Portugal Itinerary: A 10-Day Trip Through Portugal’s Most Magical Spots

Welcome to Lisbon! After settling into your hotel, take a moment to soak in the charm of this lively city. Start your adventure with a stroll through Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods, where historic squares, grand architecture and boutique shops set the scene. Grab lunch at a cozy café—maybe try bacalhau à brás, a classic Portuguese dish. In the afternoon, hop on a Tuk-Tuk tour for a fun and effortless way to see the city’s highlights. Afterward, get dropped off at the colorful Pink Street, a lively area packed with bars and street art. End the night at the Time Out Market. Here you can sample a little bit of everything — whether it's fresh seafood, traditional pastéis de nata, or a glass of local wine.

Time to escape the city for a magical day trip! A driver picks you up in the morning for an unforgettable journey to Sintra, a place straight out of a fairytale. Wander through the Pena Palace, perched high on a hill with its whimsical colors and intricate details. Then, take your time exploring Sintra’s charming streets — this is the perfect place to grab a pastry and coffee while soaking up the atmosphere. The adventure continues to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where rugged cliffs drop dramatically into the Atlantic. Finally, head to the stylish coastal town of Cascais, where you can enjoy a leisurely seaside walk, browse small shops or just relax with an ice cream in hand. Return to Lisbon in the evening, full of new memories, and cap off the day with a well-deserved dinner.

Today is all about history, culture and a touch of modern Lisbon. Start the morning in Belém, home to some of Portugal’s most famous landmarks. Visit Belém Tower, which once guarded the city from invaders, and step inside the Jerónimos Monastery, an architectural masterpiece filled with ornate details. No trip to Belém is complete without a visit to Pastéis de Belém. This is where the original (and arguably best) pastel de nata was created, so grab one (or three). For lunch, head to the LX Factory, a trendy hub of restaurants, boutiques and street art. This spot feels like Lisbon’s creative heartbeat, making it a fun place to explore. In the evening, make your way to Alfama, the city’s oldest and most atmospheric district. Catch the sunset from a viewpoint before heading to Mesa de Frades. It is a tiny, intimate venue where you’ll experience an authentic fado dinner — soulful music, candlelit ambiance and a deep dive into Portuguese culture.

Say goodbye to Lisbon (for now) and hop on a train or flight to Porto. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel, then head out to explore at your own pace. Porto has a completely different feel from Lisbon — more intimate, with a mix of grandeur and gritty charm. Stroll along the Ribeira District, where colorful buildings line the riverfront. Maybe pop into Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores (and rumored inspiration for Harry Potter fans). As the day winds down, find a cozy spot for dinner and try Francesinha, Porto’s famous (and indulgent) sandwich — it’s messy, rich and totally worth it.

Today is a special one — a venture into the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO-listed region known for its vineyards and rolling hills. This all-day tour will take you through some of Portugal’s best wineries, where you’ll sip on Port and table wines while learning about their production. Between tastings, enjoy a scenic river cruise, where you can admire the terraced vineyards from the water. A traditional Portuguese lunch in a charming countryside setting is the cherry on top. After a full day of indulging in great wine, food and stunning landscapes, head back to Porto for a relaxed evening.

Wake up to another beautiful day in Porto! Start by immersing yourself in Portugal’s iconic azulejo tiles at São Bento Train Station, where 20,000 blue-and-white tiles depict the country’s rich history. Then visit Igreja do Carmo, a baroque masterpiece with a stunning tile-covered façade, and Capela das Almas, a hidden gem wrapped in deep blue azulejos. In the afternoon, hop on an electric bike tour, gliding through Porto’s hilly streets to top landmarks, hidden gems, and breathtaking viewpoints like Miradouro da Vitória. By evening, unwind in the Ribeira District with a glass of Port wine and a delicious meal. For a special treat, dine at Casa de Chá da Boa Nova, a Michelin-starred coastal restaurant where the views are as spectacular as the food.

After breakfast, it’s time to switch gears and head south to the Algarve. Check into your beachside hotel, where relaxation is the name of the game. Take the rest of the day to unwind — lounge by the pool, take a stroll along the cliffs overlooking the ocean. This is your chance to slow down and soak up the laid-back coastal vibes.

For the next two days, enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure. Spend time on your hotel’s private beach, treat yourself to a spa day or explore nearby coastal towns. One of these days, head to Lagos, a gem of the Algarve. Start with a kayak tour, paddling through the famous Benagil Caves and grottoes. The crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations make for an unforgettable experience. After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at Restaurante Ala do Castelo or Restaurante Calhou, both great options for fresh seafood. Take some time to wander through the charming streets of Lagos, filled with whitewashed buildings and colorful tiles. Before heading back, stop at Rei das Praias, a stylish beachfront spot for a pre-dinner snack or cocktail while watching the waves.

On your last day, make your way back to Lisbon. If you have a few hours to spare, indulge in a bit of shopping. Whether it’s luxury brands along Avenida da Liberdade, unique finds in Lisbon’s hidden boutiques or local ceramics and textiles at a charming market. If you can, grab one last meal at one of your favorite spots and take in the atmosphere one more time. As your trip comes to a close, it's time to head to the airport. Your heart full of incredible memories — and maybe a suitcase packed with some Portuguese treasures. Until next time, Portugal!