Are you planning your trip to Portugal? With this Portugal itinerary you can follow the exact route we took, spending just under three weeks in the country. We travelled at a relaxed pace and based ourselves in four different places: Porto, Évora, Lagos and Lisbon. If that sounds like your kind of trip, then keep on reading.
By using just four different bases we didn’t have to pack and unpack every other day, and could explore each region with plenty of time to spare. This itinerary works equally well for a two- or three-week trip, as you can shorten or extend your stay at any of these locations.
Portugal is one of those destinations that feels easy to explore. Distances are manageable, public transport works well between major cities, and the landscapes change often enough to keep the trip exciting.
Below you’ll find an overview of the route, practical advice on how to get around, and a detailed guide to each stop. It’s a great introduction to Portugal’s culture, food, towns and varied scenery.
Check out my Portugal Travel Guide for more inspiration.
2–3 Week Portugal Itinerary Overview
Map of Our Route Through Portugal
This map shows the complete route of our Portugal itinerary, from Porto and the Douro Valley to Évora, the Algarve and Lisbon. It includes all major stops and day trips to help you plan your journey.
Our Day-By-Day Portugal Itinerary
Take a look at the Portugal itinerary overview below. This reflects exactly how we spent our days and where we stayed overnight. The structure offers a laid-back rhythm while still allowing you to cover a lot of ground.
| Days | What to Do | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | Explore Porto & take a day trip to the Douro Valley | Porto |
| 5 | Drive to Évora with a stop in Coimbra | Évora |
| 6–7 | Explore Évora & visit Monsaraz | Évora |
| 8 | Stop in Mértola en route to the Algarve | Lagos |
| 9–12 | Discover Lagos, Sagres, Cabo de São Vicente & the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail | Lagos |
| 13 | Drive to Lisbon with lunch in Alcácer do Sal | Lisbon |
| 14–18 | Explore Lisbon, with day trips to Sintra and Cascais | Lisbon |
Getting to Portugal
We flew with KLM, as they service both Porto (OPO) and Lisbon (LIS). This allowed us to book a multi-city ticket, flying into Porto and out of Lisbon.
However, if your flights are round-trip to Lisbon, you can simply start this itinerary by taking the train from Lisbon to Porto (~3 hrs). Alternatively, you could travel the route in reverse if that suits your plans better.
How to Get Around On This Portugal Itinerary
Portugal is very doable by public transport, especially if your focus is Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra or the bigger towns along the coast. Trains and buses between major cities are reliable and affordable.
However, many of the places that make this itinerary so enjoyable are much easier to reach with a car. The Alentejo countryside, the hilltop villages around Évora, and the wild stretches of the Algarve coastline all benefit from having your own wheels.
We didn’t rent a car straight away. You don’t need a car in Porto, and you don’t want one in Lisbon. Both cities have walkable centres and good public transport, and parking can be inconvenient and expensive.
Instead, we picked up our rental car on our final evening in Porto so we could hit the road early in the morning. We kept the car until we reached Lisbon. This gave us complete flexibility for the central part of the journey without having to worry about driving in the bigger cities.
Cost saving tip: Use booking.com to compare and find the perfect rental car deal.
Now that you have a good idea of the itinerary and how to get around Portugal, let’s take a closer look at what you can see and do at each of the stops.
Days 1–4 | Porto
Porto is the perfect place to start a trip through Portugal. It’s compact, atmospheric and full of character, with steep streets, blue-and-white tiles everywhere, and plenty of viewpoints across the Douro River.
We spent five nights here, so we could explore the city at an easy pace and enjoy a full day in the Douro Valley. Porto also has a great food (try the francesinha) and coffee scene, so it’s a lovely place to settle in for a few days before starting the road trip south.
Where to stay in Porto: We stayed in a wonderful family-owned refurbished apartment at Blau 1911.
Explore Porto’s Historic Centre
Porto’s historic centre is best explored on foot, and walking around is half the fun. The Ribeira district, with its colourful medieval houses along the river, is one of the most recognisable parts of the city.
