Jess Bergin

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Portugal Itinerary 10 Days

Jessica Bergin

The land of Fado music and Francesinha promises plenty of fun for your next vacation. If navigating the world of azulejos and endless attractions seems somewhat overwhelming, I’ve put together this Portugal Itinerary for 10 days.

Having lived in Barcelona for more than six years, I’ve been lucky enough to have Portugal so close to home. I love the vibrant streets of Lisbon, the breezy bodegas in Porto and the eerie feel of the palaces in Sintra.

This country is crowned with a world of culinary and cultural experiences, right from the northern tip down to the Algarve Coast. If you’re on the hunt for a range of experiences at this end of Western Europe, look no further because you’re in the right place.

This Portugal Itinerary for 10 days takes you through the bustling cities to idyllic beaches. Portugal is known for many things and this itinerary invites you into the mix of dining, art, natural and immersive experiences.

Prepare your suitcases and pack plenty of room for pastel de nata, because we’re going to cover everything you need to know. In this guide, we’ll cover the best time to visit, how to get around and top travel tips for renting a car in Portugal.

Don’t have time to scroll? Cut your trip short with this 7-day Portugal Itinerary and hang around the highlights in the big cities. Or, extend your trip and spend two weeks soaking up the sunshine with this 14-day Portugal Itinerary.

How to Spend 10 Days in Portugal

Portugal is famous for Port wine, striking palaces and verdant natural splendour. Oh yeah, and it’s also Cristiano Ronaldo’s birthplace. As one of the oldest nations in Europe, the country is rich in gastronomy, wine and cultural experiences.

I’ve travelled to Portugal more times than I can count on one hand, and each visit has been very different from the other. So, I’ve combined my trips into this Portugal itinerary for 10 days. Here’s a brief summary of what we’ll cover:

  • Day 1 - 2: Porto

  • Day 3: Day Trip from Porto to Douro Valley

  • Day 4: Travel to Lisbon (as early as possible)

  • Day 5 - 6: Lisbon

  • Day 7: Day Trip to Sintra from Lisbon

  • Day 8 - 10: Algarve Coast

Day 1 - 2: Porto

Porto is hemmed in by historical landmarks and a buzzing restaurant scene. Plus, it’s also the starting mark for the Portuguese Camino de Santiago.

Stroll through the cobbled streets, sip fortified Port wine by the Douro River and spend an evening watching Fado music in the Ribeira neighbourhood. Whether you want to kick off your 10 day Portugal itinerary by eating, drinking or learning about this captivating city, you will not be disappointed.

I’m surprised by just how quickly I fell in love with this city, and I do not doubt that you will too. One of my personal favourites for a sunset drink is the rooftop terraces and gorgeous gardens inside BOSCO Porto.

Things to do in Porto:

Hit all the hot spots with this full guide on the Best Things to do in Porto.

Where to Stay in Porto:

For the full neighbourhood breakdown, see this post on the 13 Best Areas to Stay in Porto or read about my personal experience at Moov Hotel in Porto’s city centre.

Day 3: Douro Valley

After a couple of days soaking up city life, escape the buzz on a day trip from Porto to Douro Valley.

This popular river cruise destination is replete with verdant vineyards, lush valleys and luxurious wineries. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can expect nothing less than unparalleled natural splendour and the most mesmerising experiences.

From the scenic slopes of the Alto Corgo to the forested Baixo Corgo, every corner of this spot oozes countryside charm. The best part is that the Douro Valley is easily accessible by public transport, making this an ideal stop for any 10 day Portugal itinerary by train.

Things to do in Douro Valley:

Where to Stay in Douro Valley:

If you’ve got 10 days in Portugal, a wine-tasting experience in the Douro Valley is one for the books. Porto serves as the perfect gateway to the Douro Valley and it’s easy to make a day trip out of it. But, if you want to explore for more than a day, check out these top three places to stay in Douro Valley.

Day 4: Porto to Lisbon

This next leg of the journey is all about diversity. So we’re taking you down south, baby!

I’d recommend leaving Porto as early as possible so that you can make the most of your day. Whether you choose to do this 10 day Portugal itinerary by car or train, there are plenty of ways to get from Porto to Lisbon. Here are the approximate travel times:

  • Flight from Porto to Lisbon: 1 hour

  • Drive from Porto to Lisbon: 3 hours and 15 minutes (depending on traffic)

  • Train from Porto to Lisbon: 2.5 - 4 hours (depending on whether it’s a regular or high-speed train)

  • Bus from Porto to Lisbon: 3 hours and 15 minutes

If you’re driving from Porto to Lisbon, there are many places to stop along the way. From hidden gems to breezy beaches, there’s plenty to up the ante and make the best of this 10 day Portugal itinerary.

