11 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 11-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of what Portugal has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

• Morning: Arrive in Lisbon. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to the historic neighborhood of Alfama. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Lisbon Cathedral, and enjoy a coffee at a local café.
• Evening: Have dinner at a traditional Fado restaurant. Enjoy the soulful music while savoring some Portuguese dishes.

## Day 2: Explore Lisbon

• Morning: Visit the Belém district. Check out the Jerónimos Monastery and the iconic Belém Tower. Don’t forget to try a Pastel de Belém!
• Afternoon: Explore the [MAAT (Museum of Art](https://www.viator.com/searchResults/all?text=MAAT%20(Museum%20of%20Art&pid=P00093752&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=roamaround"), Architecture, and Technology) and stroll along the riverfront.
• Evening: Head to the Bairro Alto district for some nightlife. Enjoy tapas and drinks at a rooftop bar with a view of the city.

## Day 3: Sintra Day Trip

• Morning: Take a train to Sintra (about 40 minutes). Visit the colorful Pena Palace and explore its gardens.
• Afternoon: Head to the Moorish Castle for stunning views and then visit the Quinta da Regaleira, known for its mystical gardens and initiation well.
• Evening: Return to Lisbon and enjoy a relaxed dinner in the Chiado district.

## Day 4: Lisbon to Porto

• Morning: Take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the Ribeira district along the Douro River. Visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and take in the views.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Francesinha for dinner, a hearty sandwich that’s a local favorite.

## Day 5: Discover Porto

• Morning: Visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Then, head to the Clerigos Tower for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon: Explore the São Bento Railway Station and its stunning azulejos (ceramic tiles). Visit the Porto Cathedral.
• Evening: Take a port wine tasting tour in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the river.

## Day 6: Douro Valley Day Trip

• Morning: Rent a car or join a tour to the Douro Valley. Enjoy the scenic drive through vineyards.
• Afternoon: Visit a winery for a tour and tasting. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view of the river.
• Evening: Return to Porto and relax at a local wine bar.

## Day 7: Porto to Coimbra

• Morning: Travel to Coimbra (about 1.5 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe. Explore the Joanina Library and the botanical gardens.
• Evening: Stroll along the Mondego River and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant.

## Day 8: Coimbra to Évora

• Morning: Head to Évora (about 2 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Roman Temple and the Chapel of Bones.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Alentejo meal, perhaps some migas or açorda.

## Day 9: Évora to Lagos

• Morning: Travel to Lagos in the Algarve (about 3 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beautiful beaches, such as Praia Dona Ana or Meia Praia.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant while watching the sunset.

## Day 10: Explore the Algarve

• Morning: Take a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline and visit the famous Benagil Cave.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the beach or explore the charming town of Lagos.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner in Lagos, perhaps trying some local cataplana.

## Day 11: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Head back to Lisbon (about 3 hours by train) for your departure flight.

And there you have it! An exciting 11-day adventure through Portugal, filled with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Safe travels! 🌍✈️