Want a 1 week Portugal Itinerary? Listed below are 4 to Select From.

Portugal is actually having a second — or a decade — as a journey vacation spot darling. Persons are lastly realizing that between the structure, panorama, tradition, and meals, this nation deserves greater than a passing look or a fast metropolis journey. However when you’re planning your Portugal itinerary, it may be laborious to resolve what to squeeze in, particularly in case you solely have one week in Portugal and you might be visiting from america or outdoors of Europe.

On my second journey to Portugal, I spent 17 nights traversing the nation, transferring from place to put virtually daily. However that’s no method to spend a real trip. Whereas it’s a small nation, in case you solely have 7 days in Portugal, you might be higher off simply visiting two (or max three) main cities or areas and saving the remaining for a return journey.

To assist make planning a visit to Portugal just a little simpler, I’ve put collectively 4 totally different Portugal itinerary choices to select from. These make sense geographically and logistically, and I’ve tried to supply some steerage that will help you select between them to seek out the proper match for the kind of journey you might be in search of.

Whereas that is geared for a one-week Portugal itinerary, you may combine and match to create a ten day Portugal itinerary or two-week journey to Portugal in case you have extra time.

These Portugal itineraries deal with the mainland and don’t embrace to the islands, since these actually deserve every week on their very own, however I do have some suggestions for visiting the Azores and nice solutions on issues to do on São Miguel, the biggest of the 9 islands.

Earlier than you begin planning your journey, you might also need to see my breakdown of how a lot a visit to Portugal prices to see how lengthy you may afford to remain. Whereas Portugal remains to be extra inexpensive than some neighboring European international locations, it’s not a pure finances vacation spot.

If you’d like some assist planning your Portugal journey and discovering distinctive actions and locations to remain, remember to attain out to my accomplice EPIC Journey. EPIC is a bespoke journey firm specializing in luxurious journey in Morocco and Portugal. Its journey planners stay within the nation and have shut relationships with boutique and luxurious motels, tour guides, and winery house owners. Nothing beats that native experience!

EPIC will seek the advice of with you after which create a customized Portugal itinerary, designed particularly in your pursuits. Simply point out that you just examine them on We3Travel to obtain a free VIP welcome reward or improve on arrival. (As a accomplice I’ll obtain a small fee in case you e book a visit by means of EPIC Journey however I’ve traveled with EPIC twice and may’t suggest them extremely sufficient!)

Portugal Itinerary Choices:

I’ve put collectively 4 choices so to decide the Portugal journey itinerary that’s most fascinating to you in your one week in Portugal:

Portugal Itinerary #1: Lisbon, Douro, Porto

Observe: This submit might comprise affiliate hyperlinks. In case you click on a hyperlink and make a purchase order, I could obtain a small fee. All opinions are my very own.

One of the vital standard selections for a one-week Portugal itinerary is to go to the capital metropolis of Lisbon, together with Porto and the Douro River Valley. This can be a nice alternative for {couples}, wine lovers, solo vacationers, and even households that get pleasure from a mixture of city exploration, historical past, and agritourism. I’d suggest no less than three nights in Lisbon, two nights within the Douro, and two nights in Porto. Normally, with a one-week trip, you may squeeze in eight nights in case you use each weekends. When you’ve got eight nights, I’d add an additional night time in Lisbon.

When to Go

Whereas greatest time for this journey is throughout the early fall, when the wine harvest is in full swing, it may be taken year-round. I’d suggest attempting to keep away from the most well-liked summer season months and vacation/college breaks, because the cities can get extraordinarily crowded at these instances.

Getting There

What I like about this itinerary is that it’s actually doable as a car-free trip in case you are prepared to both do some prepare journey or pay for a switch. Whilst you can drive from Lisbon to Porto simply sufficient, you do NOT need to must drive (and particularly park) in both Lisbon or Porto. And, if you’re going to be wine tasting whereas within the Douro Valley, it’s higher to take a wine tour or rent a driver there as nicely.

You’ll be able to both fly into Lisbon and fly out of Porto, or the reverse. TAP Airways is usually going to have probably the most choices, with direct flights to Lisbon or Porto from a lot of main USA cities together with Boston, New York (EWR), Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, and San Francisco. 

I’d suggest going to the Douro Valley in between Lisbon and Porto, so you may break up your journey with just a little downtime after fast-paced metropolis touring. You’ll be able to both take a prepare in between Lisbon and Porto (technically you may fly however that doesn’t appear price the time and effort concerned) or prepare a switch. I usually search for drivers on GetYourGuide or use a service like MyDayTrip.com.

In case you can’t get a direct flight into or out of Porto, you would at all times return to Lisbon or join by means of Lisbon. Nonetheless, in case you are connecting within the US anyway, it must be straightforward so that you can go into one metropolis and out of the opposite.