You can choose popular travel destinations like Nazare, Aveiro, or Coimbra. Watch a Live Fado Show with Glass of Port Wine, get active kayaking on the Mondego River or go on a walking tour of the University of Coimbra.

If you want to stay the night, Coimbra serves as the ideal base. Enjoy a mid-range stay at the Sapientia Boutique Hotel or live lavishly at the Hotel Quinta das Lagrimas.

Day 5 - 6: Lisbon

Lisbon is known for its architectural gems, colourful trams and rich history. The old-world neighbourhoods, terrace-lined streets and rowdy nightlife scene will offer you the perfect slice of local life.

This Portugal itinerary for 10 days winds through all the top spots, from the Sao Jorge Castle to the Jeronminos Monastery. But if you want to make the most of your time in the capital, don’t miss this 3-day Lisbon Itinerary.

Things to do in Lisbon:

If you’re embarking on a 10 day Portugal itinerary with kids, I’d recommend visiting places like Comércio Plaza, Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Science Museum) and the Oceanarium.

Where to Stay in Lisbon:

There are many neighbourhoods in Lisbon to choose from. Find the right fit for you with this in-depth guide on the Best Places to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal.

Day 7: Day Trip from Lisbon to Sintra

Let’s keep the ball rolling! Sintra is steeped deep with historical landmarks and eerie finds. From the hilltop-hugging palaces to the winding streets of the Old Town, this is a place that should be sitting at the top of your bucket list.

Expect misty mountain tops, forested slopes and breathtaking views all around town. Set your alarm clocks early to beat the crowds. This part of the 10 day Portugal itinerary can easily be done by train. Be sure to book the big attractions ahead of time, otherwise you’ll either miss out or have to wait in line for hours.

If Sintra doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, check out this guide on the Best Day Trips from Lisbon. Or jump on a train and soak up the sun from Cascais. This popular beach near Lisbon is the perfect fit for any warm weather foray. For the full run down, check out this guide on the Best Things to do in Cascais, Portugal.

Things to do in Sintra:

  • Don’t miss the Pena Palace (be sure to book your tickets in advance)

  • Explore the Quinta da Regaleira (again, book in advance)

  • Visit the 8th and 9th century Castle of the Moors

  • Taste Portuguese cuisine in Sintra’s Old Town

Where to Stay in Sintra:

If you love the vibe and want to stay in Sintra, here are some of the best hotels:

Day 8 - 10: Algarve

We’re going to wrap up this 10 day Portugal itinerary in the southern stretch of the country. The Algarve is coined for its hidden coves, turquoise beaches and whitewashed seaside villages.

Spend your days swimming at the beaches and relishing the flavours of local seafood. Put the cherry on top of your trip with this guide on the Things You Can’t Miss in the Algarve.

Things to do in Algarve Coast:

This 10 day Portugal itinerary with kids promises plenty of action to keep the whole family entertained. Whether your gang wants to get active or keep it chill, the Algarve will help keep everybody happy.

Where to Stay in Algarve Coast:

Best Time to Visit Portugal

Now that you know how to spend 10 days in Portugal, let’s cover some of the logistics. The best time to visit Portugal comes down to your personal preferences, style, travel budget and what type of trip you’re planning.

This country in Western Europe hosts a Mediterranean climate. The summers are notoriously hot and the winters are fairly mild, making it a popular year-round travel destination. Before you book your 10 day Portugal itinerary, here’s what you should expect in each season.

Spring in Portugal

From March to May, Portugal starts to warm up and the temperatures are generally pleasant, with sunny days and breezy evenings. This is the ideal time for outdoor adventure like hiking the tracks and cruising the coastline. If you’re a budget-inclined traveller or backpacker, this is one of the best times to visit Portugal.

Summer in Portugal

From June to August, the summer season in Portugal is brimming with long, sunny days. The warm weather makes it the best time for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. If you plan a holiday to Portugal during the summer, you’ll have to deal with high prices and a lot of tourists, because it’s the peak season.

Autumn in Portugal

From September to November, the weather is still relatively pleasant in Portugal. Autumn is a great time to discover the country’s natural scenery, play golf and go on hikes. If you want to enjoy nice weather without the summer crowds, early autumn is a top choice to plan your Portugal vacation. In my opinion, early September is the best time for a 10 day Portugal itinerary.

