8 Day Portugal Itinerary: Complete Guide to Lisbon, Porto, Lagos & Sintra (2026)

The Ultimate 8-Day Portugal Itinerary: Lisbon, Porto, Lagos & Beyond (2026 Guide)

Planning a week in Portugal and wondering how to experience the absolute best this country has to offer? After spending eight unforgettable days exploring everything from Lisbon's colorful azulejo-lined streets to Lagos's jaw-dropping cliff beaches, I've crafted the perfect Portugal itinerary that balances iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and those pinch-me moments that make travel magical.

This isn't your typical Portugal guide filled with generic advice. This is a real itinerary from someone who hiked to every miradouro in Lisbon, watched the sunrise paint Lagos's rock formations gold, and got genuinely emotional tasting port wine overlooking the Douro Valley. Whether you're a solo traveler like I was, planning a romantic getaway, or organizing a friend’s trip, this guide will show you exactly how to spend 8 perfect days in Portugal.

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Quick Trip Summary:

• Days 1-2: Lisbon (historic neighborhoods, miradouros, Belém)

• Day 3: Sintra day trip (fairy-tale palaces and coastal cliffs)

• Days 4-5: Porto (riverside charm, port wine, stunning architecture)

• Day 6: Douro Valley wine country

• Days 7-8: Lagos (Europe's most beautiful beaches)

• Best Time to Visit: April-June or September-October

• Estimated Budget: €800-1,400 per person (mid-range)

• Getting Around: Trains + buses (no car needed!)

Find the cheapest flights to Lisbon on Expedia

Trip Planning Essentials

When to Visit Portugal

Best Overall: May-June or September-October

• Perfect weather (20-25°C / 68-77°F)

• Smaller crowds than peak summer

• Lower accommodation prices

• All attractions open

Summer (July-August): Hot and crowded, especially in Lisbon and Lagos. Book everything in advance. Beach weather is incredible, though.

Winter (November-March): Fewer tourists, great prices, but some beach towns (like Lagos) feel sleepy. Perfect for Porto and Lisbon.

Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom, comfortable temperatures, and fewer tourists. My favorite time.

Travel Insurance

Don't skip travel insurance for Portugal. I recommend having coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Get a quote from VisitorsCoverage

Staying Connected

Stay connected throughout your trip with an eSIM. No need to hunt for local SIM cards at the airport.

Get your Portugal eSIM from Saily

Money & Budget

Portugal uses the Euro (€). It's relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries, but Lisbon and touristy areas have gotten pricier.

ATM Tips: Withdraw from Multibanco ATMs (everywhere) and decline their conversion rate—use your bank's rate instead.

Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated. Round up for drinks, leave 5-10% at restaurants if the service was good.

Getting Around Portugal

You absolutely don't need a car for this itinerary. Portuguese trains and buses are reliable, affordable, and scenic.

Lisbon to Porto: Train (3 hours, €25-40). Book on Omio for one of the easiest ways to get around Portugal. Porto to Lagos: Bus (8-9 hours, €35-45) or train. Lagos to Lisbon: Bus (4 hours, €20-25) or train (longer but scenic).

Within Cities: Metro in Lisbon and Porto (buy rechargeable cards), walking, or Bolt/Uber

Language

Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learn these phrases:

• Olá (OH-lah) - Hello

• Obrigado/a (oh-bree-GAH-doh/dah) - Thank you

• Por favor (pohr fah-VOHR) - Please

• Quanto custa? (KWAN-toh KOOSH-tah) - How much?

• A conta, por favor - The check, please

The Complete 8-Day Portugal Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon - Baixa, Rossio & First Impressions

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Lisbon (most flights land in the morning)

• Take the metro from the airport to your hotel (€1.50, 20-30 minutes)

• Check into your hotel in Baixa or Rossio [AFFILIATE: Find hotels on Booking.com]

• Grab lunch at Time Out Market (amazing food hall with 40+ vendors)

Where to Stay in Lisbon

My Recommendation: Quinta Colina by Shiadu - Perfect location in Lisbon, close to many major attractions. Budget-friendly with clean rooms and helpful staff.

