15 days in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve and Douro

Day by day

1. 1

   Day 1

   Arrival in Lisbon — first evening in Alfama

   Land at Humberto Delgado airport, take the red metro line to Marquês de Pombal or taxi (€12-18, 20 min). Drop the bags and head straight up to Miradouro da Graça: sweeping views over Lisbon's seven hills, the Tagus as a backdrop, unmatched late-afternoon light.

   Walk down through the lanes of Alfama — the medieval Moorish quarter, azulejo tiles on every façade, laundry strung between windows. Dinner at a traditional tasca: bifanas (spiced pork sandwich, €4) or a cataplana of clams. First glass of vinho verde to set the mood.

   Tips

   • · Lisbon metro costs €1.65 per ride with the Viva Viagem card (€0.50 to purchase). Much faster than a taxi in rush hour.
   • · Best Lisbon neighbourhoods to stay: Príncipe Real or Chiado — central, quiet at night, well connected.
   Lisbon →
2. 2

   Day 2

   Lisbon: Alfama, São Jorge Castle and Fado

   Morning in Alfama refreshed: São Jorge Castle (€11, opens 9am) at the top of the hill, ramparts with 360° views over Lisbon and the Tagus estuary. Walk down to the Sé Cathedral (free entry) and the Igreja de Santo António.

   Lunch like a local: any tasca with a chalkboard menu in Portuguese only. Afternoon stroll through Mouraria (the multicultural neighbourhood next to Alfama, less touristy), then tram 28 towards Chiado.

   Evening: authentic Fado in an Alfama restaurant — Mesa de Frades or Sr. Fado (reservation mandatory, €30-40 with dinner). Choose a small 30-cover venue over a big dining hall.

   Tips

   • · Tram 28 is packed during the day — keep your bag in front or walk the route to avoid pickpockets.
   • · Fado has been a UNESCO Intangible Heritage since 2011: insist on a venue with live musicians, not background recordings.
   Lisbon →
3. 3

   Day 3

   Lisbon: Belém, pastéis, Bairro Alto and Time Out Market

   The whole morning in Belém, 6 km from the centre (tram 15E or bus 714). The unmissable trio: Belém Tower (€7), Jerónimos Monastery (€12, a Manueline masterpiece — allow 1h30), Monument to the Discoveries. Mandatory pilgrimage to Pastéis de Belém, the bakery founded in 1837, the only one authorised to use the original pastel de nata recipe (€1.35 each).

   Bus back to Príncipe Real for the afternoon: lush gardens, Portuguese designer boutiques. Evening in Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré — the Time Out Market Lisboa brings together Lisbon's best addresses in food court format, perfect for a varied last dinner before heading south.

   Tips

   • · Jerónimos Monastery is free on Sunday mornings until 2pm — arrive at 9:30am to beat the crowds.
   • · The Time Out Market Lisboa lets you sample bacalhau, pastéis de nata and vinho verde all in one place, without moving between restaurants.
   Lisbon →
4. 4

   Day 4

   Day trip to Sintra + Cabo da Roca

   Train from Rossio (Lisbon) → Sintra, 40 min, €2.30, every 30 min. Buy tickets online the day before: Pena Palace (€14) and Quinta da Regaleira (€10). Pena first at opening (9:30am) — a romantic palace perched on a rock, in yellow and burgundy. Walk down to Quinta da Regaleira: neo-Manueline villa, esoteric park and spiral initiation well.

   Lunch in Sintra town, then taxi or bus 403 to Cabo da Roca: the westernmost point of continental Europe, 140m cliffs over the Atlantic. Return by bus via Cascais then train to Lisbon — last night in the capital before heading to the Algarve.

   Tips

   • · Sintra in July-August: 2h queues without booking. Arriving before 9:30am is the only viable strategy.
   • · Sintra town centre is 3 km from Pena Palace — take the hop-on/hop-off shuttle (€3.50) or walk 30 min uphill.
   Lisbon →
5. 5

   Day 5

   Train Lisbon → Évora: Alentejo, megaliths and wines

   Train from Oriente → Évora (1h30, €12-14). UNESCO-listed Évora is the capital of the Alentejo — a dry golden plateau off the tourist trail. Programme: Roman Temple of Diana (1st century, the best preserved on the Iberian Peninsula), Sé Cathedral (12th century, cloister and panoramic terrace), and the eerie Chapel of Bones (Igreja de São Francisco) lined with the remains of 5,000 monks.

   Afternoon: taxi to the Cromeleque dos Almendres (15 km), the largest megalithic complex in the Iberian Peninsula — 95 oval menhirs dating back 6,000 years. Return to town for an Alentejo dinner: migas (bread soaked in pork fat), açorda (bread and coriander soup) and a glass of Alentejo red — among Portugal's best wines, still underrated. Overnight in Évora or evening return to Lisbon.