Winter in Portugal

From December to February, the low season takes place in Portugal, with chilly temperatures and lots of wind. If you choose to plan a Portugal trip during winter, be aware that lots of tourist spots limit their schedules or close entirely. That being said, you can still enjoy affordable airfares and a more peaceful time without the hassle of summertime tourist crowds.

How to Get Around Portugal

Now that you’ve got the gist of this Portugal itinerary for 10 days, let’s brush over the best way to get around.

When planning your holidays in Portugal, it’s important to consider the distances between the major cities and towns, as well as the availability of transport.

Some travellers prefer convenience and flexibility while others are more concerned about the cost. There really is no right or wrong way to do it and it all comes down to your personal preferences. Each mode of transport has its advantages and disadvantages, but here are three common ways to get around Portugal.

Public Transport

When planning your Portugal trip, public transport offers a budget-friendly alternative to getting around the major cities. Both Lisbon and Porto have efficient metro systems that cover most of the cities.

The CP (Comboios de Portugal) operates a rail network that connects most major cities and towns across Portugal. The trains are usually reliable and comfortable, especially for long-distance trips. There are also high-speed trains running between the big cities.

Local cities and towns have bus networks that are convenient to reach areas that the train and metro services can’t. Inter-city buses are also available for longer journeys, but it’s important to book your tickets in advance.

Rental Cars

This 10 day Portugal itinerary by car offers convenience and the freedom to go at your own pace. Renting a car can be expensive, but it can allow you to explore more remote areas and travel on your own schedule. Most major cities and airports have car rental agencies, but be sure to book online and in advance. I wouldn’t recommend hiring eclectic cars for your road trip, as finding charging points can be difficult, time-consuming and throw you off schedule.

If you’re hiring a car in one place and dropping it off in another place, your rental will be subject to a “one-way” fee. The further the distance between the locations, the higher that fee will be.

There are quite a few toll roads in Portugal and the main two are the A22 between Lagos and Faro and the A2 between Lisbon and the Algarve. If you’re on a time crunch, these toll roads are the best way to go.

Domestic Flights

If you’re on a time crunch, save time by catching flights between big cities like Porto and Lisbon. This really only applies to the major cities on mainland Portugal and there are domestic flights operated by TAP Air Portugal and other airlines.

Top Travel Tips for Your Portugal Itinerary

Before you embark on your 10 day Portugal itinerary, there’s just one last thing I’d like to cover. Travelling can be a lot of fun, but it’s rarely smooth sailing. So, here are a few travel tips to help make your holidays in Portugal on the right track.

  • Purchase delicacies at the local markets, not from chain stores 

  • Pack some layers! Destinations like Sintra and Cascais in Portugal can get surprisingly cold, even in the summertime 

  • Brush up on some basic Portuguese vocabulary – locals really appreciate the effort

  • If you’re a non-EU resident, make sure you get an International Drivers License

  • Set up a travel budget and make a savings plan for your Portugal trip

  • Save money by booking flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance

  • If you want to dive deeper, set aside 2 to 3 weeks to explore Portugal

  • Cut costs down using the Porto Card and Lisbon Card

  • Purchase a local SIM card in Spain or Portugal. Check out this full guide on the Best eSIMs for Europe

  • Get your European visa documents in order

  • Ditch high season! The best month to visit Portugal is in April, May, September or October

  • Master packing light so you can avoid the extra baggage fees

  • Back yourself up with travel insurance

Planning a European Road Trip?

If you want to extend your 10 days in Portugal, combine your trip with one of these carefully curated itineraries:

FAQs

Is 10 days in Portugal enough?

I’d recommend a minimum of one week in Portugal, but it’s still not enough to see everything. 10 days in Portugal allows you to see some of the big cities and coastal towns.

Is Portugal very expensive?

Portugal is considered one of the cheapest countries in Western Europe, making it a great destination for travellers. You can find budget-friendly activities and places to eat. Plus, you’ll find cheap flights by booking three to four months in advance.

Can I get around Portugal without a car?

Getting around Portugal without a car couldn’t be easier. If you don’t want to rent a car and drive, public transport is affordable and runs frequently in the major cities.

What is the cheapest way to travel around Portugal?

Buses are one of the most affordable ways to get around Portugal. If you’re a budget traveller or backpacker, you can easily visit the big cities and popular destinations.

Why Visit Portugal for 10 Days?

Whether you want to drink Port wine, listen to Fado music or immerse yourself in the art and architecture, you will not be disappointed in this end of Europe. This Portugal itinerary for 10 days hits all the highlights and hidden gems, so be sure to save it before you jet-set off on your next adventure.