From here, you get fantastic views of the Dom Luís I Bridge, which connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. Crossing this bridge is a small highlight in itself, especially in late afternoon light when the whole riverfront glows.
Nearby, São Bento Station is worth a stop for its beautifully painted tile panels that depict important scenes from Portuguese history. The Clérigos Tower, just a short walk away, offers one of the best viewpoints over the city.
Read next: The Essential Porto Travel Guide | What To Do, Eat & See
Ribeira, Vila Nova de Gaia & Port Wine Cellars
A visit to Porto isn’t complete without crossing to Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the city’s famous port wine cellars. Many offer tours and tastings, and it’s a great way to learn about the different styles of port.
Even if you’re not planning to do a full tasting, it’s worth spending some time in this area. The views back towards Porto’s terraced hills are fantastic, especially from the riverside walkway or from the terrace near the cable car.
The riverside promenade on both sides of the Douro is ideal for a slow afternoon. Street musicians play along the water, boats come and go, and cafés spill out onto the pavements.
Note: We spent three days exploring Porto, but you could see most of what the city has to offer in two days. That gives you extra time to go on another day trip, such as a full-day tour to Guimarães and Braga.
A Day Trip to the Douro Valley
The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions and one of the oldest wine-growing areas in the world. Terraced vineyards stretch along the hillsides, and the river winds through the landscape in wide curves. It’s a wonderful place to spend a day.
We joined this small-group tour, which included visits to wineries, a traditional lunch and a short river cruise in a traditional rabelo boat.
The day was easygoing, the scenery was spectacular, and we didn’t have to worry about driving on narrow country roads after wine tastings. For us, it was the best way to enjoy the region.
Read next: Douro Valley Day Trip From Porto | What To Expect & How To Visit
Day 5 | Drive South to Évora via Coimbra
After four full days in Porto, it was time to start the next stage of our trip. We left the city early in the morning (having picked up our rental car the night before), and began the drive south towards Évora.
Instead of heading there directly, we planned a longer stop in Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most historic university towns. It turned out to be a great decision, as you can spend most of your day exploring Coimbra before continuing to the Alentejo.
The heart of the city stretches up a steep hill, with the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe, at the top. The historic courtyard and surrounding buildings are impressive, but the real highlight is the Joanine Library.
Coimbra has several small squares, churches and cafés, and although you can see the main sights in a few hours, the city has a pleasant atmosphere that makes it easy to linger. We spent just under five hours in the city and that felt like a perfect amount of time.
Read next: What To See & Do In Coimbra, Portugal | A One-Day City Guide
Days 6–7 | Évora & the Alentejo
After leaving Coimbra, the landscape slowly opens up as you head towards Portugal’s interior. The Alentejo is known for its rolling plains, olive groves and cork oak trees, and Évora makes a great base for exploring the region.
We spent three nights here, which gave us enough time to discover the city itself. But also to go on a day trip to the hilltop village of Monsaraz.
Where to stay in Évora: The Hilton Garden Inn Évora is comfortable and offers free parking.
Explore Évora
Évora’s historic centre is compact and perfect to explore on foot. One of the first landmarks you’ll notice is the Roman Temple, which stands in a small square and is surprisingly well preserved. From there it’s a short walk to the cathedral. You can climb to the rooftop for views across the city and the surrounding fields.
Another well-known stop is the Chapel of Bones. Its walls are lined with thousands of human bones and skulls, arranged in patterns by Franciscan monks in the 16th century. It’s unusual and slightly unsettling, but it does form part of Évora’s identity.
The rest of the city is made up of whitewashed buildings, narrow lanes, hidden courtyards and quiet squares. Évora is a pleasant place to wander without any fixed route, and it’s especially atmospheric in the early evening when the heat drops and locals come out for dinner.