   Tips

   • · Évora is ideal for an overnight stay — pousadas and guesthouses in the historic centre offer excellent value (€60-90/night).
   • · The Cromeleque dos Almendres is poorly signposted: take a taxi from the centre (€15-20) or a VTC — no public transport available.
6. 6

   Day 6

   Train or flight Lisbon → Lagos (Algarve)

   Transfer to the south coast: train Lisbon Oriente → Lagos (3h45-4h, €25-35, change at Tunes) or TAP/Ryanair flight to Faro (1h, €40-80) then bus to Lagos (1h, €5). Lagos is the ideal base to explore the western Algarve — golden cliffs, hidden coves, turquoise sea.

   Arrive early afternoon. First explore Lagos on foot: Ponta da Piedade (2 km from the centre, sea-sculpted arches and golden sandstone stacks, spectacular sunset), historic centre alleyways, medieval ramparts. First Algarvian dinner: cataplana de mariscos (seafood stew in a copper pot, the region's signature dish, €20-30 for a sharing pot) at a harbour restaurant.

   Tips

   • · Book the Lisbon–Lagos train on cp.pt at least 10 days ahead: Intercidades seats are limited and prices double the day before.
   • · Lagos is a better base than Faro or Albufeira: less mass tourism, better coves to the west (Sagres, Ponta da Piedade), more authentic atmosphere.
   Lagos →
7. 7

   Day 7

   Algarve: Ponta da Piedade and Praia da Marinha

   A day dedicated to the finest beaches and cliffs of the western Algarve. Morning: Praia da Marinha (45 km from Lagos, rental car recommended) — regularly ranked among Europe's 10 most beautiful beaches, nestled between limestone cliffs pierced with arches and caves. Arrive before 10am to find parking.

   Clifftop walk between Marinha and Benagil (2 km on the cliffs) — views over the Golden Coast rock formations. Lunch in Carvoeiro, a lively seaside village. Back to Lagos late afternoon via the coastal road (N124-1) that weaves between coves. Evening in old Lagos: seafood tapas and Super Bock beers at a historic centre tasca.

   Tips

   • · A rental car is essential for exploring the western Algarve — Lagos rental agencies offer reasonable rates (€30-45/day), book online the day before.
   • · Praia da Marinha: no official paid parking nearby — park in Lagoa village and walk down (15 min).
   Lagos →
8. 8

   Day 8

   Algarve: Benagil cave and Cape Sagres

   The Benagil Cave — a natural cathedral carved into the cliff with a ceiling opening letting light flood in — is one of Portugal's most photographed sites. Sea access only: sea kayak or boat from Benagil beach (€10-15, tours from 9am). Choose a 2h kayak tour to explore several caves. Arrive before 9:30am for the best light and fewer crowds.

   Afternoon: drive to Sagres and Cape St Vincent (the southwesternmost point of continental Europe, 70m cliffs). The Fortaleza de Sagres (€3) houses the legendary navigation school of Henry the Navigator. Sunset at Cape St Vincent — the finest viewpoint in the Algarve. Dinner in Sagres: fresh grilled fish at a harbour tasca.

   Tips

   • · Benagil Cave cannot be visited on foot from the beach — a boat or kayak is essential. Clifftop walks show the ceiling opening from above but not the interior.
   • · Cape St Vincent: wind is often strong, even in summer. Bring a warm layer for the sunset.
   Lagos →
9. 9

   Day 9

   Lagos → Porto by flight or bus (via Lisbon)

   Transfer north: two options depending on budget. Faro → Porto flight (1h, €40-80): bus Lagos → Faro (1h, €5) then direct flight — the fastest solution. Express bus Lagos → Porto via Lisbon (Rede Expressos, 5h-5h30 total, €30-35) — cheaper but a full transit day.

   Arrive in Porto mid-afternoon. Drop bags and first stroll: São Bento Station (20,000 azulejo panels illustrating Portuguese history — one of Europe's most beautiful stations), Liberdade square, then walk down to the Ribeira for an aperitif facing the Douro. First francesinha for the brave — Porto's iconic sandwich, smothered in spicy sauce and melted cheese.

   Tips

   • · Compare the Faro-Porto flight against the bus: if the price gap exceeds €40, the bus is still reasonable — the A2 hugs the Atlantic coast, making it more pleasant than an airport.
   • · The francesinha is a lunch dish, not dinner — too heavy in the evening. Top Porto addresses: Café Santiago or Lado B.
   Porto →
10. 10

    Day 10

    Porto: Ribeira, Vila Nova de Gaia cellars and Livraria Lello

    Morning in Porto's historic heart (UNESCO-listed): Igreja de São Francisco (€9, entirely gold-leaf Baroque interior, 200kg of gold), Palácio da Bolsa (€10, spectacular Arab Room). Unmissable stop at Livraria Lello (€6, redeemable against a purchase) — the carved wooden staircase is the highlight; arrive at opening (10am) for the best light and fewer people.

    Afternoon: walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia. The great Port wine houses line the south bank: Sandeman (tour + tasting €15), Taylor's (panoramic terrace). Sunset from the Serra do Pilar terrace — the view over lit-up Porto is the city's finest memory. Dinner on the Ribeira quays.

