Curator’s statement
Portugal was the first country I ever visited in Europe. I was captivated by its rich history, stunning landscapes, breathtaking landscapes, a rich cultural tapestry, and laid-back cities. Portugal has something for every type of traveler, from the vibrant, picturesque streets of Lisbon and historic charm of Porto, to the sun-kissed beaches of the Algarve. Visitors can explore the cobbled alleyways of medieval villages, savor delectable Portuguese cuisine, and experience world-class surfing on its iconic coastlines.
The Fora Difference
Book with Mikayla to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel
Immerse yourself in elegance and Portuguese charm at Renaissance Porto Lapa Hotel, where stylish accommodations, contemporary design, and a prime location in Porto come together to create a memorable stay in the heart of the city.
Fora Perks
- ★
VIP welcome & amenity
- ★
Breakfast daily
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
Pestana Palace Lisboa
Experience royal elegance and historic charm at Pestana Palace Lisboa, where opulent accommodations, lush gardens and a central location create an exceptional stay in the heart of Portugal's capital.
Fora Perks
- ★
Resort / hotel credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection
This former 13th-century Dominican convent has been restored to a luxury hotel with a welcoming neutral design, an indoor rooftop pool with scenic views and a firepit in the open-air cloister.
Fora Perks
- ★
VIP welcome & amenity
- ★
Upgrade whenever possible
- ★
Extended check-in/out whenever possible
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort
Where luxury indulges the senses, providing a sophisticated retreat in the heart of the Algarve, blending modern comforts with Portuguese charm.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hospes Infante Sagres Porto
Hospes Infante Sagres Porto is a luxurious boutique hotel in Porto, Portugal, combining historic grandeur with contemporary elegance, providing a refined retreat in the heart of the city.
Fora Perks
- ★
$50-100 food / beverage or spa credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Mikayla to book your trip.
Day 1: Exploring Porto's Architecture
Spend your first day exploring the Ribeira neighborhood. Live like a local and grab a light breakfast of buttered toast or a croissant from a local bakery. Check out one of the many miradouros (viewpoints) for an elevated view of the city, as well as the Douro river. Or, climb the Clérigos Church Tower for panoramic views of Porto. Visit Porto Cathedral and admire its stunning architecture. Around the corner is Largo de Pena Ventosa, a hidden, vibrant side-street, perfect for a quick photo-op! Make your way to the Luís I Bridge for stunning views of the Douro River. Take the Funicular dos Guindais down to the Riverside where you’ll find lots of café and restaurant options for lunch.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour on the Douro River to see Porto from a different perspective. Some boat tours can include wine tastings or even a light lunch, so be sure to plan your meals accordingly! Afterwards, make your way back up the hill to the Ribeira District, stopping by Palácio da Bolsa, a stunning 19th-century building with intricate interiors. Explore the narrow streets, adorned with azulejo tiles, stopping by traditional shops along the Rua das Flores. For some unique azulejo viewing, stop by the Church of Saint Ildefonso. Grab the local renowned pastry, pastel de nata, from a nearby bakery and take in your surroundings. Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant in the Ribeira area, trying francesinha, a local specialty. Head to a miradouro to watch a beautiful sunset over the river.
Day 2: Food and Wine in Porto
In the morning, visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world (arrive early to beat the crowds). From there, explore the bustling Rua de Santa Catarina for shopping. For more unique azulejo viewing, stop by the Chapel of Souls to get that iconic Instagram shot! For lunch, try local delicacies at Mercado do Bolhão, a historic market in the city center.
In the afternoon, start heading toward Vila Nova de Gaia. Make sure to take in the stunning Douro River views as you cross the Luís I Bridge. Take a tour of a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia and sample some Port wine. Have dinner at a riverside restaurant in Vila Nova de Gaia, enjoying views of Porto's skyline. Enjoy the sunset at Jardim do Morro or atop Miradouro da Serra do Pilar.
Day 3: Additional Day in Porto or Optional Day Trip
Depending on your interests, you could revisit any favorite spots or explore more of Porto's neighborhoods. There is plenty more to explore in the Miragaia neighborhood, including the National Museum Soares dos Reis, an art museum within an 18th-century palace. Or you can stroll through the Gardens of Palácio De Cristal.
If you are ready for a change of pace, I would recommend renting a car and stopping in Coimbra or Nazare on your drive to Lisbon.
Coimbra boasts one of Europe's oldest universities - the University of Coimbra. It was established in the 13th century, and is renowned for its picturesque campus, showcasing iconic sites like the Joanina Library and the Royal Palace. Its historic center charms with medieval architecture and winding streets, while its riverside location on the Mondego River offers stunning views.