Other Great Options:

• Budget: The Central House Lisbon Baixa - Hostel

• Mid-Range: LR Guest House OR Rossio Boutique Hotel

• Luxury: Pousada de Lisboa, Praça do Comércio - Small Luxury Hotel OR Corpo Santo Lisbon Historical Hotel

  Compare all Lisbon hotels on Expedia

Late Afternoon:

• Walk through Rossio Square and admire the wave-patterned mosaic sidewalks

• Explore Baixa's grid streets (stop for a pastel de nata at Manteigaria)

• Ride the iconic Elevador de Santa Justa for rooftop views (€5.30). Skip the line with GetYourGuide

Evening:

• Walk to Praça do Comércio at sunset (the light on the yellow buildings is magical)

• Dinner in Cais do Sodré at Sol e Pesca (a quirky canned fish restaurant)

• Drinks in Bairro Alto (every doorway is a bar—just wander)

Day 2: Lisbon - Belém, Alfama & Miradouros

Morning:

• Take tram 15E to Belém (30 minutes, €3)

• Visit Jerónimos Monastery when it opens at 10 am (€10). Book tickets in advance on GetYourGuide

• See the iconic Belém Tower (€6, arrive early to avoid lines)

• Eat the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém (yes, there will be a line, it's worth it)

Afternoon:

• Tram or walk back toward the city center

• Get lost in Alfama's maze of narrow streets (my favorite Lisbon neighborhood)

• Visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic views (€10)

• Stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia for photos through the tile-framed archways

Late Afternoon:

• Ride Tram 28 through Alfama, Graça, and beyond. Book a guided tram tour.

• Watch sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte (the best view in Lisbon, hands down)

Evening:

• Authentic Fado dinner in Alfama. Book a Fado show + dinner experience.

• Try A Baiuca or Mesa de Frades (small, intimate, soul-crushing in the best way)

Pro Tip: Get to miradouros 30 minutes before sunset. Bring a bottle of wine from a corner shop (€3-5) and enjoy the show as the locals do.

Day 3: Sintra Day Trip - Palaces, Gardens & Coastal Cliffs

Sintra deserves its own full day. This UNESCO World Heritage town sits in misty hills 40 minutes from Lisbon and feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Morning:

• Catch the 8:30 am train from Rossio Station to Sintra (€2.30 each way, 40 minutes)

• Take bus 434 to Pena Palace or book this amazing day tour. Book a Sintra day tour

9:30 am - Quinta da Regaleira (€12)

• This was my favorite stop in Sintra, a Gothic palace with lush gardens, underground tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well

• Plan 2-3 hours to explore. Get lost. Find secret passages. It's incredible.

12:30 pm - Pena Palace (€14)

• Portugal's most iconic palace, perched on a mountain with rainbow-colored towers

• The interior is beautiful, but the exterior and views are the real stars

• Note: It gets FOGGY. I visited on a misty day and couldn't see the views, but the palace itself was still magical

2:30 pm - Lunch in Sintra Village

• Wander the historic center and grab lunch (try Tascantiga for petiscos)

4:00 pm - Drive to the Coast (if doing a tour)

• Stop at Cabo da Roca (Europe's westernmost point)

• Visit Praia da Adraga or Praia do Guincho for dramatic coastal scenery

• My tour ended at Miradouro da Praia do Guincho with massive waves crashing below

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon by 7pm

• Dinner in Chiado (upscale neighborhood with excellent restaurants)

Sintra Tips:

• Buy Pena Palace tickets online in advance—lines are insane (GetYourGuide)

• Sintra has its own microclimate (cooler and often foggy), bring a light jacket

• The 434 bus gets packed. Consider a private tour or taxi between palaces if you're short on time

Day 4: Travel to Porto + Evening in Ribeira

Where to Stay in Porto

My Recommendation: 296 Heritage Apartments - Great location across the river in Porto, close to many major attractions.