Day 1: Lisbon

You can begin your journey in both Porto or Lisbon, however I like beginning in Lisbon as a result of there’s simply a lot to do right here that I wouldn’t need to put it aside till the top when you’re getting drained. In case you are flying in from america, you’ll doubtless land early within the morning. A great way to beat jet lag in your first day is with a fast overview tour of the town. You would join a free strolling tour, however since you can be drained, one of the simplest ways is both a sidecar tour or a tuk-tuk tour.

The tour will begin to get you acquainted with the town, and you’ll establish a number of the greatest locations that it would be best to return to later by yourself. Another choice can be to make use of the historic Tram 28 as a enjoyable method to see the town, however these are likely to get actually crowded so that you might need a tough time getting a spot on board. Plus you gained’t get the private consideration and historical past that you’re going to get on a non-public tour.

A number of websites that you just need to ensure to go to over the following few days embrace the next. When you’ve got the power, stroll to some of those on the primary day and save the remaining for later. For extra particulars, remember to take a look at my 3 days in Lisbon itinerary.

Additionally, when you’re in crowded areas, remember to be careful for pickpockets and maintain your valuables in theft-proof baggage or wallets. Additionally, you will want some correct strolling sneakers for the hills and the slippery tile walkways.

• Rossio Sq. (black and white tiled sq.)
• Elevador da Glória (Funicular)
• Terraços do Carmo (overlook)
• Santa Justa Elevate (elevator)
• Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara (overlook)
• Bairro Alto district (eating places & bars)
• Commerce Sq. (Praça do Comércio)
• Rua Augusta Arch (you should buy a ticket to climb this too)
• Se Cathedral Lisbon
• Miradouro das Portas do Sol (overlook)
• Miradour de Santa Luzia (overlook)
• Alfama district (oldest neighborhood with slender, winding streets)
• Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte (overlook)
• São Jorge Fort (Castelo de São Jorge – Gothic structure fort)

The place to remain in Lisbon

I’ve stayed in three totally different locations in Lisbon and every would attraction to a distinct sort of traveler. First, I’d suggest staying in a central location, simply understand that the historic heart is busy and might be fairly noisy at night time. The primary was the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa, which is a luxurious resort on the tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade. Whereas it’s quiet simply on the outskirts of the town heart, it is usually a brief strolling distance to get to the guts of the motion. The rooms are spacious, the service top-notch, and there’s a beautiful rooftop bar and restaurant.

The subsequent place, Martinhal Lisbon Chiado, is ideal for households. These suites provide loads of house and every part you would wish when touring with youngsters — from step stools within the toilet or kid-friendly utensils within the kitchen. See my full assessment of household motels in Portugal.

The final was Baixa Home, which has a set of luxurious residences in an 18th-century constructing within the coronary heart of the historic metropolis heart. These are excellent for households, {couples}, or pal teams that need to be centrally positioned, with self-catering choices and a classy “native dwelling” really feel. Simply understand that this space can get noisy.

Day 2: Lisbon & Belem

In your second day in Lisbon, it would be best to hit the bottom early, as there’s a lot to discover! Begin off with a visit out to Belem (you may take a tram or prepare, however an Uber isn’t that rather more and cheaper in case you have just a few individuals.) In Belem, there are just a few main sights you don’t need to miss.

• Jerónimos Monastery — the road might be very lengthy so purchase your ticket upfront and go early
• Belém Tower — you may see this fifteenth century tower from the surface, or, when it’s open purchase a ticket to climb as much as the roof terrace
• Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)
• Pastēis de Belēm — line as much as buy these well-known custard tarts, some declare these are one of the best

After you have seen these important sights, in case you have extra time, you may also take a look at the MAAT (Museum of Artwork, Structure, and Expertise.) Additionally observe that if you’re going to go to fairly just a few of those sights, you might need to look into buying the Lisbon Card.

In case you can squeeze all that into your morning, I’d suggest heading over to Time Out Market in Lisbon for lunch. Stroll by means of this meals corridor and market and pattern small plates from a spread of distributors. You may additionally need to style the pastel de nata from Manteigaria and see which you want higher.

Within the afternoon, take a while to get misplaced within the Alfama district. Strive a number of the native Ginjinha cherry liqueur and take a look at the road artwork. When you’ve got time, pay a go to to the Fado Museum or the Museu Nacional do Azulejo (Nationwide Tile Museum.)

Within the night, take a sundown sail on the Tagus River. You’ll sail from the docks and go below the 25 de Abril Bridge to Belem. On the return journey, you’ll have nice views of the Sanctuary of Christ the King statue, which is a smaller model of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. For a particular splurge, deal with your self to a non-public crusing with Lisbon ByBoat.

At night time, ensure you absorb a fado present. There are a lot of locations within the Alfama neighborhood well-known for this soulful tune and guitar efficiency, however you may also e book a reservation at O Faia (Rua Barroca 56) in Bairro Alto, simply be ready to pay the minimal cowl cost in your meal and drinks.

Day 3: Sintra

Situated simply half-hour from Lisbon by prepare, a day journey to Sintra is a should if you go to Lisbon! Sintra has been a summer season retreat for monarchs and at present Sintra is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Set on a hilltop, it’s best to both take the prepare into Sintra or rent a driver for the day as a result of parking on the town is loopy. In case you take the prepare, you may then take a bus to the varied sights.