If you’re ready to hit the waves, take an excursion to the picturesque coastal town of Nazaré. It is famed for its towering waves, drawing surfers from around the globe seeking adrenaline-pumping rides. Beyond its legendary surf, Nazaré offers quaint streets, traditional fishing culture and panoramic ocean views, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Both towns are doable as a day trip, while still allowing you to arrive in Lisbon before dark.
Day 4: Exploring Lisbon
On your first full day in Lisbon, head to Belém early to explore some of the most extravagant Manueline architecture the city has to offer. Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery are two must-see landmarks. For breakfast or a mid-morning snack, head to Pastéis de Belém to try the original pastel de nata. When you’re done exploring Belém, take the tram towards Bairro Alto and stop by the Time Out Market for lunch.
After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the Chiado and Bairro Alto neighborhoods. Don’t miss out on sites like Carmo Convent for intriguing history and architecture, or São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint for stunning views of the city. If you like to collect unique souvenirs like I do, head to d’Orey Azulejos to shop for antique, hand-painted Portuguese azulejos! Enjoy dinner at a traditional tasca restaurant in Chiado or Bairro Alto.
Day 5: Enjoy the Tagus River
Visit São Jorge Castle and explore its historic walls and viewpoints. You’ll find some of the best views of Lisbon up here! Then, wander through the narrow streets of Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Here you can explore various miradouros and sites like Lisbon Cathedral and the National Pantheon. Have lunch at a local tasca in Alfama, trying Portuguese petiscos (small plates).
This afternoon is your chance to enjoy the water. First, head to Praça do Comércio and enjoy views of the Tagus River. Admire the Arco da Rua Augusta and enjoy shopping along the pedestrian-only street. Head to the docks near Praça do Comércio and hop on an evening boat tour. You can enjoy a sunset cruise with drinks and snacks on a traditional boat. Some tours even offer live fado music on board! You could also head to a tasco in Alfama for dinner to enjoy a fado show there.
Day 6: Additional Day in Lisbon or Day Trip to Cascais
Depending on your interests, you could revisit any favorite sights or explore more of Lisbon's neighborhoods.
Cascais is a charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Cascais Marina and stroll along the promenade. Enjoy seafood at a beachfront restaurant overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the historic center of Cascais, with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Visit the Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliff formation and natural wonder.
Cascais is the perfect place to put your feet up and enjoy the sun and sand, or, for the more adventurous, to get out on the water for some surfing!
Day 7: Day Trip to Sintra
This day trip is optional if you’d like to spend more time in Lisbon, however, I personally do not recommend skipping out on Sintra!
It’s best to get an early start in Sintra to avoid the crowds. You will likely only have time to visit about three palaces without rushing. My recommendations are the National Palace of Pena, Castelo dos Mouros, and Quinta da Regaleira. These are also the most popular sites, so don’t be too surprised if they are quite busy. Some honorary mentions include the Sintra National Palace and the Park and Palace of Monserrate. Be sure to research ahead of time to decide which palaces interest you the most! You truly can’t go wrong with any of them.
No matter which palaces you choose, I would recommend visiting Pena Palace as early as possible to avoid crowds. Afterwards, you can visit whichever palaces you choose in the order that works best for you. The palaces typically have cafés or restaurants on site for you to enjoy meals with a view!
The palaces generally close between 5pm and 6:30pm. Head back to Lisbon for one final night in the city.
Day 8-10: The Algarve
You’ll spend the next 2-3 days in a natural paradise. Algarve is perfect for all types of travelers, boasting dramatic coastlines, idyllic beaches and historical towns. Relax on the beach or take part in water sports like surfing, kayaking or paddle-boarding. Head to Benagil Cave, one of the most famous sea caves in the Algarve, either by boat tour or hiking along the cliffs. Explore nearby beaches like Praia da Marinha or Praia de Benagil for swimming and sunbathing. Take a boat tour along the coast to explore more sea caves and rock formations. Visit Ponta da Piedade in Lagos for stunning views and photo opportunities. Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, indulging in grilled fish or seafood rice. Sample regional specialties, such as cataplana or grilled sardines.
Ultimately, the Algarve is the perfect place to relax after a full week of exploring in Portugal!
![Advisor - Mikayla McDonald](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1720798956/15ac9733-e216-4128-b7aa-e1cd06729c03.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Mikayla McDonald
Get in touch with Mikayla
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Mikayla within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Portugal. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my itinerary, Adventurer's Guide to Panama - Best Things to Do and See.