portugal trip 2 weeks

Discover Portugal: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

Its wild, rugged coastline, imposing mountains, beautiful whitewashed villages, and enchanting cities make Portugal one of the best destinations to visit in Europe . Dive deep into the Portuguese history in Porto, surf the great waters of the southern Algarve , or lazily stroll through the pretty streets of Obidos. There are lots of amazing things to do in Portugal – make your way around the country with this 2-week itinerary, stopping at all the wonderful sights in between.

A 14-Day Portugal Itinerary

Welcome to Portugal , home to many gorgeous locations full of beautiful nature, stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food. You could easily explore this diverse country for months. However, two weeks is the perfect amount of time to get a good impression.

Planning to travel longer in Portugal? These are must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

Though you can travel by public transport, it’s much easier to discover the country by renting a car or campervan. From a picture-perfect coastline to charming timeworn cities, discover it all on a 2-week Portugal itinerary.

We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Day 1-4: Lisbon

Start your journey in Lisbon , the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe . Known for its charming streets, beautiful buildings, and authentic trams, it has become one of the most popular destinations to visit within the country. Spend your days soaking up the sun, jumping from one cute cafe to the next while you roam through the city’s different districts. 

The various neighborhoods of Lisbon are full of rich history and culture. You can explore the museums and art galleries or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the many little alleyways. To travel around, make sure to get a Lisbon Card . This card provides unlimited rides on all public transportation and entrance to a select number of the city’s most popular sights and museums. 

Here are all your hotel options in Lisbon.

Discover the iconic Pink Street, lined with buzzing cafes and bars, perfect in the evening. Or, roam through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets in the oldest neighborhood Alfama. No matter where you go these first few days, Lisbon’s beauty and colorful tiles will take your breath away. 

Also read: The Best Cities to Visit in Europe .

Hotels in Lisbon

Lisbon’s best neighborhoods to stay in are the charming old town: Barrio Alto and Alfama, or in the center at Baixa and Chiado. There are also plenty of great hostels to choose from.

Hotels in Lisbon 😴

Day trip to Sintra

As you discover the beautiful capital, don’t forget to dedicate one of the days to visiting the fairytale-like Sintra . This stunning UNESCO site is full of hilltop castles, colorful palaces, and exotic gardens. It’s only a short 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, making it the perfect day trip on your 2-week Portugal itinerary. You can use the same Lisbon Card you used in the city to get there.

Get your Lisbon Card in advance here

Due to its microclimate, you’ll find the hills covered in lush greenery. Wander between the majestic pine forests as you discover the different castles and palaces in this huge natural park.

Tip: Sintra is incredibly popular amongst tourists, so it’s best to book your tickets in advance as it is likely to get busy. You can see availability and tickets here . From Lisbon, you can also join an organized tour of this magical town, including an entrance to a few sites. 

Day 5: Porto Covo

On day 5, head south towards the cute traditional fishing village of Porto Covo. Whitewashed houses, nestled around quaint little squares and cobblestone streets, stand perched on top of some dramatic cliffs here, making it the perfect stop on any 2-week Portugal itinerary. 

This relaxed little town has a great atmosphere, quiet beaches, and incredible seafood, causing it to slowly grow in popularity. It’s the perfect introduction to the series of cute little coastal villages that lead down to the Algarve . Roam through the old historic center and relax on one of the beaches, looking out at the rugged Isle do Pessegueiro (Peach island). 

Stay the night in one of the cute accommodations in the center of town or go camping . If you’re traveling in the summer, try to book your accommodation in advance as it can fill up quickly.

Hotels in Porto Covo 😴

Lisbon to Porto Covo: About a 2-hour drive by car or 2,5 hours by bus. Note, however, that traveling by bus can take much longer due to potential stops between locations.

Day 6-8: Algarve

One of the highlights of a 2-week Portugal itinerary has to be time spent in the famed sunkissed Algarve region , the jewel of Portugal. Enjoy a breathtaking coastline, epic caves, and waves that give the area its reputation as a surfers’ paradise. 

The surrounding, rugged nature is a sight to remember, and the charming whitewashed villages no less. Discover the area by going hiking, sunbathing at the countless beaches, and exploring the beautiful caves with emerald water.

If you’ve got the time, don’t forget to put the Benagil Cave & Praia do Marinha (beach) on your list! You can easily discover these wonderful sights of the Algarve by yourself or by joining a tour. 

Book your kayaking tour to the Benagil Caves

Where to Stay in the Algarve

Lagos’ gorgeous town is the perfect place to base yourself for the next two days. It has a lively atmosphere and is within walking distance of some of Portugal’s best beaches and surf spots. See all hotels in Lagos .   

Porto Covo to Lagos: 1h and 40 minutes of driving, or 2 hours by bus. 

Hotels in the Algarve 😴

Day 9: Évora

After soaking up the sun on the southern shores, head back inland toward the stunning medieval city of Evora. This hidden gem sits at the heart of the rural Alentejo region and is a must-see if you’re 2 weeks in Portugal. Travel through the countryside full of olive groves, open plains, and traditional stone villages before reaching the impressive city walls. 

Join a guided walking tour of Évora

Evora even has UNESCO status due to its beautiful architecture and rich history that goes as far back as the Romans! Spend a few hours during the day exploring the quaint streets that sit sandwiched between white and yellow-painted houses. Make sure to visit the Evora cathedral and the ruins of the Roman temple in the center. 

From Lagos to Evora: 2,5 hours by car or about 4 hours by bus.

Hotels in Evora

Evora has lots of beautiful accommodation options, from cute boutique guesthouses to luxury spa hotels. It’s even possible to stay in one of the unique aqueduct houses!

Hotels in Evora 😴

Day 10: Obidos

Continue on to the ‘Town of Queens’, Obidos – one of the most stunning towns you will come across on your travels through the country. This slice of Portuguese heaven, with its whitewashed cottages and colorful flowers, is so beautiful that Portuguese kings traditionally gifted it to their queens. 

Take your time walking the 1.6 km-long castle walls surrounding the town, looking out over the hills and vineyards. Then, get lost between the charming cobblestone streets filled with traditional shops and a few churches covered in beautiful azulejos (Portuguese tiles).

Join a guided walking tour of Obidos

The contrast between the white houses and their red roofs is a stunning sight, making Obidos a worthy destination on your trip to Portugal . 

From Évora to Obidos: is a 2-hour journey by car. You can also travel by train or bus, which both take about 4 hours and have one transfer. 

Hotels in Obidos

Hotels in obidos 😴.

Here are all your hotel options in Obidos.

Day 11: Douro Valley

Welcome to the Douro valley , home to the many port houses of the world, tucked in between the lush hillsides, amongst endless vineyards and rolling hills. Enjoy one of the many hiking trails, discover the valley towns, or participate in water sports on the wild Douro River.

Wine Tour Portugal  

Make sure to book a wine tour in the Douro Valley – one of the highlights of your 2-week Portugal itinerary. Known as the oldest wine region in the world, it stretches all the way from Porto to the border of Spain . Wine tours range from tastings to learning about the harvesting experience or staying the night on one of the beautiful estates. 

Book your Douro Valley wine tour in advance 

Obidos to Douro Valley: just over 3 hours of driving or an 8-hour bus and train ride. This is the longest consecutive part of the journey, but it takes you past some of the most incredible landscapes in the country. 

Stay overnight in the Douro Valley

We stayed at Quinta do Monte Travesso , where we did a wine tour and camped overnight. However, there are hundreds of beautiful Quintas to stay at throughout the huge region, so the options are endless.

Hotels in the Douro Valley 😴

Day 13+14: Porto

Continue your journey to your last destination, Porto. Any 2-week Portugal itinerary wouldn’t be complete without spending at least a few days in this extraordinary city. With views over the Douro estuary, Porto has one of the oldest centers in Europe, proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It dates back many centuries to when it was one of the outposts of the Roman Empire. 

Here are all your hotel options in Porto.

Walk in the small hillside streets, take the funicular railway, and discover one of the most magical bookstores in Europe, Livraria Lello . Porto is not as hilly as Lisbon, meaning you can easily walk around the different neighborhoods. Though you can also join a boat or tuk-tuk tour to get even better acquainted with the impressive city of Porto. 

From the Douro Valley to Porto: 1-hour drive or 2h or 15 minutes by train (with one transfer). At the end of your 2 weeks in Portugal, you can either drive back/train to Lisbon or fly out from Porto. 

Where to stay in Porto

Stay in Ribeira if you want to be by the riverside and enjoy the night-time buzz of the city. For hillside views and a younger influx of restaurants, stay near Igreja do Carmo.

Hotels in Porto 😴

Costs of Traveling in Portugal 

Traveling through Portugal can be done quite cheaply. In fact, it’s one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe! You can enjoy a coffee for around 2 USD and stay in beautiful accommodations for roughly 25 USD a night. 

Costs of Traveling in Portugal

Travel on a budget in Portugal, from $330 − $350 USD weekly per person, mid-range $470 − $1300 USD, and high-end from $1270 − $1970 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $20 − $80 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $30 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $20 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $35 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $5 − $15 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around Portugal

Portugal is incredibly diverse, and many of the most beautiful sites lie in remote locations. Because of this, the best way to travel the country is to hire a campervan or rent a car. These options also give you the most flexibility, allowing you to make up your own time schedule each day. 

However, you can also travel by public transport, though the journeys often take much longer. There are great rail and bus links between Lisbon and Porto, allowing you to stop at many villages in between. But also to the south, bus services run between villages.

Traveling longer in Portugal? Discover the must-sees on a 3-week Portugal road trip .

The Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal is beautiful all year round. However, the spring and fall months are the best time to visit Portugal. These are the shoulder seasons when fewer tourists visit, prices are lower, and it’s still sunny (but not as hot as in summer).

September/October is also the harvest season, making it a great time to go on a Douro Valley wine tour . Additionally, you can witness some of the best surf sessions happening in places like Nazare, where you’ll find some of the highest waves in the world. 

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Monsanto: The Stunning Rock Village of Portugal

8 most beautiful villages & towns in portugal, the castles and palaces of sintra, portugal.

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Portugal 2-Week Itinerary – How to Spend 14 Awesome Days in Portugal!

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

If you’re planning to spend two weeks in Portugal, but aren’t exactly sure where to go or what to do, you’ve come to the right place!

After years of wanting to go to Portugal, this summer I had the opportunity to spend 14 days in Portugal, road tripping across the whole country, and I was ecstatic to say the least.

Portugal is home to many gorgeous natural landscapes, stunning architecture, a rich history, great surfing beaches and delicious food. In short, it has everything I could possibly want from a trip.

In this Portugal two-week itinerary I have included everything you need to know to plan the perfect Portugal trip. Including must-see highlights as well as hidden gems, where to stay, where to eat and how to get around.

It’s a very varied itinerary, which includes culture, history, nature and beaches in equal measure. This 14-day Portugal itinerary is perfect for those who want to get a flavour for Portuguese culture, and see as much as possible in two weeks.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the day-by-day breakdown of your future Portugal trip!

• 1 Do you need travel insurance for two weeks in Portugal?
• 2 How to get around Portugal in two weeks
• 3.1 Day 1 in Portugal: Arrive in Porto
• 3.2.1 The Chapel of Souls
• 3.2.2 Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
• 3.2.3 Igreja dos Clérigos
• 3.2.4 Livraria Lello
• 3.2.5 Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• 3.2.6 Porto Cathedral
• 3.2.7 Ribeira neighbourhood
• 3.2.8 Douro River Cruise
• 3.2.9 Sunset at Kittie Rock Viewpoint
• 3.3.1 Hiking in the Douro Valley
• 3.3.2 Wine Farms in the Douro Valley
• 3.4.1 Aveiro
• 3.4.2 Bucaco National Park
• 3.4.3 Coimbra
• 3.5.1 Batalha Monastery
• 3.5.2 Alcobaca Monastery
• 3.5.3 Faro de Nazare
• 3.5.4 Old Town Nazare
• 3.5.5 Miradouro do Suberco
• 3.5.6 Funicular
• 3.5.7 Bairro dos Pescadores
• 3.6.1 Obidos
• 3.6.2 Peniche
• 3.6.3 Surf in Ericeira – Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas
• 3.6.4 Explore the Old Town of Ericeira
• 3.7.1 Palacio Nacional da Pena
• 3.7.2 Castle of the Moors
• 3.7.3 Quinta da Regaleira
• 3.7.4 Sintra Old Town
• 3.8.1 Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
• 3.8.2 Rossio Square
• 3.8.3 Rua Augusta
• 3.8.4 Santa Justa Lift
• 3.8.5 Praca do Comercio
• 3.8.6 Pink Street
• 3.8.7 Time Out Market
• 3.8.8 Elevador Da Bica
• 3.8.9 Lisbon Cathedral
• 3.8.10 Alfama
• 3.8.11 Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
• 3.9.1 Belem Tower
• 3.9.2 Jeronimos Monastery
• 3.9.3 Eat a pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belem
• 3.9.4 Old Town Cascais
• 3.9.5 Relax at a beach in Cascais
• 3.10.1 Evora Cathedral
• 3.10.2 Chapel of Bones
• 3.10.3 The Roman Temple
• 3.10.4 Old Town Centre
• 3.10.5 Monsaraz
• 3.10.6 Mertola
• 3.11.1 Tavira
• 3.11.2 Faro
• 3.11.3 Albufeira
• 3.12.1 Kayak to Benagil Cave
• 3.12.2 Relax at Praia do Marinha
• 3.13.1 Praia do Camilo
• 3.13.2 Ponta do Piedade
• 3.13.3 Praia de Dona Ana
• 3.14.1 Explore Sagres Town
• 3.14.2 Surf at Praia do Amado
• 4 Portugal 14-day itinerary – beyond mainland Portugal

The distinctive architecture and colours of Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Do you need travel insurance for two weeks in Portugal?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying the sunset over Lisbon from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

How to get around Portugal in two weeks

The easiest way to travel around Portugal and see every stop on this itinerary is to rent a car and drive. Renting a car will give you the most flexibility both in terms of destinations and timings.

Portugal has a good public transport system, with trains connecting all the major cities and cheap buses that can get you almost everywhere.

However, if you want to visit some of the off the beaten track towns of this itinerary, a car is the easiest way to get there.

You won’t necessarily need it all the time, for example in the bigger cities like Porto and Lisbon it’s easier to get around on foot, or there are places you can visit on organised day trips and avoid driving in traffic.

But overall, a car will give you the most freedom.

Click here to search for the perfect car rental for your trip!

Enjoying the view over Ponta da Piedade in the Algarve, Portugal

14-Day Portugal Travel Itinerary – Day-by-Day breakdown

Deciding which region to visit, what to do, and where to stay can be a challenge when you’re on the road. But if you follow this guide, you simply can’t go wrong.

This Portugal 2-week itinerary isn’t the exact one I followed, but it’s still based on my trip.

If I were to do the trip again, this is the itinerary I would follow. After wasting lots of hours driving back and forth, I can confidently recommend this itinerary as the most time efficient.

Here’s exactly what you should be getting up to during your 2 weeks in Portugal.

Exploring Ribeira and Cais da Ribeira in Porto, Portugal

Day 1 in Portugal: Arrive in Porto

On your first day in the magnificent country, you should have one goal. And that’s to get to the magnificent coastal city of Porto.

Depending on where you’re arriving from, and your time of arrival, you may even have some time left over to explore the quaint cobbled streets and pop into a cafe or two.

The city is known for the famed wine that the region produces. So it’s just about essential that you sip on a glass of Porto while enjoying a decadent dessert on your first night in Portugal.

Admiring the famous azulejos facade of the Chapel of Souls in Porto

Where to stay in Porto

In Porto I stayed at Hotel do Norte . The hotel itself isn’t particularly grand, but it’s very affordable, the position is extremely convenient, and it even has great views over the azulejos of the Chapel of Souls just across the street.

It’s a great place to stay in Porto since it’s located right in the centre of Porto, and will be a great starting point for your Porto walking tour on day two of this itinerary.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Do Norte!

If you want something a bit fancier, I have listed below other accommodation options for higher budgets.

Mid-range –  Vera Cruz Porto Downtown Hotel  – This modern hotel is perfect for those who want something night, without breaking the bank. Centrally located, it has an epic terrace with Porto views.

Book your stay at Vera Cruz Porto Downtown Hotel here!

Luxury –  Oporto Home – River Front :  If you want to treat yourself, this wonderful apartment is the place to do so. The huge windows provide plenty of light, as well as epic views over the river and Porto.

Check out prices and availability at Oporto Home – River Front here!

Enjoying the sunset over Porto and the Douro River from Kittie Rock

Day 2 in Portugal: Explore Porto

The second day of your Portugal trip itinerary is dedicated to getting to know the exquisite town of Porto a little better. Just follow my Porto itinerary and you will hit up all the highlights that Porto has to offer.

The Chapel of Souls

If you’re staying at Hotel do Norte, the Chapel of Souls is the perfect place to start your itinerary.

The Chapel of Souls has become increasingly popular over the years as influencers and social media gurus have made it a must-see on every traveller’s list.

The entire exterior of the building is covered in blue and white azulejos tiles which make it an incredibly captivating site.

The Chapel of Souls in Porto, Portugal

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Just a short walking distance from the Chapel of Souls, you’ll come to Igreja de Santo Ildefonso, which is a popular shopping and dining street in the area.

Here there are more buildings covered in the signature white and blue tiles. But this area is best enjoyed at one of the street cafes, so you’ll certainly want to stop for a bite to eat.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso in Porto, Portugal

Igreja dos Clérigos

This Baroque church is perched on a hilltop, making it rather easy to find. The church has a beautiful bell tower, an iconic sight that can be seen from just about anywhere in the city.

If you’re up for climbing the Torre dos Clerigos, then you’re in for a real treat as the views from the top are simply unbeatable. Make sure to book your Torre dos Clerigos entrance online beforehand , so you can avoid the queues!

Click here to book your Torre dos Clerigos skip the line entrance ticket , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

Igreja dos Clerigos in Porto, Portugal

Livraria Lello

While books aren’t on everyone’s list of things to see, this library is something that just about everyone can appreciate. It recently became famous for being JK Rowling’s inspiration for Harry Potter.

But aside from that, it’s actually the oldest bookstore in Portugal – often being described as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

You have to book online to visit the inside of the bookstore. The ticket is 5 EUR but it’s discountable from a book purchase.

The shopfront of Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

To escape the hustle and bustle of the town for a while, head to Jardins do Palácio de Cristal .

These landscaped gardens were designed in the 1800s and contain winding paths and tranquil fountains. You can also take in views over the Douro River before continuing with your Portugal trip.

Porto Cathedral

From the Jardins do Palacio de Cristal head to Porto Cathedral. You’ll cross some of the main streets of the city, exploring the cute architecture of Porto.

The cathedral is a Roman Catholic Church, as well as being one of the oldest monuments of the city and an important local Romanesque monument. You can visit the interior for 3 EUR, or just stick to the imposing exterior and stunning views.

View over Porto from Porto Cathedral

Ribeira neighbourhood

From the cathedral head down to Ribeira neighbourhood, Porto’s famous riverside quarter. Here you will truly get a feeling for Porto’s quaint and cobbled streets, as well as its colourful houses.

Douro River Cruise

If you’d like to enjoy Porto from a different perspective, then take some time out of your day to enjoy a relaxing Douro River cruise . You can spend time in a typical Rabelo boat while taking in views of the town’s shoreline.

Click here to book your Douro River cruise in Porto , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

A traditional rabelo boat cruising along the Douro River with the recognisable Porto skyline behind it

Sunset at Kittie Rock Viewpoint

Once you return from your Douro River Cruise, you can cross the famous Ponte Luis bridge and get ready to enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

Most people stop at a viewing point just across the river, but if you want to avoid the crowds and see a truly stunning spot, head over to Kittie Rock viewpoint.

From here you can enjoy romantic views of the city, the Ponte Luis bridge, and the Douro River, without the huge crowds. It’s the perfect place to end your first full day in Portugal.

After enjoying the sunset you can head back to Ribeira, to taste some delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the many riverfront restaurants.

Enjoying the sunset over Porto and the Douro River

Day 3 in Portugal: Day Trip to the Douro Valley

Day 3 of your trip to Portugal should be an awesome day trip to the Douro Valley . It’s a renowned wine region that is scattered with vineyards and wineries. But, the lush area has more to offer than a mere day drinking excursion.

To get there you can either drive, take the train or join a tour. Being one of the most popular Porto day trips , there are plenty of tours you can join, which in my opinion is the most convenient way to get there. 

This also allows you to take in scenic views of the area en route, without having to worry about organising anything.

Hiking in the Douro Valley

If you plan to take full advantage of the scenic beauty of the area, doing a hike in the Douro Valley is a wonderful way to do it.

While many of the hiking trails have unreliable markings, many of the wine farms offer visitors a map that outlines the farm’s layout so you can enjoy the walking trails without the stress.

If you’re not confident in your ability to navigate the area, it may be best to hire a guide or take a tour of the area to ensure you don’t get lost.

Click here to book your Douro Valley hiking tour on GetYourGuide or Viator , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The green rolling hills and vineyards of the Duoro Valley in Portugal

Wine Farms in the Douro Valley

Visiting a wine farm is going to be exactly what the doctor called for after a hike or walk exploring the area. You can enjoy views of the lush Douro Valley while sipping on some of the region’s finest wines.

Whether you opt for an exquisite tasting or you indulge in a boozy lunch alongside a sought after bottle of wine, you’ll be having a wonderful afternoon.

Some of the most famous and best wine farms to visit in the Douro Valley are; Quinta da Pacheca, Quinta da Roêda, Quinta das Carvalhas, Quinta de La Rosa and Quinta do Crasto.

To make things easier for you, you can also join a Douro Valley wine tour with cruise and pick up in Porto. That way you don’t have to worry about getting there, and they’ll take you directly to all the best wineries!

See prices and availability for your Douro Valley wine tour with cruise on GetYourGuide or Viator here!

The green vineyards of the Duoro Valley in Portugal

Day 4 in Portugal: Road trip to Coimbra

And after thoroughly exploring Porto and its surroundings, it’s time to hit the road! Day 4 of your Portugal 2 week itinerary will be spent driving to Coimbra from Porto.

Coimbra is located in central Portugal and used to be the capital city. It’s known for its historical and medieval architecture and its river-facing views.

The drive takes around an hour and 15 minutes, but there are plenty of spectacular stops that you can take along the way.

This is a small city in Portugal that sits along the shore of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon. It has some beautiful art nouveau buildings and the stunning Cathedral of Aveiro.

The lagoon is littered with colourful boats, and the canals make for a quaint atmosphere.

Even if your stop in the town is brief, it’s worth popping by for a stroll along the lagoon to stretch your legs and take in the quaint feel of the city.

The colourful boats and riverfront houses of Aveiro

Bucaco National Park

Your next stop en route to Coimbra should be Bucaco National Park. It’s a walled arboretum that goes back to ancient times. It’s a stunning place to go for a nature walk and even has one of the best dendrological collections in Europe.

I can confidently say it’s one of the places on this Portugal itinerary that amazed me the most. I hadn’t heard much about Bucaco National Park before visiting it, and I was surprised at how gorgeous it is.

While not being entirely off the beaten path, it’s extremely underrated and well deserving of a visit. You can spend a few hours walking around the lush green forest, taking in the stunning views and admiring the ruins dotted around the park.

If you want someone explaining the history of this gorgeous park, you can also join a guided tour of Bucaco National Park .

See all the details for your Bucaco National Park tour on Viator and GetYourGuide here!

Enjoying the views over Bucaco National Park in Portugal

Exploring Bucaco National Park in Portugal

Once you’ve had your green fill, it’s time to drive to your final destination for the day, the beautiful city of Coimbra.

Although you might want to relax, it’s a town worth exploring, if only briefly. So before settling down at one of the charming diners lining the river, be sure to pop into some of the best attractions in the city.

Start by strolling through the University of Coimbra, one of the main attractions of the city.

The university is home also to Biblioteca Joanina, a gorgeous Baroque library, and the Chapel of São Miguel, a Manueline chapel founded in 1290.

Exploring the main square of the University of Coimbra

The beautiful facade of a church in Coimbra

In the medieval old town of Coimbra you will also find many churches, as well as the Old and New Cathedrals.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around Coimbra, taking in the picturesque city sights and history of the town.

Make sure to head also to the Machado de Castro National Museum and the Monastery of Santa Cruz. If you want to make sure you’ve seen everything, you can join a guided city tour.

That way you will not only see all the attractions, but also have a guide tell you about the fascinating history of Coimbra.

After your explorations, be sure to have a restful night as you’ll be setting off for Nazare the very next day.

Wandering the streets of Coimbra in Portugal

Where to stay in Coimbra

I listed below some accommodation options for every budget in Coimbra.

Budget: NN Guest House – This guest house is close to all the attractions and a very affordable place to stay.

Click here to book your stay at NN Guest House!

Mid-range: JR Studios & Suites – Located on the opposite side of the river to Coimbra, this hotel has modern renovated suites and an epic view over the river and Coimbra. If you’re driving it’s also going to be easier to park and continue your road trip the following day.

Check out prices and availability for JR Studios & Suites here!

Luxury: Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra – If you want to stay somewhere truly unique and treat yourself, this is the place to do so. Located in the heart of the old town, this hotel offers deluxe suites with exposed bricks for a rustic feel.

Click here to see prices and availability at Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra!

Sé Velha, the old cathedral of Coimbra

Sé Nova, the new cathedral of Coimbra

Day 5 in Portugal: Drive to Nazare

After waking up in Coimbra, you’ll be taking a one hour and ten-minute drive to Nazare. There are a couple of stops you should make along the way to break up the drive and keep your travel interesting.

Batalha Monastery

Batalha Monastery is a Dominican convent in the town of Batalha. It’s a gorgeous building with stunningly intricate architecture that combines Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance styles.

I’m not usually a museum or church person, but I loved visiting Batalha. If you only visit one monastery during your time in Portugal, make sure it’s this one.

Entrance is 7.50 EUR and includes the church, cloisters and unfinished chapel. You can easily spend an hour just wandering around the monastery, taking in the beautiful architeture and learning about its history.

Click here to purchase your skip the line entrance to Batalha Monastery , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

Discovering the cloisters of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

The unfinished chapels of Batalha Monastery in Portugal

Alcobaca Monastery

While Alcobaca monastery is not as beautiful as Batalha, it’s a nice stop if you’re looking to break up the drive with one more activity. It’s not a must-see, but certainly makes for a splendid visit if you enjoy monasteries.

Personally we only visited the free section of the monastery, without going in to see the cloisters and museum. Even without seeing it all, you’ll get a feeling for this imposing building.

Once you get to Nazare, there are a few more places to visit before calling it a day.

The imposing facade of Alcobaca Monastery in Portugal

Faro de Nazare

The Faro da Nazare is an absolute must-visit. It’s a viewing point with a lighthouse where you can see the whole coastline and watch some of the biggest waves in the world rolling in (during the winter months).

They turned the lighthouse in a surf museum, showcasing the boards and personal stories of the big wave surfers who have surfed in Nazare. There is also a section explaining why the waves that form here are so huge.

It’s a really interesting place to visit, even if you’re not a surf fan.

The famous Faro de Nazare in Portugal

Some of the surf boards on display at the museum in the Faro de Nazare, Portugal

Old Town Nazare

From the Faro de Nazare you can walk on to Nazare old town, or O Sitio, located high on the cliffside.

Amble between the houses or walk along the cliffside walkway to enjoy views of the beach and a portion of Nazare down below.

Miradouro do Suberco

Located high on the cliffs of O Sitio, Miradouro do Suberco is a viewing point that gives you stunning views of the town and the beach below. This is a particularly beautiful viewing point for sunset watching.

The funicular connects the fisherman’s district to O Sitio, which is located high on the hillside.

Although you can drive to O Sitio, taking the funicular is a far more scenic way to make the journey as you look out over the rooftops and shoreline of quaint Nazare.

The funicular leading down to Nazare from the old town

Bairro dos Pescadores

Bairro dos Pescadores is the fisherman’s district in Nazare and feels as if nothing has changed about it in hundreds of years.

It’s where many of the locals stay in little white houses with narrow streets. It’s a fun place to explore as it gives you insight into how the locals really live.

From there you can also walk along the beach of Nazare, enjoying the sunset and tasting delicious Portuguese cuisine at one of the many seafront restaurants. We had an amazing octopus dinner at Pangeia By the Sea .

Sunset on the beach in Nazare

Where to stay in Nazare

In Nazare we stayed at Paz & Amor Guest House . This guest house is very cosy and affordable, plus it offers a huge rooftop terrace with views over Nazare and the sea.

It’s not located right in the heart of Nazare, but it’s in a convenient position close to the main street, so that you can easily find parking and then continue your road trip the following day.

Click here to book your stay at Paz & Amor Guest House!

If you want something a bit fancier, I have listed some options for other budgets below.

Mid-range: Hotel Mar Bravo – Located right on the beachfront and by the main avenue of Nazare, this hotel is perfect if you want something nice and conveniently located, without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Hotel Mar Bravo here!

Luxury: Miramar Hotel Spa & Apartments – If you want to treat yourself, this gorgeous property is the place to do so. With their spacious rooms and stunning pool with sea views, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long road trip day.

Book your stay at Miramar Hotel Spa & Apartments here!

View over Nazare from Miradouro do Suberco

Day 6 in Portugal: Explore Obidos & surf in Ericeira

After a restful overnight stay in Nazare, you’ll be on the road again in the morning. On the way to Ericeira, there are a few pit stops you can make along the way.

After just a 35-minute drive you will reach the town of Obidos . Obidos is an adorable medieval town that has quaint and well preserved pedestrian streets lined with white houses.

Walking down the streets of Obidos will feel like stepping back in time. One of the must-do activities in Obidos is to visit the old town walls and see the views of the town from above.

From here you can see the contrast of the white houses with the red roofs, and the Portuguese countryside surrounding you.

Make sure to visit also Igreja de Santa Maria. Unlike most of the churches you will have seen in Porto, this one seems nondescript from the outside, but actually hides a marvelous interior decorated entirely with azulejos.

You can also do a guided tour of Obidos , to make sure you see all the highlights!

Book your guided tour of Obidos here!

View over Obidos from the castle walls

The interior of Igreja de Santa Maria in Obidos, Portugal

Walking the castle walls of Obidos in Portugal

If you want to do one more stop on the way to Ericeira, Peniche has the most beautiful beaches with clear turquoise waters.

It’s a great spot to stop for a dip in a tidal pool or stroll along the shore during the warmer months. You’ll find also many surf schools here, although it’s not as famous a surf spot as Ericeira.

One of the beaches in Peniche, Portugal

Surf in Ericeira – Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas

After you spend the morning exploring the medieveal town of Obidos and relaxing in Peniche, make sure to arrive in Ericeira by early afternoon at the latest.

That way you’ll be able to spend a full afternoon enjoying the beaches, and maybe getting some surfing in!

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas is known for being one of the ultimate surf spots close to town. A post-drive surf to cool off will be an absolute treat.

There are surf schools located on the beach so you can arrange a surf class or rental on the moment, or you can book one online beforehand if you want to be sure it will fit in your schedule.

Click here to book your surf lesson in Ericeira!

Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas in Ericeira seen from above

Explore the Old Town of Ericeira

After spending an afternoon surfing head back to your accommodation, shower, relax and get ready to explore the actual town of Ericeira.

WIth its quaint streets and sidewalk cafes, the Old Town of Ericeira is definitely worth exploring.

We had an amazing seafood dinner at Mar d’Areia , then spent some time wandering around the cute streets of the old town.

Where to stay in Ericeira

In Ericeira we stayed at Casa Branca . This accommodation offers both dorms and private rooms, both ensuite or with shared bathroom. The rooms aren’t particularly fancy, but the place itself is incredible.

The hotel is in a historical building, and has a huge outdoors area. It’s located just outside the old town, so you can relax away from the crowds at the end of the day, but without being too far from all the action

Click here to book your stay at Casa Branca in Ericeira!

If you’re looking for something different, I have listed below other options for other budgets.

Mid-range: Reserva FLH Hotels – The rooms in this hotel are spacious, modernly decorated and have terraces with epic views over Ericeira and the sea. It’s perfect if you want something nice without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Reserva FLH Hotels Ericeira here!

Luxury: Vila Gale Ericeira – This seafront hotel is perfect if you want to treat yourself after a long day of road tripping and surfing. Pair the great sea views with spacious rooms and you have a winner!

Book your stay at Vila Gale Ericeira here!

Casa Branca in Ericeira, Portugal

Day 7 in Portugal: Explore the castles of Sintra – expand this!

On day 7, you’ll wake up bright and early for your 30-minute drive to Sintra. Located at the foot of the Sintra Mountains , the forested landscape makes for a completely unique experience during your road trip.

The town itself of Sintra is also unlike anything I have ever seen. Sintra has been a longtime royal sanctuary, and is home to a high number of villas, castles and palaces.

It’s one of the most popular destinations in Portugal, so make sure to buy tickets to the castles you want to see online beforehand.

I was visiting Portugal in August and I was honestly shocked at the queues for the in person ticket office or machines. Your Portugal itinerary only has time for one day in Sintra, and you don’t want to spend it queueing!

Here are the castles and places you must absolutely visit during your Sintra day trip .

Exploring Pena National Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Palacio Nacional da Pena

Pena Palace was home to the Portuguese royal family in the 19th century.

With its colourful walls and a view of the surrounding landscape that stretches on for miles, it’s not hard to see why it’s amongst the most popular sights in Sintra.

If you want to visit the interior of the palace there is an additional queue, which can get very long in high season. Personally we only visited the courtyard and castle walls, and found it to be enough to enjoy this unique palace.

Click here to book your Pena Palace skip the line entrance ticket!

Getting up close to the gorgeous architecture of Palacio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal

The distinctive architecture of Pena National Palace in Sintra

Castle of the Moors

This 8th and 9th century Moorish Castle is very underrated. It receives a quarter of the visitors of Pena Palace, and actually offers much more interesting views.

With its unique architecture and historical significance, you can’t miss it.

It was once used as a strategic point in medieval wars, but now you can visit the well preserved ruins and enjoy the view over the stunning surrounding landscape.

Click here to purchase your Castle of the Moors skip the line entrance ticket!

Exploring Castle of the Moors in Sintra, Portugal

Quinta da Regaleira

This is an incredible Romantic palace and chapel with a beautiful park. The lush garden contains grottos, fountains and lakes, all worth exploring.

Quinta da Regaleira is also home to the famous Initiation Well. You have probably seen photos of the iconic spiral staircase, winding down to the tunnel system of Quinta da Regaleira.

At the end of a long day of exploring Sintra, hope in the car and drive 30 minutes on to Lisbon, where you will spend the night.

Sintra Old Town

Sintra Old Town is a cute-as-a-button town that is easily explored on foot. Be sure to take a quick break to try some delicious pastel de nata while you’re there.

If you want to make sure you hit all the main highlights of Sintra, while also not having to worry about moving from one palace to the next or queuing at the entrance, you can also join a Sintra guided tour.

Check out here prices and availability for a Sintra guided tour on GetYourGuide and Viator !

Wandering the streets of Sintra Old Town in Portugal

Where to stay in Lisbon

In Lisbon I stayed at This Is Lisbon Hostel . They offer dorms and private rooms, both with ensuite or shared bathrooms.

They also have a huge terrace where you can sit in the morning to enjoy your breakfast and sweeping views over Lisbon.

It’s a great place to stay in Lisbon , thanks also to the central position, located close to Alfama, central Lisbon and many of the beautiful Lisbon viewpoints.

Click here to see prices and availability at This Is Lisbon!

If you don’t fancy a hostel, I have included other accommodation options below.

Mid-range:  Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel   – This boutique hotel is perfect for those who want something nice, centrally located and cosy, without breaking the bank.

Click here to book your stay at Alegria A Lisbon Boutique Hotel!

Luxury:  Lisboa Pessoa Hotel  –  If you want to treat yourself, this is the perfect place to do so. With their spacious rooms and gorgeous rooftop terrace, it’s the perfect place to relax, regardless of how many days you have in Lisbon .

Book your stay at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel here!

The view from the rooftop of This Is Lisbon hostel

Day 8 in Portugal: Explore Lisbon

After waking up in Lisbon, you’ll have plenty to do for the day, so it’s best to get an early start. This Lisbon itinerary is what you should be getting up to on day 8 of your itinerary for Portugal.

Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

This is a quaint viewing point that allows you to look out over the city and enjoy views all the way to the ocean. It’s a relaxing spot where you can sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the sleepy city slowly awaken.

The view over Lisbon from Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara

Rossio Square

Just a 20-minute walk from the viewing point, Rossio Square has been one of the main squares in Lisbon since the middle ages.

Shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars surround the square, so it’s a good place to stop for breakfast or a quick cup of coffee.

Rua Augusta

Located right next door to Rossio Square, Rua Augusta is one of the best shopping streets in the city. It’s lined with eateries and shops, making it a great place to do a bit of shopping, or window shopping at the very least.

Walking along Rua Augusta in Lisbon

Santa Justa Lift

Just a 4-minute walk from Rua Augusta, the Santa Justa Lift connects central Lisbon’s lower streets to the much higher Largo do Carmo.

Although there are many lifts throughout the hilly city, this is a particularly magnificent one because of its French Eiffel style architecture.

The famous Santa Just lift in Lisbon

Praca do Comercio

Just a few minutes walk from the lift, Praca do Comercio is a big square that overlooks the river and harbour.

Spend some time wandering around the square, taking in the beautiful architecture and pop into one of the restaurants for a bite to eat while you’re there.

Praca do Comercio in Lisbon, Portugal

Pink Street

Rua Nova do Carvalho or Pink Street is only a 10-minute stroll from Praca do Comercio.

The aptly named street’s floor has been painted bright pink, and it revolutionised the area. It has become one of the trendiest places in Lisbon (especially in the evenings).

The famous Pink Street in Lisbon

Time Out Market

The Time Out Market is a great place to rest your legs after a long day of exploring.

They serve everything from burgers to sushi, and traditional pastel de nata if you’re up for a treat. The food is prepared fairly quickly, which is exactly what you need when you’re on a tight schedule.

Elevador Da Bica

This funicular railway, built in 1892, has become an iconic sight in the city.

Although getting into the fantastic yellow tram is a great experience, you can simply walk alongside it if you don’t want to pay. And this is where you get the best photos anyway.  

Walking next to the famous Elevador da Bica in Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon Cathedral

This Roman Catholic cathedral is just a 20-minute walk from the funicular and is the oldest church in the city.

It contains many architectural styles as pieces of it have been renovated and restored over the years. If you’re a fan of churches, you can meander the inside and learn about the history of this cathedral.

Getting up close to Lisbon cathedral

Alfama is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city and filled to the brim with traditional shops and quaint cafes. Take the tram 28 that winds its way through the area, offering you the perfect sightseeing experience.

If you want to be sure you see all the main sights in Lisbon, you can also join a Lisbon guided tour . That way you will also have a guide tell you about the history of the Portuguese capital.

Click here to book your Lisbon Essential Tour , or check out prices & availabilities in the calendar below!

Walking along the narrow streets of Alfama neighbourhood in Lisbon

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

This is the last stop of the day and one that holds magnificent views.

It’s the perfect place to watch the sun setting over Lisbon and bathing everything in golden light – one of the best ways to see Portugal is while the sun is setting.

This viewing point can get rather busy, so be sure to get there early to claim your spot.

Day 9 in Portugal: Belem & Cascais

When you’re planning a trip to Portugal, you need to visit all the best locations.

Admittedly, moving on from Lisbon central can be hard as it’s really a city that captures your heart. But don’t worry, there are plenty of places with just as much charm in this Portugal tour itinerary.

I recommend that you explore Belem before you head to Cascais. It’s a wonderful neighbourhood, known for its colourful houses, seafood restaurants and scattering of famous landmarks.

Belem Tower

The Tower of Saint Vincent, or the Belem Tower as it has come to be known, is a fortification that was built in the 1500s and served as a ceremonial gateway to the city.

The tower is built in typical Portuguese Manueline style and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So it’s definitely a not to be missed activity on your 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary.

It’s often visited on a day trip from Lisbon , but I think it’s better to fit it as a stop on a longer Portugal road trip itinerary .

Admiring Belem Tower in Lisbon

Jeronimos Monastery

This was once the monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome, built in typical Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline architectural style. It boasts such intricate detailing that you could wander the monastery for hours.

Make sure to purchase your ticket online beforehand , so that you can skip the queue and head straight to exploring the beautiful monastery. The cloisters are without a doubt the highlight of the monastery.

Click here to purchase your skip the line entrance ticket to Jeronimos Monastery , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

The beautiful Geronimos Monastery in Lisbon, Portugal

Eat a pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belem

Pasteis de Belem is a pastelarias in Belem that serves arguably the best pastel de nata in Portugal. While you’re sure to eat plenty of pastel de nata while you’re in Lisbon, these are a must-try.

This tasty treat is one of the best in Lisbon, a city that leaves a great taste in your mouth!

After exploring Belem and refuelling on pastel de nata, it’s time to head to Cascais, just a 20-minute drive away.

You have to try a delicious pastel del nata!

Old Town Cascais

Cascais is a fishing village turned quaint and fairly wealthy town. The old town is covered in narrow cobbled pathways and colourful houses, perfect for exploring on foot.

There are also lots of cute shops, bars and restaurants. There are also a few famous sights like the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace, a former royal retreat.

You can easily spend an hour while simply wandering around the quaint streets of this town. When you’ve had enough of the old town, head down to the harbour to enjoy views of the open ocean.

Wandering the cute streets of the Old Town of Cascais

Relax at a beach in Cascais

Cascais is littered with some of the best beaches on the Portuguese coastline. You can go for a pleasant walk along the coast, admiring all the best beaches and choosing one to spend the afternoon.

It’s worth seeing them all, but because you’re on a time crunch, you may want to choose just one or two to actually sit, tan and go for a dip in the sea.

Some of the most famous beaches in Cascais are; Praia da Rainha, Praia da Duquesa, Praia da Conceição, Tamariz Beach and Praia de São Pedro do Estoril.

Once you’ve had your fill of sun and beach, it’s time to hop back in the car and take the one hour and 40-minute drive to Evora, where you’ll be spending the night.

One of the beautiful city beaches in Cascais

Where to stay in Evora

In Evora we stayed at Burgos Guest House . The guest house isn’t particularly fancy, but it has clean and spacious rooms and is located in the heart of Evora.

For an affordable price you can stay close to all the attractions, as well as to convenient parking spaces.

Click here to book your stay at Burgos Guest House!

