Portugal 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Portugal

Day 1: Lisbon Exploration

  • Morning: Start at the historic neighborhood of Alfama, exploring its narrow streets, Fado music, and picturesque alleys.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) and the nearby Castle of São Jorge for stunning views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine at a local restaurant in the Bairro Alto neighborhood.

Day 2: Lisbon’s Surroundings

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the charming town of Sintra, visiting the Pena Palace and Park. Don’t miss the stunning views from the palace’s tower!
  • Afternoon: Head to the scenic coastal town of Cascais, enjoying its beautiful beaches and historic center.
  • Evening: Return to Lisbon and explore the lively Cais do Sodré neighborhood.

Day 3: Porto Adventure

  • Morning: Travel to Porto (approximately 3 hours by train) and start exploring the Ribeira neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Afternoon: Visit the famous Port Wine Cellars along the Douro River and take a stroll across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Porto cuisine and Fado music in the lively Vitória neighborhood.

Day 4: Porto’s Hidden Gems

  • Morning: Visit the stunning São Francisco Church, known for its impressive Baroque interior.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy Bonfim neighborhood, with its charming streets, boutiques, and cafes.
  • Evening: Take a scenic sunset cruise along the Douro River.

Day 5: Aveiro and Costa Nova

  • Morning: Travel to Aveiro (approximately 1 hour by train) and explore its colorful canals, historic center, and traditional moliceiros boats.
  • Afternoon: Head to the picturesque beach town of Costa Nova, known for its striped houses and beautiful beaches.
  • Evening: Return to Porto and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 6: Return to Lisbon

  • Morning: Travel back to Lisbon (approximately 3 hours by train) and spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Lisbon Portela Airport.

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter Portugal. Check the official government website for more information.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency.
  • Safety: Portugal is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Transportation

  • Flights: Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is the main international airport. Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) serves the north of the country.
  • Trains: The national railway network, Comboios de Portugal (CP), connects major cities and towns.
  • Buses: Companies like FlixBus and Rede Expressos operate bus services throughout the country.
  • Taxis and Ride-hailing: Available in most cities and towns.

Other Tips

  • Accommodation: Book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Food: Be sure to try traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes and onions), frango grelhado (grilled chicken), and pastéis de nata (egg tarts).
  • Culture: Portugal has a rich cultural heritage. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting historical sites or attending cultural events.
  • Weather: The Portuguese climate is generally mild, but pack accordingly for the time of year you visit.

Enjoy your trip to Portugal!