10 Days Exploring the Beauty of Portugal
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Portugal is a country that has so much to offer…..stunning beaches, rugged coastlines, city feel and vibes, and some amazing weather. I have to say that this trip definitely left a mark on me and made me want to go back right away. I am planning to take another trip to explore the parts that I did not get to explore during my first trip. There are so many things to do in Portugal and so many tours you can take. I was pleasantly surprised to find that everything in Portugal was fairly cheap and affordable. If you visit several cities you will see that there is a slight price difference but not by much. The most affordable city was Porto, then Lagos, and then Lisbon.
Cities I Visited While in Portugal and How Much Time to Spend in Each City
Spend 3 days in Porto with a day trip to Braga
Spend 3 days in Lagos
Spend 3 days in Lisbon with a day trip to Sintra
After taking the trip the one thing I would do differently is spend only 3 days in Lisbon and add a day either to Porto or Lagos (those two cities were my aboslute favorite!)
How to Get to Each City in Portugal
The details below are for someone who is flying into Porto and out of Lisbon. You can adjust your trip and switch cities around depending on what you are looking to see and do. The optimal way to arrange the trip to reduce any wasted time would be to fly into Porto, then head to Lisbon and lastly to Lagos and fly out of Faro Airport. I ended up not doing this because of the flight prices difference. It was a lot cheaper to fly out of Lisbon so I reworked my trip to start in Porto, then head to Lagos, and lastly to Lisbon.
Fly into Porto: Arriving in Porto is a seamless introduction to the rich tapestry of Northern Portugal. Touch down at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, a modern hub connecting travelers to the city's historic treasures and the enchanting Douro Valley. From the airport, a short journey unveils Porto's architectural wonders, culinary delights, and the warm embrace of its welcoming culture. Get ready to explore a destination where the past meets the present, and every cobbled street tells a story.
Head to Lagos from Porto – There are several options which include a train, bus, car, or plane.
By Train: Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours. Take a train from Porto's Campanhã station to Lagos. The train journey offers scenic views, and you can enjoy the comfortable ride. Note that there might be a need for a train change during the journey and my transfer was in Tunes after 5.5 hrs on the train
By Bus: Duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hours. Several bus companies operate long-distance services between Porto and Lagos. Buses are a budget-friendly option, but travel times may vary based on the specific bus route and stops.
By Car: Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and route. Renting a car provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore different attractions along the way. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes and allows you to set your own pace. You can check car rentals on Rentalcars.com or
By Plane: While there isn't a direct flight from Porto to Lagos, you could consider flying to a nearby airport, such as Faro, and then taking a bus or train to Lagos. This option might be quicker but involves multiple modes of transportation
Head to Lisbon from Lagos – There are several options which include a train, bus, car, or plane.
By Train: Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours. Take a train from Lisbon's Estação do Oriente or Estação de Santa Apolónia to Lagos. The journey offers scenic views of the Portuguese countryside and coastline. Note that train schedules may vary, so it's advisable to check the current timetable.
By Bus: Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours. Several bus companies operate long-distance services between Lisbon and Lagos. Buses provide a cost-effective option, and the journey may include a few stops along the way.
By Car: Duration: Approximately 4 hours, depending on traffic and route. Renting a car provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore various attractions along the journey. The A2 highway connects Lisbon to Lagos, making it a straightforward drive.
By Plane: While there isn't a direct flight from Lisbon to Lagos, you can consider flying to Faro Airport, which is the nearest major airport to Lagos. From Faro, you can take a bus or train to reach Lagos.
10 Day Portugal Itinerary - Things to Do in Portugal in Porto, Braga, Lagos, Lisbon, and Sintra
Day 1 – Things to Do in Porto
Arrival in Porto
Begin your day with a visit to the mesmerizing Chapel of Souls, adorned with blue and white tiles telling tales of devotion. From there, wander through the lively Mercado do Bolhão, a bustling market where locals and tourists converge. Continue your exploration along the grand Avenida dos Aliados, flanked by elegant buildings that narrate the city's history.