If you’re looking for something a bit different, here are other accommodation options for other budgets.

Budget: Heaven Inn Suites & Terrace – This hostel offers a great option for budget travellers. It’s conveniently located in the centre of Evora, has spacious dorms and a terrace with views of Evora.

Check out prices and availability at Heaven Inn Suites & Terrace here!

Luxury: M’AR De AR Muralhas – Located just outside the old town walls of Evora, this beautiful hotel with pool is the perfect place to treat yourself and rest after the long drive from Lisbon.

Book your stay at M’AR De AR Muralhas here!

The main square in Evora, Portugal

Day 10 in Portugal: Evora & Mertola

After waking up in Evora , you’ll want to explore the town before moving on for the day. These are the must-see sights in Evora to add to your Portugal vacation itinerary.

Evora Cathedral

Evora Cathedral sits on the highest point of the city and is one of the most important monuments in the area.

The Roman Catholic church is absolutely beautiful inside and out, but the cloister and the rooftop are particularly awe-inspiring.

From the rooftop you can get an incredible view over the rooftops of Evora, as well as the surrounding countryside.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan you will enjoy wandering around the cloisters, as they will give you very strong Hogwarts vibes. Entrance to the cathedral is 1.50 EUR, or 3.50 EUR with the rooftop and cloisters.

View over Evora and the countryside from the rooftop of Evora cathedral

Exploring the cloisters of the cathedral in Evora

Chapel of Bones

But the most famous attraction in Evora is whtout a doubt the Capela dos Ossos, also known as the Chapel of Bones. It’s one of Evora’s most famed monuments, and it’s easy to see why.

The interior walls, columns and ceiling of the small chapel are decorated with human bones. It took an estimated 5000 corpses that were exhumed from the medieval cemetery to adorn the chapel.

While it’s without a doubt an eerie, and slightly macabre sight, it’s an interesting place to visit, where you can learn more about its history.

The famous Chapel of Bones in Evora, Portugal

The Roman Temple

Another unique sight is the Templo de Diana, or the Roman Temple of Evora. It’s part of the historical centre of the city, and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to make sure you hit all the sights, while also having a local guide tell you about the local history, you can join a guided tour of Evora .

Click here to book your guided tour of Evora!

The Roman Temple in Evora, Portugal

Old Town Centre

Before heading to the next stop in your Portugal itinerary, be sure to amble through the old town centre of Evora.

The narrow streets are lined with white houses with colourful yellow window frames – making for an absolutely picturesque scene.

After exploring the old town, hop in the car and get ready for the one hour and 40-minute drive to Mertola. But there is at least one stop you should be making along the way.

Exploring the cute streets of Evora in Portugal

There are many pretty towns on the drive from Evora to Mertola, but if decide to visit only one of them, then make sure it’s Monsaraz.

Monsaraz is located en route to Mertola and is a beautiful medieval town perched on a hilltop. Just like many other towns in the region, it’s complete with cobbled streets lined with white houses and a medieval castle.

From the castle walls and various spots of the town you will get epic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s an incredibly picturesque sight and a must on any Portugal itinerary.

If you’re looking for other stops to make along the way, consider stopping at the towns of Moura and Serpa.

Enjoying the view over Monsaraz and the surrounding countryside

When you get to this scenic medieval town, be sure to do a little exploring. The town is perched on a hill, with the Castle of Mertola sitting on the highest point.

You can spend some time wandering through the cobbled streets and white houses of Mertola, but make sure to dedicate some time to the castle.

From the castle you’ll be able to appreciate views of not only the town, but also the river and surrounding countryside. There are also panels that tell you about the history of the town.

Paired with Monsaraz, it’s one of the most picturesque and unique medieval towns you will see in Portugal.

View over Mertola, the Guadiana River and the surrounding countryside from the Castle of Mertola walls

View over Mertola and the Guadiana River

Where to stay in Mertola

In Mertola we stayed at Casa Amarela and I can highly recommend it. Located on the opposite side of the river from Mertola, all the rooms have epic views over the river, town and castle of Mertola.

It will also be much easier to park, as there isn’t much parking space inside the old town of Mertola. From there you can easily walk across the bridge and into Mertola town in 15-20 minutes.

Click here to book your stay at Casa Amarela!

If you’re looking for accommodation of a different budget, here are other options.

Budget: Mertola Castelo Palace by Eden Lands – This lovely guest house is located in the heart of the old town. Set in a renovated historic building, it’s a great place to stay for travellers who want an authentic experience on a budget.

Check out prices and availability at Mertola Castelo Palace by Eden Lands here!

Luxury: Quinta do Vau – Located on the same side of the river as Casa Amarela, this beautiful property has an infinity pool with views over Mertola, the river and countryside. Do I need to say anything else?

Click here to book your stay at Quinta do Vau!

The view over Mertola from our room at Casa Amarela

Day 11 in Portugal: Drive to Algarve

Portugal itineraries would be incomplete without the inclusion of Algarve, Portugal’s most famous beach destination. And that’s exactly where you’ll be heading on day 11.

The drive from Mertola to Albufeira, where you will be spending the night, is just a 1.5 hours, but there are a couple of places worth visiting along the way.

This small town and its attractions are definitely worth exploring.

It has a long sandy beach, perfect for stretching the legs. There are also salt pans that attract birds like flamingos and spoonbills, which makes for an interesting sight.

The town itself is also worth a visit. Similarly to some of the other Portuguese towns you’ve visited in this itinerary you will find pretty white houses, cobbled streets and a well preserved local castle and church.

Rooftop views in Tavira, Portugal

Exploring Tavira in the Algarve by tuk-tuk

Faro is the capital of the Algarve coast, with many landmarks and monuments filled with a rich history. Moorish walls, 13th-century cathedrals, and 16th-century convents are all ready to be explored when you stop at Faro.

I didn’t personally love Faro, but being the capital of the Algarve, it feels like one of those places you should at least briefly stop at.

The old town is the prettiest part of the city, with those characteristic white houses and cobbled streets.

Sunset in Faro Marina, Portugal

This coastal town was once a small fishing village but has now turned into a holiday hub where travellers can enjoy tranquil beaches and buzzing nightlife.

Albufeira is different from other beach towns in the Algarve in that it has an old town perched on top of a hill, overlooking the main beach and new town. Along the beach you will find a strip of bars, restaurants and shops.

You can spend your afternoon exploring the old town, then wandering through the attractions of the new town and then relaxing on the beach. If you want to explore the Portuguese nightlife, this is the place to do it!

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Where to stay in Albufeira

Deciding where to stay in the Algarve isn’t always easy, as each town has a distinctive vibe. To get you started, I have listed below some accommodation options in Albufeira for every budget.

Budget –  Alfagar Cerro Malpique :  This residence has lovely studios that are perfect for budget travellers. It’s located a bit outside the centre of Albufeira, but it has a huge pool and epic views over the sea and town.

Click here to book your stay at Alfagar Cerro Malpique!

Mid-range –  Casa dos Arcos :  This charming guest house is the perfect place to stay for those who want to treat themselves without breaking the bank. You can relax in their lovely courtyard after a long day of exploring the Algarve.

Check out prices and availability at Casa dos Arcos here!

Luxury –  Hotel Baltum :  If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. This hotel has modern rooms and a huge rooftop terrace with epic views over the white houses of Albufeira and the sea.

Book your stay at Hotel Baltum here!

Exploring the streets of Albufeira Old Town

Day 12 in Portugal: Benagil Cave & Praia do Marinha

Day 12 of your itinerary for Portugal will see you immerse yourself in the incredible natural features that this area has to offer. It was one of my favourite ideas of the whole itinerary.

Kayak to Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is a huge sea cave that is only accessible via the ocean, so you have to jon either a boat , kayak or SUP tour to reach it.

The cave has two entrances facing the ocean and one hole in the ceiling, allowing the perfect amount of light to enter the cave.

It’s one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, so I highly recommend joining a sunrise tour to visit it. We did a kayak sunrise tour to Benagil Cave and loved the experience.

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak sunrise tour , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

The tour started at 7AM and lasted 2 hours, including around 30 minutes inside Benagil Cave to enjoy the stunning natural rock formations. Besides Benagil Cave we kayaked along the coast and explored a couple more sea caves.

I was afraid it would be one of those Instagram vs reality moments, but I was happy to find it genuinely stunning even in real life.

If you visit later in the day however, when the cave is overrun by boats, kayaks and people, it probably won’t give you the same impression.

| READ MORE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING BENAGIL CAVE |

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Relax at Praia do Marinha

Praia do Marinha is one of the most iconic beaches of the Algarve coastline. After your Benagil Cave tour you can hike to Praia do Marinha, walking part of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail along the coast.

The hike takes around 45 minutes. There are stalls in the parking area above the beach and a bar on the beach itself where you can buy food and drinks.

The beach is famous for its turquoise water, fine sand and the dramatic golden cliffs that surround it.

Don’t get a spot too close to the water, since when the tide starts going up you’ll find yourself having to shuffle back up the beach!

Once you’ve relaxed and recovered from the early start it’s time to hop back in the car and head to Lagos, where you will be spending the night.

The drive is only 45 minutes, but you can do a few stops along the way to break up the journey.

Some towns worthy of a visit are Carvoeiro and Ferragudo. Lagos itself is also a very cute town, which you can enjoy wandering around in the late afternoon and evenings.

Praia da Marinha at high tide seen from above

Where to stay in Lagos

In Lagos I stayed at Topcity Hostel & Suites . The hostel is located in the heart of Lagos, with a rooftop pool, spacious terraces for every dorm and a fun atmosphere. It’s a great option for budget travellers, although more on the party side.

Click here to see prices and availability at Topcity Hostel & Suites!

If you don’t fancy staying in a hostel, here are some other options.

Mid-range –  Hotel Marina Rio :  Located in the heart of Lagos, this hotel is perfectly located for your evening wanderings around town. It also has a panoramic terrace and spacious rooms, without breaking the bank.

Check out prices and availability at Hotel Marina Rio!

Luxury –  Cascade Wellness Resort :  This 5-star resort is perfect if you want to treat yourself. With their epic pool, garden and sea view, you can fully relax after your busy exploring days. It’s also really close to Ponta da Piedade.

Click here to book your stay at Cascade Wellness Resort!

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

Day 13 in Portugal: Explore the beaches in Lagos & Ponta do Peidade

Your Algarve itinerary continues on day 13 with a few more beaches and expeditions.

Praia do Camilo

Start your day at Praia do Camilo, one of the most famous beaches in Portugal.

If you’ve seen photos online of a small beach with turquoise surrounded by tall golden cliffs, a wooden staircase leading down to it, this is the beach.

It gets very busy so make sure to get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Once the big tourist crowds start arriving, you can head off on a hiking adventure to Ponta da Piedade.

Walking down the famous wooden stairwell of Praia do Camilo in Portugal

Ponta do Piedade

At Ponta do Piedade, you can walk along the cliffy coastline, stopping at each viewing point to have your breath taken away from you. It’s easy to see why this part of Portugal features on so many Europe bucket lists .

At Ponta da Piedade you will enjoy stunning views of the turquoise ocean and craggy cliff faces. You can also join a boat tour , which will allow you to see these stunning rock formations from a different angle.

Click here to see prices and availability for a Ponta do Piedade boat tour, or check them out in the calendar below!

The stunning views of Ponta da Piedade, Portugal

The golden cliffs and coastline of Ponta da Piedade

Praia de Dona Ana

Once you’re done hiking and exporing Ponta da Piedade, you can head back towards Lagos and stop at Praia de Dona Ana. This beach is just as scenic as Praia do Camilo, but it’s much bigger.

That means you won’t have to fight with as many tourists, and even if you arrive later in the day you’ll likely still find a spot to lay your towel and relax.

Relaxing at Praia de Dona Ana is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Lagos .

View over Praia de Dona Ana in the Algarve, Portugal

Day 14 in Portugal: Surf in Sagres

For your final day in Portugal, you should drive for 40 minutes to Sagres, and get ready to enjoy unique shops, bars, restaurants and surf spots.

Explore Sagres Town

Although Sagre isn’t as quaint as many of the other towns on your itinerary, it’s worth a visit for its spectacular viewing point, Cabo de São Vicente. The viewing point is best visited at sunset.

It’s also worth strolling through the old quarter of town, where you can find many of the best bars, restaurants, and cafes.

The sunset at Cabo de Sao Vincente in Portugal

The cliffs of Cabo de Sao Vincente at sunset

Surf at Praia do Amado

There are many famous surfing beaches in this part of the Algarve. Some of the most famous are Praia do Telheiro, Castelejo Beach and Praia do Amado. Praia do Amado was my personal favourite.

Even if the surfing isn’t good, the beach is beautiful, with cliffs to one side and dunes to the other. You can book your surf class online beforehand, or just wait to get there and see what the waves are like.

Sagres is a great place to end your Portugal itinerary. After spending 14 days on the road, hopping from one place to the next, it’s a great place to sit back, chill and enjoy the vibe.

If you have more than 14 days, you can also stay here longer and enjoy the surf beaches. You can then fly out from Faro airport, which is around 1.5 hours drive away.

Praia do Amado in Portugal

Portugal 14-day itinerary – beyond mainland Portugal

If you have more than 2 weeks in Portugal, you should definitely consider heading to the Portuguese islands. Sao Miguel and Madeira are the most famous, but don’t limit yourself just to those.

There are lots of things to do on Sao Miguel , but the other islands also offer stunning opportunities. I spent  10 days in the Azores Islands , exploring Terceira , Pico, Sao Jorge and Faial Islands, and can honestly say it’s one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen.

The Azores are a place of stunning natural beauty, where you can go on epic hikes , swimming in natural rock pools, exploring cute colonial towns and on thrilling whale watching tours .

Enjoying the view over the Simao Dias natural pools on Sao Jorge island

Enjoying the view from the Miradouro Serra do Cume Viewpoint in Terceira Island

Final thoughts on my Portugal Itinerary | 14 Days of Exploration

There you have it, the ultimate Portugal 2-week itinerary! Have you been to Portugal before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

If you’re lucky enough to spend a whole two weeks in Portugal, then you need a game plan for your trip. Deciding which region to visit, what to do, and where to stay can be a challenge when you’re on the road.

But if you follow this two weeks in Portugal itinerary, you simply can’t go wrong. This Portugal itinerary takes you to explore everything that mainland Portugal has to offer.

From the main cities to the small medieval towns, from dramatic beaches to green valleys, it’s a perfectly balanced itinerary that touches a bit of everything.

I hope you find this itinerary useful in planning your time in Portugal. I had an incredible two weeks in Portugal, and I hope you do to. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary

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You might have heard of the explorers Vasco de Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, or the world-famous football players Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo. Do you know what these people have in common? All of them are from the wonderful country of Portugal.

Portugal is such a vast place, filled with UNESCO world heritage sites, scrumptious food, and vibrant nightlife, among others. And because of its relatively small size, spending 2 weeks in Portugal could go a long way. Prepared to be amazed as I present you with the various places or things that you could do in this country during your 14-day vacation.

Thinking of other destinations in Europe? We have a compilation of 6 itineraries for 2 weeks in Europe or 4 itineraries for 2 weeks in South Europe

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING PORTUGAL

Before we proceed with the actual itineraries, some things to keep in mind are the various modes of transportation that you could utilise, the best times to go, as well as their language and currency. These tips will help you plan and visualise your travel itinerary .

When is the best time to go to Portugal

The best time to travel to Portugal is from March to May then September to November. These are the months when the weather is great with fewer visitors roaming around.

The summer season is from June to mid-September while winter is from December to February. The rainy season can be quite a hassle, for those who want to avoid travelling during this season, heads up that Portugal’s rainy season is from November to December.

Like other countries in Europe, Portugal’s peak season is from July to August since it is the country’s holiday month.

Getting around

You can use trains, trams, buses, taxis, funiculars, and car rentals when getting around Portugal. Cycling has always been a popular mode of transportation, especially within the city. Trains are generally faster than buses, cost less and you can even soak in the picturesque scenery while travelling.

You can also take domestic flights, especially if you want to go to Madeira, a Portuguese island west of Africa. In my opinion, the best way to travel around Portugal is with a rental car. It’s easier to go to top attractions and I had the freedom to go and leave when I want.

Language and currency

A lot of Portuguese speak English, in fact, English is the second most spoken language in Portugal. The Portuguese language is quite identical to Spanish, if you know Spanish, it could give you a great advantage in reading signs. 

But if you want to be sure in terms of being understood in the country, here are some of their most commonly used phrases that travellers might find useful.

• por favor – please, 
• obrigado – thank you, 
• de nada – you’re welcome
• ola – hello 
• bom dia -means good morning, 
• adeus – goodbye, 
• como esta – how are you
• boa tarde -good evening

Their official currency is Euro. There are tons of facilities that accept cards nowadays but you must always be prepared and bring enough cash, especially in smaller towns where cash is still prefered. 

Visa and COVID-19 policy

Portugal is part of the Schengen States, which means that visitors with passports from Europe don’t need a visa to enter and travel to the country. If your passport is from an EU country, you have freedom of movement, which means you can stay as long as you want in Portugal, non EU-member can only stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

Foreign travellers from most of the Americas, some of East Europe, some of Southeast Asia, and most of Oceania don’t need a visa as well and can stay for up to 90-days in a 180-day period.

Tourists with passports from countries who don’t have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen States will have to secure a visa at the nearest Portuguese embassy/consulate or embassy/consulate of another European country near you.

Portugal is now open to all visitors (both vaccinated and unvaccinated). Masks are required in public or closed areas, and most specifically in health care facilities.

PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN PORTUGAL

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN PORTUGAL ITINERARY

Portugal is a country in southwestern Europe. With a temperate climate for most of the year, this is indeed a perfect holiday spot for locals and tourists alike. It has various landscapes and 850 km of an expanse of beaches. This is also perfect for people who have a love for golfing as it is among the top golf destinations in Europe.

Even with its amazing scenery, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food, staying for four days in each city is more than enough, so you could explore surrounding areas and even do day trips from the main city.

This 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary will cover the sights to enjoy and activities to do in the areas of Lisbon, Porto, Lagos and Madeira plus tips of other less popular places, perfect for those who want to get away from big crowds.

CHECK-OUT: 3 travel itineraries for 2 weeks in France

Lisbon, Porto, Lagos (Algarve), and Madeira

Lisbon is the capital and the largest city of Portugal. It is home to Fado music and vibrant cobbled streets. It is home to one of the world’s smallest bookstores, with only 4 square meters in space and housing 4,000 books, this bookshop could only accommodate one person at a time.

Porto is famous for its colourful buildings and ceramic walls, as well as bridges that show off Porto’s architectural prowess.

Lagos is an ancient maritime town with over 2000 years of history. It is among the most visited cities in Portugal because of its beaches, rock formations, hotels, bars, and restaurants.

While Madeira is home to Europe’s tallest sea cliff. It also has more than 25 miles of tunnels and 1,300 miles of hiking trails which is perfect for those who crave adventure.

Lisbon for 4 days

Let’s start this holiday in the capital city, Lisbon. Did you know Lisbon is famous for its seven hills, but there are actually eight? The seven hills were referenced from a 17th-century book, but the author Sao Nicolau de Oliveira forgot Graca, which was hidden behind Saint George’s Castle.

Aside from the hills, Portugal is also famous for its food. From ginjinha to pastel de Belem, you could never go wrong with trying out local delicacies in Lisbon. There are bars and themed restaurants that are all, so Instagram-worthy as well.

Porto for 3 days

Say goodbye to Lisbon for now and head to our next destination, Porto. This city in the north of Portugal has stately neoclassical buildings, extravagant baroque churches punctuating the skyline, modern art scenes, and futuristic music venues.

Knowing this, it’s safe to say that Porto depicts all of the timelines, past, present, and future. 

The easiest way to travel to Porto if you’re from Lisbon is by train, which could last more or less 3 hours. You could also travel via bus, plane, driving, bike, or walking (yes, this is a thing). If you’re driving, this road trip from Lisbon to Porto is a great source.

There’s a pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago, and its southern route is from Lisbon going to Porto). You can also choose a private transfer with an English-speaking driver. 

Lagos for 3 days

2 weeks in Portugal is not incomplete without visiting its best coastal region – Algarve. Lagos is located in Algarve, in the south of Portugal. One of the most popular activities in Lagos is sea and whale watching, which not many places can offer.

There are also tons of watersports to try. You could kayak through beautiful cliffs and incredible caves. They have an old town where you could see quirky shops and dine at cosy eateries.

Apart from Lagos, other popular places in Algarve include Sagres, Faro Albufeira, and Portimao. All these places offer fantastic activities suitable for solo travellers, young families, and couples on a romantic trip. You can base yourself in Porto and make a day trip from there.

To get to Lagos if you’re coming from Porto, you can take the train, bus, night bus, or fly. The most recommended option is to board the train and then ride a bus, with a travel duration of more or less 7 hours, and the fastest is to take a domestic flight.

Madeira for 3 days

Madeira is a small island east of Morroco, sitting on the Atlantic Ocean. It is the hometown of one of living football legends Cristiano Ronaldo, the devotion the people have for Ronaldo is astounding. He even has a museum and statue at the centre of Funchal, and their airport is named after him. You can find tons of tropical fruits here, such as bananas and passionfruit.

In terms of weather, it is almost always sunny in Madeira. It still rains here, but it quickly comes and goes, and their carnival is on par with the one being held in Rio de Janeiro. The island also conducts one of the biggest pyrotechnic shows in the world.

There are limited options for those who want to go to Madeira from Lagos. You can take a bus from Lagos to Albufeira to Lisbon, then take a flight from Lisbon directly to Maderia The other option would be to take a flight from Lagos (LOS) to Lisbon, and then another flight from Lisbon to Madeira.

Even if the transportation is kind of hard, it would be worth it. Going to an island to relax on the beach is one of the best ways to finish off your vacation.

BONUS DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN PORTUGAL

If you’re staying for 14 days in Portugal, it’s very understandable that there are days wherein you prefer to travel to less crowded destinations. Don’t worry because we also got you covered in this aspect.

Perhaps you decided to skip Madeira or when you get to Lagos, it’s not the kind of beach you want to spend 3 days of your holiday. You might also find Lisbon too big of a city for you. In that case, you can check the following destinations below as “substitute” places to go.

Albufeira is a coastal city well-known for its restaurants, beach bars, and club culture near Lagos. However, that’s not all there is to this city. You could also visit their old town which is surely filled with history and interesting artefacts as Arabs and Romans once occupied it.

Visit The Strip, and if you like ancient towns, go to a traditional village called Paderne.

Praia do Ancão

Praia do Ancao is a small coastal town between Albufeira and Faro. It is a maritime beach that is a local and international favourite because of the perfect balance of sand and dunes, as well as restaurants and bars.

They even have nautical sports equipment and facilities for football and aerobics. This is an awesome spot if you want to be in a place with few tourists but still have cool places to discover and restaurants to check out.

Praia de Afife

Praia de Afife is a beautiful and clean beach with good parking. This is a great location for surfing. Then you can eat at local cafes and shops after catching some waves.

For those who are interested in beach hopping in less crowded areas, as well as road trips, it would take you more than 5 hours to reach this place if you’re coming from Praia do Ancao.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN PORTUGAL (per city)

• Castelo de Sao Jorge
• Mosteiro dos Geronimos
• Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
• Oceanario de Lisboa
• Museu Nacional do Azulejo
• Elevador de Santa Justa
• Carmo Convent
• Lisboa Story Center
• Day trip to Cascais
• Save money by getting a Lisbon card that allows you to enter top attractions and the public transport system
• Go sightseeing – either on a walking tour or a tuk-tuk tour or an electric bike
• Belem Tower
• Pena Palace – you can do a combo tour that includes Sintra, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais
• Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge
• Sintra – day trip from Li sbon, including Quinta da Regaleria
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos
• Cabo da Roca
• Lisbon Cathedral
• Learn about Portuguese cuisine – food and wine tour or half-day food tour or wine-tasting tour
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol
• Day trip to Fatima, Nazare, and Obidos – check the tour price
• Quinta da Regaleira
• Tagus River – go on a Catamaran sunset tour or a cruise on a traditional boat
• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
• Jardim do Torel
• Explore Porto – by electric bike or street art tour or tuk-tuk tour or walking tour
• Luís I Bridge
• Duoro Valley – boat tour with wine tasting and lunch or wine tasting, lunch, and optional cruise
• Clerigos Church and Tower
• Livraria Lello
• Vila Nova de Gaia – board a sunset sailboat along Duoro River or 6 Bridges Cruise
• Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
• Day trip to Braga and Guimaraes – check the itinerary and cost
• Porto Cathedral
• Day trip to Aveiro, Paiva Walkways, and Arouca 516 Footbridge – read tour reviews
• Palácio da Bolsa
• Peneda-Gerês National Park – visit waterfalls, lagoons, and old villages
• Casa da Música
• Food tours – 3-hour food and wine tour or 10-dish food tour or pastel de nata cooking class
• Parque Natural do Alvão
• Wine and drinks tours – 7 port wine lodges or pub crawl
• Serra do Pilar
• Go Off-Road Buggy – join an adventure
• Porto bridge climb
• Cais de Ribeira
• Ponte dom Luis
• Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis
• World of Discoveries
• Igreja de Carmo
• Cafe Majestic
• Contemporary Art Museum
• Igreja do Carmo

Lagos/Algarve

• Day trip to Sagres
• Day trip to the fishing village of Burgau
• Guided Kayak tours
• Igreja de Santo Antonio 
• Parque Aventura Lagos
• Forte Ponta de Bandeira
• Parque Zoologico de Lagos
• Punta de la Piedad – boat cruise from Lagos
• The Strip/Rua da Oura
• Benagil Caves – go kayaking or a speedboat or from Vilamoura or from Portimao via a pirate ship
• Praia do Camilo
• Faro District / Ilha do Farol
• Golden Coast – cruise from Lagos
• Praia da Falésia
• Albufeira District – book a beach, bbq, and cruise
• Lagos District
• Ria Formosa – catamaran tour from Faro
• Praia de Dona Ana
• Family Golf Park
• Adventure activities – Off-Road Quad Tour from Albufeira or Jeep Safari
• Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina
• Dolphin watching – join a dolphin tour with caves from Albufeira or from Portimao

Madeira Island

• Old Town Walking Tour
• Explore Madeira Island – join west tour or east tour or a west tour on a jeep or book a 2-day guided tour to save time or get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass
• Hike Punta de Sao Lourencio
• Madeira Botanical Garden
• Ride the Cable Car at Funchal – check the price with Monte Toboggan and the botanical garden tour
• Swim at the Lava Pools / Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools – book a combo tour with Skywalk and Fana
• Hike Pivo Areiero to Pico Ruivo – do a sunrise tour with a transport service or a guided hike with a transport
• Day trip to the Nuns Valley, Monte, and a Sleigh ride – read the tour reviews
• Hike from Baloes (PR11) to Ribeiro Frio (PR10) to Portela or the other way around
• Dolphin and whale-watching – via an eco catamaran
• Porto Moniz – join a 4×4 tour
• Hike PR13 Verada do Fanal
• Go Scuba Diving – check dive price
• Santa Catarina Park
• Join a food and cultural tour
• CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo Museum
• Rancho Cable Car
• Levada Rbacal – tour with 25 fountains
• Nova and Moinho Waterfall
• Adventurous Activities – off-road buggy ride or go canyoning or level 2 canyoning
• San Vicente Caves
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden
• Porto Santo
• Levada Walks
• Northwest coast Safari day tour

MUST-TRY PORTUGUESE DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

For foodie lovers, make sure to try these local dishes, snacks, and unique drinks from Portugal during your visit. My personal favourites are pasteis de nata, pica pau, and bola de Berlim:

• Pasteis de Nata
• Pao com Chourico
• Pastel de Feijao
• Bola de Berlim
• Caldo Verde soup
• Licor Beirao

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Affordable: Be Lisbon Hostel or Living Lounge Lisbon
• Mid-range: Lisbon 5 Hotel or Garden Boutique Guest House
• Luxury: Turim Boulevard Hotel or Epic Sana Marques Hotel
• Affordable: Supernova Hostel or Change The World Hostel or Portuense Alojamento Local
• Mid-range: Zero Box Lodge or Yotel Porto or Ribeira do Porto Hotel or
• Luxury: PortoBay Flores or Turim Oporto Hotel
• Affordable: LC’s Guesthouse or Dona Ana Garden
• Mid-range: Apartamentos Turisticos Marsol or Dom Pedro Lagos or Charming Residence (adults only)
• Luxury: Hotel Marina Rio or Lagos Avenida Hotel or Boavista Golf & Spa
• Affordable: Pensao Residencial Vila Terensinha or FX Pena or 29 Madeira Hostel
• Mid-range: Villas Quinta da Lapa/Analodges or Aqua Natura Bay or Guesthouse Vila Lusitania
• Luxury: Sentido Galomar (adults only) or Calheta Beach/Savoy Signature (all-inclusive) or Saccharum/Hedonist Design Resort

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN PORTUGAL ITINERARY

Still unsure if you should spend two weeks in Portugal? You’re in luck because there are still plenty of reasons to go here. Portugal is one of the most peaceful countries in the world. In fact, it came in 4th place last 2021, according to World Population Review .

It is home to the world’s largest cork forest (located in Alentejo Region), and Europe’s westernmost point (Cabo da Roca) is also located here.

You can find Europe’s longest bridge in Lisbon (Vasco da Gama Bridge) which is among the best places to retire, with a low cost of living and tax incentives. And there you have it, your very own 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary.

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• Miranda do Douro
• Viana do Castelo
• Corvo, The Crow Island of the Azores
• Faial, The Blue Island of Azores
• Flores, The Yellow Island of Azores
• Graciosa, The White Island of the Azores
• Pico, The Black Island of Azores
• Santa Maria, The Sunshine Island of the Azores
• São Jorge, The Brown Island of Azores
• São Miguel, The Green Island of Azores
• Terceira Island, The Festive Island of Azores
• Central Portugal
• Lisbon and Tagus Valley
• Porto & Northern Portugal
• Portugal Survival Guide
• Entering Portugal
• Guide to Learning Portuguese
• Portugal Holidays
• Average Temperatures in Portugal
• Weather in Portugal
• Portugal Visa Guide
• Golden Visa Portugal
• Portugal Digital Nomad Visa 2023
• D7 Visa Guide
• D2 Visa Guide
• Food & Drink
• History and Culture

What Are Conventual Sweets? A Guide to Portugal’s Delicious Desserts

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As one of the oldest countries in Europe, Portugal has a culturally rich history, stunning beaches, as well as quality wine and cuisine. Increasingly, millions of tourists travel to Portugal every year. If you are looking to explore as much of Portugal in a two-week time frame, our 14-day itinerary has got you covered.

This itinerary starts in Porto, rather than in Lisbon as flights are commonly cheaper from the United States and the United Kingdom to Porto airport. This way, you will get to see Portugal from North to South. However, there are plenty of other cities further North but unfortunately, you won’t have time for all that in 14 days.

The first week of your trip will be filled with activities in major cities, while as you drive further south for the last week, you will be relaxing on beaches and exploring small villages. This way, you get to experience all that Portugal has to offer.

For everything you need to know before traveling to Portugal, check out our Portugal Survival Guide.

Day 1: Arrive in Porto

A 20-minute drive from Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto should be your first stop. The breathtaking city of Porto lies along the Douro river and is home to Port wine, street art, and “francesinhas". One of the oldest in Europe, Porto’s old town in the city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996 so we recommend exploring it as soon as you get there. Head to the Clérigos Tower where after climbing the steps you can enjoy a 360 view of the city.

Livraria Lello is also close by, one of the oldest bookstores in the country, founded in 1906. Entrance to Livraria Lello used to be free, but they were getting 4,000 visits a day with long lines and less than 5% would buy a book. Now the tickets cost €5. Kids under 3 years old have free entrance.

If you're hungry for dinner, check out our favorite restaurants in Porto. We recommend Antiqvvm for a Michelin star experience. If a francesinha in a more relaxed environment is what you are looking for, head to Casa Guedes or Tasquinha Ze Povinho. 

After dinner, head to a Fado house to listen to the iconic style of Portuguese music. Most fado houses offer you a Port wine glass to enjoy with the live show. Book this Fado Live Show in Porto for an intimate setting in Casa da Guitarra near Sé. 

Best Hotels in Porto

• NH Hotel Porto Jardim :  This four-star hotel feels like its five stars. It has a 70 cm deep outdoor people, a spa a few meters away, and a gym. It is located within walking distance of main attractions like Bolhão market, Aliados Avenue, and Ribeira. If you have a dog or cat, this hotel is pet-friendly.
• Vila Gale Porto : Vila Gale is a well-known chain of hotels in Portugal and is always a safe option. This one was built in 1999 and recently renovated. The hotel has a spa with an indoor pool, a gym, a restaurant, and two bars.
• Hotel Premium Porto Downtown : Located in the old town, this modern 4-star hotel has a sun terrace with views of the city of Porto, the perfect place to enjoy some port wine. You’ll be close to everything you need, Santa Catarina street, Aliados Avenue, and the cathedral.

Book Tours & Activities in Porto

Day 2: Discover the Port wine region of Douro

Start the day with breakfast at Confeitaria Cristal in Cedofeita, a pastry shop. We recommend the courgette and ginger cookies, as well as the classic pastel de nata with an espresso. 

After breakfast, head to Estiva Quay to board a top-rated full-day river cruise to discover the Regua and Douro, a famous Port wine region. The cruise includes a large breakfast, as well as lunch while you admire the Douro valley and goes through the 14-meter Crestuma-Lever Dam and the Carrapatelo Dam. Audio guides are also included in four different languages. The cruise stops at Regua where you can enjoy the town with friends. The route back is done by train.

Book Douro & Regua Cruise

For dinner, head to Vila Nova de Gaia for dinner at the 5-star hotel the Yeatman. 15 minutes away from Porto, across the Dom Luis Bridge. You get a full view of Porto across the Douro river and get to try some of the best food in the country as the Yeatman has 2-Michelin stars. Before heading back to Porto, explore the city center of Vila Nova de Gaia. Enjoy one last night in Porto, before heading to Peneda-Geres National Park in the morning. 

Guide to Porto

Day 3: Explore the Peneda-Geres National Park 

Many visit the North of Portugal and forget about the hidden gem that is Peneda-Geres National Park, only an hour's drive from Porto. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Peneda-Geres National Park covers over 700 km2 of protected land with stunning mountain trails, river beaches, and historical villages such as Geres.

We recommend arriving at the park early to enjoy your full day here. Start the morning with a hiking trail. One of our favorite trails is the Sao Bento trail (PR7 PBR), a 10-kilometer hike that takes around four hours. The hike stretches along the south-eastern cliffs of the Caldo river and you will get to discover interesting religious sites such as the Basilica of St. Benedict, Portugal’s second-largest sanctuary.

Head for lunch to Taberna da Ti Ana da Eira in Montalegre, one of the most popular restaurants in the region. The dishes are produced from regional products in the village and the restaurant has large windows offering 360 views of the Paradela reservoir. 

After lunch, it's time for a relaxing swim. Peneda-Geres National park boasts plenty of natural lagoons. We recommend the Poco Azul, a lagoon with crystal clear waters. However, to get here, you must hike an 8-kilometer trail. If you are too exhausted from the morning hike, head to Arado Lagoa which you can reach by car. The lagoon is formed by stunning waterfalls. 

Alternatively, you can choose to stay this extra night in Porto and book a tour from Porto to Geres. Everything will be taken care of for a full day and you do not need to worry about transportation.  This tour  includes a hiking trail to a waterfall, as well as a trip on a 4×4 Land Rover, and a traditional Portuguese lunch.

Book Full Day Tour to Geres

Best hotels in peneda-geres national park.

• Secret do Geres:  Offering one-bedroom treehouses surrounded by nature, each unit comes equipped with wood balconies, a private bathroom, and a double bed. The property also features a swimming pool, garden, and room service for breakfast in bed.
• Pousadela Village:  Pousada Village is located in Vieira do Minho and overlooks the river and valley. The property features a restaurant, bar, garden, and outdoor pool for guests to enjoy. A sauna and indoor pool are also available at Pousada Village

Guide to Peneda-Geres National Park

Day 4: One night in Coimbra

A 2-hour drive from Peneda-Geres National Park, Coimbra is your next stop. We recommend leaving early in the morning so you can enjoy your day in the city.

Your first stop should be the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world. To get to the university, start from the Almedina Tower, the entrance gate forming part of the wall that surrounded the old city situated in the lower section of the city. Here, you can explore the alleys that date back to the 8th century.

Visit the Joanine Library, a Baroque library situated in the center of the University of Coimbra, by the university tower. The library was built in the 18 th  century and it is considered a national monument with priceless historical value.  For a full experience, book a tour of the university.

Book University of Coimbra Tour

For lunch, head to Italia in the Docks of Coimbra, a restaurant serving high-quality Italian food, or Cordel Maneirista, a Portuguese restaurant near the S. Francisco Convent. We recommend the alheira and the Santa Clara dessert. 

After lunch, take a walk in the Botanical garden, one of the oldest in Portugal. With 13 hectares of beauty, the garden was established in 1772 by the Marquis de Pombal with the purpose to supplement the study of medicine and natural history at the University of Coimbra.

Book Botanical Garden & Cathedral Coimbra Tour

Next, visit the Santa Cruz Monastery and the Convent of Santa Clara, built in 1314. If you still have time, head to Quinta das Lagrimas. This estate has been the setting for the forbidden romance between King D. Pedro I and Inês de Castro. The gardens have a canal, “Fonte dos Amores”, that according to legend transported love letters between the Estate and the Royal Palace.

Enjoy your night in Coimbra with dinner at Arcadas Restaurante, a fine-dining restaurant with an extraordinary collection of wines and cuisine made of traditional ingredients. 

Best Hotels in Coimbra

• Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas : A 5-star hotel, Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas is located in a historic medieval palace that was recently renovated. Featuring botanical gardens and a luxurious spa with views of the city, as well as a 9-hole golf course, this hotel has all the facilities you need and more.
• Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra : Located in the heart of Coimbra, only 400 meters from the University of Coimbra, Solar Antigo Luxury Coimbra is a 4-star boutique hotel that features views of the city. A historical building, its traditional architecture has been kept intact, while including all the modern amenities necessary for a comfortable stay. 

Day 5: Arrive in Lisbon

Drive South towards Lisbon. If you are looking for places to stop for coffee and a snack we recommend Fatima or Santarem. The drive is around 2 hours. 

For lunch, take a look at our favorite restaurants in Lisbon. If you are vegan or just enjoy plant-based food and want to try some Portuguese food, we definitely recommend Ao 26 Vegan Food Project. Located close to Chiado, Ao 26 serves a plant-based version of traditional Portuguese food, every single dish at this place tastes like the real thing – or even better. 

Another great option for lunch for the meat-lovers is Alfaia, one of the oldest restaurants in Lisbon that opened in 1880.

After lunch, head to Sao Jorge Castle. The 5th-century palace was restored in 1938 by the dictatorship of Salazar to look the way it is presented now. Tourists can visit the castle complex which consists of the castle itself, the ruins of the royal palace, gardens, and a terraced square with panoramic views of the city. A ticket to visit costs between €5 and €10. You can also pay a little extra to skip the line .

A 5-minute walk away, head to Alfama, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and the home of fado. Explore the neighborhood and look out for Fado spots, as well as historical monuments such as the Lisbon Cathedral, the Convent of the Grace, and more.

If you still have time before dinner, take the train to Belem. Belem lies along the Tejo Estuary and is home to two UNESCO sites, Torre de Belem and Mosteiro dos Jeronimos. 

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is a former monastery in Belém constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style and you can visit the church for free. A 2-minute walk from the monastery, head to Pasteis de Belem where the traditional Portuguese custard tart was first invented.

Belem has some great dinner spots, particularly for a sunset dinner. Portugalia Cervejaria is a classic franchise restaurant in Portugal that has tasty steak with a variety of sauces.

Alternatively, take the train to Cais do Sodre and enjoy a dinner at Taberna Tosca, a Portuguese restaurant featuring regional cheeses, meats, and wines in a historic building.

After dinner, walk to Bairro Alto, the most popular area for drinking outdoors. Tons of locals and tourists line the streets of Bairro Alto with a beer in hand. We recommend Ze dos Bois Gallery, a musical center that has live music and serves tasty drinks. 

Book a pub crawl in Lisbon

Best Hotels in Lisbon

• Inspira Liberdade Boutique Hotel:  Awarded the Best Luxury Green Hotel in 2019, Inspira Liberdade provides a relaxing Feng-Shui vibe for its guests. The hotel has a SPA, fitness room, bar, and a restaurant with Portuguese food called Pen Brasserie Mediterrânica.
• Selena Secret Garden : The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room. In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado.
• Bairro Alto Hotel: This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha.

Day 6: Tuk-Tuk Tour of Lisbon

Lisbon is a pretty large city, at least to Portuguese standards. Since you only have 14 days to enjoy as much of Portugal as possible, we recommend a guided tour of Lisbon so you get to see as much as you can of the capital. For your second day in Lisbon, here are the best guided tours to explore the city:

• Lisbon 3-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Tuk Tuk : This tuk-tuk tour rides up and down the hills of Lisbon, going through the city's oldest neighborhoods and main attractions.
• Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Book a 24-hour ticket which includes an audio guide. This affordable ticket allows you to visit different routes and hop in as you would like. 
• Lisbon 3-Hour Tour by E-Bike: This tour allows you to cycle through Lisbon on comfortable e-bikes with a guided tour. You will get to visit different viewpoints and historical attractions.

After your tour, we recommend heading to CasaNova in Santa Apolonia for some pizzas, cooked on a wood-burning stove. You can then walk to Terreiro do Paco, the harbor-facing plaza and one of the largest in Portugal. If you are there at sunset time, sit near the river with a beer and enjoy the views.

Day 7: Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais from Lisbon

What makes Lisbon one of the best cities in Portugal is that you are very close to stunning hidden gems that are perfect for a day trip. It would be a waste to not take advantage of its location. Therefore, you should take a full day to visit Sintra and Cascais. We recommend either driving to these locations (both around 30 minutes from Lisbon) or booking a guided tour. 

In the morning, head to Sintra for breakfast. Grab a “travesseiro”, a Sintra staple at Piriquita, in the heart of the city. Then walk toward Castle of the Moors, a medieval castle that sits on a hilltop and was built by the Moors in the 8th century.

Palacio da Pena is another must-see. The exterior of this palace is painted in multiple colors and is in a romanticist style. You can also wander around the castle and see the beautiful green area that surrounds it. You’ll feel like you’re in a fairytale. Tickets cost around €15.

