Portugal Itinerary: 14 Days

EuropePortugal
Written By Jessica Bergin

Mountain-perched palaces, sweeping blue beaches and crispy pastel de nata paint the scene in Europe’s western end. If you’re planning a trip to the land of Port wine and Fado music, save this 14-day Portugal Itinerary.

The ultimate adventure is arrayed with a mix of awe-worthy experiences, and Portugal is pinned with many. From the colourful Algarve coastline to the buzzing rooftop bars in Lisbon, it’s easy to see why this country reels in a rich diversity of travellers.

jess bergin in porto portugal

Whether you want to indulge in delectable seafood, wander through the charming streets in Obidos or surf some of the world’s biggest waves in Nazare, there’s something here for you… Avid adventurers, drooling foodies and serial sightseers alike!

Portugal is known for its rugged coastline, whitewashed villages and lush mountains, making it one of the top travel destinations in Europe.

It’s no secret that there are lots of fun things to do here, but if you’re wondering where to even start, I’ve got you covered.

If you’re planning to spend two weeks in Portugal, this in-depth itinerary can help you see all the highlights.

We’ll discover the dazzling historical roots of Porto, swim in the sublime beaches in the Algarve and lock lips with world-class wines in the Douro Valley.

Living in Barcelona means that I can dip in and out of Portugal any time I like. And each time I visit the country, I walk away with a desire to return again.

I’ve road-tripped through the south and spent lots of time in both the big cities and off-the-beaten-path locations.

From the delectable cuisine to the vibrant streets and striking architecture, I can honestly say that I can’t get enough of it.

In fact, even just writing this makes me feel excited as hell. This 14 day Portugal itinerary encompasses all the top spots and hidden gems, so let’s dive in!

 

How to Spend 14 Days in Portugal

This Portugal itinerary for 14 days can help you take your trip to the next level. With tried-and-tested travel tips, planning the perfect holiday in Portugal really couldn’t be easier!

In this 2-week Portugal itinerary, we cover nine of the country’s top travel destinations. On top of the highlights and must-see attractions, we also brush over the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay and more itinerary options.

With a mix of history, culture, food, adventure and outdoor activities, there’s something here to satisfy every type of traveller. And there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. So if you’ve already visited a location or want to mix things up, you can easily go right ahead. I’m all for spontaneity when travelling, so feel free to make your own adjustments to find what works for you.

So without further ado, here’s a quick breakdown of what we’ll cover on your two week Portugal trip.

  • Day 1 - 2: Porto

  • Day 3: Duoro Valley

  • Day 4: Aveiro

  • Day 5: Coimbra

  • Day 6: Nazare

  • Day 7- 9: Lisbon

  • Day 10 - 11: Sintra

  • Day 12: Cascais

  • Day 13 - 14: Algarve Coast

 

Portugal Itinerary Day 1 - 2: Porto

Let’s kick off this 2 week Portugal itinerary in the north of the country. Porto is coined for its perplexing mix of modern meets old. Your holidays in Portugal are about to be action-packed, and there’s really no better place to begin!

This UNESCO World Heritage city sits right on the cusp of the Rio Douro, providing a picture-perfect contrast for any photo-loving, Insta-snapping traveller. Meander around the maze-like streets as you marvel at the monuments, stores and quirky finds.

Fill up on enchantment as you tick off the top landmarks, sip Port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia and taste local cuisine in the terrace-lined streets. Don’t miss the iconic blue and white azulejo-tiled Chapel of the Souls and the Igreja de Santo Ildefonso.

For a deeper dive into the history, head up to the bell tower of the Baroque-style Igreja dos Clérigos. See the inspiration for JK Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter’ at the oldest bookstore in Portugal, Livraria Lello, and get a dose of greenery in the 19th-century Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.

In your first two days in Porto, be sure to spend plenty of time in the Ribeira neighbourhood. This is the city’s famous riverside quarter and you can wander through the cobbled streets and soak up all the charm.

porto is a highlight of this 14 day portugal itinerary

For your final evening in Porto, cross over the Ponte Luis Bridge and head to Kittie Rock Viewpoint to watch the sunset. From here, you can admire the scenery from afar, and, without the huge crowds.