Immerse yourself in the spiritual beauty of Igreja Paroquial de Santo Ildefonso before heading to the awe-inspiring Sé do Porto, the city's cathedral. A stroll through the narrow streets of downtown Porto reveals hidden gems – city churches, charming squares, and the iconic Sao Bento Train Station adorned with intricate azulejo tiles.
If you are looking to do some food and wine tasting and want to join a group tour I recommend this 3 hour food and wine tasting tour: Porto: 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour - Guided Experience. They have excellent reviews and you will get to do local tastings at 5 different places.
Day 2 – Day Trip to Braga from Porto
© Vanessa Gomez
Bom Jesus Do Monte (Braga, Portugal)
Kick start your day with an early departure to Braga. It take about an hour to get there via train or you can Uber or Lyft and get there in about 35 minutes. You can also book a half day tour. This is a great one to check out Small Group Half Day Tour with Bom Jesus.
As you step into Braga, your first stop is the Braga Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The panoramic views from the terrace offer a breathtaking introduction to Braga's charm.
Next you will want to head to Bom Jesus Do Monte which was classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2019. Ascend the monumental Baroque staircase or opt for the funicular for a leisurely ride up. The ornate gardens and the panoramic view from the top make this a truly enchanting experience.
Head back to Braga and spend some time enjoying what the city has to offer, stop for a nice traditional Portuguese lunch and visit a few more places such as: Garden of Santa Barbara, Porta Nova Arch, and Palacio do Raio. The head back to Porto
Day 3 – Continue to Explore Porto
Cross the iconic Luis I Bridge and take in all the panoramic views of Porto's skyline. In Vila Nova de Gaia, delve into the world of port wine with visits to renowned cellars. From the classic Cave Calem to the historic Caves Ferreira inside an old convent, each tasting unveils the rich legacy of this cherished Portuguese drink.
Walk along Passeio das Fontainhas, where you'll encounter street art like Bordalo II's half rabbit (O Coelho) and the majestic Palacio da Bolsa. For a spectacular sunset head to the Monastery of Serra do Pilar.
Explore one of Portugal's oldest bookstores, Livraria Lello, known for its stunning architecture and rich literary history. Make sure to pre-purchase tickets for the earliest time slot possible as it gets very crowded
Climb the Clerigos Church Tower for panoramic view of Porto and visit São Bento railway station and marvel at the 20,000 hand-painted tiles depicting scenes from Portugal's history that adorn its entryway.
Spend the evening at Ribeira do Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Douro riverfront. Enjoy the picturesque views and choose a waterfront spot for a delightful dinner.
If you are looking for a tour that will take you to several places and give you lots of background information you can book: The Best of Porto: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour
Day 4 – Travel to Lagos and Spend the day in Lagos, Portugal
Begin your day with a thrilling kayak expedition, weaving through the mesmerizing Ponta da Piedade Caves and Grottos. Explore the intricate rock formations and witness the play of light on the azure waters. I booked this group tour Kayak Adventure to go inside Ponta da Piedade Caves/Grottos and see the Beaches and it was one of my most memorable experiences. Highly recommend checking out this tour.
Day 5 – Visit Benagil Cave and spend the day in the surrounding area
You will not want to miss visiting the Benagil Cave as it is one of Portugal's most stunning and famous natural landmarks. I recommend either doing a Kayak or Stand up Paddle Board Tour to Benagil Cave and you will want to do one of the first tours in the morning. I booked this tour: Benagil Caves - SUP Tour and had a great experience. Once you have finished the tour go and explore that area before heading back to Lagos. Hike along the coast on top of the cliffs for the most stunning views. You can hike all the way to Praia da Marinha. Be on the lookout for the famous heart-shaped rock.
Day 6 – Spend the day exploring additional beaches in Lagos Portugal
Spend the day exploring all the beautiful beaches. I ended up mapping a walking tour for the day along the coast so I could see many of the beaches and it was a wonderful experience. I walked along the coast exploring all the different beaches and was also able to relax at each of them. Some of the beaches include: Beach Estudantes, Praia do Pinhao, Praia de Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Pinheiros, Praia da Balanca
Day 7 – Travel to Lisbon from Lagos
Begin your exploration at São Jorge Castle, immersing yourself in history and enjoying panoramic views of the city from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district. Explore the Sé Cathedral and feel the city's heartbeat in this historic quarter.