Read next: Évora City Guide | What To See & Do In Portugal’s Alentejo
Food, Wine & Slow Evenings
The Alentejo is known for hearty dishes and good wines, and Évora is a great place to try both. Restaurants often serve regional specialities such as pork, migas, cheese and local olive oil. Outdoor terraces make it easy to enjoy warm evenings with a glass of wine.
Évora doesn’t have the same choice of restaurants as Lisbon or Porto, but it offers quality and a pleasant, unhurried atmosphere. Check out some of the restaurants on Alcarcova de Baixo and take your pick. Our favourite is modern tavern Tua Madre, so check it out.
A Day Trip to Monsaraz
Monsaraz is one of the best places to visit in the Alentejo. And perhaps our favourite place on this Portugal itinerary. There isn’t much to do here, and that’s exactly the town’s appeal.
Perched high on a hill, the village has whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Alqueva Lake. The drive from Évora takes about an hour, and it’s scenic the entire way.
There are several cafés and small shops, but our favourite spot is the terrace of Ervideira Wine Shop. The old castle is worth climbing for an even wider perspective over the landscape.
Read next: Monsaraz Travel Guide | A Perfect Alentejo Day Trip
Day 8 | Mértola & Drive to the Algarve
After checking out in Évora, we continued our journey south towards the Algarve. Instead of driving directly to Lagos, we made a stop in Mértola, a small town in the Alentejo that turned out to be a lovely break along the way.
Mértola sits on a hill above the Guadiana River and has a long history shaped by the Romans, Visigoths and Moors. Its whitewashed buildings, narrow streets and riverside views give it a peaceful, almost timeless feel.
You don’t need much more than a couple of hours here, but it’s a rewarding detour. You can wander up to the castle, stroll through the old quarter, or simply enjoy a relaxed lunch before driving the final stretch to the coast.
Read next: Things To Do In Mértola, Alentejo | Day Trip To A Moorish Town
Days 9–12 | Lagos & the Western Algarve
Lagos is one of the most enjoyable places to base yourself in the Algarve. The town has a historic centre, an easygoing vibe and easy access to some of the region’s best beaches in the Algarve.
It also works well for day trips to Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente, as well as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, because those are just a short drive away.
Where to stay in Lagos: We loved the homely vibes at our stay with Villa Boho.
Lagos Old Town & Ponta da Piedade
Lagos’ old town has narrow streets, small squares and a mix of cafés, restaurants and shops. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and it’s a pleasant place to explore in the morning or evening.
One of the highlights of Lagos is Ponta da Piedade, a spectacular headland with golden cliffs, sea arches and clear blue water below. You can walk along the top of the cliffs and stop at different viewpoints, each offering a slightly different angle of the rock formations. The colours are especially beautiful late in the day.
We ended our first day at Praia do Canavial, a quiet stretch of coastline that turned out to be more easygoing than expected. It’s known as a clothing-optional beach, but the atmosphere is welcoming and laid-back. Bring some food and snacks, because there’s no facilities here.
Read next: Things To Do In Lagos | The Perfect Base In Portugal’s Algarve
Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente
The next day we drove to Sagres, a place known for its surf culture and dramatic scenery. The town itself has a low-key feel, but the main attraction is the Sagres Fortress, which sits on a headland facing the Atlantic.
From Sagres it’s a short drive to Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe. The cliffs are tall and rugged, the waves crash far below, and the lighthouse stands guard over it all.
On the way back to Lagos you can stop at Praia Beliche, a beautiful beach nestled between steep cliffs. It’s ideal for a short break or a late afternoon rest before returning to town. There’s a small restaurant on the beach where you can eat grilled sardines.
Read next: Day Trip to Sagres & Cabo de São Vicente from Lagos
The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
One of the best things we did in Portugal was walking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This is a coastal route between Praia de Vale Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. You can park your car at one end, take a taxi to the other end, and then walk back to the car.
The path follows the top of the cliffs and offers consistently impressive views. Think limestone arches, hidden beaches and turquoise water below. It’s quite an easy hike (approx. 6 km), although some sections are quite exposed, so bring good shoes. Also it’s best to avoid the hottest part of the day and make sure to apply sunscreen.