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.

Portugal Itinerary Day 3: Douro Valley

Next up in this Portugal itinerary for 14 days, the dazzling Douro Valley! Rolling hilltops, verdant vineyards and lush landscapes lap the scene in this World Heritage-listed hot spot.

Take a cruise down the glimmering river and relish the flavours of iconic Port wine. If you want to take full advantage of the scenery, get active on one of the valley’s veritable hiking routes.

One thing you cannot miss in the Douro Valley is a taste of the region’s fine wines. Whether it’s a boozy brunch or an exotic evening out, this part of Portugal will not disappoint. The best wine farms in the Douro Valley are Quinta da Roêda, Quinta das Carvalhas, Quinta da Pacheca, Quinta de La Rosa and Quinta do Crasto.

Things to do in Duoro Valley:

Where to Stay in Duoro Valley:

Portugal Itinerary Day 4: Aveiro

After a day of wining and dining in the Douro Valley, make your way down towards Aveiro. Day four invites you into this charming, pint-sized city that’s painted with art nouveau buildings and colourful boats.

Aveiro is well-known as the Portuguese Venice, thanks to its intricate maze of canals. Sitting along the shores of the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, you can jump aboard a vibrant boat and see the city like a local. Admire the architecture in the Cathedral of Aveiro and tempt your tastebuds with freshly caught seafood and authentic cuisine.

Portugal is coined for popular destinations like Lisbon and the Algarve, and Aveiro certainly isn’t on every traveller’s list. But there’s a reason why this is the best Portugal itinerary, and you’ll uncover the quaint charm of this lesser-visited destination. Aveiro is worth visiting if you want to cruise on the brightly-coloured moliceiros (traditional boats) and see the old town’s traditional azulejo tiles.

Things to do in Aveiro:

Where to Stay in Aveiro:

Portugal Itinerary Day 5: Coimbra

In this part of your Portugal itinerary for 14 days, we’ll continue to venture fairly off the typical tourist trail. Coimbra is situated in central Portugal and boasts a rich culture, history and array of architectural gems.

Fun fact - Coimbra was once the capital city, that was, up until the 13th century. Anyway, I assume you’re not here for a history lesson. So let’s get back to it. There’s a slew of sightseeing experiences and top-rated attractions in Coimbra, from the University of Coimbra to the Machado de Castro National Museum.

Woven with historical and medieval architecture, it’s easy to fall in love with this city. Topped with river-facing views and restaurants lining the waterfront, Coimbra is a top spot to enjoy Portugal’s warmer weather.

If you only have time to visit one attraction, make it the University of Coimbra, which is famous for its Baroque library, Biblioteca Joanina and the Chapel of São Miguel.

Get immersed in the atmosphere as you walk through the Old Town (Baixa), appreciate the mix of churches and cathedrals and stop by the Monastery of Santa Cruz. For your evening in Coimbra, relax by the riverfront and relish the flavours of local cuisine. Bacalhau, dried and salted cod is an absolute must.

Things to do in Coimbra:

Where to Stay in Coimbra:

Portugal Itinerary Day 6: Nazare

This 2 week Portugal itinerary takes a turn towards one of the country’s most famous destinations, Nazare. This surf haven is a hot spot for wild waves, but there’s plenty of peculiar history away from the shore.

After a couple of days in Aveiro and Coimbra, make your way down the southwest coast. To keep your trip interesting, dose up with some history and make a stop at the Batalha Monastery or Alcobaca Monastery.

As you make your way into Nazare, get ready to kick back and settle in with its seaside charm. To get the ultimate vantage point on the world-class waves, pop into the Faro de Nazare lighthouse. This must-see spot has been turned into a surf museum and you’ll find the boards and stories of local surf legends.

If you’re keen on surfing some of the world’s biggest waves, keep in mind that the wintertime is your best bet. The winter swells and wild winds create waves that often hit more than 20 metres in height. If you want to challenge your limits on Nazare’s notorious waves, plan your Portugal itinerary for the winter season.