A number of “must-see” stops in Sintra embrace:

• Peña Palace and Park — you may choose to go to both the Palace and the Park, or simply buy a ticket to the park. The Palace ticket will get you into the inside, to view the royal rooms. To be trustworthy, except you will have a selected curiosity in castles and palaces, you can be simply as nicely off simply visiting the Park and having fun with the panoramic views from the Palace grounds. Even the park entrance will get you into the bottom of the fort. To go to the principle Palace space, you will have no less than an hour, extra in case you are going inside. However additionally, you will need to depart time to stroll by means of park, with its winding paths, pavilions and stone benches. A lot of that is behind the palace and will take you half a day or extra to totally discover.
• Quinta da Regaleira — make your subsequent cease this residence and park that was constructed on the finish of the nineteenth century and blends romanticism and fantasy in a parklike paradise that children will completely go loopy over. Plan on spending a half a day right here in case you can (there’s a cafe onsite.) The gardens are stuffed with secret tunnels and passageways, grottos and towers and the issues that make your creativeness come alive. One factor that may’t be missed is the Initiation Properly (Poço Imperfeito) and Lago da Cascata. 
• Palacio de Setais — is a five-minute stroll from Quinta da Regaleira and worthy of a cease. If for nothing else, you need to get a photograph right here with a view throughout the valley beneath. Nonetheless, it is usually a peaceable oasis for an opulent lunch on the Seteais Restaurant on the Tivoli Palacio de Setais.
• Castelo dos Mouros — climb alongside the traditional partitions of this Moorish fort.

Day 4: Cascais or Quinta de Sant’Ana

When you’ve got time for a fourth day in Lisbon, I’d suggest both spending time exploring Lisbon or taking one other day journey. If you wish to simply chill out, get pleasure from extra time strolling the small streets, historic websites, and boutiques in Lisbon. In any other case, I’d suggest taking a meals tour with Devour Excursions. If you wish to study just a little extra about Lisbon’s historic landmarks, take a strolling tour with Inside Lisbon.

Nonetheless, that is additionally an excellent alternative for an additional day journey. In heat climate, a well-liked spot is Cascais. This seaside vacation city has a seashore, strolling or bike paths alongside the coast, and a captivating downtown with vacationer retailers, eating places, and bars. A enjoyable spot for sundowners is the rooftop at Cafe Galeria Home of Wonders. You would additionally go to Praia das Maçãs (Apple Seaside), one other standard seashore, however it’s a little additional north than Cascais and places you a bit additional away from Lisbon.

In case you desire one thing a bit extra culturally immersive, plan a go to to Quinta de Sant’Ana. This household wine property is a well-liked wedding ceremony venue, however in addition they provide particular experiences like wine tasting, winery excursions, Portuguese bread making, and even a flower arranging workshop utilizing clippings from the farm’s personal flower fields.

Day 5: Douro River Valley

The lengthy drive from Lisbon to the Douro River Valley in Northern Portugal takes about 4 hours. You’ll be able to at all times break up your journey with stops in Nazaré, well-known for its browsing seashore, or Coimbra, a college city and one among Portugal’s largest cities. Nonetheless, I’d suggest attempting to drive proper by means of and luxuriate in a beautiful lunch overlooking the terraced vineyards of the Douro River Valley.

I’d suggest both DOC, from Chef Rui Paula, in Folgasa, or Cantina de Ventozelo in Ervedosa do Douro for lunch. Afterward, get pleasure from a scenic boat journey alongside the Douro River on one of many conventional boats that was used to move Port barrels downriver to Porto. An awesome spot for that is within the city of Pinhão.

The place to Keep in Douro

In case you take the prepare, Pinhão is an efficient spot to make your own home base. The Classic Home has a major location on the river, with a full-service restaurant, wine workshops, tennis courts, and a pool.

In case you are driving a rental automotive or have a driver, and you’ve got the finances, you may’t beat a keep on the Six Senses Douro Valley. This centrally-located luxurious resort has loads of actions and facilities on the property in case you can chill out and luxuriate in your keep. I’ve additionally written about different choices for the place to remain within the Douro Valley.

Day 6: Douro River Valley

Take a full day to benefit from the beautiful panorama and wineries of the Douro River Valley. Remember that you want appointments to go wine tasting on the Quintas. Navigating the slender roads alongside the river and up into the hills might be difficult when you’re sober, so it’s extremely beneficial that you just take a wine tour or rent a driver for a day tour.

We beloved our day exploring with Lab Portugal Excursions. Our driver and information Miguel organized three tastings and lunch for us, giving us an opportunity to pattern all sorts of Port and desk wine. On the finish of the day, you may get pleasure from some actions or rest at your resort.

