10 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.

(Overnight in Porto)

Day 5 – Barcelos, Guimarães, Braga, and Amarante

Depart Porto for Barcelos, the birthplace of Portugal’s most famous symbol — the colorful Barcelos Rooster, a beloved emblem of Portuguese culture and legend. Explore the lively market square and medieval center, and take a pleasant walk through the historic village of Barcelinhos, located just across the Cávado River, where traditional crafts and local heritage come alive.

Continue to Guimarães, known as the “Cradle of the Nation.” Visit the Castle of Guimarães and the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança, then stroll through the charming historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Next, head to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest and most spiritual cities. Visit the magnificent Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a Baroque masterpiece set among lush greenery, and admire the sweeping views from the top of its monumental staircase.

Continue to Amarante, a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Tâmega River, where elegant stone bridges, historic churches, and cozy riverside cafés create a timeless ambiance.

Follow the scenic, vineyard-lined roads into the Douro Valley, where terraced hills reveal breathtaking views at every turn. Arrive at your accommodation in the evening, ready to relax amid one of Portugal’s most beautiful wine regions.

(Overnight in the Douro Valley)

Day 6 – Douro Valley and Lamego

Embark on a journey through the heart of the Douro Valley, the world’s first demarcated wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage landscape. Follow winding roads along the river, stopping at some of the valley’s most impressive viewpoints, such as Casal de Loivos, where the terraces seem to cascade endlessly down to the water.

Visit a traditional Douro wine estate and enjoy an included wine tasting, learning about the region’s terroir and centuries-old winemaking techniques that produce both elegant reds and world-famous port wines.

Continue to Lamego, a town rich in culture and devotion, where the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios crowns the hilltop above the city. Walk down its grand baroque staircase adorned with statues and tiles, and explore the charming old town below.

In the afternoon, travel west to Coimbra, the former medieval capital of Portugal and home to one of the oldest universities in the world.

(Overnight in Coimbra)

Day 7 – Transfer to Ferreira do Zêzere via Coimbra, Fátima, and Tomar

Begin the day exploring Coimbra’s historic core, including the University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, and its impressive Joanina Library, a baroque masterpiece housing thousands of ancient volumes. Wander through the old quarter and enjoy the youthful energy of this academic city.

Continue to Fátima, one of the world’s most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites. Visit the Sanctuary, Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children in 1917.

Travel next to Tomar, the legendary city of the Knights Templar. Explore the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose architecture tells the story of Portugal’s religious and maritime heritage.

Wander through Tomar’s serene historic center and riverside gardens before continuing to Ferreira do Zêzere, where the peaceful Lago Azul awaits.

(Overnight at Lago Azul)

Day 8 – Transfer to Algarve with stops in Almourol Castle,  Évora, and Monsaraz

Depart from Ferreira do Zêzere (Lago Azul) and travel south toward the Castle of Almourol, one of Portugal’s most enchanting medieval fortresses. Rising from a small island in the middle of the Tagus River, this iconic castle—accessible by a short boat ride—evokes the legends of knights and kings.

Continue south to Évora, the cultural heart of the Alentejo and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Visit the Roman Temple of Diana, the fascinating Chapel of Bones, and stroll through narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and traditional tilework. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local estate to experience the authentic flavors of Alentejo’s celebrated wines.

Then travel to Monsaraz, a whitewashed hilltop village overlooking the vast Alqueva Lake. Enclosed by ancient stone walls and filled with peaceful charm, this medieval gem offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region.

In the evening, continue south to the Algarve, where the landscape transforms into golden cliffs, turquoise waters, and the soothing rhythm of the sea.

(Overnight in the Algarve)

Day 9 – Algarve Highlights Tour

Discover the beauty and heritage of the Algarve on a full-day tour along its stunning coastline. Begin at the Nossa Senhora da Rocha viewpoint, offering breathtaking views over the dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to the charming Albandeira Beach, famous for its natural arch and crystal-clear waters. Head to Carvoeiro, a picturesque seaside village, where you’ll embark on a boat tour to explore the Benagil Caves, including the enchanting Gruta da Boneca (Doll’s Cave), one of the region’s most iconic sea caves.

Next, visit the historic town of Silves, once the Moorish capital of the Algarve, and explore the impressive Silves Castle, built from red sandstone and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, discover the local craftsmanship at a porcelain factory, where traditional artistry meets elegant design.

Continue to Lagos, a city rich in maritime history. Stroll through the Old Town, visit the Slave Market Museum, one of the first of its kind in Europe, and admire the stunning cliffs and rock formations at Ponta da Piedade, where the golden headlands meet turquoise waters.

(Overnight in the Algarve)

Day 10 – Transfer from the Algarve to Lisbon with Stops in Setúbal

Depart from the Algarve and travel north toward Lisbon with enriching stops along the way. Begin at the Mercado do Livramento in Setúbal, one of the most beautiful and traditional markets in Portugal, filled with colorful displays of fresh seafood, cheeses, fruits, and local wines beneath stunning hand-painted tiles.

Continue through the Arrábida Natural Park, a true natural paradise where green hills meet crystal-clear blue waters. This protected area is one of Portugal’s most breathtaking landscapes, known for its hidden beaches, panoramic viewpoints, and Mediterranean vegetation.

Next, stop in the charming village of Azeitão, famous for its crafts, cheese, and wines. Visit a traditional wine estate for an included wine tasting, sampling the region’s celebrated Moscatel de Setúbal and other local varieties. Also visit a tile factory (Fábrica de Azulejos) to observe the meticulous hand-painting process that keeps this Portuguese art form alive.

End the journey at the Christ the King Sanctuary, offering spectacular views over the Tagus River, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the city of Lisbon — the perfect conclusion to your Portuguese adventure.

(End of the Tour in Lisbon)