8 day itinerary
Portugal
Itinerary
Portugal is a fantastic destination for family travel, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a fun and engaging 8-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon
Morning: Arrive in Lisbon! Settle into your hotel and freshen up. If you arrive early, grab a pastel de nata (a delicious custard tart) at .
Afternoon: Explore the historic district of . Wander through the narrow streets, visit the , and take in the views from .
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the Bairro Alto district. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish) or piri-piri chicken.
Day 2: Lisbon Exploration
Morning: Visit the iconic and the . Don’t forget to check out the if your family is into sea adventures!
Afternoon: Head to the , one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
Evening: Take a tram ride on the famous . It’s a fun way to see the city, and you can hop off at various points for dinner. Consider dining in the Chiado area.
Day 3: Sintra Day Trip
Morning: Take a short train ride to Sintra (about 40 minutes). Visit the colorful and explore its beautiful gardens.
Afternoon: Head to the for some stunning views and a bit of history. Grab lunch in the town center, where you can try local specialties like travesseiros (puff pastries).
Evening: Return to Lisbon and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Perhaps try a fado restaurant for some traditional Portuguese music!
Day 4: Lisbon to Porto
Morning: After breakfast, take a train to Porto (about 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then head to the . Stroll along the and take in the colorful buildings.
Evening: Have dinner at a riverside restaurant. Try the famous Francesinha sandwich, a hearty dish that’s sure to please the whole family!
Day 5: Porto Exploration
Morning: Visit the , one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Then, head to the for panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: Explore the and its beautiful gardens. It’s a great spot for kids to run around and enjoy art!
Evening: Take a family-friendly boat tour on the . It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. Dinner in the city center afterward.
Day 6: Day Trip
Morning: Rent a car or book a tour to the , famous for its terraced vineyards. Visit a family-friendly winery for a tour and tasting (grape juice for the kids, of course!).
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views of the valley. Many wineries offer picnic options, or you can pack your own.
Evening: Return to Porto and have a casual dinner. Consider a local pizzeria or a place with tapas for a relaxed meal.
Day 7: Porto to Lagos
Morning: Travel to Lagos in the Algarve region (you can fly or take a train/bus, but flying is quicker). Check into your hotel and get settled.
Afternoon: Head to , one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. Spend the afternoon swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Evening: Enjoy a seaside dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!
Day 8: Lagos and Departure
Morning: Explore the cliffs. You can take a boat tour to see the stunning rock formations and caves.
Afternoon: Have a leisurely lunch in Lagos, then do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
Evening: Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for one last stroll along the beach before heading to the airport.
Tips for Traveling with Family:
- Transportation: Consider using trains for intercity travel; they’re comfortable and scenic.
- Meals: Look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus or tapas-style dining, so everyone can try a bit of everything.
- Pacing: Don’t rush! Allow for downtime, especially after busy days of sightseeing.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Portugal with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️