Visit Lisbon Cathedral, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. Afterwards, enjoy breathtaking views at Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
Visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Carmo Convent and ride the charming Elevador da Bica. Visit Pink Street during the day to snap a photo of the pink street under the rainbow umbrella and at night for a taste of Lisbon’s nightlife.
Explore Lisbon's culinary delights at Time Out Market.
There are tons of walking tours to choose from that will help you see the best of the city. Some tours to consider: Lisbon Full Day Small-Group Tour: The Most Complete Lisbon City Tour, Old Lisbon: Alfama and São Jorge neighborhoods 3-Hour Walking Tour
Note: Depending on your arrival time you may need to move some activities to the next day
Day 8 – Lisbon (Belém Tower, Pastéis de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery)
Plan to spend a day seeing all the Belém’s historical treasures that Belem has to of Visit the Belém Tower and then head to the grand Jerónimos Monastery.You will not want to miss trying the iconic custard tarts at Pastéis de Belém, so be sure to plan to stop there (the shop is very close to the Jerónimos Monastery). If time allows you can also visit the National Coach Museum.
You can take a small group tour: Belém and Jerónimos Monastery Guided Small Group Walking Tour
Another option is to get a private half-day sightseeing tour by tuk-tuk which allows you to customize what you want to do and see. Tour Name: True 4Hour/Half day TukTuk Tour of Lisbon - Local Overview
Day 9 – Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon
© Vanessa Gomez | Peña Palace Sintra, Portugal
Kick start the day with an early departure and head to Peña Palace (I recommend that you buy tickets online ahead of time because the line can get long and they also have slotted time for you to enter). There are two different tickets for Pena Palace: One that just includes the outside of the castle and the grounds, and one that also allows you entry into the indoor staterooms. Ticket prices: Palacio + Parque ticket (includes castle interiors): €14. If you want to get some exercise and a good hike then head to Cruz Alta, or High Cross. Walking to the cross from Peña Palace will take about 30 minutes at a good pace and it’s mostly uphill. When you reach the top you will be able to see the most stunning views of Peña Palace.
You can also book a this tour Sintra Tour with Pena Palace & Regaleira - All Tickets Included. This is a great option because it has everything included.
After spending some time at Peña Palace head over Quinta da Regaleira where you can explore the palace, gardens, and other architectural wonders on the estate. The ticket price is €10 for a self-guided tour.
Day 10 – Depart and Head Home
Depending on what time you fly out you may be able to enjoy your morning doing some activities close by
Where To Stay in Portugal (Hotels that I Stayed In)
Where To Stay in Porto, Portugal
Hotel Ibis Porto Centro Mercado Bolhao
Location: Centrally positioned in the heart of Porto, just a stone's throw from the iconic Mercado do Bolhão.
Summary: Nestled in the vibrant heart of Porto, Hotel Ibis Porto Centro Mercado Bolhao offers a comfortable and budget-friendly stay. Its prime location near Mercado do Bolhão provides easy access to the city's lively atmosphere and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking convenience without compromising on comfort.
Where To Stay in Lagos, Portugal
Hotel Tivoli Lagos Algarve Resort
Location: Situated in Lagos, Algarve, overlooking the picturesque Meia Praia beach.
Summary: Discover serenity at Hotel Tivoli Lagos Algarve Resort, a coastal haven in the heart of Lagos. With its stunning views of Meia Praia beach and a blend of contemporary luxury and Algarvian charm, this resort offers a tranquil escape. Immerse yourself in the Algarve experience with upscale amenities, diverse dining options, and proximity to the region's captivating attractions.
Where To Stay in Lisbon, Portugal
Location: Ideally located in Lisbon, close to the city center and cultural landmarks.
Summary: Experience refined elegance at Sheraton Lisboa Hotel & Spa, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Lisbon. Boasting sophisticated accommodations and a rejuvenating spa, this hotel seamlessly blends modern comfort with classic charm. Its central location provides easy access to Lisbon's vibrant cultural scene, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an indulgent stay with convenient proximity to the city's attractions.