8 Days to Discover the Best of Portugal

Day 1 – Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais

Begin your journey from Lisbon to the fairy-tale town of Sintra, where you can choose to visit two of its most iconic landmarks. At Pena Palace, admire the colorful Romantic architecture envisioned by King Fernando II, known as the “Artist King” for his passion for the arts and creative vision that transformed this former monastery into a royal masterpiece.

At Quinta da Regaleira, uncover the mysteries of its lush gardens, underground tunnels, and symbolic architecture deeply connected to the ideals of the Freemasons, Knights Templar, and alchemy.

Stroll through the charming historic center of Sintra before heading to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, a place once believed for centuries to be the end of the world when the Americas and Portugal’s Atlantic islands were still unknown.

End the day in Cascais, a picturesque former fishing village that has become an elegant seaside retreat for Portugal’s elite, often called the Portuguese Riviera, before returning to Lisbon.

(Overnight in Lisbon)

Day 2 – Lisbon Highlights

Spend the day discovering Lisbon’s vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks. Begin in Bairro Alto and Chiado, two of the city’s most charming districts, filled with historic cafés, lively squares, and elegant streets.

Continue to Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest quarter, where winding alleys, tiled façades, and the sound of fado music capture the soul of the city. Cross the river to visit the monumental Cristo Rei, a towering statue offering sweeping views of Lisbon and the 25 de Abril Bridge.

Return to Belém, where Portugal’s Age of Discoveries is celebrated at the Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. Visit the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, and end your day tasting the world-famous Pastéis de Belém.

(Overnight in Lisbon)

Day 3 – Óbidos, Nazaré and Aveiro with Transfer to Porto

Depart from Lisbon towards the north of Portugal, beginning with Óbidos, a beautifully preserved medieval village where centuries-old walls still embrace cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers. Walk through the castle gates and immerse yourself in its timeless atmosphere, discovering artisan shops and tasting the local cherry liqueur, ginjinha, traditionally served in a chocolate cup.

Continue to Nazaré, a fishing town world-famous for its giant waves, where the traditions of the sea remain alive and the coastal views from Sítio da Nazaré are simply breathtaking.

The journey then takes you to Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal” thanks to its canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and delicate Art Nouveau architecture. Here, you can stroll along the water, admire tiled façades, and, if you wish, taste the famous local sweet, ovos moles. Arrive in Porto in the evening.

(Overnight in Porto)

Day 4 – Porto and Gaia Tour

Discover the highlights of Portugal’s second-largest city, starting with the lively Mercado do Bolhão, an authentic market filled with local flavors and traditions.

Admire the Igreja do Carmo, known for its striking blue-and-white tiled façade, and step into the enchanting Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Visit the iconic Torre dos Clérigos and its church, climb to the top for panoramic views, and stroll along Avenida dos Aliados, the grand boulevard at the heart of Porto.

Continue to the Sé Cathedral, a monument that reflects centuries of history, and cross the emblematic Dom Luís I Bridge on foot, enjoying breathtaking views of the Douro River.

Conclude the day in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can explore the famous wine cellars and optionally take part in a tasting of Porto’s most celebrated export: its wine.

Day 5 – Douro Valley

Set out on a journey through the world’s first demarcated wine region, the Douro Valley. On the way, make a stop in Amarante, a charming riverside town with centuries of history and a picturesque medieval bridge.

Travel deeper into the Douro Valley, pausing at a stunning mountain viewpoint to take in the sweeping landscapes of terraced vineyards carved into the hillsides.

Visit the railway station in Pinhão, where exquisite azulejo panels depict the region’s winemaking heritage. Continue with a wine tasting at a traditional estate, with several carefully selected recommendations available for you to choose from.

Pass through Peso da Régua, the heart of the Douro wine region, and, if time allows, visit the Casa de Fernão Magalhães to explore the legacy of the great Portuguese navigator. Return to Porto in the evening.

(Overnight in Porto)

Day 6 – Transfer to Ferreira do Zêzere via Coimbra, Fátima, and Tomar

Depart from Porto towards Coimbra, once the medieval capital of Portugal. Visit the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290 and housed in Portugal’s first royal palace. Explore its historic courtyards and the stunning Joanina Library, a Baroque gem filled with centuries-old volumes.

Continue to Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage sites. Here, in 1917, the Virgin Mary appeared before three shepherd children — Lúcia, Jacinta, and Francisco — delivering messages of faith and peace. Visit the Sanctuary, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Chapel of the Apparitions.

Then travel to Tomar, the city of the Knights Templar. Discover the Convent of Christ, one of the best-preserved Templar monuments in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architecture reflects centuries of history and devotion, from the Templar Charola to the Manueline masterpieces.

End the day at Lago Azul, Ferreira do Zêzere, a peaceful lakeside retreat surrounded by nature.

(Overnight at Lago Azul)

Day 7 – Ferreira do Zêzere, Évora, and Monsaraz with Arrival in the Algarve

Depart from Ferreira do Zêzere towards Évora, one of Portugal’s most enchanting UNESCO World Heritage cities. Explore its rich history and architectural wonders, starting with the Roman Temple, a remarkably preserved monument from the 1st century, standing as a symbol of the city’s ancient past.

Visit the intriguing Chapel of Bones, built in the 16th century by Franciscan monks, where thousands of human bones line the walls as a powerful reminder of the transience of life.

Stroll through Évora’s charming streets before enjoying a wine tasting experience at a local estate, sampling some of the Alentejo region’s most renowned wines.

Continue to Monsaraz, a picturesque medieval village perched high above the Alqueva Lake. Wander its cobbled streets surrounded by whitewashed houses and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Alentejo countryside.

Monsaraz’s timeless atmosphere, stone walls, and artisan shops make it one of the most captivating villages in Portugal.

Afterward, travel south to the Algarve, where the landscape transforms into golden plains, rolling hills, and finally the stunning coastline of the south. Arrive in the evening and settle into your accommodation, ready to relax and enjoy the Algarve’s warm hospitality.

(Overnight in the Algarve)

Day 8 – Algarve Tour and Transfer to Lisbon

Begin the day exploring the natural beauty of the Algarve coast. Start at the Nossa Senhora da Rocha viewpoint, one of the most stunning coastal panoramas in southern Portugal, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs and turquoise waters. Continue to Albandeira Beach, a hidden gem known for its striking rock formations and crystal-clear sea.

Next, visit the picturesque village of Carvoeiro, where you’ll embark on a boat tour to the famous Benagil Caves, including the mesmerizing “Doll’s Cave” (Gruta da Boneca) — a true highlight of the Algarve’s coastline.

After the maritime adventure, discover local craftsmanship at a porcelain factory, where traditional techniques meet contemporary design. Then continue to Silves, the former Moorish capital of the Algarve, and visit its impressive Silves Castle, a red sandstone fortress offering magnificent views over the town and surrounding countryside.

In the afternoon, begin your comfortable transfer back to Lisbon, traveling through the scenic landscapes of southern Portugal.

(End of the Tour in Lisbon)