Best things to do in Portugal — top-rated attraction
Portugal travel itinerary highlight — popular destination 2
Portugal travel itinerary highlight — popular destination 3
Portugal travel itinerary highlight — popular destination 4
Portugal travel itinerary highlight — popular destination 5

Portugal Itineraries

Explore Portugal's soul from Lisbon's historic trams to Porto's riverside charm. This 10-day itinerary balances must-see sights with neighborhood wandering, incredible food, and enough downtime to actually enjoy the journey.

$900–$1800/personBest:April - June, September - October2 cities3 itineraries

Choose YourPortugal Itinerary

Compare at a glance — pick the duration that fits your trip.

DurationCitiesBudgetPace
5 DaysLisbon, Porto~$900moderateView →
7 DaysLisbon, Porto~$1232moderateView →
10 DaysLisbon, Porto~$1800moderateView →

How Many Days Do You Need inPortugal?

5 Days inPortugal

Lisbon & Porto highlights with perfect pacing

Discover Portugal's soul through Lisbon's cobbled streets and Porto's riverside cellars. This perfectly-paced itinerary balances iconic landmarks with neighborhood wandering and exceptional food.

~$900/personLisbon, Portomoderate pace

7 Days inPortugal

Lisbon & Porto - Castles, Cuisine & Coastal Charm

Explore Portugal's two greatest cities in perfect rhythm - from Lisbon's hilltop trams and fado music to Porto's port wine cellars and azulejo tiles. This itinerary balances iconic sights with neighborhood wandering and exceptional meals.

~$1232/personLisbon, Portomoderate pace

10 Days inPortugal

Lisbon, Porto & Portuguese Culture

Explore Portugal's soul from Lisbon's historic trams to Porto's riverside charm. This 10-day itinerary balances must-see sights with neighborhood wandering, incredible food, and enough downtime to actually enjoy the journey.

~$1800/personLisbon, Portomoderate pace

Best Time to VisitPortugal

Best months
April - June, September - October

Perfect weather, manageable crowds, and everything open

Avoid
July - August

Peak summer heat, crowds, and higher prices

How Much DoesPortugal Cost?

A mid-range trip to Portugal costs approximately $179/day per person, including accommodation, food, local transport, and activities. For a full trip, expect to spend between $900–$1800 per person depending on duration. This does not include international flights or travel insurance.

Money-saving tips:

  • Lunch menus offer better value than dinner at upscale restaurants
  • Many museums are free on Sunday mornings - plan accordingly
  • Tram day passes (€6) pay for themselves after 3+ rides
  • Portuguese wine is excellent and cheap - €3-5/glass at restaurants
  • Book accommodations outside peak summer to save 30-40%

Getting AroundPortugal

Portugal uses the Euro. Cards accepted everywhere, but carry cash for small cafés and markets. ATMs are plentiful and usually offer better exchange rates than exchange bureaus.

LisbonSintra40 minutes
CP Urban Train€2.15 with Viva Viagem card

Use existing Lisboa Card or buy at Rossio station machines - select 'Sintra' destination

Pro tip:Sit on right side for countryside views after Queluz

LisbonPorto2 hours 40 minutes
Alfa Pendular or Intercidades train€25-45 depending on train type

Book online at cp.pt or at Santa Apolónia/Oriente station - book 24-48 hours ahead

Pro tip:Right side for river views approaching Porto, Alfa Pendular more comfortable but Intercidades adequate

Top Cities inPortugal

Things to do in Lisbon, Portugal — travel guide

Lisbon

Recommended: 6 days

Things to do in Porto, Portugal — travel guide

Porto

Recommended: 4 days

City-Specific Itineraries

Frequently Asked Questions AboutPortugal

Is 5 days enough for Portugal?

Yes, 5 days covers Lisbon and Porto highlights well. You'll see major monuments, taste port wine, experience fado, and eat incredible seafood. For a relaxed pace or to include beaches, consider 7-10 days.

How much does 5 days in Portugal cost?

Budget travelers spend $60-80/day, mid-range $120-180/day, luxury $250+/day. Our mid-range estimate is $180/day including accommodation, meals, transport, and activities. Wine and food are remarkably affordable.

What is the best month to visit Portugal?

April-June and September-October offer perfect weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. July-August are hot and crowded. Winter (Dec-Feb) has mild weather but more rain.

Do I need a visa for Portugal?

US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU citizens need no visa for stays under 90 days. Just bring a valid passport with 6+ months remaining. Portugal uses the Euro and is in the Schengen zone.

Is 7 days enough for Portugal?

Yes, 7 days gives you a solid introduction to Portugal's two main cities. You'll have 3-4 days in Lisbon and 2-3 days in Porto, enough to see major sights, try the food, and get a feel for Portuguese culture. For a more relaxed pace or to include smaller towns like Óbidos or Sintra, consider 10 days.

How much does 7 days in Portugal cost?

Budget travelers can expect $80-100/day ($560-700 total), mid-range travelers $150-200/day ($1050-1400 total), and luxury travelers $300+/day ($2100+ total). Portugal is one of Western Europe's most affordable destinations. Food and accommodation are particularly good value compared to neighboring Spain.

Is Portugal safe for tourists?

Portugal is one of the world's safest countries with very low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas of Lisbon and Porto, especially on Tram 28 and in Rossio Square. Standard precautions apply - don't flash valuables and be aware of pickpockets in crowds.

What should I eat in Portugal?

Don't miss pastéis de nata (custard tarts), bacalhau (cod prepared 365 different ways), francesinha sandwich in Porto, grilled sardines, caldo verde soup, and bifana (pork sandwich). Pair meals with vinho verde or local wines. Port wine is mandatory in Porto.

Is 10 days enough for Portugal?

Yes, 10 days is perfect for exploring Lisbon and Porto thoroughly, with a day trip to Sintra. This allows time to experience both cities' neighborhoods, food scenes, and major attractions without rushing. You could add the Douro Valley or Óbidos, but this itinerary covers Portugal's essential highlights.

How much does 10 days in Portugal cost?

Budget travelers can manage on $80-100/day, mid-range visitors should plan $150-200/day, and luxury travelers $300+/day. Portugal offers excellent value - wine is cheap, food portions are generous, and many attractions cost under $15. Accommodation and dining are significantly cheaper than other Western European destinations.

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