    Tips

    • · Port wine is fortified (17-20% alcohol): don't underestimate it, drink in small measures during tastings.
    • · The Livraria Lello is often crowded — go at opening (10am) or late afternoon for the best filtered light through the stained glass.
    Porto →
11. 11

    Day 11

    Porto: Bolhão Market, Bonfim district and street art

    A day to explore Porto off the beaten path. Morning at the Bolhão Market (recently renovated): stalls of cheese, charcuterie, vegetables and dried fish — neighbourhood life at its best.

    Afternoon in the Bonfim district and Rua Miguel Bombarda: contemporary art galleries, street art by Hazul and Vhils on granite walls, ceramic studios. Walk up to Rua das Flores and its artisanal azulejo shops. Evening in the Galerias de Paris district: natural wine bars, trendy restaurants, lively but not overrun nightlife.

    Tips

    • · The Guindais funicular (€2.50) connects Ribeira to the upper city in 2 min — skips an 80m steep climb.
    • · Bonfim at the weekend: several flea markets and maker's markets on Saturday mornings, ideal for an authentic souvenir.
    Porto →
12. 12

    Day 12

    Douro Valley day trip — cruise and wine tastings

    A must-do day trip from Porto: the Douro Valley (1-1h30 by car or train). Two options:

    Train option (budget, €12-15): depart Porto Campanhã → Pinhão (2h, CP train running along the river — one of Europe's most scenic rail journeys). Lunch in Pinhão, walk to a Quinta, return late afternoon.

    Organised cruise (€75-110): depart from Porto's Ribeira quays, sail up the Douro with commentary, stop at 2 Quintas for Douro DOC tastings (dry table wine), gourmet lunch included. Top Quintas: Quinta do Crasto, Quinta de la Rosa and Quinta do Vallado. Back in Porto by late afternoon.

    Tips

    • · The Douro is subject to low water in summer (July-August): some upstream cruises are cancelled. Check before booking.
    • · By rental car, the N222 road Régua → Pinhão is ranked among Europe's most beautiful — hairpin bends above terraced vineyards.
    Porto →
13. 13

    Day 13

    Day trip to Aveiro — the Portuguese Venice — or Coimbra

    Two options from Porto for this penultimate day:

    Aveiro option (45 min by train, €3.40): the 'Portuguese Venice' — canals through the centre, moliceiros (traditional decorated boats, cruise €15), remarkable Art Nouveau architecture. Local speciality: ovos moles (egg yolk and sugar pastries). A relaxed town, perfect before the last day.

    Coimbra option (1h15 by train, €8): the former medieval capital, University of Coimbra (UNESCO Heritage, Joanina Library with its Baroque ceiling and bats, €12), Romanesque cathedral. More cultural, energised by students in black capes. Coimbra Fado in the evening (different from Lisbon's: deeper, sung only by men). Back in Porto late afternoon.

    Tips

    • · Choose Aveiro for a low-effort day. Choose Coimbra if the Joanina Library is on your bucket list.
    • · Aveiro without a car: all attractions are 10-15 min on foot from the station, including the main moliceiro canal.
14. 14

    Day 14

    Guimarães — the birthplace of Portugal

    Guimarães (50 min from Porto by train, €3.50) is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and nicknamed 'the birthplace of Portugal' — it's here that Afonso Henriques, Portugal's first king, was born in 1110 and the Kingdom of Portugal was founded. Remarkably preserved medieval historic centre: cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses painted in ochre, lively squares.

    Must-sees: Guimarães Castle (€4, medieval curtain wall and 11th-century keep), Paço dos Duques de Bragança (€6, 15th-century palace with tapestries and armour), Igreja Nossa Senhora da Oliveira (heart of the old town). Local lunch: cabidela (chicken in blood-and-vinegar sauce) or bacalhau à Braga. Cable car to Penha (€3) for views over Guimarães and the Minho. Return to Porto in the evening for the last night.

    Tips

    • · The combined castle + Paço dos Duques ticket (€8) is cheaper than individual entries — buy it at the castle ticket office.
    • · Guimarães is less crowded than Braga — ideal for a day without tourist hordes, even in high season.
15. 15

    Day 15

    Porto: last morning, international flight

    Early rise for a last Porto morning while the city still belongs to its residents: coffee and croissant at a neighbourhood padaria (€1.50-2), walk up to Miradouro da Vitória to watch Porto at sunrise.

    Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport is 11 km from the centre: metro line E (Violet) from Trindade, 45 min, €2.20 — the most reliable option. Taxi or Uber: €20-25, 20-30 min outside rush hour. Allow 2h before European flights, 2h30 for intercontinental.

    If flying in the evening: free day in Porto. Bonus — visit the Fundação de Serralves (contemporary art museum + park, €20) in the Serralves district, often overlooked by express itineraries.

    Tips

    • · Metro line E runs directly from the city centre to the airport — reliable and on time, no reason to take a taxi unless you have a lot of luggage.
    • · Budget flights from Porto across Europe: Ryanair and easyJet serve Porto direct from Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux and Nantes.
    Porto →

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