If you have a trip to Portugal in mind and you are undecided about your itinerary, read the following 7-day Portugal itinerary. Here we provide you with some details you should know before your trip: what is the best time to visit, what activities you can do according to your time, and what you should pack. Check it out now!
What To Know Before Your Trip to Portugal
What is the best time to visit Portugal for good weather?
The best times for you to come to Portugal are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). In these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and tourist explorations without so much traffic.
How to get around Portugal?
If you are planning a 7-day itinerary in Portugal without a car, take advantage of the extensive public transport network so you can move within and between cities. The most common means is buses, with Carris in Lisbon and STCP in Porto. The metro runs daily between 6:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m., and trains Comboios de Portugal connect the main cities.
How many days do you need in Portugal?
A 3 to 5-day trip to Lisbon is perfect for seeing the top attractions and enjoying the local food. With a Portugal itinerary in 7 days, you can explore Lisbon for 2 or 3 days, then head to Porto (2 days) and take an excursion to the Douro region or the Algarve coast.
Ten days in Lisbon will allow you a complete experience. A typical itinerary might include 3 days in Lisbon, 2 in Porto, 2 in the Algarve, and one day in Coimbra. Take your time to enjoy the main attractions each city has to offer. If you want to explore Portugal in-depth, ideally, you should stay 14 days or more. This way, you can include less touristy regions such as Alentejo, the Azores, or Madeira, which also have their charm.
Is Portugal expensive for travelers?
Portugal is a moderately expensive destination for travelers compared to other countries in Europe. For example, a Portugal itinerary in 7 days with a basic budget that includes accommodation in a budget room, street food or in-budget restaurants, and car rental or public transportation with reduced tickets could be between $400 and $600 per person.
Keep in mind that the total cost will also depend on the type of accommodation you choose and if you decide to use services such as guided tours. Prices may vary depending on the region and the time of year you visit.
How long will it take to explore Portugal fully?
Exploring Portugal in its entirety can take between 10 and 14 days, depending on the activities you are interested in, the places you choose to visit, and the pace at which you prefer to travel. In addition to the major attractions, you have time to explore lesser-known areas that also have something to offer.
How to stay connected with mobile data in Portugal?
To use mobile data in Portugal, you can either get a local SIM card or use an eSIM from any of the best providers that work there.
A good option is Yoho Mobile, which offers eSIMs that let you stay connected even without Wi-Fi. Get real-time local updates and keep in touch with friends while enjoying your trip.
- Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
What to see and do in Portugal in three days?
If you have only three days to explore Portugal, an itinerary that combines Lisbon and its surroundings is ideal to make the most of your time. On the first day, you can start at Praça do Comércio, then explore the historic Alfama district and enjoy the nightlife in Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré.
On the second day, you can venture on a 30-minute trip to Belém by public transport. Don’t miss the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, the Belém Tower, and the famous Pastéis de Belém. Then, return to Lisbon and explore LX Factory, an artistic area with unique stores.
Dedicate the third day to an excursion to Sintra. Take the early train from Rossio Station to Sintra (45 minutes) and visit Pena Palace first to avoid the crowds. Then, return to Lisbon in the afternoon or enjoy a boat ride on the Tagus River if you have time.
What to pack for 7 days in Portugal?
For your 7-day trip to Portugal, bring a pair of light, comfortable pants or jeans, several T-shirts, and a few blouses for evening outings. If traveling in summer, a light dress is perfect for warm weather. Pack a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings, especially near the coast, and enough underwear and socks for the week.
If you plan to visit beaches or swimming pools, pack your bathing suit. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring cities with cobblestone streets, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops are useful for the beach or relaxing at the hotel. Be sure to pack a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a scarf or bandana, personal medication, and a charger for your cell phone.
Don’t forget your passport and important documents, along with a small backpack or bag to carry your belongings during daily excursions.
Explore Portugal in 7 Days
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon
Nothing better than starting your Portugal itinerary in 7 days with some of the most breathtaking views of Lisbon from the towers and walls of Castelo de São Jorge, including historic neighborhoods such as Alfama, the city center, and the Tagus River.
Photo by Mylo Kaye
Visit the Time Out Market, an excellent place to enjoy a varied and delicious lunch. There are more than 30 stalls with many culinary options, such as Bacalhau à Brás; Francesinha, a typical Porto sandwich; sushi, pizzas, and tapas.
Don’t miss an evening stroll in Alfama, known for its narrow cobblestone streets that sparkle with nighttime illumination. The ancient architecture and decorative tiles create an enchanting atmosphere. The views are breathtaking from several viewpoints, such as Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia, where you can contemplate the Tagus River and the city lights.