Also read: Hiking Guide to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
Day 13 | Drive to Lisbon
After a few days of exploring the western Algarve, we were ready to continue our itinerary north towards Portugals capital Lisbon. The drive is straightforward, and we made a brief lunch stop in Alcácer do Sal before returning the car and settling into our final base.
If you want it not so straightforward, you could plan something else today on your way north. To give you some ideas:
- Faro | Explore the Old Town on a walking tour
- Spot Dolphins | On a dolphin watching boat tour from the Faro marina
- Silves | Visit the restored Moorish Castle
Days 14–18 | Lisbon
Lisbon was the final stop on our itinerary and a great place to slow down after covering quite a few kilometres across Portugal. The city has a relaxed rhythm, wide river views and enough neighbourhoods to explore over several days without ever feeling rushed.
We stayed for five nights, which gave us three full days in the city itself as well as time for two easy day trips to Sintra and Cascais. Lisbon is the perfect place to end your Portugal road trip.
Where to stay in Lisbon: We stayed at Numa Lisbon Anjos a modern place with spacious rooms in an up-and-coming hip neighbourhood.
Discovering Central Lisbon
Central Lisbon is made up of several districts, each with its own character. Baixa, the flat, grid-like part of the city, is a good place to start. It leads you to Praça do Comércio, the large riverside square framed by yellow arcades and open views across the water.
From there you can walk or take a tram into Alfama, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Its narrow, winding streets and scattered viewpoints make it an interesting area to explore. Top sights here include the Sé Cathedral and the São Jorge castle.
The viewpoints in Lisbon are a highlight in this Portugal travel plan. Places like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro de Santa Luzia offer wide views across the rooftops and towards the river. They’re especially nice in the late afternoon.
Read next: Lisbon City Guide | The Best Things to Do in Portugal’s Capital
Belém & the Riverside
A trip to Belém is another classic part of any Lisbon itinerary. This neighbourhood sits west of the city centre and is home to several important landmarks. The Jerónimos Monastery is the most famous, and its detailed stonework and cloister are impressive to see in person.
Nearby, the Belém Tower stands on the riverbank and is one of Lisbon’s best-known symbols. The modern building of the MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology adds a contemporary contrast to the historic sites.
You can combine these stops with a walk along the river or with a visit to Pastéis de Belém, where the original recipe for Portugal’s famous custard tarts is still used. But I have to say I prefer the ones from Manteigaria, so try them out both and let me know which camp you’re in.
A Day Trip to Sintra
Sintra is one of the most popular day trips from Lisbon, and it’s easy to understand why. The town sits in the hills and is surrounded by palaces, gardens and forests.
The colourful Pena Palace is the most photographed, but the Quinta da Regaleira and the Moorish Castle are just as interesting to explore.
Because Sintra can get very busy, especially in peak season, it’s worth going early. Trains run frequently from Lisbon, and once you arrive you can use local transport or shuttle services to move between the sights.
Tip: Don’t end up in the mist as we did and check the weather forecast before leaving Lisbon, because the weather in Sintra could be totally different.
A Day Trip to Cascais
Cascais offers a very different experience to Sintra. It’s a coastal town west of Lisbon and is perfect for an easy day by the sea. The journey from Lisbon is simple: trains run along the river and coastline, making the trip straightforward and scenic.
Once you arrive, you can explore the town’s centre, walk along the promenade and visit the lighthouse with an excellent coffee place and radio station attached. Cascais has a good selection of cafés and restaurants, so it’s also a pleasant place for a leisurely lunch too.
More Things to Do In Lisbon
With five nights in the city, we still had time to enjoy the creative areas. LX Factory, a former industrial site turned into a creative hub, is one of the best places for independent shops, cafés and street art.
Similarly, but more off-the-beaten-track are the neighbourhoods of Beato and Marvila with a mix of industrialism, beer breweries, art galleries and Portuguese tiles. Still have time for more? Then visit Mercado de Campo de Ourique, a food market without tourist crowds. And while you’re there climb to the roof of nearby Basílica de Estrela.
