisbon to Porto via Coimbra
• Day 5: Porto
• Day 6: A day trip to the Douro Valley
• Day 7: Porto departure

You would begin your guided tour in Lisbon, exploring some highlights, such as Torre de Belém, the Monument to the Discoveries, and the Jerónimos Monastery. Wander through Alfama's charming streets leading to a castle, showcasing a mix of history and vibrant residences. Take a 30-minute drive from Lisbon to Sintra for palaces and stunning vistas at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe.

En route to Porto, stop in Coimbra to visit the esteemed university. In Porto, discover historic sites, such as Ponte de Dom Luís I, the Church of Saint Francis, Bolsa Palace, and Porto Cathedral. Spend another day there to explore the picturesque Douro Valley with terraced vineyards, culminating in a tasting of renowned port wine.

7-Day Portugal Highlights Porto, Lisbon?& Sintra: Portugal's Must-See Gems

3. 7-Day Family Tours of Portugal

Do you only have 1 week available, want to travel with children, and are looking for a cultural and beach vacation? If so, this tour is perfect for you. Get ready to experience the enchanting beauty of Portugal in an unforgettable 7-day family adventure! Here is an example of a top family itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Visit the highlights of Lisbon
• Day 3: Day trip to Sintra (Sintra National Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Capo da Roca)
• Day 4: Lisbon to Porto via Coimbra (Coimbra New Cathedral, the Joanina Library, and the Machado de Castro National Museum)
• Days 5–7: The Algarve (Faro, beach time, dolphin and wildlife watching)

With the above itinerary, you would explore the highlights of Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto. To charm your children, we've included Faro in the Algarve region, where you could experience an exhilarating dolphin and wildlife-watching adventure — perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Immerse yourself in Faro's rich culture starting at the Municipal Museum for a deep dive into local history. Stroll through the charming streets of Faro Old Town, culminating at the majestic Faro Cathedral, where architectural wonders await. A day filled with nature and heritage awaits in Faro.

7-Day Portugal Family Beach Vacation Beaches, History & Fun for the Whole Family

4. Portugal in 10 Days — Culture and Beaches

With 10 days in Portugal, you could enjoy a comprehensive journey spanning from the north to the south, immersing yourself in the country's essential destinations and diverse cultures. Here is an example of a classic 10-day itinerary:

• Days 1–3: Lisbon and Sintra (as above)
• Days 4–6: Porto and the Douro Valley (as above)
• Days 7–9: the Algarve region (Lagos)
• Day 10: Lisbon departure

In Lisbon and Porto, you would have the same tour as days 1 to 6 of itinerary 1 above.

While in Lagos, you would have the chance to savor independent explorations within and outside the old town's 16th-century walls, featuring charming cobblestone streets and bustling squares.

Dive into a mix of traditional and contemporary dining and entertainment options.

For beach enthusiasts, you could bask on Lagos' picturesque beaches, such as Pinhao Beach, the dramatic cliffs of Ponta da Piedade, and the scenic Praia do Camilo, which is accessible by wooden steps. The broader Algarve region boasts pristine natural parks, vibrant resort towns, and authentic whitewashed villages, offering a captivating range of experiences to enhance your journey.

10-Day Portugal Highlights History, Food & The Allure of the Coast

5. 12 Days in Portugal with Port Wine Tasting

If you have 12 days in Portugal, besides the top destinations, you could add the Douro Valley for port wine tasting. During this tour, you would sample authentic port wine flavors as you explore the scenic landscapes of northern Portugal, making this itinerary perfect for a wine-loving couple's getaway. Here is an example of a classic port-tasting itinerary:

• Days 1–4: Porto
• Days 5–6: Viana do Castelo
• Days 7–8: Braga
• Days 9–11: The Douro Valley
• Day 12: Porto departure

Begin your trip in Porto, where you would spend 3 days exploring its various historical landmarks and attractions, such as São Bento Railway Station, Clérigos Tower, the Lello Bookshop, Bolhão Market, and more. Don't forget to leave some time for Porto Cathedral and reveling in panoramic views of the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge.

Next, journey north with your driver to Viana do Castelo, with a stop in Esposende for some beach relaxation or cultural exploration. In Viana do Castelo, marvel at the Santa Luzia Church's impressive views and spend a day hiking in Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Move on to Braga to visit landmarks, such as Braga Cathedral, Bom Jesus do Monte, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro, which are significant pilgrimage sites. Finally, immerse yourself in the Douro Valley for 3 days, relishing exceptional wines and taking a guided tour of tastings. Experience a leisurely riverboat cruise, explore Lamego for cultural insights, and visit some of the largest vineyards specializing in port wine production.

6. 2 Weeks in Portugal — Discover Madeira

If you have 2 weeks in Portugal, then consider hiking through a forest on a volcanic island and discovering the beauty of its quaint villages and picturesque landscapes.

• Days 1–4: Lisbon and Sintra (as above)
• Days 5–8: Porto and the Douro Valley (as above)
• Days 9–13: Madeira (exploring and hiking in a volcanic island landscape)
• Day 14: Lisbon departure

For the itinerary in Porto and Lisbon, please see itinerary 1 above.

On the ninth day of your itinerary, board a flight from Lisbon to Madeira and touch down in Funchal, capital of the beautiful island.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in a private culinary tour of Funchal, savoring the local delicacies that define Madeira's gastronomic culture.

Then, spend 2 days there to explore Funchal's Old Town, bask in the sun on volcanic beaches, or wander through picturesque villages, such as Curral das Freiras. Alternatively, opt for a private cruise where you could marvel at dolphins and whales in their natural habitat while witnessing a stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

For those with a passion for hiking, dedicate a day to conquering the 25 Fontes trail alongside your local guide. Prepare to be captivated by the island's unique landscapes as you trek through lush forests, encountering mesmerizing waterfalls that exemplify the enchanting beauty of this volcanic paradise.