Nazare is nestled with a network of unique finds, from the iconic Old Town to the fisherman’s district, Bairro dos Pescadores. Take the funicular to the hilltop-hugging O Sitio and watch the sunset from the Miradouro do Suberco.

surfing on your 2 week portugal itinerary

Things to do in Nazare:

Where to Stay in Nazare:

Portugal Itinerary Day 7 - 9: Lisbon

Just when you thought your holidays in Portugal couldn’t get any better… After a few days dowsed in seaside charm and quaint villages, it’s time to head into Portugal’s capital city. Lapped with awe-worthy attractions and a roaring nightlife scene, you’ll be entertained on every corner.

Spend the next three days winding through the maze-like streets, admiring the azulejo-tiled architecture and consuming as much pastel de nata as humanly possible. Lisbon is a traveller’s treasure trove, with teeming trams, sunset cruises and quirky museums.

This part of your Portugal itinerary is packed with food, culture and history. Catch the best views of Lisbon from the Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, swing past the Santa Justa Lift and let loose in the nightlife on Pink Street, locally known as Rua Nova do Carvalho. Soak up the city buzz as you people-watch in Rossio Square and give your credit card a workout on Rua Augusta, one of the best shopping streets in Lisbon.

Visit the oldest church in the city, the Roman Catholic Lisbon Cathedral and don’t miss the iconic Alfama neighbourhood. In this colourful corner of Lisbon, you’ll find teeming traditional stores and cosy cafes. You can reach Alfama by taking the tram 28, offering a unique sightseeing experience and escape from the summertime heat.

Kick the hassle of having to plan the details with this 3 day Lisbon Itinerary. This guide shows you how to spend 3 days in the capital city, so you can enjoy the sights, indulge in the food and soak up the sun! If you want to mix up your sightseeing in the capital city, opt for one of these top day trips from Lisbon.

Things to do in Lisbon:

Where to Stay in Lisbon:

There are many neighbourhoods to choose from, so find what’s fit for your travel style and budget with this guide on the Best Places to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal.

Portugal Itinerary Day 10 - 11: Sintra

City life is great, but now it’s time to trail away from the typical tourist crowds. Make your way to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed that’s bound to leave you breathless.

This part of your Portugal itinerary for 14 days is super special. Home to hilltop-hugging castles, misty mountains and an awe-inspiring ancient town, it’s easy to see why Sintra is a popular place to visit in Portugal.

Most visitors opt for a day trip from Lisbon, but I’d highly recommend staying in Sintra for at least two days. From the colourful Pena Palace to the eerie architectural gems, this UNESCO site is the ultimate way to spice up your Portugal itinerary

sintra is a stop in this 14 day portugal itinerary

Whether you want to wander through the ancient alleys, marvel at the Medieval influence or tick off the teeming attractions and activities, this place will have you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Sintra, don’t miss the Castle of the Moors, Quinta da Regaleira and Sintra Old Town.

Things to do in Sintra:

  • Be the first in line to see the hilltop-suspended Pena Palace (be sure to book your tickets in advance)

  • Feel like you’re in a fairytale book in the Quinta da Regaleira

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

  • Taste Portuguese cuisine in the Old Town

Where to Stay in Sintra:

Portugal Itinerary Day 12: Cascais

Following a fairytale-like foray in Sintra, make your way to the seaside town of Cascais. This part of your 2 week Portugal itinerary is all about winding down and indulging.

There are only a handful of sightseeing experiences in Cascais, and your time here will be majorly focused on the outdoors. This charming town has everything from the blue water beaches of Praia da Conceição and Praia da Duquesa to the fascinating Castro Guimarães Museum. You can even see Europe’s most westerly point, the Cabo da Rocha.

For the full run down, check out this guide on the Best Things to do in Cascais, Portugal.

Things to do in Cascais:

Where to Stay in Cascais:

Portugal Itinerary Day 13 - 14: Algarve Coast

In this last leg of your 14 day Portugal itinerary, you’ll venture down south to the country’s ever-idyllic Algarve Coast. With wind-carved cliffs, blindingly blue beaches and stunning scenery, this place looks like it’s been ripped straight out of an adventure book.

Southern Portugal is the ultimate summertime sojourn, so get ready to be swept away. The landscape is lapped with whitewashed villages, lush coastal trails and quaint beach towns. If you choose to extend your time in Portugal, be sure to check out this Algarve Coast Itinerary.