Day 7: Porto

The drive from the Douro Valley to Porto takes about an hour and a half, leaving you loads of time to get pleasure from Porto. After you arrive, I’d suggest you head throughout the river to Gaia (Vila Nova de Gaia), which is definitely its personal metropolis nevertheless it feels so much like Budapest with Buda and Pest divided by the river.

In Gaia, it would be best to go to one of many Port homes for a tour and Port wine tastings, equivalent to Taylor’s, Churchill’s, Sandeman, or Calem. Proper subsequent door to Taylor’s is the fabulous WOW (World of Wine) leisure district. WOW is house to seven totally different museum experiences and twelve eating places in a single massive leisure advanced. Considered one of these experiences is The Chocolate Story, which covers the historical past of chocolate and explains the small print of the cacao harvesting and chocolate-making course of. Right here you may prepare a Port and chocolate pairing workshop.

At WOW you may also go to the Pink Palace, which immerses guests on the planet of rosé wine or study extra about Porto historical past on the Porto Area Throughout the Ages museum. Plan to have dinner at one among WOW’s many eating places, just like the Golden Catch Fish Restaurant or PIP, the family-friendly restaurant.

The place to Keep in Porto

If you wish to be near the motion within the metropolis heart, you might need to take a look at Gran Cruz Home proper on the river, Canto de Luz within the heart of city, or the Myo Design Home, which was owned and refurbished by an architect. Personally, I beloved our keep on the Vila Foz Resort & Spa.

Whereas Vila Foz is outdoors of the town heart, it has a beautiful location throughout from the ocean and so they provide transportation to downtown (or you would hop on a tram.) This luxurious, boutique property provides top-notch visitor service, connoisseur eating, a calming spa, and trendy design rooms or extra conventional decor within the manor home. Learn my full assessment on Vila Foz.

Day 8: Porto

Take your final full day in Porto to discover. I’d suggest taking a guided strolling tour with Discover Sideways, however if you wish to do a self-guided tour, see my information to Porto. A few of the must-see sights embrace:

• Igreja de São Francisco (Church of St. Francisco) — well-known for its gold-dust inside and the crypts
• Igreja do Carmo — take a look at the blue and white tiles on the aspect of the church
• Clérigos Tower — the Clérgios church and its tower is likely one of the most recognizable monuments in Porto. It was constructed between 1735 and 1748 in a baroque model. Immediately, you may go to the church (at no cost) and the tower (for a payment). For an excellent view of Porto, climb the 200+ steps of the tower and see its 49 bells.
• Livraria Lello bookstore — purchase tickets upfront and skip the road. Harry Potter followers gained’t need to miss this fantastical bookstore. Whereas it’s rumored to be J.Ok. Rowling’s inspiration for the dramatic staircases within the Harry Potter books and flicks, Rowling by no means really visited the store, regardless of dwelling in Porto for some time.
• São Bento prepare station – step inside to see a number of the beautiful tile murals that inform the story of Porto
• Porto Cathedral — see wonderful views of the town from this perch
• Ribeira Sq. and the waterfront
• Dom Luís I Bridge — connects downtown historic Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia and provides stunning views of the town and up and down the Douro River

You could need to finish your day with a river cruise to see the six bridges that join Porto.

For dinner, ensure you pattern one among Porto’s most well-known sandwiches, the francesinha. The Francesinha sandwich was created in Porto at A Regaleira and is a Portuguese tackle the French Croque monsieur. You will note it marketed throughout Porto, however A Regaleira serves up the unique. 

Day 9: Fly House

In case you left on a Friday night time and stayed in Portugal from Saturday to Saturday, you may fly house on Sunday and nonetheless solely take one week of paid day off in your trip. In case you do have additional time, you can begin in Porto after which tack on just a few days within the Algarve, Comporta, or Alentejo on the finish of your keep to create a 10-day Portugal itinerary.

Portugal Itinerary #2: Lisbon and Alentejo

When you’ve got by no means heard of the Alentejo area of Portugal, you aren’t alone. This under-the-radar vacation spot is the Tuscany of Portugal. Comprising one-third of the nation, this arid panorama of rolling hills, cork bushes, and vineyards is the breadbasket of Portugal. You’ll discover remnants of Historic Roman ruins, fortified medieval cities and castles, and huge wine estates.

With all of the wide-open areas, it is a nice area for a Portugal street journey that might attraction to historical past buffs, wine fanatics, households, and adventurous vacationers seeking to join with the land, the individuals, and agriculture. Given the dimensions of the area, it may be tempting to divide your keep into two totally different locations. Nonetheless, the place you keep will depend on how a lot time you need to spend driving between lodging and what number of instances you need to transfer in a brief one-week trip.

Personally, I’d suggest spending three nights in Lisbon and 4 nights in Alentejo of the proper period of time. I’d decide a central location like Evora or Monsaraz and provides myself extra time to chill out on the property and take a few day journeys from there.