Other Great Options:

• Budget: Being Porto Hostel

• Mid-Range: Oporto Street Aldas OR 1872 River House by Olivia

• Luxury: GA Palace Hotel OR The Rebello Hotel & Spa

  Compare all Porto hotels on Expedia

Morning:

• Take the 9 am train from Lisbon to Porto (2.5-3 hours, €25-40) (Book on Omio)

• The ride along the coast is stunning, sit on the right side heading north

Afternoon:

• Walk to Ribeira (Porto's UNESCO-listed riverside district)

• Get your first view of the Douro River and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge

• Lunch at a riverside café (touristy, but the views are incredible)

Late Afternoon:

• Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge's upper deck to Vila Nova de Gaia (the views back to Porto are phenomenal)

• Visit a port wine cellar: Taylor's, Graham's, or Sandeman for tours and tastings (€12-25). Or take a full food and wine walking tour.

Evening:

• Watch the sunset from Jardim do Morro (bring snacks and wine)

• Walk back across the lower bridge deck as the city lights come on

• Dinner in Ribeira (avoid the tourist traps on the main square, walk one street back)

Day 5: Porto - Architecture, Culture & Port Wine

Morning:

• Start at São Bento Train Station (possibly the world's most beautiful train station, 20,000 azulejo tiles tell Portugal's history)

• Walk to Livraria Lello bookstore (€8 entry, redeemable with book purchase) (Book skip-the-line tickets)

  • This is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world and reportedly inspired J.K. Rowling's Hogwarts

  • Go right when it opens at 9 am, or expect crowds

Mid-Morning:

• Climb Clérigos Tower for 360° views of Porto (€6, 240 steps)

• Visit the stunning Igreja do Carmo with its blue azulejo facade

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Bolhão Market area (try a francesinha—Porto's famous sandwich)

• Explore the Aliados Avenue area

• Visit the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) for opulent interiors (€10)

Late Afternoon:

• Take a Douro River cruise (1-hour trips start at €15) (Book a river cruise ahead of your trip)

• Alternatively, walk along the riverside Cais da Ribeira

Evening:

• Sunset drinks at one of Gaia's rooftop bars (The Yeatman Hotel has an incredible terrace)

Porto Pro Tips:

• Porto is HILLY. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for leg day.

• The city is compact, and you can walk almost everywhere

• Free walking tours meet daily at 10 am and 3 pm near the town hall

Day 6: Douro Valley Wine Country

The Douro Valley is Portugal's famous wine region, about 90 minutes east of Porto. Terraced vineyards cascade down to the Douro River, creating one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world.

Two Options:

Option 1: Join a Tour (My Choice)

• I booked this Douro Valley wine tour via GetYourGuide and absolutely loved it

• The guide took us to small, family-owned wineries (not the big tourist operations)

• We visited Quinta da Fonte do Milho for port tastings with olive oil and bread

• Had lunch in Pinhão (the heart of the Douro Valley, absolutely stunning)

• Took a 1-hour boat ride on the Douro River

• Finished at Quinta do Roncão, a beautiful winery run by a husband-and-wife team

• Cost: €80-110 including transportation, tastings, lunch, and boat ride

Option 2: DIY by Train

• Take the scenic train from Porto to Pinhão (€15-20 each way, 2-3 hours)

• This is one of the world's most beautiful train rides

• Visit wineries on foot or arrange tastings in advance

• Stay overnight in Pinhão or Peso da Régua (Find Douro Valley hotels)

What to Expect:

• Port wine tastings (white port, ruby, tawny, late bottled vintage)

• Stunning valley views at every turn

• Small villages that feel frozen in time

• Amazing Portuguese lunch (most tours include this)

Evening:

• Return to Porto by 7-8 pm

• Light dinner and drinks in Ribeira or Foz do Douro

Douro Valley Tips:

• Tours are the easiest option if you're short on time and want to visit multiple wineries

• Bring a jacket, it can get windy on the river

• If you rent a car Book car rental with Expedia, you can explore smaller villages like Lamego or Provesende

Day 7: Travel to Lagos + Sunset at the Cliffs

Where to Stay in Lago

My Recommendation: Carvi Beach Hotel - Great location near the beach, only a few minutes’ walk to town

Other Great Options:

• Budget: HI Lagos - Pousada de Juventude - Hostel OR Olive Hostel Lagos

• Mid-Range: Costa D’Oiro Ambiance Village

• Luxury: Cascade Wellness Resort OR Vila Valverde Design Country Hotel

  Compare all Lagos hotels on Expedia

Morning:

• Early bus, train, or flight from Porto to Lagos (8-9 hours by bus, or fly to Faro + 1.5hr bus)

• Bus tickets: Book with Omio (€35-45)

• Alternative: Fly Porto to Faro (€30-60), then bus to Lagos (Search flights on CheapOair)

Afternoon:

• Walk to the beach and take your first look at the Algarve's famous cliff coastline

• Quick swim if the weather is warm

Late Afternoon:

• Walk the cliff path from Praia de Dona Ana toward Ponta da Piedade

• Stop at every viewpoint (there are at least 5 incredible overlooks)

• Arrive at the lighthouse (Farol da Ponta da Piedade) before sunset

Evening:

• Watch one of the most spectacular sunsets of your life as the golden hour light hits the rock formations

• Walk back along the cliffs as the stars come out (bring a headlamp or phone light)

• Dinner in Lagos town center

Day 8: Lagos Beach Day + Return to Lisbon

Early Morning (Optional but Incredible):

• Wake up for sunrise at Praia de Dona Ana or Praia do Camilo

• The rocks slowly being illuminated by golden light are one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen

• You'll have the beach almost entirely to yourself

• Perfect for photos and peaceful reflection

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a café in town

• Visit more beaches:

  • Praia do Camilo: Wooden staircase down to a small beach surrounded by cliffs

  • Praia do Pinhão: Tiny beach with rock formations you can walk through at low tide

  • Praia da Dona Ana: Most photographed beach in Lagos, for good reason

Afternoon:

• Take a boat tour to explore the grottos and caves (Book a boat tour on GetYourGuide)

• Or kayak through the rock formations (Book a kayak tour)

• Last swim and beach time

Late Afternoon:

• Bus back to Lisbon (4 hours, departures every 2-3 hours)

• Or stay another night in Lagos if you can swing it

Evening:

• Final dinner in Lisbon

• Late-night drinks in Bairro Alt

Complete Budget Breakdown

Here's what you can expect to spend on this 8-day Portugal itinerary:

Budget Option (€60-80/day)

• Accommodation: Hostels (€20-30/night)

• Food: Grocery stores, cheap cafes, one meal out (€20-25/day)

• Transportation: Buses, public transit (€10-15/day)

• Activities: Free walking tours, beaches, miradouros (€5-10/day)

• Total: €480-640 for 8 days

Mid-Range (€100-150/day) ⭐ Most Popular

• Accommodation: 3-star hotels, nice Airbnbs (€50-80/night)

• Food: Mix of restaurants and markets (€35-50/day)

• Transportation: Trains, occasional Uber (€15-20/day)

• Activities: Paid attractions, one tour (€20-30/day)

• Total: €800-1,200 for 8 days

Luxury (€200+/day)

• Accommodation: 4-5 star hotels (€120-250/night)

• Food: Fine dining, wine tastings (€70-100/day)

• Transportation: Private transfers, car rental (€30-50/day)

• Activities: Premium tours, spa experiences (€50+/day)

• Total: €1,600-2,400+ for 8 days

Additional Costs:

• Flights to Portugal: €200-800 depending on origin

• Souvenirs and extras: €100-200

Best Restaurants & Food Experiences

As someone who traveled to Portugal with a vegan diet, I can confirm Portugal is surprisingly accommodating. Here are my top recommendations:

Lisbon

Traditional Portuguese:

• Cervejaria Ramiro: Legendary seafood (€30-40 per person)

• Time Out Market: 40+ food stalls, something for everyone (€10-20)

• Solar dos Presuntos: Classic Portuguese dishes (€25-35)

Vegan/Vegetarian:

• PSI (Pão Sem Ingredientes): 100% vegan, incredible pastries

• The Food Temple: Plant-based fine dining

• Ao 26 - Vegan Food Project: Cozy spot in Alfama

Cafes & Pastries:

• Manteigaria: Best pastéis de nata in Lisbon (€1.20 each)