The Algarve region in Portugal is as diverse as it gets. Spot flamingos on the salt pans in Tavira, see the Moorish walls in Faro and go for a sunrise kayak tour of Benagil Cave. If you have limited time, visit one of the best beaches in Algarve, Praia do Marinha.

algarve is a part of this portugal itinerary

Find more attractions and activities in this comprehensive guide on the Best Things to do in the Algarve Coast, Portugal.

There are many different places to stay in Algarve, and each area boasts a unique charm. We stayed inland in a yurt on an orange grove. Random, I know.

But it was a serious highlight from that trip. If getting off the grid doesn’t align with you, opt to end your Portugal itinerary in Albufeira. This fishing-village-turned-holiday-hub has a mix of beaches, nightlife and shops.

Things to do in Algarve Coast:

Where to Stay in Algarve Coast:

 

More Travel Destinations in Portugal

If you want to switch things up in this Portugal itinerary for 14 days, here are some more travel destinations to consider:

  • Obidos, known as an open-air museum

  • Peniche, famous for its surf scene

  • Ericeira, well-known for surf and Praia de Ribeira d’Ilhas

  • Evora, coined for its UNESCO World Heritage Site

  • Mertola, known for its history and landmarks

  • Monsanto, famous for its authentic Portugues charm

  • Madeira, well-known for its volcanic landscape and outdoor adventure

  • Azores Islands, known as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’. It includes nine major islands; São Miguel, Santa Maria, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo.

 

Portugal Itinerary 7 Days

If you don’t have time to spend 2 weeks in Portugal, there’s no need to fear!

Squeeze in the highlights and hot spots with this 7-day Portugal Itinerary. You’ll tick off buzzing cities like Lisbon and Porto, explore Sintra and Cascais and finish things up on the iconic Algarve.

porto is a must see in this portugal itinerary

This Portugal itinerary leaves plenty of room for spontaneity, and you’ll have the freedom to create your own schedule and make as many stops as you want.

Here’s what your one week in Portugal could look like:

  •                   Day 1: Porto

  •                   Day 2: Day Trip to Duoro Valley 

  •                   Day 3: Lisbon

  •                   Day 4: Day Trip to Sintra

  •                   Day 5: Day Trip to Cascais

  •                   Day 6: Algarve

  •                   Day 7: Day Trip Around Algarve

 
 

Best Time to Visit Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal depends on your personal preferences, style, travel budget and what type of trip you’re planning.

This country in Europe is home to a Mediterranean climate with notoriously hot summers and fairly mild winters, making it a popular year-round travel destination. Before you book your 2 week Portugal itinerary, check out this basic breakdown of what to expect in each season.

Spring in Portugal

From March to May, Portugal starts to warm up, the flowers bloom and fewer crowds flock to the scene. The temperatures are generally pleasant, with sunny days and cool evenings. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking, cruising the coastline and ticking off bucket list attractions. If you’re a budget-savvy 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 shines light on long, sunny days. The warm weather makes it the best time for beach bums and water sports lovers. If you plan a holiday to Portugal during the summer, you can enjoy the top activities, but, it can be a lot more expensive. In addition to high prices, you’ll also have to deal with a lot of tourists, because, after all, it is the peak season.

Autumn in Portugal

From September to November, the weather remains relatively pleasant and the beachfront becomes less packed. Autumn is an ideal time to discover the country’s natural scenery, play golf, go hiking and get active doing outdoor activities. If you want to enjoy nice weather without the summer crowds, autumn is a top choice to plan your Portugal vacation.

Winter in Portugal

From December to February, the low season takes place in Portugal. With chilly temperatures and lots of wind, this is the least popular time to visit the country. If you choose to plan a Portugal trip during winter, be aware that lots of tourist facilities reduce their schedules or close entirely. That being said, you can enjoy affordable airfares and a more peaceful time without the hassle of summertime tourist crowds.

 

How to Get Around Portugal

Now that we’re nearing the end of this 14 day Portugal itinerary, let’s quickly brush over the best way to get around.

portugal itinerary 14 days in porto

When planning your holidays in Portugal, it’s important to consider the distances between the major cities and towns, the availability of transportation options and your personal preferences.