When to Go

The factor to bear in mind about Alentejo is that it’s dry and might be very popular in the summertime, with temperatures in extra of 100 levels Fahrenheit. If you wish to do a Lisbon and Alentejo Portugal itinerary, it could be greatest to plan it throughout Could-June or September-October. April and November can are typically wet in Alentejo and a few properties shut or have extra restricted facilities within the winter. I visited in October and the climate was nonetheless heat sufficient to need to get pleasure from a day or two by the swimming pool.

Methods to Get There

Plan to fly out and in of Lisbon, as described above. Then, when you’re prepared to go away Lisbon, hire a automotive in your drive to Alentejo. Whereas many actions might be loved on the property at most of the motels, you want a automotive if you wish to discover the countryside and the medieval cities. When touring in Europe, I normally use Auto Europe to seek out one of the best charges and protection for rental automobiles.

Days 1-3: Lisbon

I’d recommend beginning your journey in Lisbon so to chill out and luxuriate in your downtime after some busy metropolis exploration. Comply with the recommended Lisbon itinerary from above.

Days 4: Evora

On the fourth day of your Portugal itinerary, I like to recommend heading east to Alentejo. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Lisbon to the favored metropolis of Evora. Evora has change into a well-liked day journey from Lisbon, however you may spend just a little extra time in case you are really staying in Alentejo.

A number of of the “must-see” sights in Evora are:

• Bone Chapel Of The Church Of St. Francis (Capela dos Ossos) — The Bone Chapel of Evora was constructed by a monk throughout the Sixteenth-century church with a objective of encouraging individuals to mirror on the transitory nature of life. The chapel is constructed utilizing the bones of roughly 5,000 our bodies exhumed from the town’s graveyards. Fairly macabre, however a well-liked attraction none-the-less.
• The Roman Temple of Diana — Constructed within the 2nd or third century, this temple remains to be in good situation, with 14 surviving columns topped by Corinthian capitals on a granite base.
• Evora Cathedral (Se) — there are a lot of church buildings to see in Evora, however in case you solely have time for one you need to take a look at the cathedral close to the Temple of Diana. The within is extra spectacular of the surface, that includes an 18th-century excessive altar and polished marble chancel. The treasury homes many sacred artifacts, together with uncommon and priceless items manufactured from gold, silver, and different treasured metals. 
• Aquaduct of Silver Water — accomplished in 1530 and designed by Francisco de Arruda (who designed the Tower of Belem), cease to see this spectacular aquaduct in your approach in or out of city.

After visiting Evora, proceed on to your lodging. I’d suggest São Lourenço do Barrocal in case your finances permits, however I’ve visited 4 motels in Alentejo and actually beloved all of them.

The place to Keep in Alentejo

• Torre de Palma — close to the village of Vaiamonte, the historic Torre de Palma Wine Resort dates again 1338. Restored in 2014, the Torre de Palma provides a spread of distinctive and individually adorned rooms and suites. On property, you may chill out on the pool, stroll by means of the vineyards, or get pleasure from both a horse-drawn carriage experience or horseback driving. Torre de Palma additionally has a powerful wine tasting room and winemaking operation, providing excursions, tastings, and wine mixing courses.
• Octant Resort Evora — this resort provides 56 rooms and 5 villas, all of which have an open-air balconies or terraces and the villas have a balcony and personal pool. Some rooms are even outfitted with family-friendly bunkbeds along with the double mattress.
• São Lourenço do Barrocal — São Lourenço do Barrocal has earned the Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Award for Prime Resort in Spain and Portugal for 2021 and it’s straightforward to see why. On property, company can get pleasure from property excursions, wine tasting, horseback driving, birding, archeological visits, backyard visits, and family-friendly treasure hunts. Along with enjoyable on the spa or outside swimming pools, the resort may also prepare sizzling air balloon rides, star gazing experiences with an astronomer, sky diving, boat excursions, and extra.
• Herdade da Malhadinha Nova — This Relais & Chateaux property is not like different wine motels in Portugal. Unfold out between six uniquely totally different buildings on this 450-hectare wine property, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova blends into the magnificent panorama, providing authenticity with high-touch service and opulent environment. Each day actions can embrace: archery, quad bike rides, horseback driving, fishing, working and exercise courses, hikes, tennis, mountain biking, guided walks, wine tasting programs, cooking workshops, household treasure hunts, portray, jeep excursions, carriage rides, driving classes, star gazing, pottery, canoeing, chicken watching, sizzling air balloon rides, connoisseur picnics, and a lot extra.

See evaluations of those wine motels in Portugal and extra.

Day 5: Rest

After a busy few days, you’ll respect the chance to chill out. Lots of the motels on this space provide a spread of on-site properties. I’d recommend beginning your keep off on a excessive observe by pre-arranging a sizzling air balloon experience over Alentejo. Granted, it makes for an early morning (not as unhealthy within the fall as it’s in the summertime), however the views might be spectacular. Simply understand that wind or climate circumstances could cause the tour to get canceled (that is what occurred to us however fortunately I’ve gone hot-air ballooning earlier than in Ronda, Spain, not too distant.) That’s the reason you need to plan this early in your keep so you will have an opportunity to reschedule if the climate improves.

