Portugal Itinerary 7 Days: What to See in One Week
Introduction to Portugal: A Land of Timeless Charm
Planning a 7-day Portugal itinerary is one of the best ways to explore a country where old-world charm, dramatic coastline, and unforgettable food blend effortlessly. Whether you’re arriving in Lisbon for the first time or returning to rediscover your favorite Portuguese towns, one week in Portugal gives you the perfect balance of culture, landscapes, and slow travel moments.
Portugal has an irresistible mix of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colorful neighborhoods, breathtaking beaches, and warm, friendly people. And if you’re curious about food and wine, you’re in for a treat — Portuguese cuisine is comforting, local, and deeply tied to the land and sea.
This refreshed 2025 guide walks you through a complete 7-day Portugal itinerary, ideal for first-timers who want to explore Lisbon, Sintra, Porto, and the Douro Valley without rushing. It also includes practical travel tips, day-trip ideas, and insider recommendations from local experts.
Why Choose a 7-Day Portugal Itinerary?
Seven days in Portugal is the sweet spot for travelers who want to experience the country’s highlights without the stress of a long travel schedule. With efficient trains, walkable cities, and short travel times, you can easily visit Lisbon and Porto, explore Sintra, taste wine in the Douro Valley, and relax along the coastline — all in one week.
This itinerary is perfect if you:
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Want an easy, well-rounded Portugal trip
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Prefer staying in central hotels rather than changing rooms every night
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Like a mix of guided experiences and free time
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Prefer not to rent a car (although this itinerary works both ways)
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Want to go at your own pace rather than rush from attraction to attraction
And if you enjoy small-group experiences, EcoTrilha — a local Portugal-based company — offers itineraries similar to this one with insider insights, local guides, and comfortable 4-star stays.
Portugal Itinerary 7 Days — Overview
To help you plan easily, here is how this itinerary flows:
- Days 1–3: Lisbon
— Highlights: Alfama, Belém, Sintra, viewpoints, tram rides, tile-covered streets
— Optional day trips: Cascais, Cabo da Roca - Day 4: Nazaré & Fátima (Day Trip From Lisbon)
— Highlights: giant waves, fishing traditions, spiritual sanctuary - Days 5–6: Porto & Douro Valley
— Highlights: Ribeira, Port wine cellars, scenic Douro Valley vineyards - Day 7: Braga & Guimarães or Algarve Extension
— Highlights: riverside brunch, beaches, coastal walks, markets
Whether you choose to follow it step-by-step or adapt it, this seven-day Portugal itinerary gives you a perfect introduction to the best of the country.
Day 1 – Arriving in Lisbon & Exploring Alfama
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Your arrival at Lisbon Airport marks the beginning of your one-week adventure. From here, it’s easy to reach the city center — you can take a taxi, Uber, metro, or private transfer. If you’re staying in Baixa, Chiado, or Alfama, you’ll be perfectly positioned for sightseeing, food, and transportation.
After checking in at your hotel, spend your first afternoon exploring Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most traditional neighborhood. This is the perfect place to begin your trip to Portugal, especially if you enjoy narrow streets, viewpoints, and small family-run cafés.
Things to Do in Lisbon on 1 Day
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Wander through Alfama’s maze-like alleys
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Visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic city views
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Stop at scenic viewpoints like Miradouro de Santa Luzia
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Try your first Pastel de Nata from a local bakery
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Take a short walking tour to understand Lisbon’s history
If you want a little transportation fun, board the historic Tram 12, a quieter and less crowded alternative to the popular Tram 28.
End the evening with a traditional Fado dinner — the perfect introduction to Portuguese culture.
Day 2 – Belem, Jeronimos & the Best of Lisbon
Keywords: Belem, de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, tram, take the bus, day trip, stay in Lisbon
Spend your second day exploring Belém, one of Lisbon’s most important cultural districts. You can take the tram, bus, or Uber — it’s a quick ride from downtown Lisbon.
Top Attractions in Belém
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Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Belém Tower
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Monument to the Discoveries
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Pastéis de Belém bakery (try the original recipe)
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Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MAAT) along the river
After returning to central Lisbon, wander through Chiado and Baixa, visit local shops, or enjoy a sunset at one of the city’s many rooftop viewpoints.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Sintra
Keywords: day trip to Sintra, Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, take the train, train station in Lisbon, attraction, UNESCO World Heritage Site
No 7-day Portugal itinerary is complete without a visit to Sintra, one of Portugal’s most magical destinations and an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can take the train from Lisbon (Rossio Station) — it’s easy, affordable, and takes around 40 minutes. You don’t need a rental car for this day trip.
What to See in Sintra
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Pena Palace — Portugal’s most iconic palace
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Quinta da Regaleira — mysterious gardens, wells, tunnels
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Sintra Village — charming shops, cafés, and viewpoints
Sintra involves walking and hills, so wear comfortable footwear. Buy Pena Palace tickets with a time slot in advance to avoid the longest lines.
Optional addition:
If you have extra time, visit the gardens of Monserrate Palace or continue along the coast to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.
Day 4 – Nazaré & Fátima: Beaches and Spirituality
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Leave Lisbon behind and travel north to Nazaré, famous for its dramatic cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and some of the biggest waves in the world. If you visit between October and March, you may even witness the iconic giant wave surfers.
After enjoying the coastline, continue to Fátima, one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites. Even if you’re not religious, Fátima is serene, beautiful, and worth a visit.
This day adds a richer cultural layer to your Portugal itinerary and creates a nice contrast between beach life and quiet, reflective moments.