Some travellers prefer convenience and flexibility while others are more concerned about the cost.

There is no right or wrong way to do it and it all comes down to you. Each mode of transport has its pros and cons, but here are three common ways to get around in Portugal.

Public Transport

When planning your Portugal trip, public transport will serve as the best, budget-friendly way to get around the major cities. Both Lisbon and Porto have efficient metro systems that cover most parts of the cities and run frequently.

The CP (Comboios de Portugal) runs an extensive rail network that connects most major cities and towns across Portugal. The trains are usually reliable and comfortable, especially for long-distance trips.

Lastly, 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 ahead if you plan on travelling during the high season.

Rental Cars

Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around, but it can be expensive. If you want to explore more remote areas and travel on your own schedule, you can’t beat the freedom of hiring a car. 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 and throw you off schedule.

In my opinion, the best way to do this Portugal itinerary for 2 weeks is by car. You’ll be able to breeze through the big cities like Porto and Lisbon while still seeing smaller towns like Coimbra and Aveiro.

Domestic Flights

If you’re on a time crunch, squeeze in extra time to your Portugal itinerary by catching flights. This really only applies to the major cities on mainland Portugal and there are domestic flights operated by TAP Air Portugal and other airlines. If you book at least 3-4 months in advance, you’ll be able to find dirt-cheap airfares.

 

Top Travel Tips for Your Portugal Itinerary

To ensure that your holidays in Portugal go as smoothly as possible, there are a few factors to consider beforehand. Make sure you brush up on the following tips:

  • Cut costs down using the Porto Card and Lisbon Card

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

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

  • If you’re looking for the fastest option between major Portuguese cities, hop on a high-speed train or catch a flight 

  • Buy authentic food and local delicacies at the markets, not from chain stores 

  • Brush up on some basic Portuguese vocabulary – locals appreciate every bit of time and effort that you make

  • Portugal uses the euro currency

  • If you’re a non-EU resident and want to rent a car, make sure you get an International Drivers License

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

  • Save more money by booking flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance. Check out my guide on scoring cheap flights

  • Be spontaneous and don’t be afraid to get off the typical tourist trail on your 2 week Portugal itinerary

  • If you want to dive deeper, set aside 3 to 4 weeks to explore Portugal, Madeira and the Azores Islands

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

  • Master the art of packing light so you can avoid heavy baggage fees

  • Back yourself up with travel insurance

  • Take advantage of the free walking tours in the major cities

 

Planning a European Road Trip?

If you want to extend your 14 day Portugal itinerary, there’s a wealth of wonderful options to choose from. Save yourself time, money and the stress of having to organise everything by yourself with one of these in-depth travel guides:

FAQs

Portugal itinerary 2 weeks

Is 2 weeks in Portugal too long?

2 weeks is the ideal amount of time to explore the best attractions, major cities and hidden gems. A 14-day itinerary will provide you with plenty of time to take things slow, make stops along the way and travel at your own pace.

How many days are enough in Portugal?

This depends on what you want to see and what kind of experience you’re after. Usually, you need a minimum of 10 days to visit the major attractions and landmarks in Portugal. For a less-rushed trip at your own pace, 14 days is ideal.

Can you see Portugal without a car?

Getting around Portugal is fairly straightforward, even if you don’t have a car. Public transportation in Portugal is affordable and reliable during the high seasons, but be sure to plan ahead and buy tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

What is the best city to stay in Portugal?

This comes down to your personal preferences and budget. Lisbon is the capital city and is very popular with tourists, while the Algarve boasts seaside charm. Sintra oozes history and culture while Madeira and the Azores boast adventure all round.

Why Spend 2 Weeks in Portugal?

Why not?! Portugal is coined for its awe-worthy scenery, ancient history and mix of cultural influences. From the hilltop palaces in Sintra to the world’s biggest waves in Nazare, there’s something here to see for every type of traveller.

If you’re planning a trip to this part of Europe, be sure to save this 14 day Portugal itinerary!

Jessica Bergin https://www.jessbergin.com
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