Portugal-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon

  • Morning: Arrive at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS)
    • Visa Requirements:
      • EU citizens do not need a visa
      • Non-EU citizens should check the official Portuguese government website for requirements
  • Transportation: Take the metro from the airport to Baixa station in the city center
  • Places to Go:
    • Castle of São Jorge ( Castelo de São Jorge) - explore the historic castle and enjoy stunning views of the city
    • Rossio Square (Praça do Comércio) - a beautiful square with a fountain and plenty of cafes
  • Things to Know: Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots. Try some traditional Portuguese pastries like pastéis de nata

Day 2: Lisbon

  • Morning: Visit the Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) in Belém, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Activities:
      • Explore the ornate monastery and its beautiful cloisters
      • Try some traditional Portuguese custard tarts (pastéis de nata)
  • Afternoon: Take a tram ride to Bairro Alto, one of Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods
    • Places to Go: Visit the Miradouro dos Avisos for stunning views of the city
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner and Fado music at a local restaurant

Day 3: Sintra

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Sintra, located about 30 minutes west of Lisbon by train
    • Places to Go:
      • Visit the Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena), a stunning palace with intricate architecture and beautiful gardens
      • Explore the Quinta da Regaleira, a mysterious estate with underground tunnels and gardens
  • Afternoon: Return to Lisbon and visit the National Pantheon (Panteão Nacional) in Campo de Santana Square
    • Things to Know: Be prepared for large crowds at popular tourist spots. Try some traditional Portuguese snacks like arroz doce (sweet rice pudding)

Day 4: Porto

  • Morning: Travel to Porto, a beautiful city located about 3 hours north of Lisbon by train
    • Transportation:
      • Take the Alfa Pendular high-speed train from Lisbon’s Oriente station
    • Places to Go:
      • Visit the iconic Luis I Bridge (Ponte Luís I) for stunning views of the Douro River and city skyline
      • Explore the Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) and its beautiful cloisters
  • Afternoon: Visit a local wine cellar and taste some famous Portuguese Port wine

Day 5: Porto

  • Morning: Visit the Ribeira neighborhood, a charming area with colorful buildings and narrow streets
    • Places to Go:
      • Explore the Church of São Francisco (Igreja de São Francisco) and its beautiful Gothic cloisters
      • Visit the Livraria Lello bookshop, one of Europe’s most beautiful bookstores
  • Afternoon: Return to Lisbon or depart from Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport

Additional Tips:

  • Portugal has a mild climate, but it can get chilly in the north. Pack accordingly.
  • Try some traditional Portuguese cuisine like bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes and onions) and frango grelhado (grilled chicken)
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or other places of worship