Day 2: Discover More of Lisbon
Dedicate a morning to the highlights of Belém. Start with the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a World Heritage Site; the Belém Tower, one of Lisbon’s most recognizable symbols; and the Berardo Museum, with an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. You can’t leave without trying the famous pastéis de Belém, a local specialty.
Photo by João Reguengos on Unsplash
Then head to Baixa, Lisbon’s commercial and financial heart, known for its neoclassical architecture and spacious squares. Start your tour at the impressive Praça do Comércio and the Arco da Rua Augusta, a pedestrian street lined with stores, cafés, and restaurants where you can have lunch.
Later, you can head to La Pink Street, one of the city’s most popular nightlife destinations, which is full of energy with music and laughter. End your night at Musicbox, one of the most popular clubs known for its live performances.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra & Cascais
The next journey of your 7-day itinerary in Portugal begins at Pena Palace. Enjoy the interior and the stunning outdoor gardens. Afterward, you can walk to Castelo dos Mouros, which is nearby and offers panoramic views. Then head to the center of Sintra for lunch and explore Quinta da Regaleira, famous for its unique architecture.
Photo by Mylo Kaye
Later, visit the Quinta da Regaleira Gardens and explore the winding paths leading to various grottoes and tunnels. These secret spaces are designed for an experience of discovery, and you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale.
Enjoy the beaches of Cascais, such as Praia da Rainha and Praia do Guincho, perfect for sunbathing or swimming. You can also walk along the promenade that connects Cascais to Estoril, ideal for a relaxing walk or a bike ride.
Day 4: Explore Óbidos & Tomar
Early in the morning, venture on a walking tour in Óbidos. Start at the 14th-century walls surrounding the town and see the tiled roofs and white houses decorated with bougainvillea. Stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, where you will find craft stores, cafes, and local restaurants. Don’t forget to try the famous Ginja de Óbidos, a tasty cherry liqueur.
Photo by Hasmik Ghazaryan Olson on Unsplash
Then head to the Convent of Christ, an important religious and cultural center for centuries. Join a guided tour for detailed information about the history and architecture of the site. End the day at the Sanctuary of Fatima, a site of great cultural importance that includes the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Chapel of Apparitions.
Day 5: Fly to the Azores
Arrive in Ponta Delgada, the capital of the island of São Miguel in the Azores, to explore the main points of interest of the city, such as the António Borges Botanical Garden, the Church of São Sebastião, and the Graça Market, where you can taste local products and buy souvenirs.
In the afternoon, we recommend hiking the most important trails, such as Boca do Inferno, known for its easy access and spectacular views at the end; Mata do Canário, which goes through a dense forest; or Serra Devassa, which offers a tour around the surrounding mountains and craters, with spectacular views of the volcanic landscape.
Day 6: Explore Azores’ Natural Wonders
If you are passionate about marine life, don’t miss the whale-watching experience with companies like Moby Dick Tours, Terra Azul, or Futurismo, one of the oldest and most recognized companies in the Azores that focuses on scientific research and respect for whales.
Later, visit some of the main Black Sand Beaches in São Miguel. For example, Praia do Areal de Santa Barbara, which is famous for its black sand and impressive waves, is great for surfers. It also has a café where you can enjoy lunch.
Photo by Matej Pribanic on Unsplash
Whether you’re watching whales or visiting black sand beaches, having internet makes your trip easier. With a Yoho Mobile eSIM, you can look up tour details, get directions, and share your trip without needing Wi-Fi.
Stay online and enjoy your adventure.
Travel, Celebrate, Stay Connected With Yoho Mobile
Use a Yoho Mobile eSIM and say goodbye to roaming fees and SIM cards.
Stay connected, wherever you are!
Day 7: Taste Azorean Cuisine and Farewell
For the last part of your Portugal itinerary in 7 days, enjoy the Seafood Feast in Ponta Delgada. Sample delicious seafood at popular restaurants such as A Tasca, with several traditional Portuguese dishes, including fresh seafood; Cantinho do Casi, known for its specialty fish soup; or Cais 20, famous for its octopus and other dishes.
Photo by Terje Sollie
Next, take an “island hopping” adventure in the Azores, and explore the main islands, such as São Miguel, with many hiking activities, beaches, and local gastronomy, and Terceira, known for its great history and festivals. It is a good option to end your tour.
Is Portugal Worth Visiting?
Yes, Portugal is a great place to visit because it has rich cultural experiences, breathtaking natural landscapes, and good services at reasonable prices. There are 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mainly in cities like Lisbon and Porto. If you love the coast, the Algarve region has amazing beaches and cliffs. Therefore, we recommend you plan for a Portugal itinerary in 7 days so you don’t miss anything.