After an early morning begin, it would be best to get pleasure from a leisurely breakfast and a few of that scrumptious Portuguese orange juice, honey, and pastries. This may occasionally even be a very good day to sit down by the pool, get pleasure from a conventional Alentejo picnic, or a calming horseback or carriage experience.

Finish your day with a customized wine tasting, vineyard tour, or wine pairing workshop earlier than having fun with a number of the connoisseur eating on the property.

Day 6: Redondo

A good way to attach with the native tradition is to spend a day on a cork farm with Cork Trekking. You’ll take a 4×4 safari by means of the farm property and study extra about one among Portugal’s hottest merchandise. You will note cork bushes and learn the way cork is harvested. Cork is definitely a sort of oak tree and bushes must be no less than 25 years previous earlier than they’ll harvest cork (though some wait as much as 40 years). The bark is fastidiously shorn from the trunk and decrease limbs after which farmers wait no less than 9 to eleven years between harvests.

A cork trekking expedition will embrace a stroll by means of the bushes, together with a 4×4 experience as much as a shocking viewpoint overlooking Alentejo. You may also embrace a picnic lunch and a wine tasting from the farm’s award-winning vineyard. That is actually a singular expertise that you could’t do anyplace else!

End your day with a late-night stargazing session. Your resort can most likely prepare a non-public stargazing session with an astronomer, but when that isn’t within the finances, all you actually need to do is stroll outdoors and on a transparent night time, you may see the Milky Method together with your naked eye. There are additionally two observatories close by, the Observatorio Darkish Sky Alqueva and the Observatorio Lago Alqueva.

Day 7: Monsaraz & Estremoz

In your final full day in Alentejo, you might need to take some extra time to discover. Begin off with a hike to the close by Roman Ruins or Megoliths (in case you are staying at Torre de Palma or São Lourenço do Barrocal.)

Then got down to discover the close by walled small city of Monsaraz. This little village is completely enclosed inside fortress partitions and is house to a well-preserved medieval fort. Additionally remember to cease within the city of Sao Pedro do Corval, which is understood for its pottery and residential to greater than 20 artisanal pottery workshops.

Subsequent, I’d suggest getting lunch in Estremoz and taking a while to discover this glowing white city, the place most of the buildings are constructed utilizing locally-quarried marble. Solely Carrara in Italy exports extra marble than Estremoz, and the quarries outdoors of city have been in use since Roman instances. After I visited, we had a really good lunch at Alecrim.

Day 8: Return house

In your last day, attempt to schedule a mid-day flight again house, supplying you with loads of time to get again from Alentejo, return your automotive, and nonetheless get to the airport in time. In case you can take an additional day, you may both spend extra time at your resort in Alentejo or break up your keep between two motels, so you may have a while having fun with each properties.

Another choice is to return again to Lisbon, however cease for the afternoon and spend the night time in Cascais. Alternatively, you would spend an additional day in Lisbon earlier than heading to Alentejo.

Portugal Itinerary #3: Lisbon and Algarve

The Algarve area is likely one of the hottest locations to go to in Portugal. Situated alongside the nation’s southern coast, this area is known for its coastal cities, beautiful cliffs, and sea caves. Whereas many individuals might spend a full week within the Algarve, I’d suggest spending three to 4 days in Lisbon after which three to 4 days within the Algarve.

When to Go

The Algarve is a well-liked vacation spot for Portuguese, British vacationers, and different vacationers, particularly in the summertime. In actual fact, for some, a trip to Portugal means every week or extra spent within the Algarve. So, if you wish to keep away from the crowds, it’s best to go within the shoulder season, from mid-April by means of June and September-October, though the Algarve can actually be beautiful year-round. Even within the winter, the Algarve coast sees temperatures from the mid-40s F to the 60s, however it is going to be a bit rainier from November by means of February.

I visited in October and located the climate completely excellent with sunny days for climbing the cliffs and even heat sufficient that I used to be tempted to take a dip within the Atlantic Ocean.

Getting There

It takes about three hours by automotive to get from Lisbon to the Algarve. In case you desire, you may take a prepare in about 4 hours, however I’d suggest having a automotive to discover the Algarve.

Days 1-4: Lisbon

Use the itinerary above for the start of your keep in Portugal with a house base in Lisbon. Since you can be visiting the coast for the remainder of your journey, I’d skip the day journey to Cascais and spend extra time in Lisbon with a meals tour or historical past tour, go to extra of the museums, or plan an tour to Quinta de Sant’Ana or a day journey to Fatima, Nazare, or Óbidos the place you may stroll the partitions, go to the varied church buildings, and discover the cobblestone streets.

Day 5: Sagres and LagoS

Make your approach down the coast, stopping in Sagres, the southernmost level of Portugal. Sagres is called a browsing vacation spot, but when that isn’t for you, make a cease to see the Fortaleza de Sagres (Sagres Fortress). This fortified sea wall and surrounding cliffs make a pure look-out level. Sagres’ distant location on a peninsula retains a number of the crowds away, so you might need to take a look at the golden sands of Praia da Mareta.