Guide to Sintra

For lunch, drive towards Cascais and stop at a restaurant called Furnas do Guincho. This is one of the best seafood restaurants in the area, but it is quite pricey. For a more affordable alternative, drive to the center of Cascais and eat at Baia do Peixe. 

After lunch, discover the town of Cascais, located on the Portuguese Riviera. One of the richest municipalities in the country, it is home to the best hotels and beaches. Head to “Praia da Rainha”, a secluded  beach  with a wonderful view, perfect for a family photograph.

Then, walk for a minute toward “Frederico Arouca” street. This is essentially the high street with the major stores, as well as smaller vendors selling Portuguese souvenirs. 

From there, walk toward the City Hall of Cascais in “Praça 5 de Outubro”. This beautiful building with traditional Portuguese architecture stands in the middle of the commerce square, featuring authentic cobblestone streets. 

If you’re still energized and the weather is good, exploring  Guincho beach  is next. A 10-minute ride from the center of Cascais, Guincho is the of the best beaches in Portugal. Not only is it perfect for swimming and tanning in the summer, but it is also beautiful to walk through in the colder months.

Guide to Cascais

If you prefer a guided tour, this tour of Sintra and Cascais takes you to all the best spots. It also includes a guided ticket to the Pena Palace, allowing you to skip the long lines. You can also pick between a shared or private tour. The tour includes free time and transportation. 

Book Sintra & Cascais Tour

Now that you are heading further south, the last few days of your trip are for relaxing on the beach and discovering small villages.

Day 8 & 9: Comporta 

Take the 1:30 journey from Lisbon to Comporta, around 120 kilometers away. Comporta is located in the old district of Setubal, at the base of the Troia Peninsula. This is a popular place for vacationing in Portugal, but that is a lot less busy than the Algarve.

The best beaches to visit in Comporta are the classic Praia da Comporta and Praia do Pego. Praia da Comporta is hidden behind pine forests and sand dunes and features a beach bar with a DJ. 

We recommend also booking this 4-hour private horseback riding tou r through white sandy beaches. You will get to spot some wildlife and stunning views. 

For lunch, head to Comporta Cafe on Praia da Comporta. The beach club serves all kinds of food from seafood to meats and tapas. For dinner, Dona Bia is one of the most popular restaurants in Comporta, serving traditional Portuguese food at an affordable price. 

Best Hotels & Villas in Comporta

• Spatia Comporta: The 4-star hotel features a restaurant, swimming pool, bar, and shared lounge. You can get a room or a fully equipped villa.
• Quinta da Comporta: The 5-star hotel has a restaurant, swimming pool, and gym, and offers both rooms and suites, as well as a villa with a private pool on the beach.

Day 10 & 11: Vila Nova de Mil Fontes 

A one-hour drive from Comporta, Vila Nova de Mil Fontes lies at the mouth of the Mira Riva and is surrounded by the Southwest Alentejo and the Vicentine Coast Natural Park. The town has some of the best beaches in Portugal, as well as a picturesque village and harbor with fishing boats.

The best beaches to visit in Vila Nova de Mil Fontes are Praia da Franquia, Praia das Furnas, and Almograve, 10 kilometers away. Beware that in this area of Portugal, the water is quite cold and the waves can get large. 

The town of Vila Nova is great to explore when it gets too hot at the beach. Visit St. Clement Fort, a fort built in the 17th century that is now an exclusive hotel. Discover the great restaurants, artisan shops, and patisseries in the town center and enjoy the Moorish architecture of the buildings. 

Some of the best restaurants in Vila Nova de Mil Fontes are Tasco do Celso a family restaurant in the center with fresh seafood and A Portuguesa, a traditional restaurant showcasing Portuguese produce. 

Best Hotels in Vila Nova de Mil Fontes

• Raminhos Guest House: Located a 10-minute walk from Franquia Beach, the rooms feature a desk, TV, private bathroom, and luggage storage available.
• Monte da Corca Nova : The 4-star hotel features a swimming pool, bar, garden, and water sports facilities. They offer large rooms in traditional stoned houses. 

Day 12 & 13: Tavira

Drive to Tavira, two hours away, to enjoy your last few days in Portugal. Tavira was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses, and features golden beaches with warm water. While the small city is mostly known for its beaches, the quaint town allows you to visit some attractions, as well as explore shops, restaurants, and more.

Our favorite beach in Tavira is Praia do barril. The beach features a wooden path over golden sand which provides a gorgeous contrast with the dark blue waters. Due to the large size of the beach, you will rarely feel like it’s too busy, despite its popularity. Praia do Barril features over 100 rusting anchors in the sand, presented in rows known as the “Anchor Cemetary” to represent the remains of the former tuna fishing village. 

Praia de Tavira and Praia da Terra Estreita are also great alternatives in Tavira. If you want to discover multiple beaches this affordable 4-hour boat tour takes you on an octopus tour and stops at multiple beaches.

We recommend taking a walk through Tavira, exploring the chapel of Sao Bras and the hundreds of other churches. The historic center also features a castle and a convent. Book this 100% electric 1-hour tuk-tuk tour if you want a guided tour of the city from a local's perspective. 

Tours in Tavira

Best Hotels in Tavira

• São Paulo Boutique Hotel: São Paulo Boutique Hotel is located less than 5 kilometers from the beach and features an outdoor swimming pool, bar, shared lounge, and large garden for guests to enjoy. 
• OZADI Tavira Hotel:  A 4-star hotel AZADI Tavira Hotel is 3 kilometers away from the beach and features a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and two restaurants. 
• Quinta Dos Perfumes: An 8-minute walk from the beach, Quinta dos Perfumes is an 88-acre farmhouse that features beautiful orange groves and a salt-water outdoor pool.

Guide to Tavira

Day 14: Fly back home from Faro

Since you are already in the south of Portugal, fly back to your home country (or whichever country you are visiting next) through Faro Airport. The airport is a 30-minute drive from Tavira. You can return the car you rented in Porto in Faro airport, just make sure you selected this option when booking the car rental.

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How much do you think this two week tour will cost?

Hi Bill! That will depend on your accommodation choice, as well as where you eat out. But as on average, I would say around 1500 to 2000 euros

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The Ultimate Portugal Road Trip: 2 Weeks in Portugal

by Drifter Planet | Nov 18, 2023 | Most Popular Blog Posts , Portugal

After five different visits to Portugal (one being a road trip), I have finally decided to pen down this post. Here’s all the information you need for the best 2 weeks in Portugal.

My first Portugal trip was in 2016 and it was love at first sight when I arrived in Lisbon . That time Portugal felt like a warm sip of a comforting caffeinated drink on a cold winter day. I did visit 4 more times after that and each time was special.

Starting Point for 2 Weeks in Portugal

Our road trip to Portugal actually started in Germany because we drove with our campervan from home. We crossed France, and Spain and then entered Portugal. We arrived in the North of Portugal near Coimbra .

I understand that not many will actually drive from their own country for a road trip in Portugal, but instead fly and rent a car .

For the sake of this itinerary, I suggest you fly to Faro , the south of Portugal. Faro is the gateway to the Algarve so you can start your trip with stunning beaches before you gradually make your way to the North. Another option would be to fly to Porto , the north of Portugal, and then make your way to the south.

At both Faro and Porto airports, you will find car rental booths but I always recommend you book a rental car in advance so that there are no last-minute surprises. For your 2-week Portugal itinerary, you could also fly to Lisbon, but then you have to do your road trip in a circle.

Keep in mind that Portugal is a small country, so a drive from Lisbon to Porto will just take 3 hours, or also Lisbon to Faro

Portugal Road Trip Itinerary + Map

Table of contents.

If you see the map of Portugal, you will notice that the country’s shape is a bit like a long rectangle. So it makes it a perfect country for a road trip starting from the top end of the rectangle to the bottom (or vice versa).

That’s exactly how I have made this itinerary. You can start from the bottom or top, it depends on how you want to do it.

Faro, Algarve – 1 Day (Optional)

Our first stop on this road trip is Faro. If you have read my Algarve road trip post , then you know by now that Faro is the perfect place to start a road trip.

I’m in love with the Algarve. The beaches are sandy, the weather is pleasant, the rock formation is super stunning, and as a result, there are multiple viewpoints. Moreover, you can hike from one beach to another in many parts of the Algarve and that’s what makes the experience even more special.

You will land in Faro, pick up your rental car, and drive on the scenic route to explore the Algarve. It is up to you whether you want to stay in Faro for your first day, or just drive further to Carvoeiro (our next stop).

I have stayed the night in Faro on two occasions and I enjoyed this tiny city with a historical center. Everything in Faro is so close to each other. You can easily walk from anywhere in Faro to the marina and the old town.

I booked a place to stay near the train station the first time I was here but decided to stay right next to the marina on the second visit.

If you do decide to stay in Faro for a night, then the right place for you to spend your evening is the marina, and Cidade Velha (the old town). See the city walls in Vila Adentro.

Walk around in Cidade Velha and pick a restaurant with outdoor seating for dinner. I ate in Taberna Modesto in the old town and had a lovely meal. Sleep and rejuvenate after dinner to drive to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve the next day.

Carvoeiro, Algarve – 2-3 days

Wondering what’s the best place to visit in the Algarve? It is Carvoeiro.

The most famous spots of the Algarve are easy to access from Carvoeiro. I’m talking about the legendary Marinha Beach and Benagil Cave .

Carvoeiro is the reason why I went back to the Algarve within just 11 months instead of picking a new destination. There are beaches, caves, and stunning hikes.

Here’s what you can do in Carvoeiro for your 3 days here.

Vale de Centeanes Beach

Carvoeiro has a few beaches but the best one is Vale de Centeanes. Since you are in Carvoeiro for just three days, make the most of your time by relaxing on Vale de Centeanes.

Unlike Praia do Carvoeiro (the main beach close to Carvoeiro town center), Vale de Centeanes doesn’t get as crowded. We stayed very close to this beach at Rocha Brava Village Resort so we just walked and reached this beach.

There is a small bar/restaurant at Vale de Centeanes at the entry point. I suggest you walk a little further from there till the time you find the arch of a cave. Sit here because the water is cleaner next to it for a swim.

Algar Seco (Sunset)

This is unmissable. If you arrive late in Carvoeiro, then skip the beach and just go for a walk to Algar Seco Caves.

There is an entire Carvoeiro Boardwalk that one can do, but for that, you need more time. The best part is the Algar Seco caves. Halfway on the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, you will find a sign for “A Boneca”. That’s a beautiful cave and there’s also a restaurant with the same name.

The entry for “A Boneca” cave is through the restaurant. Go inside “A Boneca” and see a magical sunset. There are two holes, that look like the eyes.

This cave is tiny so I suggest you be mindful of other visitors and leave when you are done admiring this pretty spot so that the queues don’t build up behind you.

There are more caves all around and the rock formations reminded me a little of Cappadocia. Walk around here and admire the beauty. Find a nice spot to sit on one of the rocks and see the beauty of the golden hour.

Benagil Cave

Your second day in Portugal (if you didn’t stay overnight in Faro) will start with a visit to Benagil Cave. It is a hidden beach inside a cave with a hole on top that filters the natural light.

I have visited the Benagil Cave twice. It is a stunning cave that has become very popular on Instagram. The only way to enjoy it is by getting to it by 9 am. So wake up early and arrive at Benagil village by taxi from your hotel at 8:45 am.

The only way to reach Benagil Cave is by kayaking or paddleboarding. If you haven’t done kayaking or paddleboarding, the easiest way to start is by joining a group tour. They will instruct you and guide you. Otherwise, you can always opt for a boat trip.

There are boat tours that go to the Benagil Cave too but the boats aren’t allowed to stop inside to offload people.

If you want to walk on Benagil Cave beach, then the only way in is by kayaking or paddleboarding. Forget swimming because it isn’t safe because of the rocks. Believe it or not, I did both. I kayaked to the Benagil cave in 2022 and Stand Up Paddleboarded to it in 2023.

You can do a tour like I did, or just rent a kayak or a paddleboard on Benagil beach as soon as you arrive. I did a tour because I wanted to be safe and didn’t want to collide with the rocks. Please read my details post about Benagil Caves here.

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

The Seven Hanging Valleys trail actually starts from Vale de Centeanes in Carvoeiro to Praia da Marinha . This entire hiking trail is scenic but the best way to do it is to divide it into sections. The most scenic part of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail is from Benagil to Marinha.

After you are done with visiting the Benagil Cave beach, go up on the cliffs to start this hike and go in the direction towards the Marinha beach.

You will also be able to see the Benagil Cave from the hole on the top. It is fenced off but some people jumped the fence. It is dangerous because if you slip, you could seriously injure yourself.

Even though Portugal gets hot in the summer months, this hike is totally doable during the day because there are trees around.

Carry a hat and water. This hiking trail doesn’t have a boardwalk but a path over the rocks that has many viewpoints and each one is special.

We did a section of this hike each day and saw something new. There is a heart in the rocks that’s at the end of this hike right above Praia da Marinha beach near the elephant rock.

We came here to watch the sunset too and it was an amazing experience. Although we couldn’t really see the sun setting because of the direction. This is more of a sunrise spot than a sunset since it is east-facing.

Marinha Beach

Praia da Marinha is the prettiest beach in the Algarve and has won many awards. I won’t go into the details but to deep dive into more info, see my Marinha Beach blog post .

Now that you have arrived at Praia da Marinha, enjoy a swim in the clear and cold waters of this beach. Swim around the arch on the Marinha beach and enjoy the beauty.

Yes, the water here is cold because you’re swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, but it is super refreshing and fun, especially on a hot summer day after the hike.

Marinha Beach has a nice restaurant and bar that’s family-run and has affordable prices. I loved this little restaurant so much that I ate there twice. They also have amazing Sangrias.

We enjoyed Marinha Beach so much that we stayed here for a full day and visited it again the next day. It didn’t feel crowded even though we visited during the summer months.

Where to Stay in Carvoeiro

Rocha Brava Village Resort  – This is where we stayed. It is a stunning resort with amazing villas, and apartments and is close to the beach. The Seven Hanging Valleys trail starts from right here.

Campsites Ferragudo – If you rented a van instead of a car, then it makes more sense to stay in a campsite instead of a resort. It is also called “CCL – Parque de Campismo de Ferragudo”.

Lagos, Algarve – 3 days

Your next stop in the Algarve is Lagos. It is so much better than other destinations like Portimão or Albufeira. Somehow most travelers visit Albufeira and that’s it.

I have suggested 3 days in Lagos for you but I stayed here for a week myself because I fell in love with its easy vibes. If you decide to stay here for a longer duration then see my post with things to do in Lagos which has more activities than what I mention here.

Lagos is just 42 kilometers from Carvoeiro and hence a short drive away. Honestly, if you hate packing and unpacking to move rooms, then it might make more sense for you to stay put in just one of these places.

For me, it made more sense to stay in these places separately so that some things that are done super early (like Benagil Cave) or late (like special sunset hikes) are easier to do when you’re sleeping close by.

Ponta da Piedade (Sunset Hike)

Ponta da Piedade is the best hiking trail in the Algarve, if not the entire Portugal. Unlike the Seven Haning Valleys hike that I mentioned before, this one is a fenced boardwalk so feels safer.

There are multiple viewpoints on this hiking route and there’s usually a gazebo for every nice viewpoint. You don’t have to do this entire hike.

Just go near the Ponta da Piedade lighthouse near the sunset and find a spot to sit on top of the rocks. The sudden drop below you will take your breath away.

We found a nice spot here that overlooked a hidden beach and faced the west, so perfect for seeing the sunset. I was in Lagos for a week and went back to this spot every single evening.

If you want to do the entire Ponta da Piedade hike, you can read my post about it. I did the whole route and split it over a few days. You can hike from one beach to another and it is totally worth it if you have time.

Camilo Beach

There are many beaches in Lagos , but the best one is Praia do Camilo. It is stunning but is tiny. The water is very clear and the sand is perfect. There are arches, rock formations, and also a cave.

Praia do Camilo tends to get crowded because it is so pretty, so the best time to visit it is at 9:30 am right after breakfast. I did that too and it was empty. The beach is divided into two sections and you have to go through a cave to reach the second part.

In order to reach Praia do Camilo, you have to go on the same path that goes to Ponta da Piedade, but just before it is a turn that points to Camilo restaurant. That’s the entryway for Praia do Camilo too.

You have to climb lots of steps to reach this beach, but trust me it is worth it. Unfortunately, it has no wheelchair or pram access. There are many spots to stop and admire the view as you climb down this wide staircase.

I also saw a tiny snack bar at Praia do Camilo, so you can buy your basics. There isn’t any WC here on this beach.

Dona Ana beach

Praia de Dona Ana is a massive beach that’s amazing for a swim. There are nice rock formations here and as a result, there are some shaded areas to sit on a hot summer day.

The first time I visited Dona Ana beach was from a hike from the nearby Pinhão beach, which is super tiny. The first view of Dona Ana beach from up on the rocks took my breath away.

There is a restaurant on Dona Ana beach with a bar. I didn’t go there but my friend did to use the WC. There is also a bus stop right at the entry point of Dona Ana so it is easy to reach with public transportation.

This beach was completely empty at 6 pm because the sun went behind the rocks and the entire beach was covered in shade. I loved the view of it from the top when the sun started going down.

Dona Ana is not far from the old town. Actually, the beaches that are closer to the main town are Praia da Batata and Praia dos Estudantes. You can read more about those beaches in my post about Lagos’ beaches .

Praia do Canavial

If you want to go off the beaten path in Lagos, I suggest you hike to Praia do Canavial. You have to go on the Ponta da Piedade hike and keep going on this trail for a long time to see this beach.

It wasn’t easy to find it but I got lucky and found someone on the hiking trail who just got out of this beach. It was kind of like an adventure to reach here.

This beach is very nice because it is empty. That’s why it is a nudist beach or FKK beach. The sand was a tad pebbly and the rock formations were pretty ok when compared to the other beaches. But the thrill of adventure made this visit memorable.

Lagos Old Town

Yes, Lagos is a beach destination but has an interesting city center. There are old buildings that are covered with Azulejos. The time I visited, there were Jacaranda trees, citrus trees, and bougainvillea all around the old town and everything was blooming and fruiting.

I like that Lagos is a stunning beach destination but also has a historical small-town vibe. This is why I feel that Lagos is an important spot in this Portugal road trip itinerary because it pretty much has everything.

Where to Stay in Lagos

B22 – Rising Sun 2 Bed Flat  – Ideally suited for families and couples who are looking for an apartment with a view. I’d book this in a heartbeat if I was visiting with my husband and my little girl.

Lemon Tree Relaxing Guest House  – Peaceful Place with a garden and a shared kitchen.

Safari Beach Guest House  – Affordable private rooms and dorm beds in a quiet residential area. This is where I stayed and loved it.

Kampaoh Praia da Luz – This is a nice campground and it makes sense to stay here if you have a campervan.

Trindade Guest House and Camping – If you arrive in Lagos on a camper van, then you can consider this place since it has van parking and camping facilities too.

Lisbon and Sintra – 3 days

Ola Lisboa, you are just so beautiful!

I don’t like big cities but I make an exception for Lisbon because it is so pretty. It has loads of history thus one can find historical buildings, churches streets, and structures. Yes, a lot of big European cities have a rich history, but Lisbon has so much more.

Lisbon is built on seven hills and as a result, there are many viewpoints. These are called “ Miradouro ” and there are many. Some of the streets are slanted and you can see the Tagus River from a few of them.

Walking on Lisbon’s narrow streets with pastel houses all around and yellow trams, I felt I was a part of a Wes Anderson movie. Also, make sure to wear the most comfortable pair of shoes that you have because these walks aren’t always so easy. ( Here’s what to wear in Lisbon )

If you are driving to Lisbon, then consider parking your rented car or van at Lisboa Bungalows & Camping , which is a little away from the busy city center . Driving in Portugal’s busy cities is no fun, so avoid it if you can.

There are many things to do here, I recommend you spend at least three days here. You can get yourself a Lisbon card which covers the transport and historical buildings. In case you are planning on spending just a day here, then read my itinerary for spending one day in Lisbon .

It is worth it only if you want to go inside historical buildings. I didn’t get the Lisbon card, but I still managed all right because I didn’t have plans to go inside more than 1-2 historical buildings.

Eat Pastel de Nata

Pastel de Nata is a famous Portuguese egg tart pastry, which was invented in Lisbon by monks to use up leftover eggs. It became popular and the recipe was then sold to Pastéis de Belém. You don’t have to go all the way there but find any random bakery where you eat this amazingly filling snack that makes a good breakfast.

Alfama & Graça

Lisbon is pretty but Alfama is the icing on top. It is Lisbon’s oldest district and is mostly residential. The famous historical Castelo de São Jorge is on one side of Alfama and on the other is the Tagus River.

Walk on Alfama’s narrow streets and get lost in the labyrinth. Watch how the Yellow Tram 28 moves on these slanted streets. A notable old street in Alfama is Rua dos Remédios , which is just for pedestrians. I discover something new each time I walk in Alfama.

There are a bunch of free walking tours in Alfama but you can easily explore this adorable old town on your own at your pace.

Right above Alfama is Graça, which is Lisbon’s highest district. Be prepared to climb to the top of the hill to enter Graça and sit for a drink next to Miradouro da Graça , there’s an open-air cafe/bar here).

Follow Tram 28 Route

Lisbon’s historical trams are cute but tram 28 is special because it goes through Alfama & Graça. It isn’t easy to get on the tram 28 because of crazy long lines but you can just follow its path and photograph it.

Personally, I think standing in a long line would be such a time waste because Lisbon has so many amazing things to do and you can’t just get stuck on to one.

I have been to Portugal five times and still not got on to the tram 28. By the way, Lisbon has red trams too and they move around in Alfama as well.

Castelo de São Jorge

Let’s talk about the most famous historical building of Lisbon, the São Jorge Castle (or St. George’s Castle) which is perched on top of a hill overlooking Alfama. This castle is so old that the first fortification here dates back to the 2nd century BC.

In order to visit the São Jorge Castle, you have to arrive here super early because the queues are longer than you can imagine. If you arrive a bit late, you can forget about entering it and move on to the next place.

If you do manage to get inside Castelo de São Jorge, you will enjoy a panoramic view of Lisbon.

If you don’t want to wait in line and can’t go inside Castelo de São Jorge, just walk a little further and you will arrive at the castle’s church tower – “Torre da Igreja do Castelo de São Jorge”. The line here was non-existent and I paid 5 euros to enter and went up to see the view. I also got a free glass of wine!

Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Portas do Sol

There are two viewpoints in Lisbon right next to each other and are totally worth the visit. Miradouro de Santa Luzia is on a lower level with a beautiful tiled sitting area and magenta bougainvillea growing on the arches on top.

Right above it is Miradouro das Portas do Sol, which is more open and also has an open-air bar, so you can grab a drink here and sit next to the railing to admire the view of Lisbon’s red-roofed buildings and Tagus river.

I suggest you see the sunset at Miradouro de Santa Luzia and then head to Miradouro das Portas do Sol for a few cocktails. Miradouro de Santa Luzia tends to feel more crowded because it is smaller and super pretty. If you can wake up early then come here for a sunrise experience.

Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower

Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower are historical buildings close to each other. They are a bit far from Alfama and Rossio, so you have to get on an Uber to visit them.

Visit Jerónimos Monastery early because the queues tend to get long. Lisboa Card will get you skip-the-line privileges but it isn’t always possible when things go out of control. This along with the nearby Belém Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Belém Tower is a symbol of the Age of Discoveries and is a lovely landmark. Honestly, you don’t have to enter it to appreciate it but you can admire how it looks from the outside as well.

Rossio Square to Santa Just Lift

No matter where you stay in Lisbon, you will at some point cross the main Rossio Square. It is a big square with geometrical floor tiles, a fountain, and old buildings all around. There is also usually a long queue here for tram 28.

From Rossio, you can walk to Baixa and on to Rua de Santa Justa. This street is pretty and you will see a Neo-Gothic style tower which is a historic elevator building. During the high season in the summer months, the lines are very long and it doesn’t make sense to go up.

Arco da Rua Augusta

From Rossio, walk to Arco da Rua Augusta – the main shopping street of Lisbon which is very busy. It is lined with restaurants and shops. At the end of the street is the Augusta Arc.

You can stop on this street at Fábrica da Nata for Pastel de Nata. There are many touristy restaurants on this street that are overpriced. One place worth visiting is Imprensa Cocktail & Oyster Bar for amazing drinks.

Walk to the Augusta arc and admire it. Beyond it, you will see Praça do Comércio and the Tagus River.

Walk Along the Tagus river

From the Augusta arc, walk along the Tagus River. There are marble sitting structures along the river where you can sit and spend some time. As you walk along the Tagus River, you will see some carts with cocktails for sale.

Time Out Lisboa / Mercado da Ribeira

Walk a little further along the Tagus River and you will see a building with “Mercado da Ribeira” written on it. It is an amazing place for food that was also featured on the “Somebody Feed Phill” show on Netflix.

Mercado da Ribeira also called Time Out Lisboa, is more than just a normal food court. It is a collection of carefully curated eateries with some of the best chefs from all over Lisbon. You will find not only a lot of traditional Portuguese food but also international food.

The middle part of Time Out Lisboa has cocktail bars and we had Aperol Spritzes from here. The all-around these bars were dining tables with shared seating. The atmosphere overall was super casual.

Bairro Alto or Pink Street for Nightlife

Just a few steps from the Time Out Factory is Pink Street. Just like the name, the street is actually pink in color with umbrellas on top. It is where you can start your evening and enjoy a few cocktails.

The main area for nightlife in Lisbon is just a bit ahead of Pink Street – it is Bairro Alto. That’s where a lot of locals and travelers go for a night of party and it sort of reminded me of Bangkok’s Khao San Road.

Where to Stay in Lisbon

If you are driving to Lisbon, then I mentioned Lisboa Bungalows & Camping already. It is a bit away from the busy center.

If you don’t mind driving in Lisbon’s narrow lanes, here are a few places I think you can consider in the old town of Alfama and Graca.

• Olissippo Castelo –  Click here to book ,
• WHome – CSA18 Premium Design Apartment –  Click here to book ,
• Costa do Castelo Terrace –  Click here to book , 
• Lisbon Gambori –  Click Here to Book.

There is much more to do in Lisbon than what I have mentioned above. Even though most of these spots are just 100 – 200 meters away from each other, don’t underestimate the amount of energy you will need to walk in Lisbon. The city is built on hills, thus the streets are sloped and one needs to climb a lot.

There are more things to do here like LX Factory, Live Fado Shows, the Christo Rei statue, and many more viewpoints. See my Lisbon itinerary for more things to do here.

Pena Palace, Sintra

If you parked your car at Lisboa Camping, then Sintra is less than a 30-minute drive away. In that case, you can stay put in the same campground and see Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon.

Sintra has mountains, beaches, small fishing villages, and a technicolor fortress perched on top of a hill – Pena Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Sita is also one of the seven wonders of Portugal.

The first thing you should do when you arrive in Sintra is to see Pena Palace. The palace itself is stunning and multicolored. It is unlike any building you would ever see. The view from Pena Palace is spectacular because there are mountains all around.

After visiting Pena Place, drive for 25 minutes towards the coast to reach Cascais, which is a beautiful seaside resort town with was earlier a simple fishing village. Take a break and relax on the massive sandy beach of Cascais. Go to Guincho Beach or Praia do Tamariz.

After Lisbon and Pena Palace, you might be bored of historical buildings so a breach break would be good for you. If not, Cascais also has historical buildings – Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort, the Citadel Palace, and Nossa Senhora da Assunção church.

If you are interested in nature, then see Boca do Inferno which means “Hell’s mouth” and is a rock formation. You have to walk along the water on the rocks and go a bit uphill to arrive here. Also, this is the spot from where you will get a nice waterfront view of Cascais.

Cabo da Roca

After seeing Cascais, drive for another 30 minutes to reach Cabo da Roca, which is the westernmost point of Europe. It is a viewpoint on a 140-meter-high cliff that looks out to sea where you can stand and wave at America.

There are many hiking trails that start here. There is also a small cafe with touristy prices. There is a lighthouse here too, Farol do Cabo da Roca.

It can get very windy up here so bring a jacket. If you are lucky, you will also see a musician or two here busking. Cabo da Roca is a part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.

By the way, the parking at Cabo da Roca is free and sometimes there are people who try to scam visitors by asking for a parking fee.

This brings us to the end of Lisbon and Sintra as part of the itinerary. If you want to skip North Portugal, then you can catch a flight to the Azores Islands from Lisbon. Else, get ready for a short drive to the next destination.

Óbidos  – Stop for Sightseeing

The beauty of a road trip in Portugal is that none of the destinations are a long drive away. Everything is so close, so the drive from Sintra to your next top – Nazaré is just 1.5 hours.

Just towards the end of this drive, you will cross a historical small village called Óbidos . This is where you can make a small stop for lunch, coffee, or possibly quick sightseeing. Portugal has many interesting places but there’s something special about visiting the smaller towns.

Óbidos is located on top of a hill with fortified city walls around it. The medieval architecture of this little town is well preserved and that’s why it has been receiving attention recently.

With a medieval castle, old city square, and historic streets, Óbidos has enough that will keep you occupied for a few hours.

Compared to most of the destinations mentioned in this itinerary, Óbidos is tiny. It is one of the beautifully preserved medieval villages of Portugal.

Nazaré – 2 days

On my third visit to Portugal, I asked some of the locals and other travelers about other interesting places to visit in the country and most suggested Nazaré, a surf town on the west coast. So I went back after three months to see Nazaré , and it was my fourth time in Portugal.

Nazaré is world famous, but not because of the beaches but the waves. They are massive here. The highest wave that was ever surfed was recorded in Nazaré and was 26.2 meters high. The record was made by Sebastian Steudtner, a German surfer.

You know one of those small towns with a fun vibe that you visit and get too comfortable to leave? Nazaré is one of them. Here’s what you can do in Nazaré during your visit here.

Praia da Nazaré

Praia da Nazaré is the main beach of Nazare and is massive. It is a nice sandy beach where I enjoyed a swim on a day when the waves were calm. Just like most of the beaches of Portugal, the water here was very cold too because it is the Atlantic Ocean, but was fun nonetheless.

The time I visited Praia da Nazaré, it was pretty full and had a lot of families because it was the school vacation time in Europe. There were tented sitting spots that we could rent for a day, but we just put up our mat instead.

Ride the Funicular Railway to Sítio

Nazare is divided into two parts – Lower Nazare (Praia da Nazaré) and Sítio (Upper Nazare). You can ride the funicular to reach the top, it is just EUR 1.50 per way. When you reach the top, it isn’t just a viewpoint but an entire separate town center with everything.

Walk around in Sítio and you will see an amazing view from many different spots. For me, the best views are at the start of Sítio overlooking Praia da Nazaré.

Sítio is actually the place from where you can see the waves and the surfers during the high wave season, which is October to February.

If you are in Sitio, one of the must-see sights here is the 21-foot Veado statue, which is the body of a human, the head of a deer, and holding a surfboard. Right behind it is Praia do Norte (the North Beach) where all the surfing action happens.

Explore Nazaré Town

I loved exploring the maze of narrow streets in Nazaré town. The streets looked whitewashed and with white laundry that was hanging from the windows to dry.

As you walk in the direction of the beach, the streets get busier with loud bars and restaurants. But if you walk in the other direction, you will only see simple residential buildings.

Where to Stay in Nazare

• Vila Fidalgo  – Cute apartments and ours had a view from the balcony. This is where I stayed.
• Feel Nazaré  – Boutique Apartments that are beachfront
• Hotel Mar Bravo  – Beachfront with a view

Coimbra or Aveiro – Stop for a lunch

After spending two relaxing days in Nazare, it is time to hit the road again for your last stop – Porto. The drive from Nazaré to Porto is just 2 hours, which gives you enough time to stop somewhere so I will give you two options.

Both small towns Aveiro and Coimbra are small towns where you can stop for lunch and a few hours of sightseeing because they are just midway on your drive from Nazare to Porto.

I have been to Coimbra, it is an interesting old city and has the oldest universities or Portugal. In fact, it is the oldest university in the Portuguese-speaking world and has a stunning library.

Aveiro is smaller than Coimbra and is situated along a lagoon called Ria de Aveiro. It has canals and colorful boats that are called barcos moliceiros. I personally haven’t visited Aveiro because I went to Coimbra instead.

Porto – 2 – 3 Days

Your last stop in your itinerary for 2 weeks in Portugal is the historical city of Porto. Please check the traffic situation before because I remember standing in a jam for 2-3 hours near Porto. I have learned to be patient with traffic jams but they aren’t fun when you are traveling with children.

Porto is smaller than Lisbon, but it still has a lot of historical buildings and viewpoints. I also have a post on my blog with a detailed comparison of Porto vs Lisbon . Porto is called Oporto in Portuguese.

Spend three days in Porto if you want to experience this city in a relaxing way. If you are short on time then two days are also enough. See my list of recommended things to do here:

Ribeira (Riverfront)

Ribeira is Porto’s old town and is also the historic center. But at this point I’m not talking about the entire old town, but just the waterfront area.

Porto’s Ribeira is one of the most beautiful riverfront areas that I have seen, with old buildings, boats, and interesting sights. This area looks its best at night when it’s dark and all the yellow lamps glow. Their reflection in water looks amazing.

Porto’s Historic Center

Porto is a beautiful city with historic buildings, churches, and streets. Along with Ribeira, the historic center of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has more than 2000 years of history.

Admire the old buildings covered with blue azulejos, dilapidated buildings that look very old, cute residential buildings with grandmas standing on the balconies – the beauty is in the details and you can actually lose yourself admiring all these little things because there are so many.

There are many buildings and landmarks that you can see here, I won’t mention them all but a few here and everything is a short walk away:

Igreja do Carmo

Igreja do Carmo is perhaps the most photographed church in Porto because it has a side facade that’s covered with azulejos. You will see azulejos all over in Portugal but this particular wall is one of the most famous ones.

Torre dos Clerigos & Church

When you explore Porto’s Historical center, you will see the 75-meter-high Clerigos tower in the background. Torre dos Clerigos and Clerigos Church are very old Baroque structures that are interesting to look at.

Rua Santa Catarina

This is a historical shopping street in Porto, walk here and enjoy the sights. You will find a lot of cork leather-based items and I bought a little backpack that receives a lot of compliments.

São Bento Train Station

More than any church or cathedral, my favorite building in Porto is the São Bento Train Station. The interiors are super splendid and there are high arched windows. There is intricate tilework on the walls – an amazing example of well-kept azulejos.

Livraria Lello

Yes, it is a bookstore but Livraria Lello is historical. It is one of the oldest bookstores in the world. It isn’t that big and sometimes gets crowded beyond imagination. Read my post if Livraria Lello is worth it or not .

I actually visited Porto during peak season so my experience wasn’t all that great. If you visit Livraria Lello first thing in the morning or during less busy months then you might just end up enjoying it.

Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral)

If you decide to visit just one historical building, then it is Sé do Porto – also called Porto Cathedral. It is so beautiful that it looks more like a palace and less like a cathedral.

I happened to be here right before the sunset so the pictures came out really well. This is also close to Dom Luís I Bridge on which you can walk to reach the other side of Porto for an amazing sunset. We will talk about them right below.

Dom Luís I Bridge

Dom Luís I Bridge is iconic and is fun to walk on it to reach the other side of the Douro River because of the amazing views after every few steps. Even during peak summer months, it gets very windy and cold on this bridge so carry a jacket.

Be careful and watch out for the metro when you are walking on this bridge because it runs on this bridge without a protective barrier.

Jardim do Morro (Sunset)

When you cross the Dom Luis I Bridge, you will reach Vila Nova de Gaia – which is the other side of the Douro River. There are many spots here that offer great views, especially during the sunset time.

The closest spot to the bridge for sunset watching is a garden called Jardim do Morro. If you are here during peak season times, then forget about getting a good spot for sitting but just stand and enjoy the most beautiful show that the sky puts on every 12 hours – sunset and sunrise.

Eat Francesinha Sandwich

Just the way I told you to eat Pastel de Nata which was invented in Lisbon, I recommend you try Porto’s iconic sandwich – the Francesinha.

Francesinha sandwich has layers of meat, cheese, bread, egg, and more cheese. It is topped with Francesinha sauce and sometimes also french fries. It felt like more of a hangover meal and we couldn’t eat more than a handful of bites.

Douro Valley Wine Tasting

Going to one landmark to another and trying to see them all can be stressful. Take a break and get on a boat to see the beauty of Douro Valley, which is the Port wine region.

Sit back and relax as you experience the natural beauty of Northern Portugal on a guided tour that includes a traditional Portuguese lunch, the Pinhão viewpoint, a river cruise, and a wine-tasting session.

Where to Stay in Porto

Here are the places I suggest you consider booking in Porto. I stayed in an Airbnb and we didn’t like the location. After seeing Porto, I now know I’d want to stay closer to Ribeira so below are the places I have shortlisted for you.

• Guest House Douro
• PortoBay Flores
• Lindo apartamento em Gaia ao lado Bodegas
• The Passenger Hostel

If you don’t have time to do an entire Portugal road trip and you’re able to fly to Oporto airport for cheap, then consider doing just a Porto road trip with the nearby Douro Valley, Coimbra, and Aveiro. Personally, for me, any visit to Portugal is incomplete without the amazing Algarve coast.

Tips for driving in Portugal

If you aren’t able to get cheap flights to Faro, then consider flying to Seville in Spain which is close to the border. You can spend a day here to see this pretty city and then reach the Algarve by road. It is very easy to cross the Spanish border by car to enter Portugal. It never feels like a different country.

Portugal has toll roads and if you are renting a car, then you will pay the toll fee with the toll transponder which will be fixed in your rented vehicle. The toll transponder will be connected with your debit or credit card for the toll payments.

When you are trying to find the route using Google Maps, there is an option of avoiding toll roads. Use it if you must. But the toll fee isn’t expensive in Portugal the way it is in France.

Don’t try to cover it all and stress yourself by trying to see everything. Some of the best road trips are those where a part of the itinerary leaves room for spontaneity.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a think for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

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Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Drifter Planet

2 Weeks In Portugal: A Perfect Portugal Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 7, 2024

Categories Portugal

Portugal is a wonderful country in southern Europe, with an 1800-kilometer-long coastline, beautiful mountains, and interesting cities.

It's the country of lively Lisbon, pretty Porto, the celebrated UNESCO Alto Douro wine region, and much more.

Narrowing down a feasible 2 weeks in Portugal road trip itinerary is challenging, there is simply too much to see!

However, this 2 week Portugal itinerary will help you make the most of your time in this amazing country (which is also one of the best places for a family vacation in Europe ).

Portugal road trip itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

2 weeks in Portugal: map

Click here for the interactive map .

2 week Portugal itinerary

Day 1-3: lisbon, day 4: sintra, day 5: óbidos, day 6: nazaré and batalha, day 7: coimbra, day 8-9: serra da estrela natural park.

• Day 10-11: Alto Douro wine region
• Day 12: Guimaraes or Braga

Day 13-14: Porto

This two weeks in Portugal itinerary starts in Lisbon and ends in Porto but of course, you could do it the other way around as well.

If you're short on time, you can turn it into 4-days in Portugal itinerary . If you have more time available, I've added a couple of other beautiful places to visit in Portugal at the bottom of this post.

Road trip in Portugal

Portugal is an epic road trip destination for several reasons.

First, while Portugal isn't a small country, measuring 561 kilometers long and 218 kilometers wide, it isn't overly large either. Therefore, it's never a long drive between the different sights and popular destinations.

Of course, you won't be able to see everything during your 2 week Portugal trip, but you can easily see many highlights in Portugal without spending hours a day in your car.

Furthermore, roads are generally well-maintained and well-signposted. There are fast (toll) roads as well as slower (but also more beautiful) backroads.

Last but not least, it's easy and affordable to rent a car or a campervan . For those interested in renting a campervan in Portugal, also read this post .

We loved our campervan road trip in Portugal with our two kids and can highly recommend this to anyone!

Click here to rent a car | Click here to rent a campervan

The perfect 2 week itinerary for Portugal

If you plan to make a road trip around Portugal, you will probably fly into Lisbon (or Porto) and pick up your rental car . Before you do, spend a few days exploring Portugal's beautiful capital city!

There is no point in driving a car in the city center of Lisbon, public transportation is the easiest way to get around as well as a fun part of your Lisbon sightseeing experience.

The brightly colored yellow trams of Lisbon are iconic, especially tram #28.

Tip: on your first day, pick up a Lisbon card to save money (and time). This 24, 48, or 72-hour card gives you free admission (or a discount) to famous Lisbon landmarks, as well as unlimited public transport rides. Click here to buy your Lisbon card online .

Lisbon is a beautiful city, situated on the northern banks of the Tagus River. Here are some of the highlights in Lisbon that you can't miss.

The Alfama

The oldest and most photogenic neighborhood of Lisbon, a wonderful place to explore on foot. Join this walking tour by a local guide to learn more about the history of the Alfama.

Torre de Belém

This iconic landmark is a Unesco World Heritage Site that should feature on any Lisbon itinerary. Entrance to the Belem Tower is included in your Lisboa card .

Saint George’s Castle

Also known as Castelo de São Jorge, this place has a history that dates back for millennia.

The first fortifications built on the site date back to the 1st century BC(!) and Saint George’s Castle has played an important role in the history of Lisbon. Click here to book a skip-the-line ticket .

Jerónimos Monastery

One of Lisbon's most important landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Skip the lines with your Lisbon card and admire the Manueline architecture.

Bairro Alto

The party district of Lisbon truly comes to life at night. Before heading to the bars, grab a bite to eat at one of the Portuguese  tascas  and wander its narrow streets searching for colorful street art.

Or learn more about Lisbon’s history as you explore its charming neighborhoods on this guided walking tour .

National Tile Museum

Azulejos (ceramic patterned tiles) can be seen everywhere in Portugal and are an important part of the culture. In this museum, you can learn more about this fascinating national treasure.

Where to stay in Lisbon

We stayed in a lovely apartment , which was spacious enough for our family of four (2 adults, and 2 kids) and centrally located.

Another wonderful option is the beautifully decorated Martinhal Chiado (with large apartments and a kids club!) in the heart of town.

Lisbon to Sintra: driving distance and time → 30km | 30 minutes

On day 4, pick up your car or campervan and head to Sintra where you can find the most colorful palace in Portugal (and possibly the world).

You can also visit Sintra as a day trip from Lisbon , which is a great option if you want to skip the hassle of figuring out which highlights to visit (and finding a parking spot).

That being said, having your own wheels gives you the flexibility to stay at the different sights as long as you like.