Day 5 – Exploring Porto
Keywords: Porto, days in Porto, 2 days in Porto, walking tour, Ribeira district, Dom Luís I Bridge
Welcome to Porto, a city full of character, azulejo tiles, riverside views, and incredible food. Whether you arrive by train from Lisbon or by car, the journey is easy and scenic.
Start your Porto day exploring the Ribeira district, a lively UNESCO area filled with cafés, wine bars, and picturesque alleyways. From here, walk across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for incredible panoramic views.
Best Things to Do in Porto
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Visit the historic São Bento Train Station
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Explore the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
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Visit Livraria Lello (arrive early!)
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Try Francesinha, Porto’s famous sandwich
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Wander through the medieval streets of Ribeira
Optional experiences:
Take a relaxed river cruise to admire Porto from the Douro River.
Day 6 – Douro Valley: Wine, Views & Scenic Drives
Keywords: Douro Valley, Porto to the Douro Valley, wine tasting, scenic drive, boat tour, vineyards
The Douro Valley is one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world — and visiting it is easily one of the highlights of any 7-day Portugal itinerary.
You can rent a car and drive, take the train, or join a guided day tour from Porto (which is often the most relaxing option).
What to Do in the Douro Valley
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Visit family-owned vineyards
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Enjoy wine tastings (Port, red, white, Moscatel)
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Have a traditional Portuguese lunch
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Take a scenic Douro River boat tour
This region is peaceful, warm, and incredibly photogenic. Many travelers say it’s the moment they completely fall in love with Portugal.
Day 7 – Final Day in Porto (or Algarve Extension)
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Spend your last morning enjoying a slow breakfast by the Douro River. If you prefer more sightseeing, consider:
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Braga (historic center + Bom Jesus Sanctuary)
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Guimarães (birthplace of Portugal)
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Aveiro (“the Venice of Portugal”)
If you’re craving beaches, extending your trip to the Algarve coast is an excellent option. From Porto, you can fly or take the train to Faro.
Whether you return to Lisbon or continue exploring, this final day allows you to reflect on your days in Portugal and all the memorable experiences from the week.
Why This 7-Day Portugal Itinerary Works So Well
This itinerary is designed with travel experience, comfort, and real-life logistics in mind. It blends culture, food, coastline, and wine into one satisfying journey.
You’ll enjoy:
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Fewer hotel changes
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Shorter travel times
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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Coastal viewpoints
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Walkable city centers
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Authentic Portuguese meals
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A manageable pace for all travelers
Local companies like EcoTrilha curate similar routes for small groups, offering an easy, stress-free way to see Portugal with insider touches and knowledgeable guides — ideal for travelers who want comfort without crowds.
FAQ: Planning Your 7-Day Portugal Trip
Is 7 days enough to visit Portugal?
Yes! One week is perfect for visiting Lisbon, Sintra, Porto, and the Douro Valley. You’ll experience big cities, coastline, culture, and wine country without feeling rushed.
Do I need to rent a car in Portugal?
Not necessary.
This itinerary uses trains, walking tours, and day trips — no rental car required. But if you want extra flexibility, renting a car for the Douro Valley or Algarve is an option.
Is Portugal safe for solo female travelers?
Very safe. Portugal is consistently ranked one of the safest countries in Europe, and small-group tours add an extra layer of comfort.
What’s the best time to visit Portugal?
May, September, and October offer ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Where should I stay in Lisbon and Porto?
Lisbon: Baixa, Chiado, Alfama.
Porto: Ribeira, Aliados, Cedofeita.
These neighborhoods offer the best access to attractions, viewpoints, and transportation.
Final Inspiration: Make Your One Week in Portugal Unforgettable
Portugal rewards curiosity — take that detour, try that pastry, pause at that viewpoint. Whether you’re exploring Lisbon’s colorful hills, wandering through Sintra’s palaces, sipping wine in the Douro Valley, or strolling Porto’s riverside, this 7-day Portugal itinerary gives you the perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and authentic travel moments.
If you want a more seamless experience with local guides who know every shortcut, café, and hidden corner, consider exploring Portugal with a small-group company like EcoTrilha — but no matter how you travel, your week here will be unforgettable.
Read our Reviews:
“Excellent tour and guide/host. Nothing like a local to personally escort you through Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Coimbra, and more. Each is more spectacular as you go. This was a personal tour at exceptional value for money prices (less than the larger tour companies). Accommodation was 4-star, situated each time in the center of the older section of the city. This enabled you to soak up the atmosphere, easy walking to local sights, while always feeling safe and secure. Chris is a wonderful host and tour guide. Gracious, informative, friendly, and knowledgeable. A fantastic tour from the airport pick-up to airport drop-off and everything in between. We thoroughly recommend Chris and Eco Trilha for any trip to lovely Portugal.” – Ian Whelan, Google Reviews
“We booked our “Best of Portugal” 7-day holiday through Slow Tours. As my husband and I were the only people booked on this tour date, we were lucky enough to have Cristianne from Eco Trilha as our “private” tour guide for most of the time. Andre was our other wonderful guide for a couple of days in Porto and the Douro Valley. Cris and Andre both spoke English well and were reliable, organized, and helpful. They were thoughtful and generous with their time, their local knowledge, and the imparting of historical facts. We visited Lisbon, Nazare, Fatima, Porto, the Douro Valley, and Braga. Each place was very different, with its own charm and places of interest. Among other great memories from this trip, we will never forget Sintra and the Pena Palace, the traditional fish drying on the beach of Nazare, the unexpected impact of Fatima, cruising the Douro river, and enjoying a Pastel de Belem! However, we never felt rushed. Our hotels and transport were clean and comfortable. We would be very happy to recommend Cris and her company Eco Trilha to anyone looking to travel through Portugal.” – Pauline OD, TripAdvisor
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