20 day itinerary
Portugal
Itinerary
Portugal is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and exploring it at a relaxed pace while focusing on free activities sounds like a wonderful adventure. Here’s a 20-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the culture, history, and stunning landscapes without spending a dime!
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon
- Morning: Arrive in Lisbon. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic , getting lost in its narrow streets.
- Afternoon: Visit the for stunning views of the city and the Tagus River.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset walk along the riverfront at .
Day 2: Lisbon
- Morning: Explore the beautiful gardens of the Gulbenkian Foundation (free entry to the gardens).
- Afternoon: Head to the historic Belém district. Visit the (the exterior is free to admire) and the iconic .
- Evening: Walk along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset at the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) area.
Day 3: Lisbon
- Morning: Visit the vibrant (Time Out Market) and enjoy the atmosphere (window shopping is free!).
- Afternoon: Explore the and its street art.
- Evening: Catch some live Fado music in the streets of Alfama.
Day 4: Sintra
- Morning: Take a train to Sintra (the train is inexpensive). Explore the town and visit the colorful streets.
- Afternoon: Hike up to the for breathtaking views (the entrance fee is not free, but the hike is).
- Evening: Stroll through the gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira (the exterior is free to explore).
Day 5: Sintra
- Morning: Visit the stunning (again, the exterior is free to admire).
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful trails in the .
- Evening: Return to Lisbon and enjoy a quiet evening.
Day 6: Cascais
- Morning: Take a train to Cascais. Enjoy the beach and the charming town center.
- Afternoon: Walk along the coastal promenade to .
- Evening: Relax at the beach and enjoy the sunset.
Day 7: Lisbon to Évora
- Morning: Travel to Évora (by bus or train). Explore the and the (the exterior is free).
- Afternoon: Wander through the historic streets and visit the (free to enter).
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the town square.
Day 8: Évora
- Morning: Visit the beautiful gardens of the University of Évora.
- Afternoon: Explore the local markets and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Evening: Take a sunset walk around the city walls.
Day 9: Évora to Lagos
- Morning: Travel to Lagos in the Algarve region. Explore the town and its beautiful beaches.
- Afternoon: Visit for stunning coastal views (hiking is free!).
- Evening: Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset.
Day 10: Lagos
- Morning: Spend the day at , one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
- Afternoon: Explore the local shops and cafes in Lagos.
- Evening: Enjoy a beach bonfire if allowed!
Day 11: Lagos to Faro
- Morning: Travel to Faro. Explore the Old Town and its beautiful .
- Afternoon: Visit the (free to explore).
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Old Town.
Day 12: Faro to Tavira
- Morning: Take a bus to Tavira. Explore the charming streets and the .
- Afternoon: Visit the (the ferry is inexpensive, but walking on the island is free).
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset by the river.
Day 13: Tavira
- Morning: Visit the (the exterior is free to explore).
- Afternoon: Relax at the beach or explore the local markets.
- Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in the town square.
Day 14: Tavira to Porto
- Morning: Travel back to Lisbon and then take a train to Porto.
- Afternoon: Explore the and enjoy the views of the Douro River.
- Evening: Walk across the for stunning views of the city.
Day 15: Porto
- Morning: Visit the beautiful and admire the azulejos (ceramic tiles).
- Afternoon: Explore the gardens of the Crystal Palace.
- Evening: Enjoy a sunset walk along the riverfront.
Day 16: Porto
- Morning: Visit the (the exterior is free to admire).
- Afternoon: Explore the historic streets of the .
- Evening: Enjoy some street performances in the city center.
Day 17:
- Morning: Take a train to the . Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
- Afternoon: Explore the small towns and vineyards (walking is free!).
- Evening: Return to Porto and enjoy a quiet evening.
Day 18: Coimbra
- Morning: Travel to Coimbra. Visit the (the exterior is free to explore).
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful .
- Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the historic center.
Day 19: Coimbra to Lisbon
- Morning: Travel back to Lisbon. Spend the day exploring any areas you may have missed.
- Afternoon: Visit the .
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 20: Departure
- Morning: Take a final stroll through the streets of Lisbon, perhaps visiting a local market.
- Afternoon: Depart from Lisbon, taking with you beautiful memories of Portugal!
This itinerary allows you to explore Portugal at a relaxed pace while enjoying the beauty and culture of each destination. Remember to take your time, savor the local cuisine (even if it’s just window shopping), and enjoy the stunning landscapes! Safe travels! 🌍✈️