There are many things to see in Sintra, too much for just one day. However, these are some of the main sights you cannot miss.

Palácio da Pena (or Pena Palace)

When you google Sintra, the first image that comes up is this colorful palace that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale (see picture above).

Therefore, it only makes sense to make this the first stop of your day in Sintra. Admire the architecture, stroll through the gardens, and pretend you're a princess (or prince) in a previous era.

Click here to buy your skip-the-line tickets .

Castelo dos Mouros

The next stop is Castelo dos Mouros. Not only is this the place where you'll have the best view of the Palácio da Pena, Castelo dos Mouros is also a fascinating place in itself.

You can hike up from Sintra Town in less than an hour. We did this hike with our 2-year-old son and 3-month-old daughter, both were in a baby carrier as you cannot get up with a stroller (not even a really awesome one like the Babyzen Yoyo ).

The views from the top are stunning and very much worth the effort!

Quinta da Regaleira

Don't miss this beautiful estate (a castle with lovely gardens) during your trip to Sintra!

Within the gardens, there is a 27-meter deep well (the Initiation Well), many caves and crevices, hidden passageways, and several tunnels. It's a fun place to explore, both for families as well as other types of travelers.

Where to stay in Sintra

Accommodation in Sintra is expensive, however, this great value for boutique guesthouse has amazing reviews and an affordable price.

Alternatively, you can use the Park4Night app to find a budget (or even free) campsite.

Sintra to Óbidos: driving distance and time → 90km | 60 minutes

Óbidos is a small medieval village a short drive north of Lisbon and Sintra (about an hour by car). Visiting Óbidos was one of the highlights of our trip, it's such a pretty little town!

One of the best things to do in Obidos is to walk on the old city walls that surround the center.

While it was a little bit scary to walk on these walls (without any rails on the side) with our toddler, it was definitely a cool experience for all of us.

My husband carried our son most of the time and our baby daughter was safely strapped into our baby carrier so this activity is possible with young children as long as you're very careful.

Other places to visit in Obidos are Obidos Castle, the Praça de Santa Maria, and the Óbidos Aqueduct .

But don't just check off the main sights and leave, the best way to explore Obidos is by simply wandering its ancient cobblestoned streets. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time!

If you prefer, you can also visit Obidos as a day trip from Lisbon . For example, with this tour (rated 4.9 out of 5) you can visit Óbidos, Fátima, Batalha, and Nazaré in one trip.

Where to stay in Obidos

If you're traveling Portugal by campervan, there is an excellent spot to park for the night just outside the city walls.

For a mere €6 a night you can safely park your van. Plus, you can refill your water and dispose of grey and black water.

Alternatively, check out this lovely holiday home with a garden .

Óbidos to Nazaré: driving distance and time → 40km | 35 minutes

Nazaré is a small village that has become famous for the monstrous waves that frequently occur at its shores between October and March.

The best surfers in the world come here to ride these 20+ meter giants, a spectacle you won't ever forget. That being said, conditions have to align perfectly for these types of waves to occur, so you'll have to be very lucky to see them in real life.

But don't worry, there is a great exhibition about the giant waves of Nazaré within the Farol da Nazaré (the lighthouse) where you can see some amazing pictures of daredevil surfers conquering immense walls of water.

The exhibition also explains why these waves occur at Nazaré with an easy-to-understand animation and a maquette.

The entrance fee into the lighthouse is just €1 (per adult) and the view from the roof is beautiful.

Nazaré is divided into two areas: Sítio (on top of the hill) and downtown (along the beach). Both are worth visiting and you can easily do so in half a day.

Ride the funicular , visit the Mercado Municipal and stroll along the boulevard . If you like Indian food, Maharaja is a good place for lunch.

There are plenty of nice restaurants offering Portuguese cuisine as well.

Nazaré to Batalha: driving distance and time → 30km | 30 minutes

After you've explored Nazaré, hop in your car/campervan and head to Batalha to visit Batalha Monastery.

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, this impressive building dates back to the 14th century. Batalha Monastery is beautiful, both on the outside as well as the inside.

I highly recommend visiting this marvelous construction during your 2-week Portugal itinerary.

Entrance to Batalha Monastery is included in the Lisbon card

Batalha to Coimbra: driving distance and time → 90km | 60 minutes

Coimbra is known for its historic University, the oldest one in Portugal and one of the oldest universities in Europe.

The most important sights on the University premises are the  Paço das Escolas ,  Torre da Universidade, and the colorful  Capela de São Miguel .

For me (and for many other visitors) the main attraction of the University of Coimbra was visiting the beautiful  Biblioteca Joanina .

In this magnificent library, thousands of ancient books are displayed on carefully carved wooden shelves.

To preserve the precious books kept in the Johannine Library, photography isn't allowed. The library even houses a colony of bats which helps to protect the books from bugs and other insects!

If you have some extra time, consider spending two days in Coimbra, there are plenty of other things to see and do in this beautiful city.

Take a stroll through the lovely Botanical Gardens , visit the Science Museum , admire Sé Velha (old cathedral) and the Sé Nova (new cathedral), and buy a souvenir or two on the Rua Ferreira Borges .

Where to stay in Coimbra

Looking for a nice place to stay in Coimbra? Check out this lovely river view apartment or this beautiful apartment in the heart of Coimbra.

Coimbra to Serra da Estrela: driving distance and time → 120km | 120 minutes

It's time to leave the major cities behind and head to one of the most beautiful places in Portugal: Serra da Estrela National Park . Here you can find the highest point in continental Portugal, Torre , at 2000 meters.

The mountain itself is actually 1993 meters high but the government decided to build a 7-meter-tall tower to make it 2000 meters exactly.

What's also a bit odd about Torre is the fact that you can drive up in a car, instead of following a hiking trail as is most often the case when climbing a mountain.

That being said, the drive from São Romão to Torre and from Torre to Manteigas is absolutely spectacular!

It wasn't the best weather when we visited, but the ominous sky only added to the dramatic scenery of the wild and rugged Serra da Estrela Natural Park.

Manteigas isn't a particularly interesting village but it's a convenient place to base yourself when exploring Serra da Estrela.

There are some restaurants and grocery stores as well as a handful of accommodations, such as this family-friendly hotel .

Over 200 kilometers of hiking trails that are part of the Trilhos Verdes are accessible from Manteigas, ranging from easy strolls to challenging full-day hikes.

Enough to keep you occupied for at least two days, but you could easily spend a week in this splendid Natural Park to enjoy the mountain landscape.

Day 10-11 : Alto Douro valley (wine region)

Serra da Estrela to Alto Douro region : driving distance and time → 150km | 140 minutes

From one glorious landscape to the next: from the mountains of Serra de Estrella to the vineyard-covered hills of the Alto Douro wine region .

This is a UNESCO Heritage Area and rightly so: people have been making wine here for more than 2000 years!

We visited Portugal in October, the grapes had already been harvested and the leaves were dressed in their vivid autumn colors.

A spectacular sight and one of the highlights of our Portugal two-week itinerary.

There are many things to do in the Alto Douro region and two days actually isn't enough.

Take the train from picturesque Pinhão to Pocinho , for one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Do a wine tasting at one of the many quintas or take a cruise on the Douro River .

If you have more time, explore Peso da Régua and visit the Museu do Douro to learn more about the area. Or simply drive around and marvel at the view at one of the many Miradouros .

Where to stay in the Alto Douro region

If you are looking to stay somewhere special, check out this spacious Casa with a private pool near Pinhão.

If you are traveling in a campervan, we stayed at Quinta do Monte Travesso and can highly recommend this beautiful vineyard. You can park for the night in exchange for a bottle of wine or a wine tasting (not a bad deal right!).

Alternatively, book one of the gorgeous rooms at Quinta do Monte Travesso (everything is brand new, the B&B opened in spring 2022).

It's also possible to visit the Alto Douro wine region as a day trip from Porto . Click here for more information.

Day 12: Guimarães or Braga

Alto Douro region to Guimarães: driving distance and time → 120km | 90 minutes Alto Douro region to Braga: driving distance and time → 140km | 100 minutes

I just couldn't choose between Guimarães or Braga, so I included both on this road trip to Portugal. It's up to you to decide which city you add to your Portugal 2-week itinerary…

Though if you have time, or decide to skip one of the popular destinations mentioned above, visit Guimaraes and Braga as both cities are equally beautiful!

You may also like this post: 32 European cites to visit with kids .

I didn't know much about Guimarães before visiting, but we soon discovered it's a very attractive and fun city.

While a lot smaller than the main cities of Lisbon and Portugal, Guimarães has a beautiful historic center , with narrow cobblestone alleys where you can easily ‘get lost'.

The Palace of the Dukes is a must-visit, as is Guimarães Castle . Take the cable car to Penha mountain for stunning views over the city and the surrounding areas.

The mossy boulders and forested paths on this 600-meter-high mountain are a lovely place for an afternoon stroll before heading back downtown.

A nice place to eat in Guimarães is Cor de Tangerina , conveniently located across from the Palace of the Dukes.

Where to stay in Guimarães

This apartment in Guimarães city center is a great place to base yourself when exploring the birthplace of Portugal.

Braga is the third-largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest cities in the country. A significant part of the city center is a pedestrian-only area, making it easy to explore the historic sites in Braga on foot.

One of the highlights of Braga is Sé de Braga . This ancient cathedral was built in the 11th century and still stands proudly until this day. It's worth buying a ticket to admire the interior of this remarkable building.

Located a few kilometers outside of Braga is Bom Jesus do Monte . Climb the 577 steps (or take the cable car) to reach this beautiful sanctuary on top of a 116-meters high hill.

Fun fact: pilgrims used to climb the seemingly endless staircases on their knees as penitence for their sins.

When you have more time in Braga, also explore the Castle of Braga , and admire the Arco da Porta Nova and the Palácio do Raio with its bright blue azulejos.

Where to stay in Braga

We stayed at this spacious apartment with two bedrooms in the heart of town, a highly recommended place to stay for families.

Guimarães and Braga can also be visited as a day trip from Porto . Click here for more information.

Guimarães/Braga to Porto: driving distance and time → 60km | 40 minutes

Many people actually prefer Porto over Lisbon and Porto sure has a lot going for it. It has an enviable location on the Douro river and the imposing Luís I Bridge (between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia) is a Porto icon.

Porto also has the colorful Ribeira district and a very walkable downtown packed with must-see sights.

Highlights are the Church of Saint Francis, Palácio da Bolsa ( join a guided tour to learn more about this important historic monument), and Porto Cathedral , but there is much more to do in Porto!

Hop on an electric bike to explore the city center, go on a river cruise , visit the oldest port wine cellar in Porto or enjoy a Fado show .

Things to eat in Porto are a francesinha , a bifana pork sandwich, and bacalhau (dried and salted cod).

Where to stay in Porto

This apartment in Porto is the perfect place to base yourself. Close to the Old Town and only a short walk from Sao Bento train station.

If you have more time in Portugal

If you're lucky enough to have more time available to explore Portugal, consider adding these locations to your Portugal trip itinerary:

• Cabo da Roca : the westernmost point of mainland Europe where you can enjoy stunning views over the wild Atlantic Ocean.
• Serra do Buçaco : a lovely forested area with hidden treasures like the Fonte Fria and the not-so-hidden and opulent Buçaco Palace.
• Parque Natural do Alvão : a beautiful natural park, highlights are the Fisgas de Ermelo waterfalls and the nearby Senhora da Graça de Mondim de Basto.
• Costa Nova : the most colorful town in Portugal with its brightly colored striped houses.
• Peneda-Gerês National Park: this rugged National Park (pictured below) is situated in northern Portugal and offers some of the most beautiful scenery found in Portugal.

This 14-day Portugal itinerary only covers the main highlights between Lisbon and Porto. However, when you travel to Portugal , you'll soon discover there is much more to see.

The Algarve is also a beautiful area , as is the Alentejo (the area between Lisbon and the Algarve). Below I'll cover some of the highlights of both regions.

Top places to visit in the Alentejo

Central Portugal is one of the lesser visited regions of the country, but that doesn't mean there is nothing to see!

Évora

The entire city of Evora feels like a museum and it's not surprising this city has been a Unesco Heritage Site since 1986. That being said, the roots of the city date back to prehistoric times…

With its traditional painted houses, ancient city wall, and cobblestoned streets Evora is a must-visit when you're exploring the Alentejo region of Portugal.

Elvas is known for the imposing military architecture found in and around the village. Visit the Fort of Nossa Senhora da Graça, Forte de Santa Luzia, and the Amoreira Aqueduct and marvel at their sheer size and scale.

Pretty impressive for something built without any modern equipment…

Arrábida Nature Park

In this beautiful Nature Park, you'll find olive trees, lavender, thyme, and other Mediterranean vegetation. Hike or bike the many trails, or simply relax at one of the pretty beaches.

If you don't have your own wheels but would love to visit the Arrábida Nature Park, this day tour from Lisbon is worth checking out.

Top places to visit in the Algarve

The Algarve is known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and great surfing spots. While you can easily spend an entire holiday in this charming area of Portugal, here are some of the must-visit sites in the Algarve.

Benagil Caves

This photogenic sea cave often features in ‘best places to visit in Portugal' lists and rightly so, it's a pretty spectacular spot!

Book this excellent speedboat tour and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins along the way.

Note: as one of the most popular spots in Portugal, it gets very busy during the summer months. If you're visiting in peak season, consider joining this 7 AM kayak tour to avoid (most of) the crowds.

One of the smaller towns in the Algarve, but definitely worth visiting. Standing on its windswept cliffs you'll feel like you've reached the end of the world.

Admire the views, explore the Fortaleza de Sagres, and perhaps even stay to watch the sunset.

Ponta da Piedade

This is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Portugal. Marvel at the unique rock formations rising up from the glittering ocean, not unlike the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road in Australia .

Hike down via the Ponta Da Piedade stairs (200 steps) or stroll along the boardwalk to Canavial beach. Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to admire the views!

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Portugal in 2 weeks: in conclusion

I hope this post will help your Portugal trip planning process. If you have any questions about this Portugal travel itinerary, leave a comment below or send me a message . Happy travels !

This post was updated in June 2022.

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

Portugal 2 week itinerary (3 EPIC options)

Last updated on November 11, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

14 days is a great time to explore Portugal. You can have a taste of most of the regions including beaches, mountains, cities, palaces, monasteries and old towns… Below are 3 suggestions for your Portugal 2 week itinerary (with all my favorite places to visit, where to stay, driving times…). Find the right one for you!

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Portugal:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Portugal: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Benagil sea cave from Portimao

My favorite excursion from Lisbon: Sintra Pena Palace and Cabo da Roca

My favorite places to stay:

• Lisbon: see best rated hotels – e.g. Santiago de Alfama boutique hotel
• Porto: see best rated hotels – e.g. Descobertas Boutique Hotel
• Lagos: see best rated hotels – e.g. Uma Cas A Beira Sol

How to spend 2 weeks in Portugal 

Are 2 weeks sufficient to travel around portugal.

Portugal is narrow but long. 2 weeks will allow you to explore a little bit of everything but not deep dive into the regions, unless you choose just one. It is a fantastic timeframe to get a feel for the country, but it means making choices as you don’t have enough time to see everything. To give you some perspective, here is an idea about the main driving times (when using motorways):

Where can I go with 14 days in Portugal? How can I spend them?

There are a multitude of options to spend your 2 weeks.  You can focus on one region or rent a car and drive around several of the regions. In the article below, I am sharing 3 detailed itineraries to spend 2 weeks in Portugal: 

• Option 1 – A taste of everything : lots of driving but a snapshot of all the regions: Lisbon, Sintra, Center, North, Alentejo, Algarve…
• Option 2 – In depth South : less driving with some of the most famous locations and beaches in Portugal (Lisbon, Sintra, Algarve, villages…)
• Option 3 – Portugal by train : if you don’t want to drive, you can spend time in various cities connected by train and book day trips.

Best way to get around Portugal in two weeks: road trip

Renting a car is really the best option to be able to explore the country. Portugal has so much to offer with beaches, palaces, monasteries, mountains… only the main cities are connected by train. And with only 2 weeks, public transportation will slow you down.

To rent your car:

• All major brands of car rental are available at the airports
• Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform:  Discovercars.com  – one of the best rated sites!
• Choose the car and company you prefer (remember the villages have narrow streets, so don’t choose a car too big)
• Consider their full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind! 
• Book early  to have a large choice of vehicles
• See all my 36 tips in  my Portugal car rental article.

Can you do 2 weeks in Portugal by train?

Yes, of course. The main towns in Portugal are connected by train. Just know that you will be limited in what you can see. But it can be a more relaxed trip.

Can I include the Portuguese Islands?

With 2 weeks, you can already be quite busy with the mainland. Trying to fit the Azores or Madeira would be way too much. However, if you are more interested in the islands, you could combine a few days in Lisbon with 10 days in Madeira for example. Learn more about Madeira in my guide here.

Find great car rental deals in Portugal

FAQs about planning a 2 week trip around Portugal

Before I share my detailed itineraries, here are some tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to Portugal

Best time to road trip around Portugal

Portugal is a great destination all year round.  It offers beautiful sunny days, especially in the Southern regions. However, note that during winter and spring, the water is not very warm – it is the Atlantic Ocean after all…

In my opinion, the best months to visit Portugal (for good weather and smaller crowds) are May and October .

You should also understand the following:

• There can be quite a difference in temperature between the coast and inland, and between North vs the South.
• July and August are very busy with European tourists as well as locals on holidays
•  Smaller attractions are closed in the Winter
• You will have longer days to drive around and see the sights if you visit in Spring rather than in Autumn. 

Where to land in Portugal / Where to start: Porto, Lisbon or Faro?

The main airports in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto and Faro (Algarve). Don’t dismiss Porto and Faro, just because Lisbon is the capital. They can have some really good options. The itineraries below start from Lisbon, but you can adapt them to start from Porto or Faro

Compare flight prices on Skyscanner

All 3 have a large offering for car rentals:

• Lisbon airport car rental – see deals
• Porto airport car rental –  see deals
• Faro airport car rental if visiting the Algarve –  see deals

Itinerary planning tips

Here are some of my top tips for planning an itinerary in Portugal:

• Don’t plan too much driving every day – there are many places to see and visit
• The country is narrow – Don’t do zigzags, do a loop going North on one side of the country and South on the other side.
• If you want to plan your own itinerary and not follow the ones below, check out my eBooks:

Plan your dream trip to Portugal with my guides!

• 13 easy-to-plan maps
• 120+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 200+ large photos 

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 65+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• 110+ large photos 

Is it easy to drive around Portugal?

Yes, it is overall easy. Roads are in very good conditions in general.

• It is on the right side of the road
• Driving in Portugal is actually quite easy. There are many good quality motorways.
• Road signs are clear
• Just be careful with the tolls in the South where you cannot pay cash

Learn more (with video and photos) in my Driving in Portugal article

And compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated sites!

OPTION 1 – Portugal 2 week itinerary – a little bit of everything

Introduction.

Below is my suggested itinerary if you want a snapshot of every region: North, South, cities, palaces, mountains, beaches… You will get to see some of the most amazing sights in the country! However, know that:

• You have to be very selective and choose 1 or 2 of each before changing location
• It requires quite a lot of driving to cover most of the territory 
• You rarely sleep twice at the same place
• Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com  

Summary of the Portugal 2-week itinerary

• Day 1 – Lisbon
• Day 2 – Lisbon

Day 3 – Sintra

• Day 4 – Obidos and Batalha
• Day 5 – Aveiro & Porto

Day 6 – Porto

• Day 7 – Braga & Douro Valley
• Day 8 – Estrela mountains (Manteigas)
• Day 9 – Monsanto, Marvao
• Day 10 – Alentejo drive, Evora to Mertola

Day 11 – Algarve East

• Day 12 – Algarve West

Day 13 – Algarve West

• Day 14 – South-West Coast with Porto Covo

Day 1 – Lisbon center

• Stop 1 – Lisbon Sao Jorge Castle with beautiful views over the cities
• Stop 2 – The Santa Justa Elevator – for its architecture, history and views of the city
• Stop 3 – Stroll in the city, taste the local delicacy, listen to the music… just soak in the beautiful atmosphere

Check out the best rated accommodations in Lisbon

Extra tip – or check out my article about the best things to do in Lisbon

Day 2 – Lisbon & Cabo da Roca

• Stop 1 – Admire Belem Tower by the river – visit outside or climb inside – but if you have to choose, visit the monastery rather than the tower
• Stop 2 – Visit the Jeronimos monastery – stunning!
• Drive to Cabo da Roca – 45min
• Stop 3 – Cabo da Roca, with its beautiful cliffs, the westernmost point of Mainland Europe
• Drive to Sintra – 30 min

Check out the best rated accommodations in Sintra

Extra tip – if you have time, before heading to Sintra, you can enjoy the view over Magoito beach. And impressive long dark cliff over a sandy beach.

Day 3 – Sintra 

• Stop 1 – visit the magnificent Pena Palace – book ticket in advance. It requires a lot of walking.
• Stop 2 – explore the ruins of the Castle of the Moors – you need to be quite fit, lots of stairs and amazing views.
• Drive to Obidos – 1h15
• Watch sunset from the walls of Obidos and taste the local liquor

Check out the best rated accommodati ons in Obidos

Extra tip – visit as early as possible to avoid most of the traffic.

Day 4 – Obidos & Batalha

• Stop 1 – Explore stunning village of Obidos , its fortification walls and charming streets
• Drive to Batalha – 1h
• Stop 2 – Explore the Batalha Monastery (visit is quite long) with the stunning architecture and the unfinished chapels (one of the country’s architectural masterpieces with Gothic style and Manueline decors) – Unesco site
• Stop 3 – If you started early, you could add the visit of the Knight Templars’ Convento de Cristo in Tomar (40min drive away) – but it will be quite a long day!

Check out the best rated accommodations in Batalha

Day 5 –  Aveiro & Porto

• Drive to Aveiro = 1h30
• Stop 1 – Enjoy the waterways of Aveiro
• Drive to Praia da Costa Nova
• Stop 2 – Discover Praia da Costa Nova, an Atlantic-side beach in Portugal with sand dunes and colorful houses
• Drive to Porto = 1h
• Stop 3 – Stroll along the river in Porto or go for wine tasting of both

Check out the best rated accommodations in Porto

• Explore Porto , its views, churches and historical buildings.
• My favorites are: the Sé Cathedral, the view from Serra do Pilar, the tile work on the side of many buildings

Extra tips – The hop on hop off bus in Porto is very practical – get tickets Or you can book a guided tour – see options

Day 7 – Bom Jesus &  Douro Valley

• Drive to Braga = 1h
• Stop 1 – Explore the Bom Jesus do Monte church and staircase in Braga – take the funicular up and walk down the famous staircase
• Stop 2 – Drive around the Douro Valley, choose one section (as the river is quite long) – great viewpoints include Miradouro Sebolido, Miradouro de Catapeixe, Miradouro de Casal de Loivos, Miradouro de Sao Salvador do Mundo…

Choose from the best rated Douro Valley accommodations

Extra tip – if wine is not your thing, you can replace with a visit of Guimaraes, a unesco site with medieval buildings.

Day 8 – Estrela Mountains

Drive South East through the Estrela Nature Park – You can include:

• Zezere Valley, a glacial valley 
• Senhora da Boa Estrela
• Cavao Cimeiro
• Lagoa Comprida

Check out the best rated accommodations in Covilha , past the mountain roads

Day 9 –  Monsanto & Marvao

• Drive to Monsanto = 1h10
• Stop 1 – Explore the famous boulder village of Monsanto listed as the “most Portuguese village of Portugal” even though it is quite unique
• Drive to Marvao = 2h
• Stop 2 – Explore Marvao , its fortification wall, historical streets, castle and enjoy the views all over the region

Check out the best rated accommodations in Marvao (book early, there are not many options)

Extra tip – if you are tired of driving, skip Monsanto and drive directly to Marvao.

Day 10 –  Alentejo drive to Mertola

Drive from Marvao to Mertola. Driving in the Alentejo region is beautiful and relaxing, in my opinion. 2 route options:

• Option 1 – via Town of Evora and Beja Castle (3h30 drive) – if you enjoy history and architecture
• Option 2 – via countryside and the white village of Monsaraz at the border with Spain (4h drive) – my favorite option
• Visit the white village of Mertola and enjoy the views over the river

Check out the best rated accommodations around Mertola

And then you drive down to the famous Algarve region . The East and the West are very different. To the East, the beach are rather flat with lots of sand.

• Stop 1 – Tavira with its beautiful white houses, waterway and beaches
• Stop 2 – Stroll along Praia da Manta Rota beach
• Alternative – head to the Ria Formosa Natural Park for bird watching

Check out the best rated accommodations in Albufeira

Day 12 – Algarve Center and West

West Algarve is rich in smaller beaches with impressive cliffs. There are so many stunning ones, it can be difficult to choose. Here are my suggestions:

• Stop 1 – Praia da Falesia , my favorite beach in Portugal with orange and white cliffs
• Stop 2 – Benagil to take a boat tour and see the cliffs and caves – learn more
• Stop 3 – Praia da Marinha , the most famous of the Algarve beaches

Check out the best rated accommodations in Portimao , or  the best rated accommodations in Lagos

Extra tip – Check out the tide to plan your day – Marinha should be visited at low tide and Benagil is better at mid tide

And we continue further west on the Algarve with more beaches and cliffs.

• Stop 1 – Praia dos Tres Irmaos  with the double arch
• Stop 2 – Camilo beach
• Stop 3 – Ponta da Piedade with the magnificent arches and cliffs – great at sunset
• Stop 4 – Visit the Sagres fortress, a 16th century sea fort with a famous compass rose on the ground.

Check out  the best rated accommodations in Portimao , or  the best rated accommodations in Lagos

Extra tip – once again you should check out the tide, visit the beaches at low tide and the cliffs and fortress at high tide

Day 14 – South-West Coast

Drive back up to Lisbon: Lagos to Lisbon (via motorway inland) = 3h drive OR via the coast = 3h30 drive

• Stop 1 – Odeceixe with the drive along the river and the beautiful bay
• Stop 2 – Porto Covo and its beautiful rocks and low cliffs
• Stop 3 – if you have time, you could also stop at Sines and its promontory

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

OPTION 2 – Portugal road trip 2 weeks – In depth South

As we have seen in the itinerary before, there is a lot of driving involved in covering the entire country. Some of the most famous sights are located in the South half of the country.  Therefore, below is a detailed 2 week road trip itinerary in Portugal focussing on the South:

• you can visit more palaces, beaches and monasteries
• there is less driving
• You can sleep twice at the same place to slow down the pace
• Compare car rental prices on my favorite platform:  Discovercars.com  

Summary of the South Portugal road trip 2-week itinerary

• Dau 4 – Sintra and Cabo da Roca
• Day 5 – Peniche and Obidos

Day 6 – Batalha and Tomar

Day 7 – monsanto and marvao.

• Day 8 – Monsaraz and Evora
• Day 9 – Beja, Mertola and Tavira
• Day 10 – Algarve East and Center
• Day 11 – Algarve West

Day 12 – Algarve Inland

• Day 14 – South-West Coast via Porto Covo

• Stop 1 – Lisbon Sao Jorge Castle  with beautiful views over the cities
• Stop 2 – The  Santa Justa Elevator  – for its architecture, history and views of the city
• Stop 3 – Stroll in the city, admire the tiles, find all the best viewpoints
• Stop 4 – Visit a museum, churches or the Pantheon – I recommend the Pantheon and the Monastery Sao Vicente de Fora

Extra tip – check out my article about the best things to do in Lisbon

Day 2 – Lisbon Belem neighborhood

• Stop 1 – Admire Belem Tower  by the river – visit outside or climb inside – but if you have to choose, visit the monastery rather than the tower
• Stop 2 – Visit the Jeronimos monastery – the carved details are stunning! This is a Unesco site.
• Stop 3 – Get up the Padra dos Descobrimentos, built in the 20th century to view the giant rosacea and the views

Extra tips – depending on what you prefer (soaking in the Lisbon vibe one more time or being ready to explore Sintra as early as possible the next day), you can already drive to Sintra or not Or you can spend 4 nights in Lisbon and drive to Sintra both day 3 and Day 4.

• Stop 1 – visit the magnificent Pena Palace  – book ticket in advance. It requires a lot of walking.
• Stop 2 – explore the ruins of the  Castle of the Moors – you need to be quite fit, lots of stairs and amazing views.
• Stop 3 – Stroll in town
• You can also visit the National palace, in the heat of the town

Day 4 – Sintra Cascais

• Stop 1 – Choose one more palace to visit in the morning such as Monserrate or Quinta da Regaleira – my recommendation would be for Quinta da Regaleira with a lot of time in the park – See opening hours
• Stop 2 – Head outside of Sintra, to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Mainland Europe
• Stop 3 – Stop by Praia da Adraga and enjoy its arches
• Stop 4 – Head to Praia do Magoito and admire the impressive cliff

Day 5 – Peniche & Obidos

• Drive from Sintra to Peniche = 1h15
• Stop 1 – Explore the charming fishing town of Peniche and take a boat tour to Berlengas and its impressive fort island.
• Drive to Obidos = 30min
• Stop 2 – Explore stunning village of Obidos , its fortification walls and charming streets

Check out the best rated accommodations in Obidos

• Drive to Batalha = 50min
• Stop 1 – Explore the Unesco site of the  Batalha Monastery (visit is quite long) – it offers a stunning architecture and the unfinished chapels (with Gothic style and Manueline decors)
• Drive to Tomar = 40min drive
• Stop 2 – visit of the Knight Templars’ Convento de Cristo in Tomar (40min drive away) – This is also a long visit but a fascinating one. It has a very difference atmosphere and there is a lot to see.

Check out the best rated accommodations in Tomar

Extra tip – The pilgrimage site of Fatima is also in the area

• Drive to Monsanto = 2h from Tomar
• Stop 1 – Visit Monsanto , the most Portuguese village in Portugal with houses built under giant boulders
• Stop 2 – Explore  Marvao , its fortification wall, historical streets, castle and enjoy the views all over the region

Check out the best rated accommodations in Marvao

Day 8 – Monsaraz & Evora

• Drive to Monsaraz = 2h – enjoy the Alentejo typical landscapes
• Stop 1 – Visit the hilltop village of Monsaraz with its white houses. It has inspired many artists.
• Drive to Evora = 1h
• Stop 2 – Visit the town of Evora with its temple, cathedral, aqueduct, bone chapel and historic center

Check out the best rated accommodations in Evora

Day 9 – Beja and Mertola and Algarve East

• Drive South to Beja = 1h
• Stop 1 – Visit the Beja Castle and its impressive tower
• Drive to Mertola = 45 min
• Stop 2 – Visit the white village of Mertola and enjoy the views over the river – one of my favorites in Portugal
• Drive to Tavira = 1h
• Stop 3 – Enjoy a relaxing evening in Tavira with all its white buildings and stroll along one of the sandy beaches in the area

Check out the best rated accommodations in Tavira

Day 10 – Algarve East or Center

• Option 1 – head to the Ria Formosa Natural Park for bird watching
• Option 2 – start discovering the famous Algarve beaches and their cliffs
• Stop 1 – Visit Senhora da Rocha, the little church on a promontory between beaches.
• Stop 2 –  Praia da Falesia , my favorite beach in Portugal with orange and white cliffs
• Stop 3 or 4 – Benagil to take a boat tour and see the cliffs and caves – learn more
• Stop 3 or 4 – Praia da Marinha , the most famous of the Algarve beaches
• Check out the tide to plan your day – Marinha should be visited at low tide and Benagil is better at mid tide

Check out the best rated accommodations in Portimao

Extra tips – If you don’t want to change accommodations all the time, I recommend staying in the central Portimao for the 4 Center-West Algarve nights. But if you want to reduce driving times, you can spend one night in Albufeira ( see options ), 2 in Portimao or one in Lagos ( see options ).

Day 11 – Algarve West 

• Stop 1 – Visit Praia dos Tres Irmaos One of the best beaches in Algarve with its famous double arch rock formation.
• Stop 2 – Enjoy the charming seaside village or Ferrugado
• Stop 3 – Feel small next to the formations at Praia dos Tres Castelos

• If you want to change things from beaches or escape the had, you can head to the hills inland with the village of Monchique or the red fortress of Silves

• Stop 1 – Praia do Camilo , a small but charming beach – you can find kayak tours
• Stop 2 – Praia Dona Ana , the most famous beach in Lagos
• Stop 3 –  Ponta da Piedade  with the magnificent arches and cliffs – great at sunset

Extra tip – parking can be difficult at those beaches in the afternoon during Summer or weekends.

OPTION 3 – Portugal itinerary 14 days by train

If you don’t want to drive, you can also enjoy the country by train. But understand that you will spend a lot more time in cities rather than in nature, as access will be limited.

You can   book you train tickets on Rail Europe

And Here is an example to visit Portugal by train over 2 weeks:

• You can fly into Porto
• Stay in Porto – check out the best rated accommodations in Porto
• Day 1 – Visit Porto
• Day 2 – Visit Porto
• Day 3 – Day trip to Douro Valley – see options
• Day 4 – Day trip to Bom Jesus and Guimaraes –  See tour options and book
• Day 5 – Train to Lisbon – Stay in Lisbon – check out the best rated accommodations in Lisbon
• Day 6 – Lisbon Center with cathedral, castle, Elevator, churches…
• Day 7 – Lisbon Belem neighborhood with Belem Tower, Jeronimos monastery…
• Day 8 – Day trip to Sintra – See tour options
• Day 9 – Day trip to Obidos and Batalha – Check out Program and availability
• Day 10 – Peniche and Erbalunga tour ( Check out program and prices ) or Evora tour
• Day 11 – Train to Portimao  – check out the best rated accommodations in Portimao
• Day 12 – Boat tour to Benagil Caves and Marinha beach – see options
• Day 13 – Enjoy the beaches around Portimao (Tres Castelos…)
• Day 14 – Take the train to Lagos and head out to see Ponta da Piedade
• You can fly out of Faro

Extra tips to create your own Portugal two week itinerary

Must-see during 2 weeks in portugal.

To get a good overview of Portugal within your 2 week travels, I think your itinerary should include at least:

• One city – Lisbon or Porto – but they are so different that you should consider both (see my article Lisbon vs Porto )
• The Pena Palace in Sintra – it is very touristy, but such a unique place!
• One medieval village / hilltop white village – Obidos is one of the easiest from Lisbon, but my favorite are on the East side of Portugal: Marvao, Monsaraz, Mertola….
• One monastery with Manueline decors such as Jeronimos in Lisbon or the Batalha Monastery
• Churches or buildings with blue tiles – you can see many everywhere…
• One of the beaches with impressive cliffs – the Algarve is the best, but if you don’t have the time to head South, consider Magoito in the Sintra Cascais National Park

Find out more with my article listing all my favorite things to do in Portugal

Use the ZigZag guides

I am so frustrated with the traditional travel guide that have thousands of places and no pictures. Check out my travel guide with my pre-selection and unique maps that will help you plan your trip:

What to pack for Portugal

Consider the classic packing list and bring rain and warm layers for the evening and the mountains. Portugal can very hot but also windy. Essentials include:

• Layers of clothes to adapt to the weather
• Windbreaker
• Flat comfortable shoes (lots of pavement)
• An adapter if you have different plug that 2 round ones

And check out my planning and packing checklists .

Want to see more of the best Portugal has to offer?

• 30 Most beautiful landscapes in Portugal – read article
• Best things to do in Portugal – read article
• The best beaches in Portugal  – read article
• The best villages in Portugal – read article
• Lisbon vs Porto – where to go? – read article

Want to see more of PORTUGAL?

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The perfect 2-week Portugal itinerary

• July 20, 2023

On my trip to Spain the year before, I knew I wanted to come back to region, and there was no better plan than to spend 2 weeks in Portugal. Is it too much time – well, no. 2 weeks is the perfect amount of time to explore the best highlights of the country but also go off-beat and expand your itinerary into visiting some of the most unique destinations you’ll ever come across. Portugal encompasses everything – from charming, timeworn cities, to postcard perfect coastal towns, stunning beaches, medieval villages, fairy tale castles, rich history and culture, authentic and sumptuous foods and desserts, amazing wine, and some of the best hiking paths, lakes, and hot springs you’ll ever see, Portugal will not disappoint you.

The perfect 2-week Portugal itinerary will combine a little bit of everything – because there’s nothing that I don’t like to experience. As much as ticking the boxes by visiting the popular areas is for me, going off the beaten path and looking for hidden gems is equally important. I highly recommend renting a car to make the most of your time, but the infrastructure of the city and the connectivity is quite amazing so if it’s impossible for you to drive for some reason, worry not, you’re well covered by alternative ways of getting to these places!

Here’s my recommended perfect 2-week Portugal itinerary.

Day 1 & 2: Lisbon (overnight Lisbon)

Click here to read the detailed itinerary for 48 hours in Lisbon .

Day 3: Day trip to Cascais & Sintra (overnight Lisbon)

For this day, I highly recommend renting a car from Lisbon. Although you may choose to take a train (it’s only 30 min by train from Lisbon to Cascais), renting a car gives you the flexibility to cover more ground in lesser time.

Cascais, a famous coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, picturesque streets and charming vibes is worth a day trip from Lisbon. The two most popular sites are Cascais Citadel , a fortress built in the 15th century, and the stunning Boca do Inferno , a coastal rock formation that overlooks the beautiful deep blue ocean, making for a great spot for taking photos.

Keep about 2-3 hours for visiting these 2 places before heading for Sintra, where you shall visit your highlight of the day – the famous Pena Palace . Another 30-minute drive from Cascais is this famous red and yellow palace sitting proudly on top of a jagged rocky hill, above the town of Sintra. One of the most famous monuments to visit in Portugal, I had heard that the tickets usually sell out months in advance during the peak season, but we were lucky to get tickets for the same day, even though we decided it was best to book online beforehand. Its possible that this was because it was still spring and the year right after Covid had hit, which already had impacted a lot of people’s travel plans. The palace is equally majestic from the inside as it is unique from the outside. Keep aside 2 hours to explore it in detail and account for the hundreds of photos that you’re going to want to click! Do take the audio guide for the tour to make your visit insightful and meaningful.

I suggest grabbing a quick meal at the café in Pena Palace because your visit to Sintra isn’t over yet! About a 10-minute drive from Pena Palace is one of the most underrated monuments of Portugal – Quinta da Regaleira . An enigmatic architecture in a picturesque setting, this estate is romantic to say the least. A network of lanes and tracks, hidden walkways and winding paths take you from one enigmatic sight to the other, so grabbing a map at the entrance to this extensive layout is an absolute must. An opulent palace hidden in a forest is bound to create a mystery – as do the various sites it houses such as the Initiation Well, Promenade of the Gods, and the Chapel. All in all, the estate is fascinating and a contrast to the architecture of the Pena Palace which begins to seem crass & tasteless when compared to the enchanted themes and stunning Manueline-Gothic structures strewn across

After a visit here, you may grab a quick bite in Sintra town before heading back to Lisbon for the night.

Day 4 & 5: The Algarve

I recommend keeping the car that you rented in Lisbon for your trip to The Algarve and then returning to Lisbon to return the car before you take your flight to Azores Islands.

Click here to read about How to make the most of 2 days in The Algarve .

Day 6, 7 & 8: Azores Islands

In your 2-week Portugal itinerary, I highly recommend including The Azores Islands or Madeira. We chose the former.

From Algarve, drive back to Lisbon and return the car, and board the flight to Azores Islands. In Azores Islands, you can rent a different car from the airport on your arrival.

Click here to read about How to spend the perfect 3 days in Azores Islands .

Day 9: Óbidos & Peniche (overnight Obidos)

Once back from Azores Islands, I recommend renting a car from Lisbon Airport to continue with your journey.

Today, you will drive to Óbidos, about an hour from Lisbon, known to be one of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval towns. The walled historical center can get extremely busy during the day, thanks to the day trippers from Lisbon. Although there’s not a lot to do in Óbidos, the labyrinth of cobbled stone streets nestled beautifully in the fortified town make for a charming experience. You will come across several small boutiques, whitewashed houses, patio cafes and restaurants, as you walk these mazed lanes. Stop at any one of the flower-decked, vividly painted shops to buy yourself a souvenir and local handicrafts or the famous chocolate and sour cherry-liqueur (Ginjinha de Obidos) . I honestly couldn’t get enough of those! You can also walk along the imposing walls of the citadel and enjoy gorgeous views of the vineyards across.

While Óbidos is a delightful place to explore, you can only spend 2-3 hours strolling along the area. Make use of the day and head to Peniche, a very off-beat, unique coastal town in Portugal known as one of the best surfing locations. A very laid-back small town, Peniche is a good break from most other places on this itinerary, thanks to its appeal only to the locals and lack of popularity amongst tourists. This is where you need to be to experience the slow, Portuguese lifestyle. You can also take a speedboat to Berlengas , a UNESCO listed archipelago that was classified as a Nature Reserve in 1981 due to the importance of its unique ecosystem. The boat trip is only 20 minutes and there are several options that allow you to book a return trip with a waiting time of about 3 hours on the island. The island is stunning; make sure to visit the São João Batista Fortress for the most Instagrammable views.

At night, return to Obidos. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see how the town transforms once the day trippers are gone!

Recommended overnight stay in Obidos: Patio das Margaritas

Day 10: Nazare, Coimbra, Aveiro (overnight Aveiro)

On this day of your 2-week Portugal itinerary, you’ll drive through some lesser-known, quieter towns of Portugal. About 40 minutes from Obidos, is a town called Nazare. A picturesque fishing village with beautiful beaches and traditional culture.

One of the most popular attractions in Nazare is the Praia da Nazare, a large beach with a distinctive curved shape known for its high waves, sometimes reaching a height of up to 30 meters, making it a popular spot for surfers. I recommend you try the delicious and fresh seafood here, such as the traditional Portuguese dish caldeirada, a fish stew, or the famous Nazare-style sardines, while you watch the surfers tame the crazy high waves. Nazare is a great destination for those looking for a quieter, more traditional experience in Portugal. If you find that the town is right up your alley, you can spend more time visiting Vila Velha, where you can see the traditional houses and narrow streets, and the famous Nazare lighthouse.

About an hour’s drive from Nazare, is the historic university city of Coimbra. While there’s nothing very unique to experience in this small laidback town, the university is said to be inspiration for J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter Series! So, if you’re a Potterhead, then it might be of interest for you. Entry to the university is not free of charge, but if you do go, then visit the Baroque Library, known to be its most wondrous and beautiful feature. After the university visit, head for a meal to Loggia, adjacent to the Machado de Castro National and enjoy gorgeous views while you dine.