Lisbon is a city that’s easy to enjoy without rushing. It doesn’t matter if you like to spend your days exploring neighbourhoods, visiting museums or simply relaxing by the river, because this city offers it all making it a great place to finish your travel itinerary in Portugal.
Best Time to Visit Portugal
Portugal is a year-round destination, but the best time to follow this itinerary is during spring or autumn.
From April to June and September to early November, the temperatures are comfortable, the days are long enough, and the main sights are busy without feeling overwhelming. These seasons are also the best for walking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail or exploring the Alentejo, where summers can get very hot.
July and August are the busiest months, especially along the Algarve coast, and temperatures in the interior can rise well above 35°C. If you visit during these months, plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon.
Winter is mild in Lisbon and Porto, though you may encounter rain and shorter days. It’s a quieter and more affordable time to visit the cities, as long as you don’t mind a more changeable forecast.
Where to Stay in Portugal
I already mentioned where we stayed throughout this article and I highly recommend each of them. However, if those are not to your liking, then below are some suggestions for the four bases used in this Portugal itinerary.
- Porto | Look for accommodation in Ribeira, Baixa or near Clérigos for easy access to the main sights. These areas are walkable and have plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby. We enjoyed our stay near Casa da Música.
- Évora | Staying within or just outside the old town walls works well. Most attractions, squares and restaurants are within a short walk.
- Lagos | The old town and the area around the marina are both convenient bases. You’ll be close to restaurants and the coastal walks, with good access to beaches and the main roads for day trips. Stay further from the old town for easier parking.
- Lisbon | Baixa, Chiado and Avenida da Liberdade are central and well connected to the rest of the city. If you prefer quieter evenings, consider staying in the Príncipe Real area. However, we chose to stay in Anjos, which was a perfect choice!
Practical Tips for Travelling in Portugal
Portugal is a very easy country to travel in, but there are a few things to consider. With these practical tips you’ll turn your trip into a great success.
- Money and payments | Portugal uses the Euro. Cards are widely accepted, though some smaller cafés and local shops may prefer cash. ATMs are easy to find, but avoid the ones offering “dynamic currency conversion,” which often give poor rates.
- Language | Portuguese is the official language, though English is widely spoken in the main cities and tourist areas. A few basic Portuguese phrases are always appreciated.
- Phone and data | eSIMs are the easiest option for staying connected. Saily is my preferred travel eSIM provider and if you use code MARTIN84627 upon check-out you’ll receive $5 off your first purchase.
- Driving | Roads are well maintained and driving is generally straightforward. Tolls are common on motorways, but the Via Verde device in most rental cars handles them automatically. Parking in larger cities can be tricky, which is why renting a car only for the middle part of the itinerary works best. Read my tips for renting a car in Portugal article next.
- Weather | The interior, especially around Évora, can get very hot in summer. The coast is cooler but can be windy. A light jacket is useful even in warmer months.
- Food and drink | Portugal has a strong culinary tradition, from seafood and pastries to hearty dishes in the Alentejo. Portions can be generous, and local wine is often excellent value.
- Safety | Portugal is considered one of Europe’s safest countries. Normal travel awareness is enough, especially in busy tourist areas. For peace of mind I always have travel insurance. Check out Heymondo travel insurance and get 5% off through this link.
Final Thoughts on This Portugal Itinerary
Portugal is a country that rewards slow travel and this itinerary offers exactly that, as well as a varied and enjoyable introduction to the country. By basing yourself in four main locations, you can explore different regions without having to change hotels every night.
Have you been to Portugal already, or do you have any questions? Then leave a comment, or send me a message on Instagram. Also sign up to my newsletter for new Portugal travel guides and itinerary ideas.
Planning your trip to Portugal? You’ll find detailed guides for each of the destinations linked throughout this article. But you can find the latest articles below, or all of them in my Portugal Travel Guide.
