Portugal Travel Itinerary 7 Days: Explore Porto, Lisbon, and Lagos

With its breathtaking coastline, historic cities, and charming villages, Portugal offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re diving into the rich cultural heritage of Porto, exploring the vibrant streets of Lisbon, or unwinding on the golden beaches of Lagos, this 1 week Portugal itinerary is designed to give you the best of what the country has to offer. Our detailed Portugal travel itinerary 7 days ensures you won’t miss out on any must-see destinations while also allowing time to discover hidden gems. Let this Portugal travel guide lead you through an unforgettable journey filled with history, nature, and authentic experiences.

A Perfect 1 Week Portugal Itinerary

Welcome to Portugal, a country where natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture come together in perfect harmony. While you could easily spend months exploring its diverse landscapes and historical gems, a well-planned week is enough to give you an unforgettable taste of its highlights.

From the lively streets of Porto to the historic charm of Lisbon, and the tranquil beaches of Lagos, this journey has it all. Whether you choose to travel by public transport or rent a car for more flexibility, this itinerary will guide you through the country’s best spots with ease.

Days 1-2: Porto

Explore the Charm of Porto

After arriving in Porto and getting settled, keep your first day light and relaxing. Take a leisurely walk through the stunning tiled streets of the city, pausing along Cais da Ribeira to enjoy a glass of local Vinho Verde wine. It’s the perfect way to take in the sights and sounds of Porto’s vibrant riverfront.

For those seeking a panoramic view of the city, climbing the stairs to the top of Torre dos Clérigos is a must! The view from the bell tower offers an incredible perspective of Porto.

No trip to northern Portugal is complete without visiting the breathtaking Douro Valley, a region famous for its wine production and scenic landscapes. Booking a wine tour here is highly recommended. A typical tour starts in the morning with a pick-up at your hotel or Airbnb, followed by a scenic 1.5-hour drive into the heart of the valley.

During the tour, you’ll visit two wineries, where you can delve into the history of Port wine and enjoy wine tastings. The tour also includes a delightful lunch featuring traditional Portuguese dishes. For an even more memorable experience, opt for an upgrade to include a relaxing boat cruise along the Douro River.

Once back in Porto, cross the bridge to Gaia, a neighboring town known for its wine cellars and breathtaking views. Whether you walk or take an Uber, a stop at The Yeatman for dinner and drinks is the perfect way to end the day. The view from here is one of the finest in Porto!

How to Get to Porto

After landing at Porto Airport, follow the signs directing you to the metro station. You can easily purchase a ticket from one of the kiosks for approximately 2.60€. The metro operates every 20-30 minutes, and within just 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in the heart of Porto’s city center.

Best Places to Stay in Porto

VRBO: We stayed at Manor House Porto, a centrally located property with stunning views of the city! (The third picture below shows the breathtaking view from our window.)

Hotel: If you’re looking for a hotel option, I’ve heard fantastic reviews about Pestana Porto, a well-situated hotel right above a famous coffee shop, offering both convenience and charm!

Days 3-4: Lisbon

Explore Lisbon’s Rich History and Vibrant Culture

After your adventures in Porto, it’s time to head south to Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon. This city offers a perfect mix of rich history, lively streets, and breathtaking views.

The best way to explore Lisbon is on foot. Start by wandering through the cobblestone streets and admiring the colorful tiles that adorn the city’s iconic buildings. Make your way down to the waterfront at Cais das Colunas for a peaceful break by the river.

While walking around Lisbon, you’ll come across the famous Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram winds its way through the narrow streets of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, offering a unique and affordable city tour. Although it’s popular among tourists and can get crowded, the ride is worth the wait for its charm and convenience.

In the evening, head to Bar Topo for a rooftop cocktail, where you can enjoy the sunset while mingling with locals. For dinner, try the authentic Portuguese cuisine at As Zebras do Combro, a cozy spot recommended by local hostel staff.

For a night out, immerse yourself in Lisbon’s soulful Fado music in the Bairro Alto or Alfama districts. This traditional form of music, often compared to the blues, features emotional vocals accompanied by a 12-string guitar. It’s a cultural experience you won’t want to miss.

Discover Lisbon’s Landmarks

The next day, start your exploration at Castelo de São Jorge. The entrance fee is about 8.50€, and it’s well worth it for the panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to grab a glass of wine from a street vendor to sip as you stroll through the castle grounds.

For lunch, head to Portas do Sol in the Alfama district. The views here are unbeatable, and I highly recommend trying the brie and honey sandwich. Afterward, continue wandering through Alfama’s charming streets, where you’ll find cathedrals, shops, and bars tucked away in every corner.