After a stopover at Coimbra, it is now time to move on to your next destination, which is less than an hour away, Aveiro. Yet another laidback town, Aveiro is known for its lagoon and network of canals, where the traditional moliceiro boats take tourists on a little tour of the town. The Art Nouveau buildings and tiled facades make for a unique architecture that is characteristic of the town. Locals often call Aveiro the Portuguese Venice. The bakeries located along the canals are bound to pull you in with the aroma of their freshly baked Artisan breads, buns, and sweets. Don’t be shy, you’re on vacation!

Depending on how long you plan to spend in each of these off-beat Portuguese towns, you could either choose to stay overnight in Aveiro or head to Porto, which is about an hour by road.

Click here to book your overnight stay in Aveiro.

Day 11 & 12: Porto (overnight Porto)

Porto is only an hour by road from Aveiro. Your last 3 days in the itinerary are slightly relaxed.

Click here to read about What to do in Porto in 3 days (including Douro Valley).

Day 13: Douro Valley (overnight Porto)

No 2-week Portugal itinerary is complete without at least a day in Douro Valley.

While some people choose to cover Douro Valley in a day, many prefer to spend a few nights there, experimenting with different types of wines, roaming the vineyards, enjoying leisurely meals at the numerous wineries, offering excellent views anc rusing along the Douro River. If you only have 1 day, you can cover the highlights – Quinta do Pôpa winery for wine tasting with a view, Pinhão and a 1 hour cruise along the river. The detailed 1-day itinerary can be found above, with my Porto 3-day itinerary, where the last day covers Douro Valley.

Day 14: Return

On this day, you have some time to spend either at Douro Valley, if you plan to stay overnight at a winery, or at Porto, or return to Lisbon, depending on where your flight back home is booked from. This active 2-week Portugal itinerary might leave a little exhausted but in love with the country and its diversity!

Don’t want to DIY? Then why not find Portugal Group Tours that’ll fit your requirement?

What a beautiful blog – thank you! We’re totally inspired for our mother daughter trip later this year. What kind of budget would an itinerary like this require? Can you recommend a daily budget that includes getting around, good food and budget (tho tasteful) accommodation?

Medha Verma

Hello Sandra. It’s really hard to budget a trip like this because it’ll depend on how you choose to travel between 1 city and another, and what type of accomodation you choose to stay in. Let me give you an example; we are mid budget travellers that like to find a balance between staying in a place close to the city but with no frills, so budget accomodation. We ended up paying about 80 euros/ night in big cities and 50 euros/ night in the smaller ones. Also, it depends what season you travel in – peak season is likely to be more expensive than winter, for example. We travelled during spring (april-may). For the car rental, we paid about 60 euros/ day without full insurance. If you use public transportation instead, it’s bound to be cheaper!

I hope you have a lovely trip!

looking for a trip in august for 2 weeks, would like guides and drivers for a family of four. I would like to stay at Air BNB’s and can book those myself. We love castle and beautiful beaches. We went to Italy last year and would love to see the blue water like we saw there.

Hello Leann..I also custom build itineraries and plans, with suggestions of what to do, how to get from one place to another, places to stay & eat, etc (for a price, of course). If you’d like me to custom build an itinerary for you, could you send me an email at [email protected] and I shall help you!

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2 Weeks in Portugal // The Complete Itinerary

Planning on spending 2 weeks in Portugal? Here is the perfect two week Portugal itinerary for first-timers.

When I first started planning my 2 weeks in Portugal I was totally overwhelmed by all of the places there were to go. Not only were there all of the obvious choices like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, but just a quick flip through my Lonely Planet guidebook let me know that there was a lot more of Portugal to uncover.

From beautiful beaches to wineries to amazing hikes, it seemed like Portugal really did have it all. In the end, I ended up choosing four places that I was really drawn in by (Aveiro, Obidos, Lisbon, and Lagos) and 1 for convenience (Porto, where I was flying into). This turned out to be the perfect mix of small towns, cities, and nature. It was truly one of my greatest itinerary planning achievements, and looking back I wouldn’t change a thing.

Here is the 2 week Portugal itinerary that I followed (well, 16 days if you count flying days) which I couldn’t recommend more if you’re thinking about traveling to Portugal.

PORTUGAL TRAVEL TIPS

How to get to portugal.

For this itinerary, I recommend flying into Porto and out of Faro. Porto and Faro are both big hubs for budget airlines, so finding cheap flights shouldn’t be too hard. I always like to find a flight I like and then track the price using Google Flights .

The other major airport in Portugal is Lisbon.

TRAIN FROM SPAIN

If you’re coming from Spain, there’s an overnight train from Madrid to Lisbon and lots of buses and trains from the south of Spain to the Algarve. If you arrive in Lisbon, then you’ll need to play around with this itinerary a bit. If you arrive in the Algarve, then just do it backward! You can find train tickets on Omio .

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Portugal

Since this itinerary has a huge mix of types of activities, it might be hard to know what to pack. Here are a few things you should definitely bring along.

• Lightweight jacket – Portugal is pretty warm year-round, but it isn’t necessarily always shorts and tank top weather. Bring a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt with you for colder days and evenings.
• Hiking boots – For hiking in Lagos or any other random hikes you might decide to go on. I love my Ahnu Sugarpine boots !
• Reusable water bottle – reusable water bottles aren’t just eco-friendly–they save you some money!
• Daypack – I found myself carrying around quite a bit of stuff with me when I was in Portugal, so I was glad to have a small backpack  for use day-to-day.
• Shoes with traction for Lisbon – The combination of cobblestones and hills in Lisbon doesn’t exactly cater to shoes with no traction. Be sure to bring along a comfortable pair of walking shoes with traction for this purpose!
• Swimsuit – for Lagos
• Sunscreen – for day-to-day use and especially for lying on the beach in Lagos!
• Plug adaptors – if you’re not from Europe then you’ll want to bring along some plug adaptors for your electronics.
• Camera – Portugal is drop-dead gorgeous. You’ll want more than your phone camera to capture your trip. (P.S. If you don’t own a camera yet, I own the Sony Alpha A6300 and it’s perfect for travel as it’s both lightweight and powerful.)

2 WEEKS IN PORTUGAL ITINERARY

2 weeks in Portugal is the perfect amount of time to slow down and see a few different really beautiful cities and towns. Here’s my 2 week Portugal itinerary.

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Porto | 2 Days

Porto is a great place to start off your 2 week Portugal itinerary–mostly because of the plethora of cheap flights that serve its airport. As the second-largest city in Portugal, it is also a popular tourist destination, with highlights like medieval cobblestone streets and port wine tastings.

To be perfectly honest, I wasn’t too excited about Porto and found that 2 days there was more than enough. But if you’re more of a big city person then feel free to add more time in Porto!

HOW TO GET TO PORTO

Porto is well-served by budget airlines such as Ryanair . There are also several train stations in Porto if you are coming to Portugal as part of a longer rail trip around Europe.

THINGS TO DO IN PORTO

There’s no shortage of things to do in Porto , but here are a few ideas:

• Wander along the riverfront – Porto’s medieval riverfront is one of the prettiest spots in the city. Be sure not to miss it!
• Sample port wine – Porto is known as the gateway to the Duoro region, home to the famous Port Wine. There are several different wineries in Porto where you can take a tour and sample some port wine.
• Take a boat ride along the Duoro River – If you love seeing cities from the water like I do, Porto is a good place to do this. You can take a simple sightseeing cruise of Porto or go all the way and take a day trip down the Duoro River !
• Enact your Harry Potter dreams – Not a lot of people know that the inspiration for the Hogwarts library is actually in Porto. Livraria Lello, though a huge tourist spot, is worth the look inside if you’re a huge Harry Potter fan.
• Go tile spotting – the blue azulejo tiles that Portugal is known for are all over the place in Porto. One of the most famous spots in the São Bento train station. If you’re really interested in the tiles, you could even go on a tile tour !

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO

• Acta the Avenue ($$$) – A modern, luxurious stay with a rooftop terrace and views for days.
• By the River Guesthouse ($$) – This guesthouse looks absolutely charming! Plus, it’s right by the river and has great reviews 🙂
• Porto Spot Hostel ($) – The one big highlight of my time in Porto was my stay here. Though a little bit far away from the main tourist drag, it was comfy and cozy and the breakfast was really delicious!

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Aveiro | 2 Days

After Porto, the next stop during your 2 weeks in Portugal is Aveiro. Aveiro is best known as “The Venice of Portugal” because of its small canal system that is dotted by moliceiros – old colorfully painted seaweed harvesting boats that are now mostly used for tourist boat trips. While often a day trip from Porto, I found plenty of things to do there over 2 days and thought that it was really pleasant to have the place to myself in the evenings.

HOW TO GET FROM PORTO TO AVEIRO

The train is the fastest and easiest way to get from Porto to Aveiro. The ride takes 45 minutes at tickets start at just €3.50. Book your tickets through Comboios de Portugal .

THINGS TO DO IN AVEIRO

• Take a ride on a moliceiro – by far the most popular thing to do in Aveiro is to take a boat tour of the canals on a moliceiro . Head to the grand canal and hop on whichever one is leaving next–they all cost €10.
• Sample the Ovos Moles – Aveiro’s local sweet are ovos moles : egg yolk and sugar mixed together and enclosed in a small rice paper casing. They might just be some of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten.
• Visit the Museums – there are several small but good museums in Aveiro that you can visit. My favorite was the Museu de Aveiro/Santa Joana, which houses a huge religious art collection and is set in the old Aveiro convent.
• Take an Art Nouveau Walking Tour – While you might not think of Portugal when you think of Art Nouveau, Aveiro is actually a pretty big hotspot! The Art Nouveau Museum in Aveiro has a pamphlet with a self-guided Art Nouveau walking tour that I could definitely recommend!
• Head out to Costa Nova – If you get bored with things to do in Aveiro, then hop on a bus and head to Costa Nova to check out the beautiful candy-striped fisherman’s houses that are all over Instagram.

WHERE TO STAY IN AVEIRO

• Hotel Aveiro Palace ($$-$$$) – Located right on the main canal in a historic building, this hotel has been recently recommended and comes with thousands of raving reviews about the comfortable, clean rooms and good breakfast!
• Hotel do Mercado ($$) – A modern and fun boutique hotel that’s a bit farther out from the center but a great mid-range luxury option!
• Aveiro Rossio Hostel ($) – This place might just be the cutest hostel I’ve ever stayed in. It’s not a huge party hostel (in fact there was a baby there when I was) and there are plenty of private rooms which makes it almost like a hotel, just way cheaper.

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Obidos | 2 Days

I had never heard of Obidos before I started planning my trip to Portugal, but the second I saw a picture of it I knew I HAD to add it to my 2 week Portugal itinerary. This medieval walled town is like something out of Game of Thrones. It truly is the most otherworldly gorgeous place I have ever been to. And the cherry on top? It’s also a UNESCO City of Literature. Casual.

Definitely a must-visit during your 2 weeks in Portugal!

HOW TO GET FROM AVEIRO TO OBIDOS

Since they’re both relatively small towns that are both generally done as day trips from their respective nearby cities (Porto for Aveiro, Lisbon for Obidos), getting from Porto to Aveiro is a bit more complicated than you might think.

The train is your best option for getting from Aveiro to Obidos. The journey lasts 3 hours with changes in Coimbra and Caldas da Rainha. Tickets start at €14,20 when you book more than 5 days in advance from Comboios de Portugal’s website .

THINGS TO DO IN OBIDOS

• Walk the city walls – Those gorgeous walls surrounding the town of Obidos? Yup, you can walk on them. I suggest going during golden hour. Just head up one of the staircases dotted around the edge. Watch out though as there’s no railing.
• Wander – Obidos is really the perfect place to wander . It’s small enough that you can’t really get lost and pretty much every time you turn a corner you’ll be greeted by another adorable sight.
• Grab Dinner at Book and Cook – Book and Cook is one restaurant where you’ll want to splurge a little bit. Located in the Literary Man Hotel , Book and Cook (and the hotel) is basically just one giant library and it is truly perfect for a UNESCO Literary City.

WHERE TO STAY IN OBIDOS

• The Literary Man Obidos ($$$) – Even though I only had dinner in their restaurant, I am absolutely OBSESSED with this hotel! It’s a boutique, book-themed hotel, perfect for the UNESCO city of literature 😉 Oh, and did I mention it’s located in a former convent?
• Foral Guest House ($$) – A modern boutique hotel located within the medieval city walls. What more could you ask for?
• Stone Obidos Hostel ($) – There are two hostels in Obidos: Stone Obidos Hostel and Hostel Argonauta . I stayed in the Stone Obidos Hostel and even though it was a short walk from the actual walled part of Obidos, it was a great place to stay!

Check prices on Hostelworld

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon | 4 Days

Lisbon really needs no introduction. This city of trams and hills is one of the trendiest places to visit right now–and for good reason. Whether you like historical walking tours or chilling out at hipster bars and cafes, Lisbon has something for everyone . It was pretty much required that I had 4 days in Lisbon on this 2 week Portugal itinerary.

HOW TO GET FROM OBIDOS TO LISBON

It is super duper easy to get from Obidos to Lisbon and doesn’t take very long at all. The Rapida Verde bus line operated by Rodotejo goes directly from Obidos to Lisbon in just one hour. Tickets cost €7,70 as of March 2018 and you can buy them on the bus.

THINGS TO DO IN LISBON

• Wander Alfama – Alfama is definitely one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Lisbon, and it’s the perfect place to go for a wander and find some beautiful views over the city. I also went on a free walking tour of Alfama with Take Lisboa which was fantastic and offered a lot of insight into the history of Lisbon.
• Go on an open-top jeep tour with We Hate Tourism Tours – While I didn’t actually get to go in an open-top jeep (thanks rain), my King of the Hills tour with We Hate Tourism Tours was a major highlight of my time in Lisbon
• Sample the pastel de natas – this tiny little custard tart is all the rage in Lisbon, and for good reason: they’re delicious. There’s an ongoing debate about where the best ones can be found, so you clearly need to try all of them.
• Visit LX Factory – this hipster shopping center in an old warehouse is a fun place to visit that’s just a little bit outside of Lisbon’s main tourist areas.
• Day trip to Sintra – I was sick on my planned day to visit Sintra, so I don’t have any personal experience with this, but day-tripping to Sintra is definitely a must-do while you’re in Lisbon!

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON

• Tivoli Avenida Liberdade ($$$$) – One of the most famous hotels in Lisbon, this 5-star, historic, luxury hotel is definitely the place to go if you have a baller budget.
• Pestana CR7 Lisboa ($$$) – If you’re looking for an ultra-modern, hip hotel in the center of Lisbon (or you’re just a fan of Christiano Ronaldo), then Pestana CR7 is definitely the place to stay.
• Duplo Charme Boutique Hotel ($$) – Small but modern rooms close to the center. A great choice if you’re on a mid-range budget!
• Lisbon Lounge Hostel ($) – A fantastic, cozy hostel that is super centrally located (it’s just a 4-minute walk to the Praça do Comercio). They also have loads of different things going on, from family-style dinners to pub crawls!

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Lagos | 5 Days

At the tail end of your 2 weeks in Portugal is Lagos. Home to amazing red rocky cliffs and stunning white sand beaches, Lagos is the perfect place for a few days of adventure or just relaxing on the beach.

While the town itself is a bit touristy, it’s the perfect place to base yourself as a gateway to the absolutely stunning natural beauty of the Algarve.

HOW TO GET FROM LISBON TO LAGOS

The train from Lisbon to Lagos takes 3 hours and 30 minutes, with tickets starting from €10,70 when you book more than 5 days in advance from Comboios de Portugal’s website .

THINGS TO DO IN LAGOS

• Take a kayak tour – taking a kayak tour is by far the best way to see the cliffs of Lagos from before. Not only is it a fun activity, but you get to go into caves and through tiny archways that the large boat tours aren’t able to!
• Hike the cliffs – hiking the cliffs of Lagos is an absolute must while you’re there. This relatively easy hike takes about 3 hours but will leave you with a lifetime of stunning views.
• Learn to surf – Lagos is a world class surf destination and there are loads of opportunities to learn to surf while you’re there. We went with The Surf Experience for a day-long surf lesson and had a great time!
• Laze on the beach – it’s pretty much mandatory to have at least one day just lazing around on the beach when you’re in a place like Lagos.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAGOS

• Casa Creativa ($$$) – Beautifully designed boutique rooms in downtown Lagos.
• Guesthouse Our House ($$) – Large & bright rooms with sea views and close to the beach. What more could you ask for?
• Bura Surfhouse ($) – This hostel/surfer retreat is beautifully designed, has delicious pancake breakfasts, and their staff are the friendliest people of all time. Seriously. Don’t think twice about booking a stay here! I’d go back in a heartbeat.

Final Thoughts on 2 Weeks in Portugal

And there you have it! The ultimate 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary for first-timers. Once you’re done in Lagos, I suggest flying out of Faro or continuing your adventure onwards to other parts of Europe ( Seville is just a hop, skip, and a jump away).

Where do you think your favorite spot on this list would be?

Addie Gray is a recent college grad and a passionate solo female traveler. Having traveled to more than 20 countries, she now shares her knowledge on budget travel, solo female travel, and travel photography.

Join the adventure!

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19 comments.

[…] Do you have more time to spend in Portugal? It’s such a wonderful country! Make sure you check out this itinerary for 2 weeks in Portugal. […]

We will have 16 days in Portugal towards the end of May. We are flying in and out of Lisbon, In what order would you recommend seeing the places you listed?

Hey Jana! I’d recommend going from Lisbon up to Porto, then Aveiro, Obidos, Lagos, and Lisbon 🙂

LOVE this guide and the whole layout of everything! Super easy to follow and to the point! I’m visiting in May and this guide really helped!!

Thanks, I’m glad it was helpful! Enjoy your trip 🙂

Looks like such a wonderful trip! What time of year were you there? I’m heading to Portugal in November and can’t decide if it’s worth trying the beaches or if I should skip Lagos.

I was there in March! The water was cold but the beaches were still beautiful 🙂

[…] YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 2 Weeks in Portugal // A Portugal Itinerary for First-Timers […]

[…] into my 4 days in Lisbon (on a longer, two week trip through Portugal), I was told time and time again how much I would love Lisbon. For the most part, I definitely […]

Even though I didn’t spend much time in Portugal (only saw Porto) but Porto really gave me a great first impression of the country. Excellent pastries, food, and stunning architecture. I’ll definitely have to go back there and see the country fully next time I’m in Europe! Thank you for the write-up, Addie.

Definitely, don’t miss it!

Loved this post. Just came back from Portugal a couple of weeks ago so I am feeling your trip. I did some of what you did in just 6 days. So happy you got 2 weeks to do it.

Awesome pictures and great layout as well.

2 weeks was honestly the perfect amount of time!

In love with your post and blog in general, beautiful layout and pictures! And great itinerary, I’m really hoping to get back to Portugal soon!

Thanks so much! Portugal is really amazing 🙂

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Portugal Off the Beaten Path: 2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary by a Local

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These days it seems everyone is flocking to Portugal. The whole world has suddenly discovered what we locals have known for a long time: Portugal is an amazing country!

If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning to visit it yourself and wondering about the best things to do and see in Portugal.

If you want to explore Portugal off the beaten path, see an authentic side of the country, and avoid the tourist traps, then this 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary is for you.

Why should you trust me?

Well, I was born and raised in Portugal and lived there for most of my adulthood. I have lived in the Azores, Lisbon, and Porto, and traveled extensively throughout the country. And even now that I’m based in Zurich , Switzerland , I still visit Portugal at least twice a year.

Last time, I stayed for a month and revisited some of my favorite places around the country, which I’m telling you all about in this Portugal travel itinerary.

The good news is that you won’t need a month to do what I did. You can easily visit some of the most beautiful places in Portugal in 2 weeks and have a great time. It all comes down to proper planning and preparation.

Ready to start? Here’s my 2 week Portugal itinerary and travel tips.

• Top 10 Best Yoga Retreats in Portugal: A Local’s Guide
• Top 9 Best Yoga Teacher Training in Portugal

Table of Contents

Best time to visit Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal is in the spring or summer when the weather is warmer and you can enjoy the best Portugal has to offer: its amazing coastline.

Avoid August though, if you’d like to escape the crowds and peak temperatures – in this time of the year thermometers can easily go up to 40 degrees Celsius or more.

Autumn is also nice with still plenty of sunshine and warm days, fewer tourists and cheaper deals.

How to get around Portugal

Although Lisbon is easy to explore by foot or public transportation, if you plan to see more of the country your best option is to rent a car .

There are also trains and buses connecting major cities if you are on a budget, but beyond that public transportation in Portugal is often late, slow and scarce.

So I would definitely recommend renting a car to make the best of your two weeks in Portugal.

Still not sure? Check out these tips for renting a car in Portugal .

2 weeks in Portugal itinerary

Terceira island, azores – 4 days.

Start your 2 weeks in Portugal in the Azores.

Considered one of the most beautiful places on the planet , the Azorean islands are 9 (still) hidden gems in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Each island has its own personality and attractions, but in all of them you’ll find jaw-dropping nature, welcoming people, and a pure sense of authenticity.

So which one should you visit?

If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path Portugal experience, I’d recommend skipping the biggest and most popular island of São Miguel and heading to Terceira Island instead.

Here you’ll find untouched nature and rich culture and traditions without the crowds.

There are daily flights from Lisbon to Terceira Island all year round. The journey from the mainland to the Azores takes around 2,5 hours.

The best way to get around the island is to rent a car and explore at your own rhythm.

I recommend staying for at least 4 days. Although you could easily spend one week or more in Terceira, 4 days should give you enough time to explore the island.

Top things to do in Terceira Island:

#1 go inside a volcano.

Terceira Island is one of the few places on earth where you can go inside an extinct volcano.

Having been born here, I’ve visited Algar do Carvão many times already, but each time I can’t help marveling at what I see.

Located in the center of the island, Algar do Carvão is a spectacular ancient lava tube that is now covered by lush vegetation and unique stalactites.

Book a tour to Algar do Carvão here.

#2 Visit Angra do Heroísmo UNESCO site

Angra do Heroísmo is one of the most beautiful Portuguese cities.

The historic center was classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1983, due to its architectural heritage and important role as a port of call between the 15 th and 19 th centuries.

The city was built around its lovely bay (hence its name Angra, which is Portuguese for bay), where today you can see a marina and a pleasant city beach.

If you’d like to learn more about the history of the city, I recommend joining a walking tour with a local guide .

#3 Explore the fairylike Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve

The magical Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve looks straight out of a Lord of the Rings movie.

Lagoa das Patas means Ducks’ Lagoon and it’s easy to understand why: the small lagoon in the middle of the forest is populated by ducks, who choose its banks to breed.

#4 Swim in lava pools

The small town of Biscoitos, in the north of the island, is famous for its wine and lava pools.

These natural swimming pools of black volcanic stone are one of Terceira’s top attractions, and justifiably so.

Biscoitos is one of my favorite places in Terceira to have a swim and relax under the sun.

And I’m not alone: the area is very popular among the locals, many of whom own beach houses here.

#5 Go whale watching

The Azores are a great place for whale and dolphin watching.

Lying in the north Atlantic Ocean, the islands are home or a point of passage for many cetacean species, offering a great opportunity to spot these animals in their natural habitat.

If you’d like to get even closer, some companies also offer swimming with dolphins tours.

Book your whale watching experience here.

#6 Hike the island’s trails

The best way to discover Azores’ pristine nature is to adventure yourself through its hiking trails.

Terceira Island has an accessible and extensive network of footpaths uncovering some of its most scenic landscapes: from hidden lagoons and secret waterfalls to volcano craters, lush forests, and stunning viewpoints.

You can join a hiking trail tour with a specialized company here.

Where to stay in Terceira Island

Hotel cruzeiro.

Hotel Cruzeiro is the newest and most exquisite 4-star hotel in Angra do Heroísmo.

With a privileged location right in the UNESCO city center, Hotel Cruzeiro converted a historic building into a design hotel inspired by the island’s nature.

All rooms are decorated with images of Terceira’s landscape and have a unique atmosphere.

Hotel Cruzeiro has also a delicious breakfast buffet, friendly and professional staff, as well as a restaurant and a bar.

What’s more, it offers great value for money.

Click here for more info and booking.

• Azores itinerary: things to do in Terceira Island, Portugal

Tavira, Algarve – 3 days

With its sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Algarve, in southern Portugal, is one of the most beautiful regions in the country.

It’s also one of the most touristy, especially during the summer months, when both visitors and locals head south to enjoy the endless sunshine.

But it’s still possible to find some hidden gems. If you want to experience the Algarve without the crowds, drive further east to the picturesque town of Tavira.

I spent a weekend here during my last visit to Portugal and saw a different side of the Algarve.

Top things to do in Tavira:

#1 stroll around tavira town center.

Tavira is considered the most picturesque beach town in the Algarve.

Spend a couple of hours wandering through its narrow, white streets and enjoying its quaint charm.

Or hop on the tourist train of Tavira and enjoy a guided tour of its main sights.

#2 Enjoy the local life at Santa Luzia

Santa Luzia is a small fishermen’s village where time seems to have stopped.

Just 3 kilometers from Tavira, this is the perfect place to enjoy the authentic local life.

Here locals still outnumber visitors, and little has changed over time.

#3 Relax on the beach

Algarve is all about the beaches. And Tavira has no shortage of stunning white sandy beaches.

Located on Tavira Island, Praia da Terra Estreita is the best and quietest beach in the area. Only accessible by ferry, it has a secluded feeling to it.

A bit more organized, Praia do Barril is another great option.

#4 Explore Ria Formosa Natural Park

Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of the most important wetlands in the world due to its rich biodiversity.

This unique coastal lagoon is also one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve, with an impressive diversity of habitats and landscapes, from barrier islands, salt marshes, islets, tidal flats, saltpans, dunes, and freshwater lagoons to agricultural areas and woodlands.

Book a Ria Formosa boat cruise from Olhão here.

#5 Try the seafood

You can’t possibly leave the Algarve without enjoying some delicious local seafood.

Tavira is famous for its tuna and octopus, as well as for its clams and oysters.

While you’re here, try some local dishes like estupeta de atum (tuna), salad de polvo (octopus), and muxeta de atum.

Some other typical Portuguese dishes that taste even better in the Algarve are Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice) and Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams).

Where to stay in Tavira

Pedras d’el rei.

Located in the heart of Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, in Santa Luzia, Pedras d’el Rei is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Tavira.

Pedras d’el Rei is a beach resort with a traditional and calm atmosphere. Its apartments and villas host up to 7 people and are ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends traveling together.

The resort has several restaurants with terraces, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool, and beauty and massage services.

There’s also a complimentary mini-train service to Praia do Barril and free parking spaces.

You can even bring your dog since this place is pet-friendly.

• Top 10 Things to Do in Tavira, Portugal

Ericeira – 3 days

The third stop of your Portugal 2 weeks itinerary is Ericeira.

Ericeira may not be as famous as Nazaré, but it’s certainly a surf mecca.

This traditional fishing village, with 4 kilometers of perfect waves, is the first (and only) World Surfing Reserve in Europe and was the second place on the planet to receive such a distinction.

But there’s more to Ericeira than surfing (although that’s a big part of its charm).

Just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, this quiet and picture-perfect village is a favorite among the locals to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital.

And, from the food to the beaches, there are many reasons why.

Top things to do in Ericeira:

#1 learn to surf.

Ericeira is the perfect place to learn how to surf, even if you’ve never climbed onto a surfboard before.

Don’t get intimidated by the surf pros at Ribeira D’Ilhas, the Portuguese stage of the World Surf League.

There are also great beaches for beginners, like Foz do Lizandro, and plenty of surf houses and schools offering classes for newbies.

Or you can combine it with a yoga retreat or a yoga and surf camp as I did, for even more fun and relaxation.

#2 Enjoy the beaches

You can’t get far from the beach in Ericeira.

Just a short walk from the village center, you’ll find Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul.

Praia dos Pescadores is a lovely beach right next to the harbor, perfect for a swim or a drink at its cool beach bar.

To the south, Praia do Sul is very popular with the locals and has a couple of nice restaurants and bars.

But there are many other great beaches to choose from further north or south.

#3 Eat and drink

For such a small village, Ericeira has an impressive number of excellent places to eat and drink.

The delicious local food was actually one of the best things about my stay in Ericeira.

This quiet village has also a lively nightlife scene, with many cool bars and a couple of clubs.

#4 Standup paddle on Lizandro River

If surfing is not your thing, try standup paddle on Lizandro River for some amazing views and a super relaxing experience.

I was busy with surf classes every day, so I haven’t done SUP here this time, but it’s certainly on my bucket list.

#5 Go shopping

Ericeira is a shopping paradise.

The village center is home to trendy design stores, souvenir shops, boutiques, and of course many surf shops.

Believe me, the hardest part about shopping in Ericeira will be to fit everything into your suitcase.

Where to stay in Ericeira

Chill in ericeira surf house.

Chill In Ericeira is a beautiful surf house just a short 5-minute walk from the village center and the beach.

I stayed here with a friend for 4 nights on a surf and yoga retreat and the only thing I didn’t like was having to leave.

The main house, where we stayed, has a big terrace with a gorgeous view over Ericeira and the nearby beaches and is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Our double room was very comfortable and beautifully decorated, as are all the common areas. Breakfast is included in the room price and consists of a delicious and healthy buffet.

Chill In Ericeira also has another house just across the street, with more rooms and a barbecue area, where they serve a weekly dinner (at an extra price).

Surf lessons for beginners and intermediates take place every day and are paid separately.

But even if you’re not into surfing, I would definitely recommend staying here if only for the friendly atmosphere and cool vibes.

Lisbon – 3/4 days

You can’t visit Portugal without visiting Lisbon.

The Portuguese capital is not exactly off the beaten path. In fact, it’s one of the most popular European capitals right now.

But there’s a reason why everyone seems to be coming here, from tourists to expats and digital nomads: Lisbon is one of the coolest cities in Europe.

I may be biased since I lived in Lisbon for many years and it’s still one of my favorite places in the world, but Lisbon does have many points in its favor: nice weather, rich history, an exciting urban culture, great beaches at its doorstep, a vibrant nightlife and delicious food. Not to mention the people.

All this to say, you need to spend at least some days exploring the Portuguese capital.

I’d recommend making it the last stop of your Portugal itinerary since you’re probably flying out of the country from here anyway.

Top things to do in Lisbon:

#1 stroll along ribeira das naus.

Ribeira das Naus is an avenue connecting Cais do Sodré to Praça do Comércio in the heart of the city.

The whole area was recently recovered and has now a pleasant pedestrian zone offering lovely views over the Tagus river and an escape from the city bustle.

#2 Explore typical Graça and Alfama

Graça and Alfama are two of Lisbon’s most typical and beautiful neighborhoods.

Although gentrification is quickly taking over especially in touristy Alfama, it’s still possible to witness the authentic local life when you lose yourself in the maze of picturesque narrow streets, alleys, and stairways.

Book a guided tour of Alfama here.

#3 Party at Bairro Alto

During the day, Bairro Alto is a calm and quiet old quarter made of cobbled streets, small houses and cafes, and laundry hanging off the windows and balconies.

At night, the restaurants, bars, and clubs open, the streets become flooded with people, and the party begins.

Enjoying the nightlife at Bairro Alto is a mandatory and unique experience to have in Lisbon.

Want to party like a local and meet other travelers from all over the world? Join a Lisbon pub crawl here.

#4 Chill out at LxFactory

LxFactory is a former industrial complex turned hipster district.

This old factory and its warehouses are now co-working spaces, art studios, fashion and design stores, marketing agencies, bookshops, restaurants, bars, and even a hostel.

Make sure to have a peek at Ler Devagar, a bookstore installed in an old printing space. Besides books, Ler Devagar sells also food and drinks and offers a diversified program of cultural events.

#5 Admire the views from a rooftop

Rooftop bars and restaurants started popping up all over Lisbon some years ago. And what’s better than enjoying a nice meal or drink with a stunning view of the city?

One of my favorites is Noobai, a restaurant, and café in the Bica district, with one of the best panoramic views of the city and the Tagus river.

#6 Enjoy a concert at Fábrica Braço de Prata

Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old military factory converted into a dynamic cultural center.

The huge building once used to make weapons has now given place to several performance rooms, exhibitions spaces, bookstores, bars, and a restaurant.

From live concerts to theatre and dance shows, there’s always something going on here.

Where to stay in Lisbon

The independente hostel & suites.

“Not quite a hotel, more than just a hostel.” That’s how The Independente describes itself.

With a perfect location between Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto, The Independente is set in an old palace and beautifully decorated in art deco style.

It offers bunk bed dorms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, in a distinct and bohemian atmosphere.

There’s no room service, mini-bar, or phones in the rooms. Instead, you have a common kitchen and a guest-only lounge, where you can enjoy communal dinners, movie nights, cooking lessons, or karaoke.

They also have 2 hip and trendy restaurants and bars on site: The Decadente, serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine, and The Insólito, on the rooftop, offering a panoramic view over Lisbon and Tagus River.

Catering for independent travelers, the goal of The Independente is to make you feel like a local.

Like this article? Support The Yogi Wanderer for the price of a cup of coffee (or tea) and help me bring you more free and inspiring content!

• 3 Days in Lisbon: The Ultimate Lisbon Itinerary by a Local
• 10 Best Day Trips From Lisbon
• Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

Follow this off-the-beaten-track Portugal itinerary and you’ll get to experience the country like a local, witness its authentic culture and way of life, and enjoy some of its most beautiful places and landscapes.

More travel tips

Travel insurance.

SafetyWing – Travel insurance is very important and you should never leave home without it! I use and recommend SafetyWing travel medical insurance for travelers, remote workers, and nomads.

They cover overseas medical assistance in case of accident or illness, travel delay or interruption, lost checked luggage, emergency medical or political evacuation, natural disasters, and personal liability, at very competitive prices.

You can subscribe online here for a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days, or opt for a monthly subscription instead.

Cheap flights

Looking for the best airfare deals?  Skyscanner  is my favorite travel search engine for finding cheap flights around the world. They also offer  price tracking and alerts  to help you secure the best deals.

Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation,  Booking.com is the best site out there. From hotels to apartments, resorts, villas, B&B, and guest houses, it offers the best prices for accommodation all over the world. I book the majority of my stays through them.

Yoga Retreats

Looking for a yoga retreat near home or in an exotic destination?  BookYogaRetreats  offers the best yoga retreats, holidays, and courses around the world for all budgets and levels of experience.

GetYourGuide is my favorite platform for local tours, unique experiences, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions all around the world.

Klook  is another great resource for tours and activities, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Asia.

Car Rentals

Rentalcars.com  is a car rental search engine that compares the biggest brands in car hire and allows you to find the cheapest deals all around the world.

Have you been to Portugal? What would you add to Portugal travel itinerary? Share in the comments section below!

• Porto Itinerary: How to Spend 2 or 3 Days in Porto, Portugal
• 10 Great Things to Do in Central Alentejo, Portugal

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About Vanda

I'm a Portuguese journalist and certified yoga teacher born in the Azores but Lisboner at heart. After 10 years as an expat in Switzerland, I now travel the world full-time as a digital nomad, with 27 countries and 5 continents under my belt and counting. I share wellness and yoga-friendly travel advice based on my own experience and knowledge.

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September 8, 2018 at 9:12 pm

This is such an informative post and sheds loads of light on how awesome Portugal is!! I am planning a trip and it all sounds amazing, especially the Algar do Carvão ! Thank you!

Lynne P Nieman says

September 8, 2018 at 1:16 pm

Great ideas with some nice details … and some lovely images. I’ve sent travel clients to Portugal but need to get there myself. And soon!

September 8, 2018 at 6:42 am

Loved this post thank you x

September 8, 2018 at 3:58 am

Thanks for such a great post! I fell in love with Lisbon. And, since then, I’ve vowed to go back to Portugal and fully explore that country. So, this post is something I’ll be referencing as some of those places look amazing!

September 8, 2018 at 3:33 am

I love local guides so much! Like who would’ve thought that you could go inside an extinct volcano?! That’s so cool!

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Portugal road trip | The perfect 2-week itinerary along its stunning coast

Picture your feet dug in warm sand, a breeze of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding your face. Your belly satisfied with some delicious sweet pastries, your mind wandering off to those colorful cities, fresh food, and stunning coastline you’ve explored. Sounds good? Then you should go about a Portugal road trip.

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Portugal road trip: Porto – authentic city life

There’s plenty to do and to see in Porto. Here are some recommendations about what is worth checking out during your time in Porto:

• Join a free walking tour
• Walk across the bridge Ponte Luis I to cross the River Duoro
• Take part in a Port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
• Stop by the picturesque station São Bento
• Visit the old library Lavria Lello
• Join an E-Bike tour through the city
• And don’t forget to eat Pastel de Nata at any local pastry shop
• Apartment recommendation: The stylish  Almada Balcony Apartment is super central, so you can easily reach all spots within the historic center on foot. Its highlight is definitely the beautiful balcony!
• Guesthouse recommendation: Make sure to check out the beautiful Porto Music Guest House ,  a modern Guesthouse with a focus on sustainability in Porto’s center.
• Hostel recommendation: If you’re looking for a hostel, I can highly recommend The Passenger Hostel ! A super modern hostel in a central location that offers reeeeally good breakfast.

Apartment recommendation: Almada Balcony Apartment

What a beautiful, modern apartment with an adorable balcony! Thanks to its perfect location, you can easily explore Porto on foot. And it’s also not far from the metro, so you can comfortably get to the airport.

• Take  a boat tour with wine tasting and lunch in a vineyard
• Enjoy  a scenic picnic at one of the wineries
• Visit  three different Duoro Valley vineyards with lunch
• São Leonardo de Galafura
• Miradouro Casal de Loivos
• Miradouro de São Salvador do Mundo

Alleys around Largo Pena da Ventosa | Porto

A long weekend in Porto

Portugal road trip: baleal – a surfers paradise.

• Surfing – Of course this is the number one activity in Baleal. There are plenty of surf schools around that offer courses for all levels.
• If you’re into other kinds of water activities, I have come across offers for kite surfing and windsurfing as well.
• For those who do not surf, Baleal has still a lot to offer: you can calm down in a Yoga class , for example at Alma studio .
• Take a walk along the spectacular coast and breathe in the sea breeze from above.
• Renting bikes is an eco-friendly and easy way to move around the area, as everything is easy to reach by bicycle. You can ride to Peniche, stop by one of the cute ocean-friendly cafés for a coffee, and reach all beaches within a few minutes ride.
• When staying in Baleal, don’t miss visiting Nazarè for a day trip . If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to watch a few surf pros riding some of the highest waves on earth.

Welcome package with shampoo bars at Thalassophilia

As my favorite guest house Thalassophilia has closed down, I checked for some good alternatives that also have a focus on sustainability. You should definitely check out the wonderful Perfect Shore Guesthouse run by Alex and Clare where you can rent bikes to head to the beach. It’s located in Ferrel, so a bit further away from the beach, but no problem with bikes.

For the ultimate beach experience, take a look at beautiful Silver Coast . It looks like a house that came right out of a fairytale. You can see the ocean from the balcony and hang out in their flowery garden. A dream!

If you’re looking for the best hostel in Baleal, Selina is absolutely my recommendation. A great vibe, surfing classes and enough space to work remotely as well.

Bike riding to the beach in Baleal

Welcome package with organic shampoo bars at Thalassophilia

Hotel recommendation: Silver Coast

For you the ultimate beach experience in a gorgeous house that look like it’s straight out of the Arabian Nights. From the balcony you can see the ocean and relax in the beautiful garden between cactuses and Mediterranean plants. Truly a dream!

More on sustainable travel

Curious about more tips on sustainable travel? Check out this post with 12 easy tips on how to be a more sustainable traveler .

• Tables – A cute tiny place with home-cooked meals with vegetarian and vegan options. Try the homemade pie as a dessert.
• Taberna do Ganhão – For local seafood. The recommendation is the tuna steak of fresh Portuguese tuna from the Azores. However, you might have to wait for an hour for a table and there’s no possibility of making a reservation.
• Mundano Baleal – This small family-run restaurant only has four tables. So you need to come early or reserve in order to enjoy the cozy atmosphere and delicious food. They only have a small menu with high-quality yet affordable seafood, as well as some vegan options.

Breakfast :

• Kirana Café – For smoothies, bowls, and pancakes with a variety of vegan options. Try the chocolate banana bowl.
• Celeiro Café (Peniche) – For yummy fresh juice and bowls loaded with fruit. I also loved the waffle.

Breakfast bowl at Kirana café | Baleal

Portugal road trip: Lisbon – culture and sea breeze

• Enjoy Lisbon from the water: During a sunset catamaran tour or while riding a kayak
• Enjoy the city from one of its gorgeous viewpoints
• Stop by the huge flea market on Saturday
• Join a pasteis de nata baking class and learn how to make these yummy treats yourself
• Have a feast in a market hall
• Relax in one of the beautiful parks
• Join a street art tour

Discover Lisbon's hidden gems

• Apartment recommentation:   Hermitage Castelo offers a fantastic view of the Tejo River in its rooms. It’s quiet and yet you can explore all of Lisbon on foot from there.
• Guesthouse recommendation:   TocTocToc is a perfect oasis with its sweet garden and the lovingly furnished rooms.
• Hostel recommendation: At We Hate F Tourists , they get their statement across: you haven’t really seen a city if you only check out the main sights. They want you to get to know Lisbon authentically. It’s also an incredibly beautiful hostel with a wooden terrace (alternatively, check it out here on Hostelworld ).

Hotel recommendation: TocTocToc

A real oasis in Lisbon. Here you hardly notice that you are actually in a big city. With its sweet garden and lovingly decorated rooms, it’s a real dream accommodation!

• Streetfood at the Market Hall on Campo de Santa Clara on Saturdays – This place has awesome vegan food, sweet treats, and so much more
• LX Factory – This is where a bunch of hip eateries come together in a cool factory atmosphere
• Mercado de Campo Ourique – For authentic food in an indoor market
• Comoba oder Fauna & Flora – For a great brunch or a coffee break
• Kong – Super delicious vegan restaurant

Portugal road trip: Sintra – fairytale castles

Sintra is all about visiting the castles (the colorful Pena Palace which makes you feel like you’re thrown right into a Disney movie, the mystic Moorish Castle , and the Quinta da Regaleira – a magical well with a spiral staircase.

We spent one night in the super cute guest house Casa do Vinho , where the lovely owner awaited us with open arms. We were able to see everything by foot (or at least reach the bus station closeby), as it’s right in the center. In case you’d like to stay in the small town of Sintra itself, I can definitely recommend this guest house.

