10 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Let’s create a relaxed 10-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

• Morning: Arrive in Lisbon. Check into your hotel and take a moment to freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic Alfama district. Wander the narrow streets, and maybe stop for a pastel de nata (a delicious custard tart) at a local café.
• Evening: Head to the Bairro Alto district for dinner. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish) and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

## Day 2: Explore Lisbon

• Morning: Visit the Belém district. Check out the Jerónimos Monastery (not religious, just beautiful architecture) and the iconic Belém Tower. Don’t forget to grab another pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém!
• Afternoon: Take a tram ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds through the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Get off at the Miradouro da Graça for stunning views.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the Chiado area. Try some grilled sardines if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Sintra (about 40 minutes). Visit the colorful Pena Palace and explore its gardens.
• Afternoon: Stroll through the historic center of Sintra, grab lunch at a local café, and visit the Quinta da Regaleira, known for its enchanting gardens and initiation well.
• Evening: Return to Lisbon and have a relaxed dinner at a riverside restaurant along the Tagus River.

## Day 4: Cascais and Estoril

• Morning: Head to Cascais, a charming coastal town. Spend some time at the beach or explore the town’s quaint streets.
• Afternoon: Walk along the coastal promenade to Estoril. Enjoy lunch at a seaside café and maybe try some fresh seafood.
• Evening: Return to Lisbon and enjoy a leisurely dinner. Consider trying a fado restaurant for some traditional Portuguese music.

## Day 5: Lisbon to Porto

• Morning: Take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel and get settled.
• Afternoon: Explore the Ribeira district along the Douro River. Enjoy the colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Grab lunch at a riverside café.
• Evening: Visit a port wine cellar for a tasting. Enjoy dinner in the area, perhaps trying the famous Francesinha sandwich.

## Day 6: Discover Porto

• Morning: Visit the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Then, head to the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the Serralves Museum and its beautiful gardens. Have lunch at the museum café.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Foz do Douro area, where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. A perfect spot for sunset!

## Day 7: Douro Valley Day Trip

• Morning: Take a scenic train ride to the Douro Valley (about 2 hours). Enjoy the stunning vineyard landscapes.
• Afternoon: Visit a winery for a tour and tasting. Have lunch at a local restaurant with views of the river.
• Evening: Return to Porto and have a relaxed dinner. Try some local tapas to end the day.

## Day 8: Porto to Coimbra

• Morning: Travel to Coimbra (about 1.5 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic university, one of the oldest in Europe. Visit the Joanina Library and stroll through the botanical gardens.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the old town, sampling local dishes like chanfana (goat stew).

## Day 9: Coimbra to Évora

• Morning: Head to Évora (about 2.5 hours by train). Check into your hotel and relax.
• Afternoon: Explore the Roman Temple of Évora and the charming streets of the old town. Visit the Praça do Giraldo for a coffee break.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying regional specialties like açorda (bread soup).

## Day 10: Évora to Lisbon

• Morning: Take a leisurely morning stroll around Évora, perhaps visiting the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) if you’re up for it.
• Afternoon: Head back to Lisbon (about 1.5 hours by train). Spend your last afternoon shopping or revisiting your favorite spots.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Toast to a wonderful trip!

Departure

• Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe a final stroll through the streets of Lisbon before heading to the airport.

And there you have it! A relaxed 10-day itinerary that lets you experience the best of Portugal without feeling rushed. Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️🍷