Portugal 4 Day Itinerary
Portugal 4-Day Travel Itinerary
(Please note that this itinerary is designed for a typical first-time visitor. Customize according to personal interests.)
Day 1: Lisbon
- Arrival: Portela Airport (LIS) is the main international airport in Lisbon. Consider getting a pre-booked taxi or use public transportation such as metro, bus, or tram to reach your accommodation.
- Morning: Explore Alfama district, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods with narrow streets, beautiful tiles (azulejos), and Fado music. Visit the historic Lisbon Cathedral (Se de Lisboa).
- Afternoon: Discover Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase Portugal’s maritime past. Don’t forget to try Pastéis de Belém, a traditional Portuguese pastry.
- Evening: Relax at Praça do Comércio with stunning views of the Tagus River and explore Chiado district for shopping and dining options.
- Travel Tips: Lisbon is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes, and use public transportation to save energy. Check the opening hours before visiting attractions, as some close earlier on weekends or holidays.
Day 2: Sintra and Cascais
- Morning: Take a day trip to Sintra, a picturesque town known for its palaces and castles. Visit Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
- Afternoon: Head to the seaside town of Cascais, enjoying scenic views on the way. Explore Cascais’ old town and relax on its beautiful beaches.
- Evening: Return to Lisbon for dinner and leisurely evening activities.
- Travel Tips: Purchase a combined ticket for Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira at the Sintra Ticket Office to save money.
Day 3: Évora
- Morning: Take an early train or drive to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient Roman ruins and historic architecture.
- Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Diana, the Roman Aqueduct, and the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). Wander through the city’s charming old town and visit the Évora Cathedral.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the traditional restaurants in Évora before returning to your accommodation.
- Travel Tips: Check train schedules and book tickets in advance, as trains can fill up quickly.
Day 4: Porto
- Morning: Travel to Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal. Take a stroll along Ribeira (Riverfront), visit Clérigos Tower, and explore Church of São Francisco.
- Afternoon: Visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, and cross the Douro River via Dom Luís I Bridge to Ribeira de Gaia district for port wine tasting.
- Evening: End your trip by watching a beautiful sunset over the Douro River or enjoying traditional Porto cuisine at Café Majestic or Mercado do Bolhão.
- Travel Tips: Consider staying overnight in Porto to fully enjoy its nightlife and explore more on day 5 if time allows.
Visa Requirements: Citizens from most countries don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, it’s essential to verify your travel documents before your trip and check with the Portuguese consulate or embassy in your country if you have any concerns.
Transportation: Trains (CP – Comboios de Portugal) are an affordable and convenient way to get around Portugal, while buses (Rede Expressos) can be used for longer routes between cities. Taxis and rental cars are also options.