Indulge in Lisbon’s Famous Pastries

No visit to Lisbon is complete without trying the famous Pastel de Nata (Portuguese egg tart). Two of the best places to get them are Manteigaria and Pastéis de Belém. Grab a couple to go and enjoy them with a cocktail at Park Bar, a hidden rooftop bar located atop a parking garage with a lush garden terrace.

For those looking to experience the nightlife, consider joining the Wild Walkers pub crawl. For around 20€, you’ll get access to free drinks and entry to multiple local bars and clubs, making it a fun way to meet fellow travelers and explore Lisbon’s vibrant bar scene.

How to Get from Porto to Lisbon

The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Porto to Lisbon is by train. The journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs around 30€. You can book your tickets online in advance to secure your seats and enjoy a scenic ride along the way.

Best Places to Stay in Lisbon

Hotel: For those looking for a boutique experience, Santiago de Alfama is a highly recommended option in the historic and charming Alfama district. This hotel provides a unique stay, blending history with modern comfort.

Hostel: If you’re traveling on a budget or looking to meet fellow travelers, Goodnight Hostel is an excellent choice. This centrally-located hostel is not only clean and cozy, but the friendly staff will also provide great recommendations for local restaurants and bars. Plus, they offer a free Sangria happy hour, which is always a nice bonus!

Days 5-7: Lagos

Relax and Explore Lagos’ Stunning Coastline

After the lively city life of Lisbon, it’s time to unwind in the charming beach town of Lagos. The breathtaking coastal views and relaxed atmosphere here will make you feel at peace.

Spend your days wandering along the coastline, starting from the picturesque Praia do Pinhão and continuing to Praia dos Estudantes and Praia da Batata. These stunning beaches are perfect for soaking in the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.

For dinner, don’t miss Retiro Da Trindade, a local gem that was recommended to us by the friendly staff at our hostel in Lisbon. It was so good that we went back two nights in a row! I highly recommend ordering the steak on a hot stone – it’s cooked right in front of you and is an experience as much as it is a meal.

Kick off your morning with a peaceful walk along Ponta da Piedade. The rocky cliffs and hidden sea coves create a magical atmosphere. Follow the trails along the cliff’s edge for breathtaking views, or even venture down to the water’s edge for a closer look at the coastline.

Discover the Charm of Lagos Town

After exploring the coast, head into the town of Lagos to stroll through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings. Pop into the shops, grab a coffee, or enjoy a drink at one of the many happy hour spots. The town has a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after a morning of adventure.
One of the highlights of Lagos is the chance to take a boat ride to the Benagil Caves. These iconic caves are one of the most photographed natural wonders in the area. Be sure to check the weather and book your boat tour in advance, either online or directly in the area.

If weather conditions aren’t ideal, don’t worry! You can still explore other sea caves around Lagos. Look for local boat tours in town – they’ll take you on an intimate journey through smaller caves along the shoreline, where skilled boatmen navigate through narrow passages.

After your adventure, stop for lunch at Restaurant Alkibir, famous for its fresh tuna. Then, head to the train station for your journey to Faro Airport, where your incredible week in Portugal comes to an end.

How to Get to Lagos from Lisbon

To get to Lagos from Lisbon, you have two options: bus or train. I recommend taking the bus since it’s a direct route, unlike the train, which requires a connection. The bus journey takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes and costs around 19€. It’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance to secure your seat.

A helpful tip: Make sure to allow yourself extra time to get to the Sete Rios bus station! It’s not within walking distance, and you’ll likely need to take the metro from the Jardim Zoologico station. Unfortunately, we realized this too late, missed our bus, and had to book another one.

Another unique option for traveling between Lagos and Lisbon is with Heaps of Tours. Fabio, the founder, is originally from Lagos but lives in Lisbon, so he knows both cities inside out. His tours offer scenic stops along the way, making the trip a bit more adventurous and enjoyable!

Best Places to Stay in Lagos, Portugal

We stayed at Carvi Beach Hotel, a fantastic spot located right on Praia Dona Ana. While it’s a short walk from the town center, the location is perfect for beach lovers. This beach cove, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water, is a hidden gem. Plus, there are nearby hiking trails that lead to other secluded beaches and coves in the area.

Have More Than One Week in Portugal?

If you have the luxury of spending more than a week in Portugal, I recommend extending your stay to at least 3 days in Lisbon, allowing for a day trip to the enchanting town of Sintra. Additionally, plan for an extra day in Lagos to take a scenic day trip to Sagres, known for its rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs.

When is the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal is during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October. These months offer pleasant weather without the overwhelming summer crowds. I visited in early April, and the weather was fantastic, with only a little rain in Porto. While the water in Lagos was a bit chilly, the beaches were peaceful and uncrowded, making it a perfect time to relax and explore.