• Fabrica Lisboa: Hip cafe with great coffee and pastries

• Nicolau Lisboa: Craft beer and petiscos

Porto

Traditional:

• Cantinho do Avillez: Modern Portuguese from a celebrity chef (€25-40)

• Café Santiago: THE place for francesinha (€10-15)

• Taberna dos Mercadores: Tiny, authentic, amazing (€15-25)

Vegan:

• DaTerra: All vegan, creative menu

• Euskalduna Studio: Has excellent vegan options (Michelin-starred)

Cafes:

• Café Majestic: Historic Art Nouveau cafe (touristy but beautiful)

• Zenith Brunch & Cocktails: Best brunch in Porto

Lagos

Seafood:

• Bon Vivant: Fresh fish, ocean views (€20-35)

• Casinha do Petisco: Local favorite (€15-25)

Casual:

• Mister Pizza Lagos: Surprisingly good wood-fired pizza

• Nah Nah Bah: Healthy bowls and smoothies

Don't Miss:

• Fresh fish at any beachside restaurant

• Grilled sardines (in season May-October)

• Cataplana (seafood stew)

Portugal Packing List

Essentials

Clothing:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you'll walk 10+ miles/day)

• Sandals for the beach

• Light layers (Portugal has microclimates; Sintra is always cooler)

• One nicer outfit for dinners

• Swimsuit (even in spring/fall)

• Light rain jacket (Sintra and Porto can be rainy)

Beach/Outdoor:

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

• Waterproof phone case for beaches

• Quick-dry towel

• Daypack for day trips

Documents:

• Passport (must be valid 6 months beyond travel)

• Travel insurance confirmation

• Booking confirmations downloaded offline

Health & Safety:

• Basic first aid kit

• Prescription medications

• Reusable water bottle (tap water is safe in Portugal)

What NOT to Bring

• Hair dryer (hotels provide them)

• Heavy coat (unless visiting in winter)

• Too many "just in case" items (you can buy anything you need)

Other Portugal Destinations Worth Considering

If you have more than 8 days or want to customize this itinerary, consider adding:

• Óbidos: Medieval walled town (1 hour from Lisbon)

• Nazaré: Famous for massive waves and traditional fishing culture

• Coimbra: Historic university town between Lisbon and Porto

• Aveiro: "Venice of Portugal" with colorful boats and canals

• Évora: UNESCO Roman ruins in the Alentejo region

• Berlenga Grande Island: Pristine nature reserve off the coast

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Portugal

1. Not Booking Pena Palace Tickets in Advance

Pena Palace sells out weeks in advance in peak season. I saw people turned away at the entrance. (Book tickets here)

2. Only Staying in Lisbon

Lisbon is amazing, but Portugal's diversity is its strength. Porto, the Douro Valley, and the Algarve are completely different experiences.

3. Skipping the Douro Valley

This was a highlight of my trip. Don't skip it because it seems "out of the way."

4. Not Waking Up Early for Sunrises

Sunrise at Lagos beaches, Lisbon miradouros, or Porto's Ribeira is magical and crowd-free. Set that alarm.

5. Overpacking Your Itinerary

Portugal rewards slow travel. Don't try to see 10 cities in 8 days. This itinerary gives you time to breathe.

6. Taking Taxis from the Airport

The Lisbon metro is €1.50 vs €15-25 for a taxi. Save your money.

7. Not Trying Portuguese Food

Even if you're vegan like me, Portuguese cuisine is incredible. Try everything.

8. Ignoring the Smaller Beaches in Lagos

Everyone goes to Praia do Camilo. Walk 5 minutes further to Praia do Pinhão, and you might have it to yourself.

9. Forgetting Cash

Many small restaurants, markets, and trams are cash-only. Keep €50-100 on hand.

10. Not Learning Basic Portuguese

Even just "obrigado/a" and "por favor" will get you smiles and better service.

Related Portugal Guides:

• Best Beaches to Visit in Lagos, Portugal

• Lisbon, Portugal Travel Guide: What to See, Where to Stay and What to Eat

• Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Porto, Portugal: Travel Guide