On another Portugal trip, I spent a few days a bit outside of Sintra at the beautiful Moinho da Roca mill and honestly, I didn’t want to leave anymore. Truly a magical place to stay in an old mill that has been super beautifully renovated . The rooms surrounding the mill are also really cute. Regina, the owner and her sweet dog were the perfect hosts. Always so kind and helpful! From there you can take a day trip to Sintra by car, but also enjoy the beautiful landscape. For example, you can walk directly from the accommodation to Cabo da Roca – a breathtaking hike along the cliffs!

Hotel recommendation: O Moinho da Roca

A unique accommodation run with so much heart and soul. Just a short drive from Sintra, this beautiful renovated mill has been transformed into accommodation. You can sleep directly in the mill or in one of the beautiful rooms surrounding it. Here you get real Portugal flair while you look out to sea in the distance or walk to the spectacular Cabo da Roca along the cliffs!

Pena Palace | Sintra

Portugal road trip: Alentejo and Costa Vicentina (Vila Nova de Milfontes & Aljezur)

The area around Alentejo and Costa Vicentina is a true treasure on your Portugal road trip. For surfers, the Atlantic coast offers numerous stunning cliffs and beaches and for those who like to chill and watch.

The cliffs of Arrifana

Beaches around Vila Nova de Milfontes

Beaches around aljezur.

Surfers in Odeceixe

Restaurants & cafes in Vila Nova de Milfontes

• A Choupana – Reserve a table for the most beautiful sunset dinner in Vila Nova de Milfontes, reserve a table. Here you will get simple but fresh grilled fish in an authentic Portuguese surrounding watching the sunset behind the ocean right next to you.
• Café 18 e Piques – For a variety of fresh juice and good, affordable breakfast
• Mabi – A local croissanteria where you can find typical Portuguese breakfast with sweet pastries and fresh orange juice.

A Choupana restaurant | Vila Nova de Milfontes

Restaurants around Aljezur

• Mó Veggie Bistrot – We found this great spot within this sleepy town and were surprised by its rustic interior and great food.
• Gulli – They offer an exciting mix of Portuguese and Italian cuisine.
• The Elska Kitchen – For fresh fish, creatively interpreted dishes and surprising veggie options.

Hotel recommendation: Herdade Quinta Natura

• Praia do Amado

Portugal road trip: Algarve

A beach close to Sagres | Algarve

• If you’re staying in or around Lagos, rent a bicycle and ride to Ponta Piedade (the most stunning rock formations)
• Join a   Kayak Tour to the Benagil caves (they’re super popular, so expect it to get crowded in high season)
• Visit the Monchique mountains – the largest area for the growth and production of cork
• Stroll through some pretty small towns such as Salema, Burgau, or Ferragudo
• Stop by some local shops . You will find a variety of handmade pottery but also clothing stores selling sustainable brands.
• Catch some spectacular views of cliffs and bays (read more further down)
• Go swimming at some of the plenty beautiful beaches (read more further down)

Ponta da Piedade | Lagos

Spectacular cliffs and views

• Fortress of Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente – for beautiful cliffs at the most south-westerly point of the European continent
• Alcar Seco – for tunnels carved in limestone by saltwater, wind, and waves over millions of years
• Cabo Carvoeiro
• Praia dos Tres Irmãos – Small bays with super clean water among impressive rock formations (our favorite).
• Praia de Porto do Mos – A long, flat beach with cristal clear water.
• Boca do Rio – A natural beach with very few visitors.
• Meia Praia – Where the locals go, mostly without any waves.
• Praia dos Estudantes – Beautiful photo spot under an old bridge. Head there in the late afternoon or early morning.
• Praia Afurada – A secluded beach you’ll have to yourself, but you have to climb down a bit.
• Praia Falésia – A beautiful long beach, surrounded by orange-red cliffs
• Praia Marinha
• Figueira Beach
• Praia de Albandeira

Praia dos Estudiantes | Lagos

Hotel recommendation: Uma Casa a Beira Sol

Quinta Fonte Negro | Algoz

Shopping (Lagos):

• Olaria Nova – For handmade pottery.
• Coast – For clothing from sustainable brands and made of organic cotton.
• Eco & Bulk Store – For groceries, there is even a store selling unpacked goods in Lagos.

Eat (Lagos):

• Fernando – For honest, typical Portuguese food run by a lovely family. We really enjoyed the Cataplana (a Portuguese dish of fish and seafood traditionally cooked in an iron or copper bowl).
• Nah Nah Bah – For the best burgers, all of them are available as veggie or vegan options.
• Estúdio Vegetariano – All vegetarian and vegan homemade comfort food.
• Beats & Burritos – Für leckere Burritos in einer quirligen Bar.

Cataplana at Fernando’s | Lagos

Breakfast (Lagos):

• Abigail‘s – For yummy Açaí Bowls.
• Goji Lounge – Try their generous Avocado Toast or Pancakes prepared with less sugar.
• Coffee and waves – I loved their Fill up smoothie and they also offer generous breakfast plates.
• Black and white coffee – For the best peanut butter banana bowl.
• Goldig Cafe – The best vegan bagels in town.
• Always an option: Having a Pastel de nata or a Queijada at any local pastry shop.

Suggested itinerary for a 2 – 2,5 weeks Portugal road trip

If you want to truly experience different parts of Portugal, you should spend at least two weeks in the country. In our 2,5 weeks, we were able to head north to south with a rental car without any hassle. If you travel more slowly, you’ll be able to experience the country, its culture, and locals more in-depth. Moreover, always remember: Slower travel is not only less exhausting and less costly for you, but also for the environment.

On our Portugal road trip. we spent more time in nature around Costa Vicentina and the Algarve. It’s the perfect place to round up your Portugal road trip and to enjoy the sea breeze and relax. My suggestion in order to experience different parts of Portugal in two weeks would be the following Portugal itinerary:

• Porto 2-3 days
• Baleal 2-3 days
• Lisbon 2-3 days
• Alentejo & Costa Vicentina (Aljezur / Vila Nova de Milfontes) 3-4 days
• Algarve 3-4 days

If you can extend your trip, I’d suggest spending more time in the southern parts. Or visit the national park around Gerês before heading to Porto.

The small town of Salema | Algarve

Portugal road trip – a wrap up

• Women say “thank you” with the word “Obrigado” while men say “Obrigado”.
• Some of the old windmills that you see all over the countryside have been used until the 1970s
• 50% of the world’s cork products stem from Portugal (mostly from around the Monchique mountains)

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You could definitely see your expertise in the article you write. The world hopes for more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to mention how they believe.

All the time follow your heart.

How much did this approx cost? Esp the car cost? Thanks :)

I just roughly checked the costs of our trip. The rental car was around 350 Euros for 2 weeks. For the accommodations, we spent an average of 50 Euros per night, some were more, some less (which was in October – so it was low season). During our time in Portugal, we spent an average of 60-70 € per day on food, activities etc. All the costs mentioned are for two people. Hope this helps you with your planning!

Best wishes & enjoy beautiful Portugal! Jill

Your post brought back memories of visiting Sintra last year around this time! Pena palace was stunning, especially the gardens at the closing time when I was almost the only one exploring the pathways!

Yeah, visits in the early morning or around closing time are the best. Less people and gorgeous light!

I love that Portugal is not only great for beaches and resorts but also has incredible hiking! Some greatly detailed and useful information in this post, amazing!

So true! I also love Portugal’s nature beyond its beaches and cliffs. It’s definitely a great destination for hiking as well.

Such a great guide. Indepth and easy to follow. I hope to follow it one day.

Thanks Sharyn! Glad you liked my guide on a Portugal road trip.

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• Travel tips

Portugal Solo Travel Itinerary: 2 Weeks in Portugal by Train

Portugal is one of the best destinations for solo travellers . Whether you want to visit big cities or small towns, winery, beaches, castles or participate in different water sports or hiking or simply enjoy Portuguese culture, you don’t want to miss Portugal!

My first trip to Portugal was only four years ago and it has become one of my favourite countries in the world! I’ve returned to Portugal since and have spent many more months. I honestly can’t say enough good things about this country.

So instead, I put together a comprehensive Portugal solo travel itinerary for anyone who has never been to Portugal before. This is the perfect itinerary for a solo traveller who wants to travel 2 weeks in Portugal by train.

If you are planning a solo trip to Portugal and wondering if you rather visit Lisbon or Porto ? Or both? And how many days you should spend in Portugal? Keep reading, and I will tell you everything in detail and give you the best Portugal 2 week itinerary.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the  disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before starting your Portugal solo travel itinerary

Before you hop on the train for an epic 2 weeks Portugal trip, take a look at some of these useful travel tips for travelling solo to Portugal:

• Portugal is a  safe country for solo female travellers .
• Check the Comboios de Portugal website   for train schedules for all the trains you need to take for this 2-week Portugal itinerary.
• Download the   Comboios de Portugal app  to check train timetables from your phone and buy your train tickets. It is in English and super easy to use. 
• You can order Uber cars in Portugal. Just make sure you download the app before you travel.

Two weeks in Portugal: how to take the train

My entire 2 week itinerary in Portugal can be travelled by train. This is the perfect mode of transportation for any solo or independent traveller since the train is reliable and always on time.

But first, let’s get to know a bit more about the railway system in Portugal: Comboios de Portugal .

Many  Alfa Pendular or AP  (fast train) and  Intercidades or IC  (intercity train) trains travel between Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve daily, while Urbano (U) and Regional (R) trains travel within the local regions.

For AP and IC trains, you can choose either first class or second class seats . Seat reservation is required for these trains.

All the train schedules and prices are on the Comboios de Portugal website and the Comboios de Portugal app .

I recommend choosing the AP train (fast train) and first class seats whenever possible . It just makes the journey that much faster and better.

Summary: 2 weeks in Portugal by train

My ultimate Portugal 2 week itinerary starts in the capital city, Lisbon . From there, travel north to Porto , visit Aveiro or Coimbra before you take the train to Algarve and return to Lisbon.

To see all the highlights in each area, it will take 14 days in Portugal. And this itinerary is tailored for solo travellers who want to travel 2 weeks in Portugal by train.

Here is a quick summary of my Portugal 2 week itinerary:

• Day 1-4: Lisbon (+ day trip)
• Day 5-7: Porto (+ day trip)
• Day 8: Aveiro or Coimbra
• Day 9-11: Faro (+ day trip)
• Day 12-13: Lagos (+ day trip)
• Day 14: Depart from Lisbon

Day 1-4: Lisbon

Lisbon is the biggest city in Portugal, and you can leisurely see the city in three days. Stroll through Chiado, Bairro Alto, Príncipe Real and Alfama (neighbourhoods in Lisbon). On the fourth day, take a day trip outside the city.

The best way to get around Lisbon is by walking, Tram 28, Metro, train and Uber.

Here is a summary of what you will see in Lisbon in 4 days:

Day 1: Chiado

Get acquainted with Lisbon by roaming around Chiado first. Depending on when you arrive in Lisbon, you can see a few (or many) touristy sites including Praça do Comércio, Arco da Rua Augusta , Elevator Santa Justa along the pedestrian street, Carmo Convento and Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea – Museu do Chiado .

And take the scenic Tram 28 as it passes through many popular tourist spots in Lisbon.

Day 2: Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real

There are many things to see in both Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real. Look for the famous funicular at Ascensor da Bica , a viewpoint at Santa Catarina , Museu de São Roque , Jardim de São Pedro de Alcâantara and Jardim Botânico de Lisboa .

Day 3: Alfama

When meandering through Alfama’s narrow and hilly streets, search for Sé de Lisboa , Casa dos Bicos , Museu do Fado , Castelo de São Jorge, and the viewpoints at Santa Luzia and Recolhimento .

If you are in Alfama on a Tuesday or Saturday, there is a flea market called Feira da Ladra just northeast of Panteão Nacional .

And if you go a bit further east of Alfama, visit  Museu Nacional do Azulejo .

Day 4: Day trip from Lisbon

Take a day trip from Lisbon just outside of the capital city. Choose between Belém, Sintra or Cascais:

• Belém – see Jerónimos Monastery , Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Torre de Belém , MAAT and try the famous egg tart at Pastéis de Belém . You can get a 24-hour Lisboa Card and see many museums in Belém for free. And transportation to Belém is also free with the Lisbon Card.
• Sintra – Pena Castle is the highlight of Sintra, but you don’t miss Castelo dos Mouros and Quinta da Regaleira .
• Cascais – visit the quaint seaside town and check out one of many gorgeous beaches in Cascais, Museu Condes de Castro Guimarães , Mirador Casa de Santa Maria and Boca do Inferno .

Where to stay in Lisbon

Selina secret garden lisbon.

Selina Secret Garden Lisbon is the perfect hotel for a solo female traveller. Book the unique room for four nights so you can get more room for yourself. And when you want to mingle with other travellers, you can hang out in one of the few common areas.

How to take a train from Lisbon to Porto

Lisbon to porto train.

Lisbon has six train stations. But the easiest way to travel from Lisbon to Porto is to start at Santa Apolónia , which is closest to city centre.

FYI – Porto has 2 train stations : São Bento Station and Campanhã Station . Most hotels are closer to São Bento Station, so you will likely take the train there. You’ll have to switch to a U train at Porto Campanhã Station to São Bento Station.

Recommendation : Take an early AP train from Santa Apolónia to  Porto São Bento Station . AP trains leave Lisbon at 7am, 8am and 9am. The trip is about 3 hours 35 minutes and costs €33.90 (second class) and €47.40 (first class).

Day 5-7: Porto 

Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest European centres. The hilly city is located a few hours north of Lisbon and is easily accessible by train.

Personally, I love the laid-back atmosphere , super friendly locals and the unique regional cuisine of Porto . And not to mention all the picturesque viewpoints around the city!

While you are in Porto, spend the first two days in Porto in the city and then venture out on the third day and see other towns in Northern Portugal.

Day 5: Porto

See many highlights on your first day in Porto including the famous bookstore, Livraria Lello , the pedestrian streets of Rua de Flores and Rua de Santa Catarina , and the blue-and-white tiles at Igreja do Carmo, Church Santo Ildefonso, Capela das Almas, and São Bento Railway Station .

Day 6: Porto

On your second day in Porto, visit Sé de Porto , Palácio da Bolsa , and see panoramic views of Porto from Miradouro do Passeio das Fontainhas , Miradouro da Vitória , and the double-deck metal bridge Ponte de Dom Luis I at Ribeira do Porto .

In the afternoon, take a cruise down the Douro River and followed by a Port wine tour and Fado show at a port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. And finally, finish the day by watching the sunset at Marginal de Gaia .

Day 7: Day trip from Porto

There are many things to do outside of the hilly city. Choose one of the following day trips from Porto :

• Foz do Douro  – take the scenic Tram 1 and see the coastal area of Porto.
• Matosinhos  – enjoy the beaches and waterfront promenade of Matosinhos.
• Douro Valley  – join a guided tour in Douro Valley  and try award-winning wines in picturesque villages.
• Espinho  – see gorgeous beaches along Costa Verde.
• Braga  – visit one of the oldest cities in Portugal and see the historical centre and Gothic churches.
• Guimarães  – see the famous Guimarães Castle and other monuments on Serra da Penha mountain.

Where to stay in Porto

Casa dos loios by shiadu.

Book 3 nights at Casa dos Loios by Shiadu and get a clean and eclectic guest room that is perfect for solo travellers. When you are tired from walking the hills of Porto, sit and enjoy the interior courtyard space. It is quite serene. 

How to take a train from Porto to Aveiro or Coimbra

Porto to aveiro train.

The easiest, cheapest and most direct way to travel from Porto to Aveiro is by taking the Urbano (U) train.

Buy a ticket from the counter or kiosk. This means you pay  €0.50 for the reusable Siga card  and  one title (one ticket) for the train journey to Aveiro ( €3.55 ).

Recommendation : Take an early U train from Porto São Bento Station  to  Aveiro Station . Try to be in Aveiro by 9 am so you can get a full day in Aveiro. U trains leave Porto at 7:30 am and 7:50 am. The trip is about 1 hour 18 minutes and costs €3.55 .

Porto to Coimbra train

The cheapest way to travel from Porto to Coimbra is by taking a combination of Urbano trains to Coimbra Station .

You’ll have to switch trains at Campanhã Station in Porto and then again at Aveiro Station .

FYI – Coimbra has are two stations : Coimbra and Coimbra-B . Coimbra Station is closer to the town centre.

Recommendation : Take the early U trains from Porto São Bento Station  to  Coimbra Station . U trains leave Porto at 7:30 am and 8:30 am. The trip is about 2 hours 17 minutes and costs €8.95 .

Day 8: Aveiro (option 1)

The 8th day is about choices. Choose between Aveiro , a canal town or Coimbra , a historical university town. 

Day 8: Aveiro

Aveiro  is a  picturesque fishing town  known for its  Art Nouveau buildings ,  salt flats ,  patterned Portuguese pavement , and a regional dessert called  ovo moles . The town is also known as the  Venice of Portugal  because of the canal system and the gondola-type boats called  moliceiros .

A day tour of Aveiro includes walking around the cobblestone town and taking a Moliceiro boat tour around the canals. 

Where to stay in Aveiro

Teatro studios.

Stay one night at Teatro Studios , a boutique hotel in the centre of Aveiro. It is an actual apartment with a well-equipped kitchenette.

Day 8: Coimbra (option 2)

Day 8: coimbra.

As for option 2, you’ll be visiting Coimbra , the third-largest city in Portugal.

Coimbra is a medieval city with Europe’s oldest university: University of Coimbra . When you walk through Arco de Almedina , the hilly cobblestone streets will lead you to the university in the old town. Visit several important buildings including Sé Velha de Coimbra , Via Latina, Sala Capelos, Michael’s Chapel and Biblioteca Joanina .

Then roam around Baixa (downtown) and visit Igreja de Santa Cruz and Jardim da Manga .

Don’t leave Coimbra without trying some of their conventual sweets .

Where to stay in Coimbra

Jr studios & suites | rius i.

JR Studios & Suites is a centrally located hotel that has all the comforts you need for a short-term stay. Book the standard suite which has a double bed and sofa bed. And it even has a desk if you work remotely. There is a shared kitchen if you want to cook a simple meal.

How to take a train from Aveiro or Coimbra to Faro

This leg of the journey is the longest. But the good thing is train travel in Portugal is quite comfortable.

Aveiro to Faro train

The fastest way and most direct way to travel from Aveiro Station to Faro Station is by taking the AP train first thing in the morning.

Recommendation : Take the earliest AP train from Aveiro Station to  Faro Station . The AP train leaves Aveiro at 6:21 am. The trip is about 5 hours and costs €50.40 (second class) and €69.30 (first class).

Coimbra to Faro train

As for Coimbra, the fastest way to travel from Coimbra Station to Faro Station is by taking the R train and AP train first thing in the morning.

You’ll have to switch trains at Coimbra-B Station for the AP train to Faro Station.

Recommendation : Take the earliest R and AP trains from Coimbra Station  to  Faro Station . The R train leaves Coimbra at 6:38 am. The trip is about 4 hours 45 minutes and costs €46.70 (second class) and €64.20 (first class).

Day 9-11: Faro

The Algarve , or south of Portugal, is a pretty big area. The best way to see the Algarve is to stay in a bigger town, use it as a home base, and explore the surrounding areas.

For this 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary, I suggest staying in Faro (to the east) and Lagos (to the west).

Day 9: Faro

Faro , the  capital of the Algarve , is the biggest city in the Algarve. And there are many things to do in Faro including  historical monuments, gorgeous beaches between waterways  and  delicious seafood restaurants  scattered around town.

Walk around the cobblestone streets of Cidade Velha and look for Arco da Vila , Igreja de Santa Maria and Capela dos Ossos de Faro . And don’t miss the gorgeous sunset at the pier.

Day 10: Faro

On your second day in Faro, take a local ferry (€3 return trip, every hour)  at Estação Faro to Praia de Faro and spend the day exploring the beach.

Or join one of the tours and sail through Parque Natural da Ria Formosa .

Day 11: Tavira

When you go on a Tavira day trip from Faro, you will see many things in this charming town. Walk across Ponte Antiga Sodre o Rio Gilão and search for Igreja da Misericórdia and Castelo de Tavira. If you go early, you can visit the white sand beaches at Praia de Ilha de Tavira .

Regional trains from Faro Station to Tavira Station start at 7:20 am, 8:57 am and 9:55 am. On the way back, catch the 6:31 pm, 7:40 pm or 9:38 pm train from Tavira to Faro. The train journey takes about 37 minutes and costs €3.25 each way.

Where to stay in Faro

The modernist faro.

Hotels in Faro are older and pretty pricey. But I found The Modernist Faro , a new boutique hotel in the middle of the town. I love the hotel design’s mid-modern century feel and had a wonderful stay. Book three nights at The Modernist Faro and let me know your thoughts.

How to take a train from Faro to Lagos

Faro to lagos train.

Linha do Algarve is the dedicated railway line going  east to west  of the Algarve. The line includes stops at these cities (from east to west):  Vila Real de Santo António, Tavira, Faro, Loulé, Tunes, Silves, Portimão,  and  Lagos .

The fastest and cheapest way to travel from Faro to Lagos is by taking the Regional (R) train .

Recommendation : Take an R train from Faro Station to Lagos Station. R trains leave Faro at 7:11 am and 9:02 am. The trip is about 1 hour 34 minutes and costs €7.50 .

Day 12-13: Lagos

Day 12: lagos.

Lagos is the last stop on the Algarve train line on the west side of the Algarve . It is an excellent hub for discovering the western Algarve.

First, wander around the old town and get a feel of the city. Then visit some of the best beaches in the Algarve including Praia Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo and Ponta da Piedade .

Day 13: Benegil Sea Cave or Portimão

On your second day in Lagos, join a tour to visit the Benagil Sea Cave . It is one of the most popular excursions from Lagos.

Or take a day trip to Portimão from Lagos. Portimão is the largest city in the western Algarve, so there are plenty of things to see. Check out Fortaleza de Santa Catarina de Ribamar and Castelo de São João do Arade or hang out at Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau .

Regional trains from Lagos Station to Portimão Station start at 7:52 am, 9:03 am and 11:14 am. On the way back, catch the 7:06 pm, 7:50 pm or 8:51 pm train from Portimão to Lagos. The train journey takes about 17 minutes and costs €2.05 each way.

Where to stay in Lagos

Lagos avenida hotel.

Book two nights at Lagos Avenida Hotel and enjoy the last leg of your Portugal trip. Hotels in Lagos are typically a bit more expensive. But since this is the last stop, you might want to splurge on something nice.

Day 14: Depart from Lisbon 

Day 14: lagos or lisbon.

Depending on your flight home, you may have a few hours or more to wander around Lagos or Lisbon.

Whatever you do, allocate a few hours of train travel from Lagos to Lisbon.

How to take a train from Lagos to Lisbon

Lagos to lisbon train.

Trains from Lagos to Lisbon will require a change of train at Tunes Station .

Also, take the train to Estação do Oriente instead of going back to Santa Apolónia because it is closer to the Airport. Then take the Metro from Oriente to Aeroporto .

Recommendation : Take the R and AP/IC trains from Lagos Station  to Lisboa Estação do Oriente . R trains leave Lagos at 6:14 am, 7:52 am, 1:26 pm, 3:13 pm and 5:21 pm. The trip is about 3 hours 51 minutes and costs €24.05 (second class) and €30.95 (first class).

Have more time in Portugal? Visit  Azores

Are you ready to start your 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary?

I hope so! I really put a lot of thought into this 2 week Portugal solo travel itinerary because it is really easy to travel around Portugal independently and by taking the train only.

If you have the option to drive, it is possible to complete this 2 week Portugal itinerary too. And driving through Portugal is quite interesting as well, especially doing a road trip between Lisbon and Porto . Or you can do a combination of transportation and make your Portugal trip interesting.

The best time to visit Portugal is now! Ha! But honestly, it is excellent all year round. It all depends on the climate you like to be in during your travels. So what are you waiting for?

Let me know in the comments below if you enjoyed this solo itinerary or have questions about solo travel in Portugal.

Thank you for reading my solo Portugal itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Portugal:

Lisbon region posts

• Lisbon solo travel guide for first-timers
• Is the Lisboa Card worth it?
• Best day trips from Lisbon Portugal

Northern Portugal posts

• 2 days in Porto: things to do alone in Porto
• 17 best Porto food: what and where to eat in Porto
• 7 excellent day trips from Porto
• Day trip to Guimarães from Porto: 1-day itinerary
• Day trip from Porto to Espinho: 1-day itinerary

Central Portugal posts

• Aveiro day trip from Porto: 1-day itinerary
• How to spend one day in Coimbra Portugal

Algarve posts

• Algarve solo travel guide: 7 best places
• 20 best things to do in Albufeira for solo travellers
• Loule itinerary: best things to do in one day
• Vilamoura and Quarteira: 1-day itinerary

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Best things to do in Vilamoura and Quarteira: 1-day Itinerary from Albufeira or Faro in Portugal

Day Trip to Guimaraes from Porto: 1-Day Itinerary

Algarve Solo Travel Guide: 7 Best Places in Algarve for Solo Travellers

10 comments.

Portugal is one of my favorite countries in Europe as well, Queenie! I’ve been on a road trip there last year and the country won my heart. I loved your itinerary and it covers some exceptional places which are a must visit there!

Thanks so much, Lydia! I hope everyone can experience Portugal as well because it truly is one of the best places to visit 🙂

Thank you for this! Booked a trip for September and now I’ll be traveling alone! It sounds totally doable, safe and exciting!

It is doable! And you don’t even have to rent a car. I hope you have a good time in Portugal and thank you for your message 🙂

Thank you for this great post! I’m currently eyeing Portugal to relax on a beach, and get a good mix of hiking and city life. It seems to hit all the checkmarks, and your breakdown was very helpful!

Question: Did you find 2 weeks there rushed, or was it just enough? I have 3 weeks off in April, and wasn’t sure if I should pair Portugal with Spain in my third week, or dedicate it to Portugal altogether.

Thank you! 🙂

Hi Sam, thanks so much for your comment! Portugal is a great place for a good mix of everything from city to beaches. The 2 week itinerary is great if you want to get a glimpse of it all but if you have extra time, definitely stay longer! It all depends on how you like to travel – I like to take my time so I would prefer a longer time. But most people have time and budget constraint so 2 week is good too. But if you have 3 weeks – go for it! (Also because there is a lot to see in Spain too – but you can pop over to Sevilla easily from Portugal). Hope this helps!

Thanks so much Queenie for your post packed with so much information. We have a small group planning to go in the fall of next year. Do you have any recommendations where to stay in Lisbon for a small group? I’m am so looking forward to seeing the many places you mentioned. Thank you. Maria C.

Hi Maria, Thanks so much for your comment. I included a hotel recommendation in my post. But if it’s a small group, do you prefer staying together ie service apartment? Perhaps finding an Airbnb apartment? Then for this itinerary, pick a place anywhere near Baixa-Chiado (metro) station or Rossio (metro) station. Then you can walk around Chiado, north to Principe Real and east to Alfama. Also, it’s a good location to walk to either Cais do Sodre station for day trip to Belem or Cascais. Or walk to Rossio Station for day trip to Sintra. And when you are leaving Lisbon, take the metro to Santa Apolonia and catch a train there. Hope this helps! Happy travels!

Carole Hunt

Hello – appreciate your detailed recommendations and directions. I may make my own plans now using your post. However would also like to add a side trip to Madeira for a few days. Do you have info on that? Thanks!

Hi Carole, Thank you for your comment. It’s pretty easy to travel around Portugal on your own. I did it a few times. Unfortunately, I don’t have any info on Madeira – would love to go! Enjoy your trip!

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Porto Solo Travel Guide: 2 Days In Porto Portugal

Solo one day trip: nusa lembongan and nusa ceningan from bali indonesia, ms travel solo.

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• A 2-week Portugal road trip itinerary

Updated On 5th March, 2022

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal and are wondering what your Portugal road trip itinerary could look like or what you should do with your time there, you’ve arrived at the right blog post. In this blog post, I am going to share a 2-week Portugal road trip itinerary with you, jam-packed with all the best adventure on offer in this beautiful country.

I will be taking adventures from my best things to do in Portugal blog post and plotting them on a route that will take you on an epic road trip. If you’re heading out on a Portugal road trip, I’d highly recommend grabbing our  Portugal Google Map Legend too!

Of course, this Portugal road trip itinerary is going to assume you have a car with you. I’m not sure it would be of any use for me to write an itinerary for you whilst staying at your hotel lol. However, if you have booked to stay in one place during your time in Portugal, you may want to use this post to inspire a day trip in Portugal or to add an extension to your existing booking.

If like me, you are planning to drive from England to begin your road trip, you can check out my top tips for driving from England to Portugal here.

After all, road trips are the best!

Other European blog posts you might find useful…

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• A guide to driving from England to Portugal
• A guide to Lisbon, Portugal
• A guide to Nazaré, Portugal: Home to the biggest wave in the world
• Europe: The ultimate travel guide
• The best things to do in Europe: a Europe bucket list
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• Van life in Europe: a bucket list of Europe road trips

Portugal Google Map Legend

With this Google Map, you can have all my tips and recommendations at the touch of your fingertips. These are all the things I wish I knew and spent a lot of time researching before my Portugal adventures.  This Google Map Legend includes:

• Best walks, hikes, viewpoints and activities
• Best waterfalls, beaches and coves to visit
• Road trip tips (campsites, laundrettes, lunch spots)
• My favourite places for coffee, brunch and dinner
• Things you must add to your bucket list!
• Travel guide links within each location

A 2-week road trip itinerary for Portugal

I’m going to begin and end this Portugal road trip itinerary in the capital… the place you’ll most likely fly into and hire your car from –  Lisbon. Lisbon tends to be the cheaper of the two airports to fly into when compared to Faro in the south.

Some of you may, however, be driving into Portugal, in which case you can adjust the itinerary accordingly and switch bits around to suit you. Likewise, if you decide to fly into Faro.

I actually drove into Portugal from Hossegor in France, which, yes, is a long drive but is a popular driving route through Europe among those chasing the waves!

See my guide for driving from England to Portugal here , including all the things to note, where to stop off along the way and how much the drive will cost you.

Day 1 and 2 - Arrive to Lisbon and explore

• Driving time 0 minutes

Depending on how far you’ve travelled to arrive in Lisbon, you may be needing a slower day and an earlier night to recharge ready to take on the Portugal road trip itinerary.

Take the first day and night to relax, wander around and enjoy the gorgeous capital city of Lisbon.

From exploring the Tagus River, Time Out Market, LX Factory and Alfama to hiking up to Castelo de São Jorge, snapping Torre de Belém, Rossio Square and the 25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon is not short of activities.

I wouldn’t count on doing all your Lisbon exploring when you return from your road trip in the South, there’s so much to do here and I have a feeling you won’t want to be cutting your time in the south short! Perhaps one day at the beginning and one day at the end? Even if you’re not a ‘city’ person, Lisbon is so worth a day of your trip for the views and food!

Day 3 - Head west to Cascais

• Driving time 33 minutes

Cascais is a coastal resort town in Portugal, just west of Lisbon. It’s known for its gorgeous sandy beaches in the town centre, it’s busy plush marina and the stunning old town (home to the medieval Nossa Senhora da Luz Fort and the Citadel Palace).

Even if just for the afternoon and for world-class ice cream, you must stop off in Cascais on your Portugal road trip itinerary.

Some must do’s:

• Paixao – beautiful trendy cafe in the old town
• House Of Wonders – amazing veggie food with a view from rooftop over town
• Geladas Santini – Best ice cream in Portugal
• Praia da Rainha – gorgeous beach to dip your toes in!
• Lusophonica Radio Cafe – brunch overlooking the Marina!

Day 4 - Explore Sintra Natural Park

• Driving time 15 minutes

Sintra is a resort town in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, near the capital, Lisbon . Famous for its mixture of lush wooded hills and extraordinary pleasure palaces, it’s no surprise Sintra was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1995. 

A few spots to add to your Sintra bucket list during your Portugal road trip itinerary include:

• Palacio da Pena
• Parque de Pena
• Seteais Palace and Monserrate Palace
• Initiation Well
• Moorish castle
• Quinta da Regaleira

Cabo da Roca (optional added stop on the Portugal road trip itinerary)

Day 5 - Stop at Guincho en route to Ericeira

• Driving time 30 minutes

Guincho isn’t a stranger to strong winds, making it a very popular place for windsurfing and kite surfing. We had the dreamiest of afternoons eating seafood at sunset at Bar do Guincho and watching the kitesurfers do their thing.

If you’re impartial to a cocktail and some good fish, Guincho beach is a great lunch stop off on your Portugal road trip itinerary before you head up to Ericeira !

The old town is just so beautiful and there are plenty of ‘vibey’ cafes and Portuguese restaurants for you to choose from.

Ericeira 

Ericeira (pronounced eri-sarah) felt like Bali met Portugal and had a baby on the coast just 45 minutes north of Lisbon. It’s a small but gorgeous town filled with cafes that sit between a maze of colourful, beautiful Portuguese houses.

A couple of my favourites include Cafe amour (well-being cafe), Oh la la ( amazing Acai bowls) and Magic Quiver.

There’s one main spot if you’re looking to park up your van for the night – Ericeira Camping and Bungalows. We turned up at 10pm with no booking and paid €7.50 (one van, no electricity) for the night. There’s hot showers, laundry service, washing up and… you’re a 10-minute walk from the town.

P.s. Be sure to keep an eye on the swell forecast at Nazaré which is just slightly further north and home to the biggest wave in the world. Diving timing landed for me whilst I was in Portugal and I witnessed the most incredible day of big wave surfing at the famous Praia do Norte. See my guide to Nazaré and my photographs here.

Day 6 - Drive south to Caparica and go surfing!

• Driving time 44 minutes

This was one of my favourite spots on our Portugal road trip itinerary for a super chill day by the ocean. Surf, by day, up by the pier in Caparica and then pitch up and cook dinner for sunset further south on the beach by the dunes!

Day 7 - Drive south to Parque Natural da Arrábida for a beach day!

I drove through this area, just south of Caparica, on the rainiest day of my 2 month Portugal road trip so I can’t share photos with you that do the place justice (or have any visibility lol).

What I will say though is that if you’re a nature bunny, it’s worth stopping of to see:

• Galapinhos Beach
• Praia da Figueirinha

If you have extra time, it’s also worth looping around / taking the ferry across from Setúbal to the Tróia peninsula, a 13-mile long sandy spit which feels as if you’re arriving to an island (when arriving by sea).

Famous for elegant seafood dinners on the beach, incredible bird-watching and for its resident school of bottlenose dolphins – the Tróia peninsula is one of Portugals best kept secrets for sure.

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Day 8, 9 and 10 - West coast adventures and coastline

The west coast is FILLED with surf spots, cliff walks and stunning lengths of coastline. You’re going to have to just pick a few here for your Portugal road trip itinerary and come back another time to see more.

• Praia da Arrifana – We surfed in the day and stayed to watch the sunset on the top of the cliffs before dinner at See You Cafe just around the corner (walking distance).
• Praia da Bordeira
• Praia do Amado (very popular surf beach, pictured below)
• Vila Nova de Milfontes
•  Praia da Cordoama
• Praia do Castelejo

Day 11 - Sunset in Sagres and surfing!

When driving down the West Coast here in Portugal on your Portugal road trip itinerary, you won’t be short of sunset spots. One of the ‘famous’ places to watch it go down is here in Cape St. Vincent in Sagres. What better way to see out the day than to match a Sagres sunset with the legendary local Sagres beer here?

Its got to be done!

Make sure you check out the surf at Tonel too, pictured below with views of the lighthouse on the horizon!

P.s. Be sure to stop off at Artesanato a Mó for some gorgeous Portuguese ceramics!

Have all our recommendations and favourite spots to hand with our Portugal Google Map Legend .

Day 12 and 13 - Lagos

• Driving time 35 minutes

Be careful, Lagos is known for taking people hostage! Including us! If there’s a place to have some flexible time for on your Portugal road trip itinerary it’s Lagos.

Lagos has such a beautiful surf town feel to it. The kind of homeliness you get in Canggu and Byron Bay .

Catch some waves, dive into some Tacos, explore the cliffs and of course, toast a cocktail or two in town. It’s what Lagos does best!

Read my  Lagos travel guide here.

A few of the best things to do in Lagos:

• Explore Ponta da Piedade by foot or kayak tour
• Wander through the old town
• The Green Room – BEST TACOS AND COCKTAILS
• Black and White – Coffee lovers (get your Oatly fix)
• Restaurante A Forja – Eat local Portuguese food

If you find two days is too much in Lagos and you don’t necessarily need a break, drive further west to the famous Benagil Cave and do a sunrise kayak out to enjoy Portugal from an ocean perspective!

Day 14 - Drive back to Lisbon

• Driving time 2 hr 43 minutes

How have 14 days been filled already?! There’s just so much to do here in Portugal. I was here for 8 weeks and there are still so many spots I want to go back and explore! A Portugal road trip itinerary is certainly an easy one to fill. 

Have a safe journey back to Lisbon on the final day and make sure you leave a little time for exploring / a cocktail to toast your Portugal adventure!

See my Lisbon travel guide here.

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Love as always and happy adventuring,

Founder of Where’s Mollie / We Are Global Travellers, content creator, photographer and videographer. I am certainly no stranger to adventure, outward and within. I thrive in nature, with nature and by recognising my true nature in the midst of it all.

See all of Mollie’s adventures and guides here.

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2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary: Road Trip | Train & Tours

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Looking for the perfect 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary? Well, you are at the right spot. Portugal is one of our favorite European destinations . And in this post, you will find informative tips and insights on exploring Portugal in 14 days with or without a car!

From the timeless capital of Lisbon to the incredible beaches and deep history that this country possesses, Portugal has something for everyone. Planning a trip to this beautiful country can be quite the undertaking with so much to do and see. 

When you have the chance to slow things down a little and take in all that this country has to offer, this 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary will come in handy and help you plan your adventure. Two days in Lisbon for a weekend is a lovely getaway, but to truly experience Portugal, a two-week road trip is what you need to do.

2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary | Portugal Road Trip & Day Tours

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Planning your trip: Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal has become a popular tourist destination, with this small country in western Europe proving to be an affordable vacation for many travelers. Foodies love it for the local cuisine, surfers love it for the world-famous waves and beaches, and everyone else loves it for its atmosphere and history.

Portugal is perfect for those who love to explore with the imposing mountains to the north and the dreamy beaches you will find in the south. This place has become known as somewhat of a paradox with a blend of modern yet classic look and feel. 

Little surprises await you as you travel through the countryside and into any town. You won’t find any of these places on any maps but stumble across them as you explore. Here is the ultimate two-week Portugal travel itinerary below.

Portugal 2 week itinerary:

• Day 1 – 3: Lisbon 
• Day 4 : Sintra 
• Day 5 –  6 : Porto 
• Day 7: Duoro Valley 
• Day 8: Guimares 
• Day 9: Return to Lisbon with a stop in Coimbra 
• Day 10: Travel to Lagos Algarve 
• Day 11 – 13 : Lagos, Algarve 
• Day 14: Return to Lisbon (optional half-day tour of Fatima) 

Short on time? Here is an 8 day Portugal itinerary

To follow this 2 week itinerary for Portugal, plan to stay in 3 places, namely Lisbon , Porto, and Lagos for the duration of your visit. 

Arriving in Portugal: 

Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport is the primary international airport to get to Portugal from North America and beyond. It is the hub of TAP Air Portugal, and you can easily find direct flights from the USA and Canada (Toronto). 

Once you arrive at Lisbon Airport, you can get to your centrally located hotel by private transfers, buses, or trains. We have utilized all of these options depending on arrival and departure from the country,

• By metro train: There is a direct train ‘Aeroporto – Saldanha’ line from the airport to the city centre, and it takes about 20 minutes.
• Taxi or Uber : Taxis are not super expensive in Lisbon, but Uber will be cheaper (7 to 15 euros). Taxis cost 20 euros. This is great if traveling in a group and if you have a lot of luggage
• Private transfer: You can also pre-book a private transfer. I once had an early morning flight, and this one came in handy. You can book it here

The best neighborhoods to stay in are Baixa and Chiado , especially for first-timers, as they are easily accessible to the rest of the city.

Day 1 – 3: Lisbon

The first few days are all about arriving at the start point of your Portugal road trip, the city of Lisbon.  Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is a city rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore its many museums and art galleries or take a leisurely stroll through its winding streets. 

Lisbon is also a great destination for food lovers, with its abundance of fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese cuisine. And of course, no visit to Lisbon would be complete without enjoying a cup of the city’s famous coffee. 

Whether you’re looking to soak up some history or simply relax and enjoy the good life, Lisbon is sure to please.

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon

Your first day will be filled with all the usual traveling formalities after arriving at the airport and making your way to your hotel. 

Where to stay in Lisbon?  

We have visited Lisbon numerous times, and have stayed in different neighborhoods to get a good feel of the city. Here are some of our top picks for hotels in Lisbon,

• easy Hotel Lisbon: We stayed at the easy Hotel Lis bon on our very first trip . It is a straightforward, fuss-free, and mid-budget range hotel, with tons of restaurants nearby as well. The hotel is located near the Marquis de Pombal Square, and near it, you can hop on tours or get transportation to other parts of the city. Book your stay at the easyHotel Lisbon
• Hotel Sofitel Lisbon Liberdade: This is a luxury option, situated in a great location. It is near the Praça do Comércio and the Tagus river, and you can book a suite with views. Plus you are minutes away from the tram station. Check out photos and room availability here
• Lisbon Core Apartments: If you are looking for an apartment, you will surely love this property in Bairro Alto in Chiado. I stayed here once and loved the spacious room, a balcony with views, and a fully functional kitchenette. Keep in mind that the apartment (or rooms) are located in an old building without an elevator, so pack light as you will have to take the stairs. Book your stay here 
• If you are visiting in the hot summer months, you might have to book a Lisbon hotel with a rooftop pool

Getting around in Lisbon: Lisbon Card

A mix of old-fashioned and modern awaits in the city and an essential item to get yourself on your first day is a Lisbon Card.

This card will be your lifeline to get around the city as it provides unlimited rides on all public transport . It will even help with a free train ride to your next destination on day 3. They are available in either 24,48, or 72-hour validity times. 

The card will also come in handy by giving you free entry into some of the city’s more popular attractions and museums. 

After you grab your card, settle in and take to the streets for a quick history tour and an exquisite dinner to sample the Portuguese food culture. After this, you can head back to your hotel and catch some shut-eye or plan your adventures for the next day. 