If you wish to see the westernmost level of mainland Europe, Cabo São Vicente lies round 4 miles from Sagres. There isn’t a lot to see past the lighthouse, and the winds might be whipping, so don’t fear about lacking something in case you resolve to skip it.

In your method to Lagos, make a cease within the former fishing village of Burgau. There are a lot of scenic strolling paths round Burgau and you’ll benefit from the colourful homes on the town.

Subsequent up, head to Lagos, one of many bigger cities within the Algarve, it nonetheless maintains a small-town really feel with a glowing clear historic heart and slender streets with tiled sidewalks which might be lined with retailers and eating places. You could need to take time to discover the city and the traditional metropolis partitions, and respect the influences of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors who all invaded this area at one level in historical past. One other focal point is the Igreja de Santo António, often known as the golden church as a result of spectacular baroque gilt work on show that includes cherubs and animals customary out of Brazilian gold.

The place to Keep within the Algarve

If you wish to take advantage of your keep within the Algarve, I’d suggest avoiding a number of the highly regarded cities like Albufeira or Faro. You’re higher off both staying barely off the coast or all the best way east or west within the Algarve. Personally, I beloved the cities of Lagos and Carvoeiro, and I do know Sagres is standard with surfers and households. A number of suggestions on the place to remain embrace:

• Morgado do Quintão — in case you desire a self-catering, genuine vineyard expertise, check out the Morgado do Quintão. Whereas not on the scenic shoreline, this wine resort is only a quick drive to the dramatic cliffs and seaside villages. This landmark winery provides a country, however idyllic farm keep expertise with three-bedroom cottages that includes a full farm kitchen and personal pool. Breakfast might be offered by the kitchen in the principle home as nicely.
• Casa Mae — positioned in Lagos, Casa Mae provides quick access to eating places, retailers, and historic sights in addition to the seashores and cliffs. The resort contains a farm-to-table restaurant, pool, and up to date however minimalist decor utilizing Portuguese traditions.
• Casa Modesta — positioned in Olhão, Casa Modesta is a household owned resort that overlooks a pure park. 
• Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort — each since staying within the Tivoli in Lisbon, I’ve been a fan of those luxurious motels. In case you are in search of a bigger resort property with a major location and wonderful views, the Tivoli Carvoeiro delivers.
• Martinhal Sagres Seaside Resort — nobody beats Martinhal on the subject of family-friendly resorts and this sprawling advanced has one thing for everybody, making it one among my picks for greatest household motels in Portugal.

Day 6: Lagos

In case you are staying in Lagos (and even in case you are not), I’d suggest spending the day exploring the close by seashores and strolling paths alongside the cliffs. Praia da Batata is a gorgeous seashore with a small seashore bar. Nonetheless, if you need one thing extra intimate, stroll over to Praia dos Estudantes. Set in a small cove, you may stroll by means of a rock tunnel for a quieter seashore with a view of the Roman bridge. Simply regulate the tides!

One of many prettiest spots is Praia do Camilo. You have to to wind your approach down the 200+ wood stairs to get there, however it’s price it. Subsequent, drive or bike right down to Ponta da Piedade. You’ll be able to spend hours strolling the paths alongside the coast right here and simply sitting and taking within the beautiful viewpoints. Do take the time to stroll down the steps to see the rock formations and cliffs from up shut. Simply understand that happening is so much simpler than coming again up.

See extra issues to do in Lagos in your journey!

Day 7: Discover Cities & Seashores

Additionally, you will need to take a day to discover extra of the cities and seashores alongside the coast. In case you are staying close to Sagres or Lagos, begin in Carvoeiro. Carvoeiro is a fishing village turned vacationer vacation spot, however whereas it has a number of the indicators of the tourism inflow from Irish Pubs to memento retailers, it nonetheless maintains its small-town appeal. There are many eating places and bars (I had an excellent peri peri rooster at Don Carvoeiro) too if you wish to cease for lunch.

From Carvoeiro, you may stroll alongside the cliffs to see a number of the stunning rock formations, like Algar Seco, which is for its rock home windows. If you find yourself coming again by means of Carvoeiro, Restaurante Boneca Bar is a good spot to have a drink and dinner and benefit from the sundown. Additionally take a look at Praia de Vale Covo, the place you will get an excellent view inside one of many Algarve’s cliff caves.

If you want to go to some seashores, Praia da Marinha is commonly praised as probably the most stunning seashores within the Algarve. Situated between golden cliffs, you want to stroll round a promontory of rock to get there so take note of the tides. Praia de Albandeira just a little additional east is one other nice decide. The correct aspect of the seashore provides a view of the Arco de Albandeira – a placing pure arch main from the cliffs into the ocean. 

In case you proceed east alongside the coast, you can see Praia da Coelha, one of many quieter seashores within the Algarve. Or, in case you desire to discover cities, cease at Olhão. This cute fishing city has a reasonably waterfront, fishing harbor, and a maze of cobblestone streets to discover. That is extra of a working city than a vacationer city, so it’s the place to go if you wish to see an genuine Portuguese fishing village.