History tour of Lisbon

On your very first day, add a walking tour of the historical neighborhoods of Lisbon . 

The tour lasts 3 hours, and also includes a quick ride on the Tram 28. It covers the 5-centuries-old Bairro Alto, where you’ll learn about the evolution of the city. 

The guide then enlightens you about the earthquake of 1755 and its new architectural process. During this walking tour, you will also enjoy views of Baixa and the south bank of the Tagus River. 

There will be some climbing so do wear comfortable walking shoes. You will climb up, and then down the hill to the Carmo convent and church to see fine examples of the city’s Gothic architecture. 

Carmo Convent was the site of the Carnation Revolution which began in 1974, putting an end to nearly 5 decades of dictatorship. On the right side of the convent ruins, you will see the Santa Justa elevator, and the Terraços do Carmo offering one of the best viewpoints in the city. 

You will be guided along the famous Tram 28. This tram alone will take you through seven different historic neighborhoods on its route. Many trams are still in their original 1930s state, and their bright yellow paint job makes them stand out. 

This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon, but be wary of pickpockets as the trams can get quite cramped. 

The ride on the tram will take you to the Portas do Sol. At the Portas do Sol, you can see the Monastery of São Vicente de Fora, the National Pantheon, and the Alfama district that spans several narrow streets to the River Tagus.

Tram 28 Route: Note that you can book a separate tour if interested on another day. Use this to jump off in some of the historic districts to explore a little and once you’re tired, jump on another yellow tram and move on. This Tram 28 Ride and walking tour is a great way to see the city (it focuses on the tram ride for sightseeing).

You will be walking through Alfama, one of the oldest and most traditional neighborhoods of Lisbon, known for its fado houses, and the popular festivals of saints, particularly St. Anthony.

This tour ends at Lisbon Cathedral which was built in 1150. You can visit the inside of the cathedral, and then walk down to Baixa for the evening! 

Book this 3-hour tour here

Day 2: Explore the City of Lisbon

Day two is when most of your adventures will take place and now is the time to see some of the famous attractions of Lisbon. The city is easy to explore on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. 

Start at the Praça do Comércio

A famous square that gives you access to the waterfront of the River Tagus, this beautifully redesigned area is the perfect starting point for your day. The Lisbon Welcome Center is here, so you will be able to pick up any information you may need and some discount cards. 

This is also a hub for many of the tour buses and trams. Make sure to see the Arco Triunfal, which signifies the entrance to Rua de Augusta, a chaotic space of artists and street sellers. Grab yourself Portugal’s favorite pastry, a Pastel de Nata, at one of the vendors or bakeries to start your day.

Explore St. George Castle

This is one of Lisbon’s largest attractions as it is where the city’s history started, back in the sixth century. The views of the city from the castle walls are something to behold. Walking inside allows you to explore the interior and visit the gardens inside the castle walls. 

Book: We do recommend booking a – skip-the-line ticket – as there are crazy line-ups at the castle gate. You can grab your tickets here.

Pink District and Cais do Sodre

You must have seen cute and charming photos of Lisbon on Instagram . And a certain ‘pink street’ must have caught your attention. 

The racy past of the red-light district has been transformed into a nightlife focal point in Lisbon. 

The modern Pink Street was formerly known as the Red Light District of Lisbon. It was home to the city’s prostitution brothels, shady bars, gaming houses, and unsavory businesses. In the past, this area was run down and played an important role in crimes.

Today, there are a plethora of bars and cafes in and around the street, and yes the lane is painted pink, and it is hard to miss. 

The best time to visit Pink Street in Lisbon is definitely during the daytime. This is when the street is most lively and filled with people. There are plenty of shops and cafes lining the street, so you can easily find something to do. 

Time Out Market

Located in the trendy Cais do Sodre waterfront district is the popular Time Out Market in Lisbon. We love this colorful area as there are many other open cafes and bars where you can hang out.

Now the Time Out Market houses food stalls of all kinds. The entire complex is located inside the historic Mercado da Ribeira, which was a traditional market hall from the 1890s. 

This place is usually crowded, but you can quickly stop by for a snack or lunch in the late afternoon. 

Explore the Alfama District 

The oldest and part of the historic center of Lisbon, this neighborhood is where going off-route is needed. You can use the tram to explore the district, as there are many hidden gems that won’t be marked on any maps. 

This area’s beauty and charm transport you to another world. It’s famous for its houses covered in colorful tiles. If it is some romance you are looking for, then you will find it here in this district. 

End the day with this live Fado and Alfama tour with a traditional Portuguese dinner. Enjoy the traditional music at a Fado house and explore the oldest district in the city, Alfama. 

Day 3: Explore Belem and its attractions

A nice and easy start to your day before making your way to the Rossio train station to leave for Belem. Alternately, you can also book a 24-hour hop-on and hop-off pass to explore the neighborhood. 

The Torre de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, Estrela Garden Jardins, and the April 25 Bridge are all located in Belém.

Monument of the Discoveries 

As you approach the heart of Belem, the Monument of Discoveries will pique your interest. This monument was erected in the mid-20th century to commemorate Portuguese sea discoveries from the 15th and 16th centuries.

Witness Belém Tower

The Torre de Belém is a must-see when visiting Lisbon as it is one of the many symbols of the country’s Age of Discovery. The exterior is incredibly ornately decorated and while the interior is somewhat somber, make your way through it and up to the roof for a gorgeous view.

Visit the Jerónimos Monastery 

One of the best things to see in the city, this monastery is almost straight out of a fairytale. It was built to celebrate explorer Vasco da Gama and the sea route he discovered to India. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features a spectacular and imposing design that all travel photographers will love. 

Located in the Alcântara area of Lisbon, LX Factory is one of the unique spots to visit on your 2 week Portugal itinerary. It is about 3 km or 1.8 miles west of the city center, and it can be added to your Belem trip when you travel towards it or leave to get to the historic quarter.  

This was the site of a fabric production plant that was created in 1846 – Wiring and Fabricos Lisbonense. Over the next few decades, it stayed as an industrial area tucked away from the city centre. 

Today it is a quirky spot, and the complex is filled with shopping, business, and food joints. We recommend spending a few hours here, checking out the bookstores, and restaurants, and just hanging out in the area!

Sunset cruise on River Tagus

Finish your sightseeing in Lisbon by embarking on a sunset cruise on River Tagus. There are many options for sightseeing cruises from yachts, and traditional boats to boat rides with wine and snacks. 

As you are in Belem, we recommend heading to the cruise that takes off from there . Book this sunset cruise here

If you are planning to come back to the city centre area (and skip a few attractions in Belem), then here is the cruise to book. This cruise takes off from the Rua da Augusta area (a 7-minute walk)

Day 4: Sintra

Sintra will feel like a different world compared to Lisbon. This small town is found in the flowing green mountains with various palaces and castles. 

Traveling to Sintra

Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is incredibly easy. 

• Trains: You can catch a train that will take you there directly, with the journey taking around 40-minutes, and trains leaving every 15-minutes from Rossio Station. 
• Road trip: If you are making a road trip out of it, a car ride will take you around 31-minutes, depending on traffic via the A37. This also allows you to travel along Portugal’s roads and stop any time to explore further. 

Getting around in Sintra isn’t too hard once you are in the city, but to explore the area, it would be best to rent a car for a day to have the freedom to go to places that a train can’t take you to. 

Or book a day tour that covers Sintra as well as Cabo Da Roca.

Experience the Old Center of Sintra

Your first stop of the day should be the old center, where you can do a little walking tour before the town starts to wake up and the streets get busy. 

Take to the cobblestone streets and explore the small alleys and stairways that hold mansions, churches, and even houses. The Museu de História Natural can be found on one of these narrow streets and is worth visiting. 

Visit Pena Palace

Visiting one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal is a must-do. It is a fairytale-like castle that oozes Disney vibes with its multicolored walls and being perched on a mountain overlooking the valley below. 

The surrounding park is equally impressive, and worth a wander as Ferdinand II had trees from all over the world planted here that have grown to impose heights over the centuries. 

Visit one of the Best Beaches in Portugal – Praia da Adraga

Believe it or not, this beach is regarded as one of the best in the country, but Sintra only rates it as its second-best beach. You can access the beach via a car and park right next to it, so don’t let the sharp rock cliffs intimidate you. 

This is a great place to spend a few hours exploring for all the beach lovers, with tunnels and caves that can be found as you adventure around the rocks. It is also along the route to your next stop, Cabo da Roca.

Stand on the Westernmost Point of Continental Europe – Cabo da Roca

This lighthouse on top of the cliffs is where the continent ends, and the Sintra border falls down the granite cliffs into the ocean. A monolith here marks the location of the headland, a navigation mark for sailors from the Age of Discovery all the way back to Roman times. 

Day 5 – 6: Porto

Porto is a gorgeous city built around merchants with views over the Douro Estuary. The incredibly rich history of the city is still on display and accessible. It is easy to see why this is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal . Porto is the second-largest city in the country, after Lisbon. 

Porto is one of the oldest European centres, and its historical core was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The western part of its urban area extends to the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean.

Its settlement dates back many centuries when it was an outpost of the Roman Empire. Its combined Celtic-Latin name, Portus Cale, has been referred to as the origin of the name “Portugal”, based on transliteration and oral evolution from Latin.

In Portuguese, the name of the city includes a definite article (“o Porto”), thereby preceding its formal designation as “Cidade do Porto”. River Douro flows through the city, and on the other side of the river is Vila Nova de Gaia, a port wine hub. 

You can explore both in 2 to 3 days in Porto .

Day 5: Arrive in and explore Porto

On day 5, wake up bright and early and take the train to Porto, in northern Portugal. 

Trip from Lisbon to Porto

The travel from Lisbon to Porto is pretty straightforward, 

• Trains : You can take the train (including the high-speed Alfa Pendular) from either Oriente or Santa Apolónia (near the city centre). The journey will take you roughly three to four hours, including transfer times (depending on the type of train you book)
• Road trip: By car, it will take you about 3 hours 

If you take the morning train, plan to arrive in the city of Porto by noon (latest by 2:00 pm local time), and then check in to your hotel. 

Where to stay in Porto Portugal?

Here are accommodation options for Porto for the next 2-3 nights. 

• Mercure Porto Centro Santa Catarina: This is a lovely 4-star establishment located in the historic city center. There is a restaurant onsite (with views) with good cuisine. Rooms are of decent size and nicely furnished, and there are Lucca rooms available for tourists interested in food or wine country excursions. Book your stay at the Mercure Porto Centro Santa Catarina
• Oporto Street Miragaia Riverside Suites: This property is located within walking distance of attractions such as Porto Cathedral (upper town, connect via stairs), and the Riberia. It has a tram and a bus station right outside the hotel, but you can easily walk down to the centre. Many suites have views of the Douro river. It is an adults-only hotel. The host is super nice! Check availability and book a suite here

Once you are settled in you can start exploring

Go on a TukTuk tour

Porto is a very compact city, and it is not as hilly as Lisbon. But on a short visit, you will appreciate a TukTuk tour to get acquainted with the nook and cranny of Porto. In this 2-hour tour, a guide with take you to various landmarks in the city, and also offer you port wine!

I booked this experience and absolutely loved it. You can book this 2-hour TukTuk tour here

Experience the iconic landmark of Porto – the Luís I Bridge

Yes, this is a bridge, but it is famous for being designed by a cofounder of the Eiffel Company; that name should ring a bell. Luís I Bridge also symbolizes Porto’s industrialism, with the merchant capital being the hive of commerce for centuries.

This structure spans the Douro River and connects the opposite banks from above on top of the rocky banks. Some spectacular views await on this bridge. The lower deck is open to pedestrians and gives a lovely view over the river as well as of the Cais da Ribeira. 

That is your next stop, and it just so happens that there is a way to get down there. Take a ride on the Funicular dos Guindais to the banks of the river below. 

Have dinner in Cais da Ribeira

This riverside of Porto is worthy of a painting it is so picturesque. This walk along the river bank will take you past all the different restaurants and bars where you are spoilt for choice on where to eat dinner. Make sure you grab a snapshot of a local icon, the Luís I Bridge, from along the bank. This is also a brilliant place to explore the little alleyways of steep streets that form this crazy pastel-colored maze of houses.

Day 6: Explore more of Porto 

Another morning of exploring and traveling awaits. Make your way back up to the station on the hills above the Cais da Ribeira to get started.

Visit the Palácio da Bolsa

Otherwise known as the Stock Exchange Palace, this building is a reminder and celebration of the city’s merchants who helped build the city. It is built on the ruins of the St. Francis Church and is a stunning building to look at.

The inside is another world entirely with glass-domed rooms, grand staircases, and other rooms that will take your breath away. 

Book: You will need to book a guided tour to gain access. Tours are conducted in various languages. Book your ticket here

Livraria Lello bookshop

Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It has been enchanting visitors since it first opened its doors in 1881.

The store’s interior is nothing short of spectacular, with a grand staircase, stained glass skylight, and walls lined with books from floor to ceiling. It’s no wonder that J.K. Rowling was inspired to write parts of the Harry Potter series while living in Porto – the store is said to be the inspiration for the library at Hogwarts!

Visiting Livraria Lello is a must-do for any book lover, but be warned – it can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. 

We recommend booking a priority ticket on their website. It is pricey at 15 euros, but it is worth it, as you won’t be waiting in line. Plus you can buy a book of that same value, which you can bring back as a souvenir. 

6 bridges cruise on the Douro River

In the early afternoon hours, embark on a cruise on a Rabelo Boat (old wine transport ship) and check out all the 6 bridges that are built on the River Douro. This 50 minute cruise follows the footsteps of the old wine merchants that transported wine from the valley to the wine cellars.

Along the way, you will get to admire the beautiful landscapes and red-roofed buildings of the towns of Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia from the river. This was one of my favorite memories from Porto, and I highly recommend it.

There is also a sightseeing commentary on the cruise which will help you understand Porto’s history. You can book this sightseeing cruise here

Walk over to Ville de Gaia

Crossing the Luis I bridge will bring you to Ville de Gaia. Visiting Ville de Gaia can be a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. 

The city is located on the banks of the River Douro and is known for its many wine cellars. You can spend your days exploring the different wineries, or simply enjoy the views of the river and surrounding countryside. 

There are also plenty of excellent restaurants in the city, so you can enjoy some delicious Portuguese cuisine. During my recent trip, I decided to visit Graham’s Port for a nice lunch with views.

Graham’s Port also conducts wine cellar tours. You can pair a wine tasting experience with cheese or chocolates. But the views from the restaurant – VINUM, are super stunning!

Note that it is quite a walk to get to Graham’s Port Lodge as it is located 20-25 minutes from the bridge area. 

Go on a wine tasting tour 

Instead of Graham’s Port, you can also stop at a cellar near the bridge like the Burmester’s. I booked an hour wine tasting with chocolate and a tour of the wine cellar.

It is an affordable option and is a quick walk from across the bridge. You can check out the wine tasting options here

Day 7: Exploring Douro Valley

Douro Valley is home to many of the renowned port houses of the world with the hillsides of the valley lined with vineyards. This area is a World Heritage Site and you can explore it by train, day tour or car. 

It is also the oldest wine region in the world — the boundaries were demarcated in 1756. 

Making your way to Douro Valley

The trip from Porto to the Douro Valley is one of the highlights of your trip since it is also the most scenic train trip in the country, taking you along the Douro River. 

Trains depart every two hours, with a direct IR or interregional train from Porto to Douro Valley. 

• Trains: The train ride will take around three hours from São Bento Station to Pocinho
• Road trip:  A car will take you an hour and a half along the N222
• Tours: Here is a full day tour to book

There are two popular spots to stop on the train journey.

Stop in and explore Peso da Régua 

This small town has been a key producer of port wine over the centuries and has incredible views of the valley. 

Wander the Old Town of Peso da Régua

While tourists mainly stay on the waterfront, just behind the first block is the Old Town; this is where the locals dwell. It is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle. 

Visit the Museu do Douro in Peso da Régua

This museum provides insights into the district’s long port wine history, as well as great recommendations and maps for all of the nearby wineries. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll love this itinerary stop. 

Explore Pinhão 

Pinhão finds itself in the heart of the Douro Region and such is the perfect place to do a little vineyard hopping. There are a few vineyards that are within walking distance of the town center. 

Quinta do Bonfim and Quinta das Carvalhas are your best options, offering daily wine tastings available and a guided tour, once you arrive in Pinhão.

Staying in Pinhão overnight and connections

This small modern bed and breakfast is a great place to stay for the night if you wish to hang out in the area. You can take the train from Pinhão to Guimarães the following day.  

• Trains: It will take just under four hours as you will have to transfer to another train in Ermesinde. 
• Road trip: A trip in a car will only take you an hour and a half. 

We recommend staying overnight only if you are roadtripping. Otherwise, choose to connect on a day trip from Porto, if you are using public transportation.

Day 8: Guimarães

Guimarães is a historical city in northwestern Portugal, which served as the country’s first capital. The city is located in the Braga District, in the Minho Province.

The city’s history can be traced back to the early Middle Ages, but it was during the 12th and 13th centuries that Guimarães became a prosperous town, due to its textile industry. The city’s golden age came in the 15th century, during the reign of Afonso V of Portugal.

The city’s fortunes declined in the following centuries, culminating in its capture and destruction by the troops of Castile during the Portuguese War of Independence.

Today, Guimarães is a popular tourist destination, due to its well-preserved historic center and its many monuments and museums. The city was also the European Capital of Culture in 2012.

Traveling from Porto to Guimerães

There are trains available from Porto to Guimerães, and it is super easy to embark on this day trip, 

• Trains: You can take the train from one of Porto’s railway stations, São Bento or Campanhã. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Road trip: By car, it will take you about 50 minutes 
• Tours: You can also book a quick 4 hour day tour to Guimarães from Porto

Here is what you can explore on a day trip to Guimerães,

Explore the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza

The Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, also known as the “Palace of Nations,” was erected on the orders of Afonso de Barcelos, an illegitimate son of King João I, in the early 15th century. Afonso de Barcelos went on to become the first Duke of Braganza, and his successors stayed here until the 16th century. 

The Palace was inspired by the French chateaus of the era. The palace suffered partial collapse during the 16th and 19th centuries when many of its stones were taken away for other projects.

There were renovations done during the Estado Novo period, after which the palace became an official residence of the President of the Republic.

The palace has several floors that are open to visitors today. The ground floor has the kitchen and store rooms which were mainly used by the servants. On the first floor, you will find rooms of the Duke and Duchess and the chapel.

You can visit the second floor and check out temporary exhibitions. Inside the palace, there is furniture on display from India, China, and the Far East. 

Visit The Guimarães Castle complex

The Guimarães Castle was built on a hill overlooking the city and was an important stronghold during medieval times. This fortress is often linked to the founding of Portugal.

Today, the castle is open to the public and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Guimarães. The castle has a museum that displays various artifacts from its long history. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the castle walls.

Try the gastronomy of the region for lunch

This region is famous for its confectionery items and the tortas de Guimerães and Toucinho do Céu are firm favorites. For something savory, the bolo is a must-try, it is a pizza that is topped with pork. 

Wander the city’s Old Center

Explore the cobblestone streets with the colorful granite buildings on either side as you walk the historic area of the city. This district is a UNESCO billed area, but you wouldn’t know that as life goes on normally here, so don’t expect it to feel like a museum.

A set of steep slopes will lead you to the majestic squares where there are must-see mansions like the Mota Prego and Toural. 

Have dinner in the Largo da Oliveira Square, before leaving

This is the city’s social center with traditional Portuguese houses lining the sides and a giant Gothic shrine in the center. Choose one of the local restaurants for some great cuisine and soak in the atmosphere while indulging in some people-watching. 

Day 9: Return to Lisbon with a stop in Coimbra

Today the journey back to Lisbon starts but just to break it up a little, an overnight stay in Coimbra is on the trip itinerary. 

• Train : A train ride will take two hours and twenty minutes
• Road trip: Driving will only take an hour and forty-five minutes

Explore the Old Town in Coimbra

Feast on some traditional Portuguese dishes for a late breakfast, and then take to the streets of the Old Town where you will find some incredible palaces, like the Republics. 

Take a tour of the university here — a UNESCO Heritage Site where the student housing is hundreds of years old and is still in use today. 

Head back to Lisbon and enjoy the nightlife in Bairro Alto

Jump on a train, and just under two hours later, you will find yourself back in Lisbon for dinner. In this case, driving will take you longer. It’s a bit more than a 2-hour drive back to Lisbon. 

The city never sleeps, so head to Bairro Alto for a few Morangoska cocktails. 

Day 10: Travel to Lagos Algarve

Today will entail lots of traveling as you make your way to the Algarve region – Lagos. Lagos is a vibrant and busy city located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and abundance of activities to keep visitors entertained. 

Lagos is also home to a number of historical sites and museums, making it a great destination for those interested in learning about the history and culture of Portugal. 

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, party the night away, or explore the city’s rich history, Lagos has something to offer everyone.

Getting to Lagos Algarve, 

• Train: The train journey from Lisbon to Lagos will take 4.5 hours. 
• Road trip : The car journey is a lovely scenic drive and will take just under three hours, but there are a few stops that you can make on the way. Taking the coastal route is the best way to do this drive.

See the birthplace of Vasco da Gama in Sines

As you make your way to Lagos, do make a stop in Sines for a late breakfast or early lunch as it is a major fishing port. 

The fresh fish means the seafood restaurants here are top-notch and a great spot to rest your feet. A Lota is a lovely restaurant to try out. 

Road trip stop in Porto Covo 

Further south, this small little village offers the transition from sandy beaches to rocky cliff beaches. You can jump on a boat to the small island of Pessegueiro Beach, which has Roman ruins over 2000 years old. 

After this, you can continue your journey here as Lagos isn’t too far away.

Day 11 – 13: Lagos, Algarve

Welcome to Lagos, Portugal — a seaside bliss with plenty of things to do. 

Day 11: Take to the seas for a day on the ocean in Lagos

Your first day in Lagos will start with ocean adventures before exploring the city. 

Take a boat trip to the Benagil Caves

Take a two-hour trip along the Algarve coastline to experience the incredible caves of Benagil. Start in the marina in Lagos, where you will travel towards the region’s largest sea cave. 

Some on-board commentary will give you some history of the area and how pirates used to use caves as hideouts.

Walk along the Bensafrim River to the fort

After your trip, stroll from the marina along the river toward Fort Ponta de Bandeira. This 17th-century fort stretches into the ocean and offers some incredible views from the terrace at the top. 

Explore the City Centre

The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings are waiting for you to walk amongst. You can get lost in the small streets, and as with most things in Portugal, there are small hidden gems that aren’t on any map you will stumble across, so ensure your camera is ready. 

Day 12: Exploring Lagos and the Algarve Region

Today is all about heading outside the city, where you’ll explore the Algarve Region. 

Witness the Igreja de Santo Antonio Church

This is no ordinary church, and it will make your jaw drop at the amount of gold here. Stepping inside this church from 1707, you’ll see the interior is covered in gold. 

There is ornate woodwork and 18th-century azulejos on the lower half of each wall. This place will leave you speechless. 

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

This is one of the country’s best hikes, running from Praia da Marinha to Praia de Vale Centeanes. It is an out-and-back style trail that features some incredible views every step of the way. 

It is a moderate hike that will take you over the top of the Benagil Cave, but there is no way for you to get into or see the cave as it is fenced off. 

Visit one of the most gorgeous beaches in the entire world – Marinha Beach

You will find this at the end of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. It’s quite a walk, but the view from atop is worth it. It is easy to see why this is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

Exploring without a car

All of the above stops are great on a road trip, and without a car, we recommend opting for this 9 hour full day tour. This day tour covers the following with transportation and lunch,

• Views of Monchique mountains
• Cathedral of Silves
• See the most southwesterly point of Europe at Cape St. Vincent
• Relax on beaches in Costa Vicentina
• Book this day tour here

Day 13: More sightseeing in the Algarve 

There are one or two things to do before making your way back to Lisbon the next day. 

Visit Sagres to be at the End of the World

This small town in Portugal was once known as the “End of The World” because Cape St. Vincent is at the southwesternmost point of Europe. This is worth a trip, especially if you already went to Cabo da Roca outside Lisbon. 

This small town is also known for its surfing, something Portugal is generally famous for. A day trip to this town requires a half-day trip from Lagos, Portugal.

Because the full-day tour covered Cape St.Vincent above, we recommend opting for one of the half-day tours below and combine that with the dolphin-watching cruise,

• Small-Group 4-Hour Wine Tasting Tour
• Or Boat Cruise to Ponta da Piedade

Go on a Dolphin Watching Cruise

A great way to end your trip down on the coast is to take a half-day dolphin-watching cruise . You can witness dolphins in their natural habitat before having a fun time with different water activities available or sitting down for a delicious snack. 

While cruising around, you will also be treated to some epic views of the Algarve coastline. Not a bad way to end your time on the coast, is it? 

Book this half day sightseeing tour here

Day 14: Return to Lisbon (with an optional day tour to Fatima)

The train ride back to Lisbon will take you via Tunes on the bullet Alfa Pendular train. But it will still take you just under four hours total. You can opt to drive and go on the inland route back to Lisbon instead of the coastal journey you took on the way back. 

This in-land trip will take just under three hours, and there are a few cool places to stop on your journey back. 

Stock up on last-minute Portuguese snacks at the Marco do Livramento

This is a covered market in Setúbal, towards the end of your journey. Here, you will find anything and everything when it comes to Portuguese food and ingredients. There are life-size statues of the different vendors that add a little quirkiness to this market. 

Arrive back in Lisbon

After you arrive, you will have the rest of the day to yourselves. If you want to take it easy at your hotel and get ready for your flight the next day, then, by all means, grab dinner at a local restaurant and prepare yourself. 

Optional half-day trip to Fatima (plan to return to Lisbon on day 13 evening)

If you have the energy for more, then add a half-day tour of Fatima and visit the shrine to the Virgin Mary with this site of interest, the Sanctuary of Fátima. 

You can explore the incredible grounds here on this five-hour tour while also visiting the Chapel of the Apparitions. This Chapel marks the exact spot where the sights of the Virgin Mary happened over 100 years ago. You can then see where the three shepherd’s kids who saw Mary lived, Aljustrel. 

There are a few reconstructions around using old objects and such. This tour leaves Lisbon at 9 am and finishes at 1 pm, and arrives back in Lisbon at 2:30 pm, allowing you plenty of time to explore the area, grab some souvenirs, or even attend a mass. 

Adjusting this 2 week Portugal itinerary 

You can easily adjust this itinerary for Portugal by removing or adding a few days. Note that both Lisbon and Porto are great for taking day trips to explore more of the country. 

• Day trips from Lisbon : Staying in Lisbon, you can explore Cascais, Fatima, Obidos, Nazare, Batalha
• Day trips from Porto: From Porto, you can visit Aviero and Costa Nova, Braga, Peneda-Gerês National Park to name a few

Portugal in 2 weeks: Sightseeing Map

Portugal Travel Tips & FAQ

Here are some ideas for making the most of your stay in Portugal,

Tourist visa for Portugal: Portugal’s passport requirements are minimal, and the country has a visa-free regime with the United States and Canada. US or Canadian citizens can visit Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa. 

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

Non-visa-exempt passport holders must obtain a Schengen Visa before entering Portugal.

Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to get travel insurance for medical emergencies, cancellations, and delays. Get free travel insurance quotes from World Nomads here.

Portugal on a Budget: Portugal is quite inexpensive when it comes to eating, transportation, and finding accommodation or a hotel at a reasonable price. Expect to spend about $85 to $100 USD per person per day. For 2 weeks in Portugal, expect a budget of $6000 USD per person (with 500-800 on return flight tickets). 

Best time to visit Portugal: The ideal season to visit Portugal is spring or autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant. This period is not as hot as summer, therefore it’s good for sightseeing. If you’re visiting the Algarve region in winter, prepare ahead of time.

Spending two weeks in Portugal allows you to see the highlights at your leisure. With 14 days in Portugal, you can explore all the highlights of Lisbon, Porto, and nearby areas such as Sintra and the Douro Valley. With 2-3 days in the Algarve, you can also spend time at the beaches and make the most of your trip.

2 weeks is ample time to explore continental Portugal and beyond. If you are only keen on city exploration then one week in Lisbon and Porto is a good time idea. With 10 days in Portugal you can take day trips from both these cities and explore more of the country.  So it really depends on what you want to see and do while you’re there. If your focus is solely on visiting the major tourist attractions, then one to two weeks may be sufficient. However, if you also want to experience the culture and get a feel for the day-to-day life of the people, then you may want to consider spending a bit more time in the country.  Portugal is a beautiful and diverse country with much to offer visitors, so take your time and enjoy everything it has to offer.

Final Thoughts on Portugal Itinerary 2 weeks

Portugal is a beautiful country. Sometimes even a week or 7 day travel itinerary isn’t enough to experience this place. That is why this 2-week itinerary is great.

From the north to the south, there are magical moments waiting for you — around every street corner or over every hill. 

There is so much to see that you could spend a month and still not have seen it all but this 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary is just the right amount of time to immerse yourself into the lifestyle. 

The question is, though, what happens after your trip is over? A trip to Spain is a possibility after all. 

Pin: 2 Weeks in Portugal by Train | Portugal Road Trip Itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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• Portugal road trip, itinerary and plannig tips

Two weeks road trip itinerary in Portugal

We have designed a  great  tour of Portugal  departing and returning to Lisbon. In two weeks you will have the opportunity to see the best of this country and experience the most famous destinations and the most picturesque villages.

In this itinerary you will pass by the main cities of Portugal such as Lisbon and Porto, as well as some of the main tourist destinations like Sintra, Obidos, Coimbra, Tomar, and Evora, until reaching Algarve, located in the south of Portugal.

Itinerary map and information

Here comes the map of our  two-week itinerary in Portugal : we recommend to move by car, perhaps by renting it at Lisbon airport.

Itinerary:  1800 km |  Duration : 2 weeks |  Best time : from June to September

First three days: Lisbon

The majestic  Lisbon , the capital of Portugal, deserves our attention from the very first time we arrive to its city center. There are plenty of things to see, so you should go straight to your room, drop your bags at the hotel and get ready to start exploring the city.

Lisbon rises on seven hills, and it is clearly not an easy city to walk around! However, walking is by far the best way to appreciate its essence; stroll around its alleys to admire the local life and several houses decorated with  azulejos , the traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles.

First day in Lisbon

Start your journey by walking along  Rua Augusta , the heart of Baixa , the main district of the city. Walk through the arch until reaching the beautiful  Praca do Comercio , which overlooks the water where the Tagus river becomes sea. This is the place where more than 500 years ago ships loaded with unique goods that no one could find in Europe arrived from colonies.

This trade turned Portugal into an absolute power, and today you can still feel this energy by spending some time strolling around around this square.

From Praca do Comercio – leave the sea behind – you will find Barrio Alto  to the left and the  Alfama  district to the right. These are two districts you can’t miss. On your first day, spend some time visiting Alfama, which is home to the majestic  Sao Jorge Castle , an ancient fortress from where you can enjoy a stunning view of the city.

After visiting the castle, the best way to explore Lisbon is to stroll around the streets of Alfama; have a coffee, check some souvenir shops and wait for dinner time to arrive. Around this area there are many restaurants where you can enjoy a  Fado show and listen to the traditional and melancholic Portuguese music. Is there a better way to end the first of your three days in Lisbon?

Second day in Lisbon

On your second day, after enjoying a generous breakfast with some Portuguese  pasteleria  (pastries), it is time to go to  Barrio Alto . From the Baixa district, pass through the elegant  Armazens do Chiado , an old warehouse that was transformed into a mall, and reach this beautiful district made of viewpoints, churches, hidden streets, and palaces decorated with azulejos.

Our Tip: It is possible to reach Barrio Alto also by taking the Santa Justa elevator, an iron lift dating back to early ‘900, which today is still perfectly functioning. A must visit attraction for tourists and locals.

An unmissable monument of Barrio Alto is the  Carmo Convent , an old monastery that was destroyed during the devastating earthquake of 1755. Only its two main pillars have survived to date, creating a scenario that reminds of the Abbey of San Galgano located near Siena. By the time you shop around Barrio Alto, have a coffee and a  pastel de nata , it is already time to go have some dinner. There are many restaurants around this area; do not hesitate to try some typical Portuguese dishes with  bacalhau (cod fish), and other fresh ingredients.

At night Barrio Alto is the place to be; it is the heart of  Lisbon nightlife . Between a cerveja and a cocktail it will soon be time to go back to the hotel to enjoy some rest before getting ready to your third day around the Portuguese capital city.

Third day in Lisbon

On your third and last day it is time the explore Belem , a district located along the banks of the Tagus river, a few kilometres west from the old city center. The  Belem Tower  represents the main symbol of this area, and probably it is also the symbol of the whole city of Lisbon. It is a small tower which, before the earthquake of 1755, was standing in the middle of the sea in order to guard and protect the city.

Not too far there are other interesting attractions, such as: the  Jeronimos Monastery , a majestic structure that deserves a visit; the  Monument to the Discoveries , which includes all the discoveries accomplished by Portuguese navigators from the XIV century; last but not least, foodies will be happy to know that the famous  Belem pastry shop is located here. In 1837 the famous  pastel de nata  was invented here and since that moment this very popular cream pastry has become a real symbol of Portugal.

And now it is time to explore the rest of Portugal.

Tips on your itinerary around Lisbon Do you want to study an alternative 3 days itinerary around Lisbon? Check our  one week itinerary in Lisbon and surroundings To plan your  visit to Lisbon , click on the following links: Lisbon Guide Accommodation in Lisbon

Fourth day: Sintra and Cabo da Roca

A little bit more than half an hour drive from Lisbon there is  Sintra , a famous Portuguese city which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our stop in Sintra will be short as today’s main stop is  Cabo da Roca , the westernmost point of Continental Europe.

However, Sintra deserves a more accurate visit to have the opportunity to admire its majestic monuments such as the  Pena Palace  from 1800; the  Mouros Castle , built by the Arabs, the  Sintra National Palace  or the  Quinta da Regaleira .

Of course the best way to experience Sintra is to walk around the streets of the old town looking for a picturesque corner, a balcony filled with flowers, a traditional cafe or a good restaurant where to have some lunch.

Leave Sintra behind and head towards  Cabo da Roca . The powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean crush against the rocks. The view from here is just incredible; a way to feel so small in front of the endless vastness of nature.

Fifth day: Obidos, Alcobaça Monastery and Nazaré

On your fifth day wake up early; a very long day is waiting for us as we will drive about 200km North. We are going to make three stops along the way:  Obidos , the  Alcobaça Monastery , and the maritime city of  Nazarè .

It takes a little more than one hour to get to Cabo da Roca to Obidos. As soon as you have reached your destination, you will discover an old town characterized by white houses with red roofs that contras with the gray walls of the castle overlooking the city. Do not miss  Porta da Vila , the main gate to the city decorated with colorful azulejos shaping a mosaic representing the Passion of Christ.

If you are fit enough, then walk along the city walls and enjoy the view of Obidos and its valley.

It takes about one hour to walk along the walls. Now it is time to head towards the  Alcobaça Monastery , another UNESCO site, which was founded by the first Portuguese king Alfonso I during the 12th century.

The structure was built in Gothic style and inside the monastery there are two wings built in Baroque style. The church was extended in the 18th century. Inside the monastery there are: the tombs of some of the most important Portuguese royal members, the Royal Pantheon, as well as a room that was destroyed during the earthquake of 1755 and which was rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style.

Do not miss a visit to the  Cloister of Silence , built by oder of King Dinis I, featuring columns decorated by capitals with animal and vegetal motifs. Here there is the Fountain Hall, with a renaissance fountain decorated by coat of arms and reliefs of gryphs.

Now it is time to leave to our third and last stop of the day:  Nazarè , a popular beach destination among the districts of  Praia, Sitio and Pederneira . Praia is located on the beach, while Sitio is located on a 900 high-meter cliff. To get to the top you can take the Nazarè cable car, which was built in 1893 and has an extension of 318 m and 42% slope.

Once in Nazarè you can walk along the promenade, relax on the beach, and enjoy some traditional food. Surf lovers will love Nazarè: on the 11th of February 2017, a 25 meters wave surfed here, breaking the record of this discipline.

Sleeping in Obidos Accommodation in Nazaré

Sixth and seventh day: Porto

On the sixth day it is time to leave Nazarè to visit one of the main stops along your tour of  Portugal .  Welcome to  Porto , the so called “capital of the north”, a city that somehow reminds of Lisbon but which keeps its own identity.

Porto became internationally famous because of its wine, which produced by some of the world’s best wine cellars and then it is exported worldwide. Cellars are located along the banks of the Douro river, which passes through the city. Here it is possible to enjoy a guided tour to learn about all the secrets of its production and history. At the end of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy some wine tasting.

After visiting the cellars it is time to explore the city. The most touristic district is  Ribeira , which overlooks the northern shore of the Douro river. Here there are many restaurants and bars where to enjoy some local delicacies.

After taking a break admiring the  Dom Luis I  bridge and the several boats that navigate through the city, it is time to start exploring the area.

Warning! Porto, just like Lisbon, is not an easy city to visit; there are several gaps, ups and downs. Although it is easy to move around by metro or bus, walking around is the best way to get to know the city.

From Ribeira you can walk to  Sè do Porto , the cathedral of the city; next to it there is a panoramic terrace from where you can admire Porto, the Douro river, and the cellars.

On your next day keep  visiting Porto , do not miss the following attractions:

• The  Igreja de Sao Francisco , with its golden interiors
• The beautiful  Sao Bento station , decorated by azulejos
• The elegant  Avenida dos Aliados
• The traditional  Mercado do Bolhao , perfect to purchase souvenirs or traditional products
• The  Capela das Almas , entirely covered by blu mosaics
• The  Clerigos Tower , from where you can admire a beautiful view over the city

Porto deserves more than just two days. You will fall in love straight away and you will be looking forward to come back soon.

Tips on your Porto itinerary Do you want to study a 3 days alternative itinerary of Porto? Check our  one week itinerary of Porto and surroundings.  To learn more and plan your  visit to Porto click on the links below. Porto Guide Accommodation in Porto

Eight day: Braga and Guimarães

After two days in Porto it is time to reach  Braga , which is located not too far from the border with Spain.

Braga  is the second most important city of Northern Portugal, and it is known as the “Portuguese Rome” due to its historical importance. It is a major university city and it offers plenty of things to see.

Let’s start by visiting the  Braga Cathedral , one of the most important monuments of the city. Construction works started at the beginning of the 11th century and lasted so long that the result is a real mix of different styles ranging across Romanic, Gothic, Manueline and Baroque. Among other interesting attractions there are the  Episcopal Palace , which dates back to the XIV century, and the  Menagem Tower , which represents the remains of the old city walls.

After a lunch break in Braga, visit the  Casa dos Crivos , a typical building from the XVI century which today is home to the Civic Gallery. In addiction, take some time to visit the  Museum of Sacred Art , where it is possible to admire the treasure of the Cathedral.

But Braga is not the only stop of the day; we are heading to  Guimaraes , which can be reached in less than 30 minutes heading towards east.

Guimaraes, an old Celtic settlement, became the capital of the County of Portugal  in 1095 and for this reason its historical importance is essential. Its old town was declared UNESCO heritage site, and among its most important monuments there is the  Guimaraes Castle  with its beautiful walls, the Duques de Braganca Palace, which dates back to the XV century, and the Church of Nossa Senhora de Oliveira, which was rebuilt in the XIV on the ruins of an old monastery.

After having dinner at one of the several traditional restaurants, you should get back to your hotel room; tomorrow you have a long and intense day ahead.

Ninth day: Coimbra

Today we are going to head to the south: from Guimaraes we are going all the way to Coimbra, a city famous for its historical university to the extent that more than 20.000 foreign students have chosen to move here.  Coimbra  and its university are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Get there by lunch time and after trying some traditional dishes start exploring the old town where you will find several important palaces including the r epublicas , that is to say the centuries-old student housing. These accommodations represent a real institution in the city. Students living in these communal houses live in complete autonomy throwing parties and managing everything they might need.

It is also interesting to visit the  gate and tower of Almedina , which represents the main gateway to Coimbra. Go shopping and buy some traditional products at very convenient prices.

At night, after trying some traditional Portuguese dishes, have fun at one of the many clubs in town: being a university city, Coimbra offers a great nightlife. Prices are affordable and there are many chances to socialize.

Tenth day: Monastery of Batalha and Tomar

Keep rolling to the south: from Coimbra it takes a little less than one hour and a half to reach the  Monastery of Batalha , our stop before heading to  Tomar .

The  Monastery of Batalha , known also as the Monastery of Saint Mary of the Victory, is a UNESCO world heritage site. It was built between 1300 and 1500 in Gothic-Manueline style, and today it represents one of the most important monuments of Portugal.

Its architecture is majestic, and its facade was made of white stone from Porto de Mos, while its interiors are embellished by 78 statues representing angels, Old Testament Kings, and saints.

Inside the Monastery of Batalha there is a chapel dedicated to King John I as well as an unfinished chapel that confirms the fact that the monastery was never actually finished. Near the royal cloister there is the Cloister of Alfonso V, built in Gothic style with double pointed arches.

Leave the Monastery of Batalha and head towards  Tomar , an elegant town in Central Portugal located on the shores of the Nabao river. Tomar has a beautiful old town and it is known for being an ancient Templar fortress. Speaking of which, the Templar church is located behind the entrance to the  Convent of Christ , about one kilometer from the city center.

It is one of the most interesting monuments to visit in Tomar, especially if you are interested in religious architecture. If this is not your cup of tea, then enjoy some shopping around the center.

At night Tomar is a quiet town; there are some cheap restaurants serving some delicious traditional food, beer shops and bars to enjoy a drink before going to sleep.

Eleventh day: Evora and Alentejo

Today we are going to keep hitting the road and those 200 kilometers that separate Tomar from  Evora  will be over before you even know it. Enjoy the landscape of this rural region of Portugal.

Evora, a city in the Alentejo region, is characterized by a city wall and a medieval cathedral. Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is a very pleasant place where to make a stop thanks to its pedestrian center filled with alleys and small shops. Visit the  Cathedral of Evora , which dates back to the XVI century, and the  Church of Saint Antony ; visit also its prestigious university or spend some time enjoying a coffee at one of the many cafes located near  Giraldo Square .

Twelfth day: Albufeira and Portimão

Today we head towards the deep south of Portugal: from Evora we are driving to  Albufeira , one of the most famous destinations along the  Algarve coast .