The city opens onto the Parque Pure da Ria Formosa, made up of saltwater lagoons and guarded waterways which might be house to in depth chicken and marine life. You’ll be able to discover this space by strolling paths, kayaks, or boat excursions that depart from the Olhão Harbor.

Don’t miss a go to to postcard-perfect Tavira. This can be a white-washed village that’s usually cited as one of many prettiest cities in Portugal. Well-liked with vacationers and Portuguese alike, take a while to discover the Moorish influences within the metropolis heart and benefit from the colourful buildings and complicated tilework. You may also go to the Praia do Barril, which is a reasonably seashore and residential to the “Anchor Cemetary.”

Day 8: Watersports

You shouldn’t depart the Algarve with out getting out onto the water. In fact probably the most standard excursions is a ship tour to the Benagil Sea Cave, whose domed arch and pure skylight are Instagram well-known. Simply understand that that is extraordinarily standard and may get very crowded. If you wish to do it, it is perhaps price hiring a non-public boat.

In any other case, there are many different boat excursions alongside the coast. I believe an effective way to discover the nooks and crannies of the shoreline can be with a kayaking tour. If the water is calm, you may also get pleasure from stand-up paddleboarding. Households particularly would additionally get pleasure from both a dolphin-watching tour or a snorkeling tour in the summertime.

Day 9: Fly House

It’s doable to fly from Faro, within the Algarve, to Lisbon to hook up with your return flight house. Nonetheless, it would be best to verify the instances to verify it might work. In any other case, you want a really early morning drive as much as Lisbon or to in a single day in Lisbon earlier than your return house.

Portugal Itinerary #4: Lisbon and Comporta

In case you are visiting Portugal in the summertime, it’s good to stability out a little bit of metropolis touring with downtime on the seashore to beat the warmth. In case you don’t have quite a lot of time and need to spend extra time enjoyable than exploring cities or driving lengthy distances, I’d suggest pairing 4 days in Lisbon with three to 4 days in Comporta.

Comporta is a seashore and golf city only one and a half hours south of Lisbon which has not too long ago change into standard with celebrities (Madonna has had a home right here). The world is surrounded by rice fields, pine forests, and the beautiful coast. The most effective seashores are vast and lengthy, with delicate sand and rolling dunes, so that you gained’t must battle for a spot in your seashore blanket, not like a number of the smaller seashores within the Algarve.

When to Go

It is sensible to decide on this itinerary in case you are visiting from Could by means of October, however seashore lovers can respect the great thing about Comporta year-round.

Getting There

With its shut proximity to Lisbon, you may at all times prepare a switch for a car-free trip, however then you might be reliant on resort shuttles to get you to the seashore and again, as most aren’t positioned straight on the seashore, and features for these can get lengthy. For probably the most flexibility, you need to hire a automotive in your approach out of Lisbon on the airport after which drop it off earlier than you fly out.

Days 1-4: Lisbon

Comply with the Lisbon itinerary from above for the primary three days of your keep. Nonetheless, on the third day, I’d suggest both taking extra time to discover the town with a meals tour or different exercise or get pleasure from a day journey to Óbidos, Nazare, and Fatima. I’d skip Cascais this time round since you can be spending the following few days by the ocean.

The place to Keep in Comporta

The Elegant Comporta can be my decide for lodging for each {couples}, solo vacationers, and households. This eco-friendly property has a nature lodge really feel with the upscale facilities of a luxurious property. The usual rooms are a bit small, so I’d splurge for a little bit of an improve, and households will love the multi-bedroom villa choices. On-site you may benefit from the pool, spa, eating places, and actions. A fast shuttle experience will get you to the seashore and the independently-operated Elegant Comporta Seaside Membership.

Only a observe that in case you are different properties, watch out for these which might be positioned near the rice fields, particularly in the summertime. These wetlands entice mosquitos that might make your keep disagreeable except you might be closely doused in DEET every day.

Day 5-8: Comporta

The good factor about this itinerary is that it is extremely laid again. If you wish to spend the following 4 days on the seashore — go for it! Nonetheless, in case you are fascinated with just a few excursions, one to place in your listing is a sundown horseback experience alongside the seashore.

You may also give paddleboarding, kayaking, and even kite browsing a attempt in Comporta. Elegant Comporta may also prepare for wine tasting, picnics, dolphin excursions, chicken watching, tennis, golf, or non-public yoga classes.

Day 9: Fly House

Flying house is simple as Comporta is barely an hour and a half or much less to the Lisbon airport, making it a very good choice even in case you solely have 5 days in Portugal.

So there you will have it, 4 totally different one-week Portugal itineraries. Keep in mind, if you need some assist planning your Portugal itinerary and discovering distinctive actions with out the headache and time suck of doing all of the analysis and planning, attain out to my accomplice EPIC Journey to see how they may help (and don’t overlook to inform them you examine them on We3Travel!)

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