Albufeira could be a real shock after spending so many days traveling around central Portugal and Alentejo, where time seems to be frozen. Albufeira is a city that was created around half of the last century to meet the needs of tourists, especially British and Northern European tourists who come here during summer.

Albufeira is a great base to visit Algarve; here there are some great and fully equipped beaches, bars, restaurants, and supermarkets. On the one hand you may miss that spirit of authenticity that you have experienced in the last few days, but on the other you will be happy to have all the comforts you need. Today you can relax at the beach or at the pool, sip a coffee along the sea or go shopping.

From Albufeira it is time to move west and reach  Portimao , another famous destination in the Algarve region which is located just 2 kilometers from  Praia da Rocha , a very popular beach and tourist destination. Spend your first night in Portimao, which is quieter than Albufeira but at the same time it offers a wide choice of hotels, restaurants, and night clubs.

Algarve Guide Accommodation in the Algarve

Last two days: Sagres, Algarve Coast and return to Lisbon

The last two days of this tour around Portugal are all about relaxing by the stunning beaches of the Algarve. Our base will be  Sagres , a town located in the extreme west of the region not far from Cabo de Sao Vincente, the last piece of land before the Atlantic Ocean.

Located at the westernmost point of the Algarve coast, it is a great place for those who are looking for some calm and tranquility, as it is off the flows of massive tourism.

Sagres  is the mecca of surfers who love the natural conditions of these beaches caressed by the wind. Here surfing classes are well priced, so it could be a good opportunity to try this sport for the very first time.

There are some beautiful beaches in Sagres such as Praia da Mareta, which is the largest in the area, Praia do Tonel, where surfers surf the tallest waves, and  Praia da Baleira which is not too far from the city port.

If after two weeks around you still feel like keep exploring, the Algarve is an endless source of inspiration; you can reach  Cabo Sao Vicente  to admire its high cliffs on the ocean; you can explore  Tavira , a traditional Portuguese city at the border with the  natural park of Ria Formosa , or you can simply relax on the beach.

On the last day we will have to drive for more than three hours to get back to  Lisbon  and end this  complete tour around Portugal  and head back to the airport.

Cabo da Roca

Cabo de são vicente.

• Airport transfers
• Airport parking

The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary (+ Essential Tips!)

Tempted by the cultural charm and natural beauty of the Iberian Peninsula and hoping to plan the perfect 2 week Spain and Portugal itinerary?

If so, we’ve designed this itinerary for Portugal and Spain for you!

Tucked away in the southwest corner of Europe, planning a combined trip to Spain and Portugal over 2 weeks is as invigorating as it is challenging.

After more than a year of living in Lisbon as American ex-pats and more trips to Spain than we can count, we have quite a few opinions about planning the perfect 14 days in Portugal and Spain!

These two countries–both of which feature a list of bucket-list destinations that could take months to see if given the opportunity–are fascinating and engaging places, though with more differences between them than might be immediately apparent on the surface.

If you’re hoping to enjoy a whirlwind, fast-paced, crash-course in what makes traveling in Spain and Portugal special, this itinerary is for you.

Here’s how to make the most of 14 days in Spain and Portugal!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary

Getting around during your 14 days in portugal and spain, the ultimate 2 weeks in spain and portugal itinerary, possible alterations to this 14 day itinerary for spain and portugal, the best time of year to enjoy this portugal and spain itinerary, how to extend your iberian peninsula vacation (+ morocco advice), what to pack for your 2 weeks in portugal and spain, faq about planning a spain and portugal vacation, more portugal and spain travel tips, your 14 day spain and portugal itinerary map.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We structured this 14 day itinerary for Spain and Portugal as a “U” shaped route beginning in Barcelona and ending in Porto.

In addition to those 2 cities, we also cover stops in Seville , Cordoba , Granada, the Algarve, Lisbon , and Sintra .

In other words, this is a very, very fast-paced itinerary!

While very doable, I’ll be perfectly honest: this is a mildly exhausting pace, and if you prefer a more relaxed itinerary, trimming the stop that appeals to you the least is a very reasonable option.

We agonized over what destinations should make the cut (and it took me a long time to come to the conclusion Madrid wasn’t doable on top of everything else, though you could easily swap it for Barcelona or Porto if you prefer), but ultimately, we decided to suggest an ambitious but realistic plan that is as varied as possible.

Major cities, legendary architecture, stunning coastlines, and small towns all feature on this itinerary for Spain and Portugal, and we truly believe that you’ll walk away from this trip with a wonderful snapshot of both destinations.

In order to fit it all in, though, be prepared to lace up your most comfortable shoes, plan your transportation in advance, and squeeze lots of sightseeing into one day!

Oh, and pack as light as you can–trust me, unpacking and re-packing this many times in a row is not a blast.

What About Morocco?

When planning a combined vacation to Spain and Portugal, there’s another country that tends to draw the eye: Morocco, which sits a tantalizingly short ferry trip or plane ride away from the southern edge of the Iberian Peninsula.

We opted not to include Morocco here due to sheer logistics.

The reality is that 14 days is barely enough time to do justice to Spain and Portugal, let alone add on a whole additional country (with a wildly different culture, packing list, and attractions to consider, too).

When you add in the fact that Tangier, the Moroccan port city reachable by ferry from the Iberian Peninsula, isn’t typically the favorite destination of visitors to Morocco, it simply doesn’t make sense to add it to this route.

Now, that being said, Morocco is unforgettable–we still count our time there camping in the Sahara Desert as one of our favorite travel memories of all time.

If you have 3 weeks to work with instead of 2, you might consider adding a Morocco leg onto your trip.

We wouldn’t recommend a day trip, though: about 5 days, enough to see the Sahara Desert overnight as well as Marrakech and/or Fes, is enough to give you a solid taste of the country (though of course, 7-14 days would be even better).

With more time, the Blue City of Chefchaouen and the coastal city of Essaouira offer wonderful experiences.

This itinerary for visiting Spain and Portugal in 2 weeks is best accomplished with a mix of transportation.

Between each Spanish city, the best way to get around is typically via high-speed train, though a flight is an option on one route.

In order to pull this itinerary off effectively, you’ll want to purchase tickets in advance and make sure you’re using the most direct routes!

Spain’s high-speed AVE trains, like many high-speed trains around Europe, use dynamic pricing–in other words, you should lock down your fares as soon as you can commit to dates.

(Be sure to show up early, too, as high-speed train routes in Spain require a security check before boarding).

We use and recommend Omio , a ground transportation aggregate that is popular for traveling in Europe, for checking timetables and purchasing tickets.

For traveling between Spain and Portugal, which in this itinerary means traveling from Seville to Lagos, you’ll want to book a bus ( you can also do this through Omio , and the journey takes around 5 hours).

While it is possible to rent a car for this part of the route too, one-way drop-off fees between countries are generally astronomical.

Once you’re in Portugal, depending on your travel style, you might prefer to rent a car for the Algarve portion of your trip and then drive the car to Lisbon, or to do without and take the train to Lisbon.

Taking the train between Lisbon and Porto is very simple, but if you’d rather step off the beaten path and visit somewhere like Óbidos , the Alcobaca Monastery, or Tomar along the way, driving can also be fun!

This guide for traveling between Lisbon and Porto breaks down your options in detail.

Shop rental cars  and  train tickets  for your 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal today!

Here on Our Escape Clause, we have written (and continue to write) extensively about traveling to Spain and Portugal.

Those guides include (but are far from limited to) standalone trip itineraries for Spain , Portugal , and Andalucia , as well as detailed itineraries for most cities covered in this itinerary (for example, here are our suggestions for Madrid , Seville , and Lisbon ).

For that reason, I’ll try to keep the descriptions of each day semi-brief, as this Portugal and Spain travel guide will no doubt be extremely long regardless!

For more detailed day-to-day advice, I’ll continue to link to additional relevant guides throughout the itinerary, and you can also peruse all of our Portugal blog posts here and/or Spain blog posts here .

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona and hit the ground running.

For the purposes of this 2 week Spain and Portugal itinerary, we’ll assume you arrive in Barcelona in the morning, jet-lagged but excited to start exploring!

(This is an extremely common schedule for flights from North America to Spain).

Once you drop off your language at your hotel (most are more than happy to store bags for you until check-in), it’s time to explore Barcelona’s iconic architecture.

On your first day in Barcelona, start with a visit to either  Casa Milà  or  Casa Batlló , two of the most famous homes designed by Gaudi!

They’re fairly close together, but given how much there is to see in Barcelona, we recommend only going inside one and seeing the other from the outside.

Personally, we recommend  pre-booking tickets for Casa Batlló  for as early a time in the day as possible.

After hitting up your first major attraction, take some time to explore the Gothic Quarter, including the Barcelona Cathedral, the Santa Caterina Market, the famous Las Ramblas, and Plaça Reia.

If you have time (and energy) Catalunya Plaza and Mercado de la Boqueria are also worth a look.

If you’re excited about all of Barcelona’s Catalan modernism architecture, we can also heartily recommend a visit to  Palau de la Música Catalana .

Though not designed by Gaudi, it’s an amazing (and compared to much of Barcelona, uncrowded) example of the style and a memorable place to visit!

Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is also only a 10-minute walk away, and Ciutadella Park is just beyond it.

From there, depending on your energy, it might be time for a (brief) afternoon nap!

If you can pull together enough energy in the late afternoon or early evening, though, heading down to Barcelona’s coastline and soaking up some sunshine on the beaches (whether that means a swim or just grabbing a bench and enjoying the environment) is a memorable way to close out your first day on the Iberian Peninsula.

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain

When deciding where to stay in Barcelona, it’s important to keep in mind that this sprawling city requires some effort to move around.

In other words, there’s no way to stay near all the best things to see in Barcelona, but it’s best to stay by some of them!

We recently stayed at  Citadines Ramblas Barcelona  and were extremely satisfied–to the point that we may just keep going back on additional trips.

Our room was spacious, complete with a kitchenette, and extremely quiet despite the hotel being located in a prime spot right along Las Ramblas.

The view of the Barcelona Cathedral from the rooftop deck of the  Colón Hotel Barcelona  is pretty incredible too, though, and we have it bookmarked for a possible future trip.

If you’re traveling on a bit more of a budget,  Hotel Nouvel  also gets excellent reviews and is in a wonderful location.

Check rates & book your stay in Barcelona today!

Day 2: Dive deeper into Barcelona.

After your first full day of exploring, it’s time to dive even deeper into Barcelona!

Today, plan to head further afield, starting with a visit to  Park Güell  and/or Tibidabo for one of the best views over sprawling Barcelona!

(Keep in mind that these are a bit of a trek from the city center, especially Tibidabo, so plan on using a chunk of time for transportation).

Later on, the incredible Picasso Museum (which holds over 4,000 of the artist’s works), is a must-see for art lovers in Barcelona, while Camp Nou is a popular pilgrimage for football lovers.

And, of course, we can’t forget  the Sagrada Familia : Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece of a cathedral is an absolute must-see when visiting Barcelona!

We visited in the early evening after hearing that the interior’s light was at its best then, and we were not disappointed–the colors were phenomenal.

If you wrap up at the Sagrada Familia before sunset and would like to enjoy the Mediterranean while in Barcelona, consider wrapping up your evening with  a sunset catamaran cruise .

Book skip-the-line tickets to visit the Sagrada Familia  today!

Day 3: Enjoy a morning stroll in Barcelona and then head to Seville.

After a last look at Barcelona–perhaps one more pass through the Gothic Quarter, a stroll along the beach, or a leisurely breakfast in a cafe–it’s time to head south to Andalucia!

Seville, the capital of Andalucia and one of the best places to visit in Spain, is a 6+ hour train ride from Barcelona.

Alternatively, it’s about a 2-hour flight between the 2 cities.

While we personally find the train more comfortable and pleasant (and it saves you the time and hassle of getting to and from the airports), there’s another factor to consider: flying is sometimes cheaper than traveling by train.

We recommend considering and pricing out both options, but either way, most of day 3 will be eaten up with getting to Seville!

Once you arrive, meander through Barrio Santa Cruz, grab dinner (or just a bunch of tapas– this popular tapas crawl is a fun option if you want to find the best spots with ease) and rest up for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Shop train tickets from Barcelona to Seville today!

Where to Stay in Seville, Spain

When deciding where to stay in Seville, location is key as ideally, you’ll want to stay within walking distance of Seville’s best attractions.

We had a fantastic experience at  Petit Palace Puerta de Triana  on our most recent trip to Seville.

The hotel  has a fantastic location (central but also quiet–a far-from-guaranteed combination in Spain), a delicious breakfast, and comfortable rooms.

Looking for something a bit different?

The incredibly popular  Hotel Rey Alfonso X  is an excellent choice, and its rooftop views are sublime!

If you’d like to stick to more of a budget,  Hotel America Sevilla  gets wonderful reviews and doesn’t sacrifice too much in terms of location.

Meanwhile, for the height of luxury, you can’t beat the absolutely stunning  Hotel Alfonso XIII !

Check rates & book your stay in Seville today!

Day 4: See the best of Seville.

Today, it’s all about appreciating the beauty of colorful, vibrant Seville!

Don’t miss the chance to visit the gilded and glamorous Seville Cathedral (with a side of dark history: you’ll find the tomb of Christoper Colombus here).

Climbing the cathedral’s bell tower (Giralda) for incredible views of the city is also incredibly memorable, and included with your ticket for visiting the Seville Cathedral .

The tiled Plaza de Espana, which is one of the most photographed spots in the city, is also a must-see!

One of Seville’s top attractions, the Royal Alcazar of Seville , is definitely worth experiencing–but depending on your sightseeing style, you may prefer to skip it and enjoy relaxing in the city more.

The Alcazar, with its complex of intricate palaces and beautiful gardens, is incredible… but it is outshone by the Alhambra in Granada , which you’ll be seeing in a couple of days when following this itinerary for Spain and Portugal.

If you’re a traveler who likes to leave no stone unturned, we recommend visiting the Alcazar first thing in the morning–otherwise, you have a more leisurely pace to work with.

Regardless of what you decide about the Alcazar, though, we highly recommend ending your evening with this wildly popular flamenco show , which is held in a venue dating to the 15th century and will give you an excellent taste of flamenco culture.

Flamenco is widely associated with Spain as a whole, but it originated in the south of Spain–and, according to some sources, it originated in Seville itself, making this the perfect place to pause for a show!

Book your flamenco show in Seville today!

Day 5: Take a half-day trip to Cordoba.

Less than  an hour from Seville by train  or car, you’ll find the captivating Andalucian city of Cordoba–which happens to be one of our favorite places in the region!

Once the most powerful city in Islamic Spain, the Cordoba of today is small and manageable, a bite-size tourism destination that nonetheless leaves a big impact on visitors.

Cordoba is most famous for its incredible  Mosque-Cathedral –literally a former mosque with a cathedral built into its center–which is one of the most memorable buildings we’ve had a chance to visit anywhere.

The Mosque-Cathedral should absolutely be your top priority when visiting Cordoba, but beyond that, there’s still plenty to see within a short walk!

Snapping photos of the picturesque Calleja de las Flores, relaxing in the Patio de los Naranjos, wandering through the Jewish Quarter, and checking out some of  the beautiful patios of Cordoba  should also be on your to-do list.

After enjoying the best of Cordoba, head back for a relaxing night in Seville.

You’ll need the rest: tomorrow will be one of the busiest days during your Spain and Portugal vacation!

Day 6: Experience the legendary Alhambra.

Today is all about enjoying one of the giants of tourism in Spain: Granada’s legendary Alhambra.

This collection of centuries-old palaces (plus a fort, gardens, ruins of a medina, and more), is one of the most unique groupings of architecture in Europe, and the most-visited tourist attraction in Spain!

We wrote about  visiting the Alhambra extensively here , so I’ll try to keep this (kind of) brief, but the long and the short of it is that this is a place you need to plan ahead for.

Tickets often sell out, but coming from Seville for the day, we highly recommend booking an organized day trip (and as a bonus, that means you won’t need to book as far in advance as travelers hoping to score tickets independently).

Why take a tour?

While the Alhambra is absolutely worth seeing–it’s truly one of the most incredible places to visit in Spain, and worth going out of your way for–it’s in Granada, which is 3 hours, each way, from Seville.

Add in getting to and from the Alhambra itself and wanting to leave a small amount of time to sample the rest of Granada (we love this city!), and letting someone else take the lead will make your life much easier.

If that doesn’t appeal, there are two alternatives.

First, you could spend the previous night in Granada ( we stayed here and loved it )–but that will add on hours of travel to your journey to Portugal tomorrow.

Alternatively, you could opt to enjoy the Royal Alcazar in Seville instead, perhaps take a half-day trip to a closer town like Ronda or Setenil de las Bodegas, and save the Alhambra for another trip.

If you don’t expect to be back in Andalucia soon, we believe the Alhambra and Granada are worth the headache–but with only 14 days to visit Spain and Portugal, it’s completely understandable if you’d rather slow down a bit, too.

If you do want to experience the Alhambra, this day trip gets great reviews and covers transportation, the Alhambra (including the essential tickets to the Nasrid Palaces), and time in Granada’s beautiful Albayzin neighborhood.

Don’t miss the view from the Mirador de San Nicholas!

Book your day trip to the Alhambra in Granada today!

Day 7: Say goodbye to Spain and hop over to Lagos, Portugal.

As you hit the halfway point of your Iberian adventure, it’s time to trade Spain for Portugal!

The simplest and most efficient way to travel from Seville to Lagos will be to travel by bus , which takes about 5 hours.

Unfortunately, with no trains between Seville and the Algarve, and no direct flights, there are limited transportation options to work with.

However, the good news is that if you haven’t been on a bus since you were school-aged, these buses are likely much more comfortable than you may think!

Considering driving?

Unfortunately, picking up a rental car in one country and dropping it off in another tends to incur extreme fees–think around 1000 Euro, give or take.

Once you arrive in Lagos, check into your hotel and head to the sea!

If you’re ready to stretch your legs (and have enough time in the day–summer visitors will likely have better luck here than winter ones ), consider hiking the Ponta da Piedade coastal trail to one of Portugal’s most famous viewpoints.

It takes a bit over an hour each way, though you can trim time on the way back by simply hiking along the road instead of the trail (though it’s much less scenic).

Want to enjoy the views from Ponta da Piedade, but without the hike?

Calling a ride share (we tend to use FreeNow in Europe, though Uber works too) will get you there from the historic center of Lagos in just a few minutes.

Where to Stay in Lagos, Portugal

Lagos’ central location, beautiful beaches, and convenient town center make it a fantastic place to base yourself during your time in the Algarve!

Each of these properties boasts excellent reviews and a prime location within walking distance of many of the top things to do in Lagos.

For budget travelers, a fantastic included breakfast, private room, and free parking are all waiting for you at Dream Lagos B&B  –and as the rave reviews indicate, you won’t be disappointed.

The trade-off is staying a bit further from the town center, though still within walking distance.

For mid-range travelers, Hotel Lagosmar features excellent reviews and a perfect location right across from the Lagos Marina, plus a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of the sea and town.

If you’d like to splash out a bit (and by the standards of much of Europe, the Algarve is a very affordable place to do so outside of the peak summer months), Tivoli Lagos makes a wonderful base in Lagos.

We adored our stay at this 4-star resort and would be thrilled to return to enjoy the beautiful property, gorgeous pool, restaurants, and delicious included breakfast again.

With free parking (almost) on-site, comfortable rooms, and incredibly easy access to Lagos’ attractions, Tivoli Lagos is a fantastic place to stay.

Check rates & book your stay in Lagos today!

Day 8: Soak up Algarve views.

With one full day to enjoy the Algarve, the best way to spend your time depends on a few factors, including your travel style, the season, your energy levels now that you’re past the halfway point of your 2 week trip through Spain and Portugal, and whether you feel like driving.

First things first, though: want to find a beach and spend all day on it?

You’re in a great place for that (though fair warning for those who grew up in hot climates like us: the water is quite chilly in the Algarve, even in summer).

Praia Meia, Praia do Camilo, Praia dos Estudantes, and Praia do Pinhão are just a handful of the many dreamy beaches in the immediate vicinity of Lagos (some within walking distance) that are excellent places to relax.

Praia do Camilo in particular is so scenic that it’s worth stopping by just to admire it for a minute!

Craving more activity?

Heading back to Ponta da Piedade, this time from the water, is an incredible experience!

Whether you want to kick back and relax on a boat ride or join an adventurous kayaking tour , you’ll be treated to unforgettable coastal views.

With any luck, you may spot a few dolphins, as well (though if that’s your focus, a dolphin spotting cruise might be more your speed).

Willing to head 30-45 minutes away from Lagos by taxi, ride-share, or rental car?

The famous Benagil Cave can be visited from the charming town of Carvoeiro, and the magnificent Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and Marinha Beach can also be accessed nearby!

If you want to actually walk inside Benagil Cave, though, prepare to sweat for it: popular boat tours like this can enter the cave but can’t land there.

If you want to land… you’ll need to visit by kayak or SUP (but don’t worry–it’s only a 200m distance or so from the shore).

Book your Benagil Cave kayaking tour  or  small boat tour  today!

Day 9: Make your way to Lisbon.

After a last breakfast, a local beach stroll, and possibly even a quick morning visit to Ponte da Piedade, it’s time to say goodbye to the Algarve and head north to Lisbon–our former home for more than a year and a downright delightful city to visit.

The fastest way to get to Lisbon from Lagos is to drive, however, since you won’t need a car once you arrive (and you’ll incur a one-way drop-off fee for returning the car to a different city), you’ll likely want to opt for a train or bus instead.

The train is the most comfortable option, but generally takes between 4 and 5 hours and requires you to make a change, as there are no direct routes between Lisbon and Lagos.

The bus, while less comfortable, is cheaper, doesn’t require a change, and is a bit faster.

You can check both train and bus prices and times here.

Once you arrive in Lisbon, it’s time to check into your hotel and then hit the ground running with sightseeing!

We loved this food tour , which starts later in the afternoon, and it is an excellent way to get introduced to the city.

Alternatively (or in addition!), head to the top of Lisbon to enjoy the gorgeous views from the remains of Castelo de São Jorge , and meander through Alfama.

Here, you’ll see many Lisbon postcards come to life, including the views from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro de Santa Luzia, the famous Tram 28 (though we don’t recommend riding it–just snap photos from outside) and the Lisbon Cathedral.

As you head downhill from the heart of Alfama, you’ll reach the riverside neighborhood of Baixa (where the food tour starts).

Be sure to check out Praça do Comércio, Rossio Square, and the Church of São Domingos while there!

If you’re interested in experiencing an evening Fado show in Lisbon, tonight is a great opportunity to do so.

Book your Lisbon food tour today!

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal

While there are plenty of excellent neighborhoods to stay in throughout Lisbon, we recommend picking somewhere central with good transportation connections around the city.

Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real, and Barrio Alto are great names to keep an eye out for when browsing places to stay.

For a budget-friendly hostel experience (with private rooms available), the  Sunset Destination Hostel  is a great, centrally located option.

At a mid-range price tag, you can’t beat the location or rave reviews for  Tempo FLH Hotels Lisboa .

Looking for a splurge?

The Lumiares Hotel & Spa  is part of the much-acclaimed Small Luxury Hotels of the World Collection, and offers stunning views that you won’t forget anytime soon!

Check rates & book your stay in Lisbon today!

Day 10: Enjoy sightseeing in Lisbon.

Today is all about sightseeing in Lisbon–and wear some comfortable shoes, because it will be a long (and hilly) journey!

First things first: if you didn’t visit Alfama yesterday, take a quick stroll through there and the neighborhood of Castelo (and stop for some pasteis de nata at Pastelaria Santo António while you’re at it).

If you’ve already visited Alfama, start your morning in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto (high town) and Chiado, exploring a corner of the historic center that you didn’t get to see yesterday!

Highlights include the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara, the overwhelming Church of São Roque, the Carmo Convent, and a stop at Livraria Bertrand , the oldest still-operating bookstore in the world.

If you’re a fan of glitzy cafes, consider also grabbing a coffee and pastry at A Brasileira.

From there it’s time to head over to the popular riverside neighborhood of Belém (taxi or ride share will be the easiest way to get there).

Here, you’ll find the famous Jerónimos Monastery and accompanying church (the church is free to enter, the monastery is not), the gorgeous Belém Tower (you don’t need to go in, but it’s worth seeing the exterior), the Monument of the Discoveries, and stunning views of the Tagus River.

You’ll also find the wildly popular Pastéis de Belém, which serves up the original pastéis de nata.

Yes, they are worth the long line (hint: the table service line is often much shorter than the takeaway line!), but if standing in line for carbs isn’t your thing, Manteigaria, another popular Lisbon bakery, has a location just down the street.

Meanwhile, the Jerónimos Monastery, while a must-see, is home to some of the longest lines for any tourist attraction in Portugal!

Pre-book your ticket and, since you’re visiting Belém in the afternoon, consider going close to closing time.

In the evening, close out your day with a sunset boat cruise on the Tagus River, soaking in some of the best views of Lisbon, the Tagus, and the Ponte 25 Abril Bridge from the water.

We absolutely loved our sunset cruise experience in Lisbon and highly recommend it–kicking back and relaxing with beautiful views is the perfect way to end a busy sightseeing day.

Book your sunset cruise in Lisbon today!

Day 11: Take a day trip to Sintra.

Set in the hills just outside of Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra–complete with several fantastic palaces–is easily among the most popular places to visit in Portugal.

From the beauty of the distinctive yellow-and-red Pena Palace to the quirky Alice in Wonderland vibes of Quinta da Regaleira to the stunning views from the Moorish Castle and beyond, visiting Sintra is incredibly memorable and worth the effort.

… But, its popularity also has another side effect: the palaces of Sintra are among the most crowded places included on this Iberian Peninsula itinerary, so be prepared for that.

With only 2 weeks to cover both Spain and Portugal, you’ll want to visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon, and that essentially leaves you 2 options: travel by public transportation, or on a guided day trip like this .

This day trip is one of the most popular tours in Portugal and includes visits to Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira as well as Cabo da Roca (long believed to be the westernmost point of mainland Europe, now simply a stunning viewpoint), and a short stop in the resort town of Cascais .

The pros of taking a tour are simple: as the palaces in Sintra are far enough apart that you can’t walk between most of them and parking is very tricky, it saves you time and allows you to see more.

The cons are simple too: with so many stops to make, you won’t have much time to linger.

If you’d rather travel independently, you can absolutely do that as well, though we recommend nabbing your tickets for Pena Palace and other popular places in advance.

The train takes about 40 minutes from central Lisbon.

Once you arrive in Sintra, you’ll board one of 2 buses that will take you to your first palace, and then (depending on which palaces you choose to see) another to your second and maybe third, depending on how fast you explore.

When you’re finished, you can head back to Lisbon via train or simply call an Uber (which is what we tend to do).

Book your day trip to Sintra today!

Day 12: Make your way from Lisbon to Porto.

All aboard to Porto!

The final destination of this itinerary for 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal, the beautiful city of Porto is compact and memorable, featuring stunning river views, endless port (and if you don’t think you like port… try it here before you commit to that opinion), and oodles of azulejos .

Easy sightseeing and a relaxed vibe make it the perfect final destination of your trip–but first, you need to get there!

The easiest way to travel from Lisbon to Porto is to take the train, which travels directly between the 2 cities and takes about 3.5 hours.

Most trains leave from Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia Station and run consistently throughout the day.

We go into more detail on managing the journey between the 2 cities in this blog post .

We recommend booking your train tickets for the earliest time you feel comfortable with–the sooner you get to Porto, the better!

Once you arrive in Porto, drop your bags off at your hotel (if it’s not time for check-in yet, they should be able to hold them in the lobby for you) and get ready to explore!

If you’re looking for a quick lunch, the roast pork and soft cheese sandwich at Casa Guedes is a great place to start.

From there, we recommend checking out some of Porto’s attractions that are further from the river, such as the Chapel of Souls, the Church of Saint Ildefonso, and Rua Santa Catarina.

If you have time, head over to the Church of Carmo, as and soak up the view from Miradouro da Vitória (and if you don’t have time to visit the Church of Carmo today, add it to your list for tomorrow).

And, of course, you can’t forget the very first attraction you’ll see as you arrive in Porto: the interior of the São Bento train station is magnificent!

Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal

We’ve visited Porto several times now, and have made a habit of staying at Pestana Porto – A Brasileira or NH Hotel Porto Batalha during our visits.

Both hotels are beautiful, with excellent customer service and incredibly central locations that both make it easy to explore Porto on foot and easy to check in when arriving by train.

(They both also welcome Ranger, a must for us).

If you’re traveling Spain and Portugal on a budget, the Zero Box Lodge Porto gets excellent reviews.

Check rates & book your stay in Porto today!

Day 13: Get to know Porto (and Vila Nova de Gaia).

After a leisurely brunch (we can heartily recommend Floresta Cafe and Esquires Coffee, both of which we’ve eaten at many times), make your way to Clerigos Tower to enjoy one of the most stunning views of Porto!

From there, check out the Porto Cathedral–while the church is free to enter, it’s well worth forking over a few Euro to explore the cloisters and attached museum, too.

Meander down toward the gorgeous Bolsa Palace (if you want to go inside, you’ll need to book a 30-minute guided tour ) and the Church of San Francisco, which is home to a downright stunning interior!

At this point, you’ll be very close to Porto’s vibrant, famous, and colorful riverside, also known as the Ribeira District.

Once the haunt of fishermen and sailors, and now the haunt of tourists, the Ribeira district is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy views of Porto.

Like many picturesque neighborhoods around the world, the restaurants here tend toward being expensive and mediocre, but you can find occasional gems (we enjoyed our meal at Grupo Desportivo Infante D. Henrique, which has a great view but is a bit out of the hustle and bustle).

From Ribeira, make your way across the (lower level of the) Dom Luis I Bridge, to Vila Nova de Gaia.

This charming riverfront destination is technically a separate city from Porto, but it’s also home to all of the port lodges, and no trip to Porto is complete without a port tasting!

This port cellar tour and tasting will give you a good idea of what to expect from a typical tasting, and you can either opt for an organized tour or a build-your-own adventure experience ( Quinta dos Corvos is a personal favorite lodge of ours).

This is also where you can hop on a 6 Bridges Cruise to experience Porto from the water for an hour–a delightful experience in and of itself.

Once you wrap up exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, ride the cable car back up to the top of the Dom Luis I Bridge, where you’ll be treated to gorgeous views over the city and an easy walk back to your hotel.

Day 14: Say goodbye to the Iberian Peninsula and head home.

As you come to the close of 14 (hopefully) perfect days spent exploring Portugal and Spain, there’s one more challenge ahead: getting home!

By far the simplest method for closing out this itinerary is to fly out of Porto, however, for many North Americans, there’s a chance that will be a less ideal option due to scheduling, price, or both (Porto’s airport is much smaller than Lisbon’s).

It’s worth considering, but most likely, you’ll want to head back to Lisbon either the night of day 13 or this morning in order to catch a flight home.

However you say goodbye, be sure to make time for at least one more pastel de nata as you bid adios and adeus to the Iberian Peninsula!

I mentioned this above, but it bears repeating here: while realistic, this itinerary is jam-packed, and one of the fastest-paced itineraries that we’ve published here on Our Escape Clause.

If you’re a traveler who loves to move fast, doesn’t mind changing hotels, and is hoping to see as much variety as possible on their Spain and Portugal vacation, you’ll love it (and be very excited to get home to your own bed afterward).

If you prefer a slower pace, or are enjoying 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal as part of an even longer adventure, you’ll likely want to slow it down a bit.

Here are a few good options for personalizing this itinerary.

Skip Porto to spend longer in Lisbon and the Algarve.

I debated for a long time whether or not to include Porto in the original itinerary above, as it adds quite a bit of travel time!

However, Porto is a small city that can be thoroughly sampled in a day, and it’s a very different city from the other cities featured on this itinerary.

Plus, port!

However, while we definitely consider Porto well worth a visit, if you’re flying out of Lisbon and want to limit your train time toward the end of the trip (it’s about 3 hours each way by train), skipping northern Portugal is definitely a valid option.

If you decide to spend longer in Lisbon, you might even want to add on an easy additional day trip to see a different side of Portugal, such as to Cascais or Óbidos ( here are the best day trips from Lisbon ).

Start your itinerary in Seville.

While Barcelona is wonderful, there’s no doubt that you can cut your travel time significantly by flying straight to Seville to start your trip!

The downside of this route is that you’ll only see one region of Spain ( Andalucia ), but the upside is, you’ll move at a much slower pace.

Skip the Algarve and head right to Lisbon.

We decided to include the Algarve in this 14 day itinerary as it is not only beautiful and an incredibly fun place to visit, but a great change of pace from the more city-sightseeing-and-history-focused stops that make up most of the itinerary.

However, while swapping city streets for sandy beaches and seaside hikes is a wonderful addition to this trip, you can definitely save time by heading right from Seville to Lisbon.

If you’re more interested in cities than coastlines, or the weather isn’t cooperating for your trip, this might be a great option.

Visiting Cabo da Roca from Lisbon as part of your day trip to Sintra, or taking a day trip to Cascais , will also give you a small chance to appreciate the beauty of the Portuguese coastline offers without leaving the Lisbon area.

Swap Barcelona for Madrid.

This change isn’t a matter of timing, but of taste (and flight schedules).

We included Barcelona in this itinerary over Madrid as there’s only room for one of Spain’s two most famous cities, and Barcelona is both the most popular and arguably the most unique.

However, while Barcelona’s Gaudi architecture, Catalan culture, and seaside location are phenomenal, Madrid also has a lot to offer!

If you’re a big fan of art museums and royal palaces, you might prefer the Spanish capital ( our recommended Madrid itinerary is a great guide to what to expect).

Not sure which you’d prefer?

Let flight deals dictate which city you visit!

Spain and Portugal are both the definitions of year-round destinations, and that includes this Spain and Portugal itinerary!

That being said, though, if you have flexible dates and are trying to pinpoint the ideal time to travel Portugal and Spain, we recommend enjoying this itinerary in the spring or fall.

Summer in Spain in particular, especially in Andalucia, can be brutally hot (we shudder to think of  visiting the Alhambra  at noon in July).

Winter is perfectly doable, but the weather can be rainy and less predictable than in spring or summer (it is, however, a fantastic time to go hiking in the Algarve, as long as you don’t mind skipping the swimming).

On the plus side for winter, though, you’ll experience few crowds, low prices, and still have a decent chance at soaking up some sunshine, albeit with a jacket at hand.

The sweet spot for this 14 day Spain and Portugal itinerary, though, which travels across a decent swath of both countries and therefore needs to take multiple climates into account, is the spring and fall.

We have spent time in both Portugal and Spain in every season, and while each trip was a delight, we have a special place in our hearts for the spring and fall!

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 2 weeks in Spain and Portugal, you have a chance to do two things: first, add Madrid to this itinerary (it was very hard leaving it off!).

And, second, slow down as much as you can: every one of the destinations included in this itinerary has plenty more to see, and also boasts far more incredible day trip options than there is time to cover in 2 weeks.

A day trip to Toledo from Madrid , to Monserrat from Barcelona, to Ronda from Seville, to Cascais from Lisbon , or to the Douro Valley from Porto, just barely scratches the surface of the options out there!

For even more ideas, here are the best day trips from Lisbon , and here are the best day trips from Barcelona .

By adding day trips instead of overnights, you’ll be able to slow down the pace of travel and enjoy your trip even more.

If you have close to 3 weeks on the Iberian Peninsula, that’s when I would start to potentially consider adding on a Morocco leg, if that’s something you’re interested in.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the post, we’d recommend concentrating on the Sahara Desert , Marrakech and/or Fes, and if you have time, Chefchaouen and/or Essaouira.

Taking the ferry from Spain or Portugal to Tangier, Morocco, is a cool experience (though if you have a tendency toward seasickness like me–fair warning, it was also a nauseating experience), but Tangier is quite far from the most popular places to visit in Morocco.

Unless you’re particularly interested in traveling overland for its own sake, flying will likely make more sense, and there are tons of budget airline routes between Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

Our detailed packing lists for visiting Europe in the spring ,  summer ,  fall , and  winter  cover just about everything you’ll need to bring on your 14 day Spain and Portugal vacation!

To get you started on your list, though, here are a few essentials to add to your packing list:

Travel Adaptors for Spain and Portugal  — If you’re coming from outside of mainland Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics!

Spain and Portugal use the same plugs/voltage, so you won’t need anything different when moving between them.

Travel Insurance  — No one like to think about the possibility of canceled or interrupted trips, let alone accidents on the road.

Anything can happen while traveling, though–and that’s where travel insurance can help.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices with  Safety Wing  for your trip here.

Camera  — We completely adore our  Sony a7R III , but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use   Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Sunglasses  — The sun in Spain and Portugal is famous for a reason!

I find myself regularly reaching for sunglasses even in the winter when on the Iberian Peninsula.

Apple Air Tags  — Air Tags are a relatively new addition to our packing list, but we’ve absolutely loved having the extra security when checking our luggage!

They’ll be coming with us from now on.

Reusable Water Bottle  — Save both money and plastic during your 14 days in Spain and Portugal and add a reusable water bottle to your packing list for Europe!  I love this metal one .

Portable USB Charger  — Don’t stress about your phone dying while you’re sightseeing in Portugal and Spain: bring a USB charger along for the ride.

How many days do you need for Portugal and Spain?

Personally, we recommend visiting for a minimum of 2 weeks if you want to have a solid overview of both Spain and Portugal.

If you have less time to work with, consider sticking with fewer destinations, and perhaps sampling one city in each country instead.

Can you do Spain and Portugal on the same trip?

Yes, you can absolutely visit both Spain and Portugal on the same trip!

As next-door neighbors located in the far southwestern corner of Europe, Portugal and Spain make a great combination when planning a European vacation .

Is it possible to visit Spain and Portugal in 7 days?

Yes, you can visit both Spain and Portugal in 7 days–but don’t expect (or try) to see everything!

If you have a week in Spain and Portugal, we recommend picking one city in each country to focus on, with a possible day trip from each.

You’ll likely want to fly between the two countries in this scenario as well unless you happen to pick Lisbon and Seville, which are fairly close together (about 4.5 hours by car).

Can you drive a rental car from Spain to Portugal?

Typically, yes, you can drive rental cars between Spain and Portugal.

Be sure to confirm with your rental car company, though, and as always, make sure you tell them you plan to cross borders!

Can you rent a car in Spain and return it in Portugal (or vice versa)?

Yes, it’s technically possible to rent a car in one EU country and return it to another, but be prepared for an eye-watering fee for doing so!

One-way rental fees are almost always a bit pricey, but when it comes to crossing borders, it can get very expensive: we’ve been quoted around 1000 Euro (not a typo) more than once for the privilege.

If you plan to rent a car for your trip to Spain and Portugal, be sure to build extra fees into your budget… or just plan on returning it to the same country you picked it up in.

Check prices and shop rental cars for your Spain and Portugal road trip today!

Which is cheaper to visit, Spain or Portugal?

We go into this in a bit more detail in our Spain vs Portugal comparison post , but the basic answer is that while online resources and blog posts tend to state that Portugal is cheaper to visit than Spain, the reality on the ground is a bit more complex.

The cost of travel in Spain (and Portugal, for that matter) varies dramatically based on where you visit.

Barcelona, for example, clocks in as a pricey destination on par with  Paris  or  Milan , while other regions like Andalucia can be  far  less expensive–including less expensive than popular places in Portugal’s Algarve.

Overall, from the perspective of planning a vacation, I would say that the Spain leg of this trip and the Portugal leg probably cost about the same, with the most expensive destination (Barcelona) being balanced out by Andalucia being among the more affordable stops.

Can you take the train between Spain and Portugal?

Technically, you can take trains between Spain and Portugal… but for this trip, you probably won’t want to.

Spain and Portugal are not well-connected by train, and doing so requires going out of your way from most major tourist destinations (there’s a train from Porto to Vigo in the north, and alternatively, with multiple stops, you can cobble together a very long route through the center of Portugal into Spain).

Lisbon and Madrid used to be connected via a night train, but that was discontinued in 2020 and talk of bringing it back (or installing a high-speed rail) is stalled at rumor level indefinitely.

There are no trains connecting the Algarve to Andalucia.

Looking for more tips for visiting Spain and Portugal?

We’ve written about both countries extensively, with many more blog posts to come in the future!

You can scroll through all of our Portugal articles here , our Spain articles here , or check out these guides:

• The Ultimate 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary
• Visiting the Alhambra in Granada: 21 Important Tips (FAQ + Tour Info!)
• 17 Best Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal (+ Nearby!)
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Madrid Itinerary
• How to Travel From Lisbon to Porto (By Train, Car, or Bus!)
• 19 Best Day Trips from Barcelona (+ How to Get There!)

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

9 thoughts on “The Perfect 2 Week Spain and Portugal Itinerary (+ Essential Tips!)”

This Spain and Portugal itinerary is a fantastic guide for planning my upcoming trip – it covers all the highlights I’ve been dreaming of! 🌍🌟

Thanks so much! Have a great trip. 🙂

Wonderful info in this guide. Planning our Portugal and Spain trip for April/May 2024 including 10 day Portuguese Camino de Santiago walk. I will be using lots of the tips you have included in this itinerary. Thank you.

Thanks so much, Glenda–hope your Camino is wonderful!

Hi. Thanks for the tips & advice. What’s the best way to visit sights in each city? Uber? And did you book your accommodation in each city in advance?

Within each city, a combination of walking, tram/metro, and occasional taxi or Uber is best–it depends on which city and which specific sites you’re trying to visit! We have written detailed itineraries on several of the included cities that break those steps down in more detail. For example, here’s one of our Lisbon itineraries: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-lisbon-itinerary/

We do recommend booking your accommodation in advance. Personally, we never choose to arrive in a city without knowing where we’re staying. 🙂

Any suggestions re: going “counter clockwise” from Barcelona to Lisbon? We’d like to catch San Sebastian/Bilbao and maybe part of the Camino on the way to Porto then head home from Lisbon (2-3 weeks). Thank you for sharing your great insight!

My understanding is that you’re wanting to cover Barcelona, San Sebastian/Bilbao, some of the Camino (we’ll call that 5-7 days), Porto, and Lisbon–but nowhere else on this itinerary.

If so, that’s doable over 3 weeks, though I’d consider trimming one stop (probably the Camino, as it’s a bit of a commitment even when doing a section) if you need to trim the trip down to 2 weeks.

You’ll also be in the lucky position of being able to take the train from Spain to Portugal, which is typically out of the question for most standard itineraries! There is a route from Vigo (you can connect there from Santiago de Compostela in Spain) to Porto that will get you across the border.

Great insight. Thank you!

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