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Planning a trip to Portugal

Portugal packs historic cities, wine regions and a long Atlantic coastline into a compact country, which makes it one of the easier places in Europe to plan a varied trip. This guide covers when to go, how long to stay and how to link the main regions.

Portugal at a glance

Most first trips focus on Lisbon and Porto, the two largest cities, which are connected by train in a few hours. Lisbon is a hilly capital of tiled façades, viewpoints and riverside districts, with Sintra and the Cascais coast nearby. Porto sits on the Douro River and is the gateway to the Douro Valley's terraced vineyards.

Beyond the two cities, the Algarve in the south is known for cliffs, coves and beaches, while the Alentejo region offers rolling countryside, whitewashed towns such as Évora and a slower pace. University city Coimbra sits between Lisbon and Porto, and the Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores are distinct destinations in their own right.

Because distances are relatively short, Portugal suits travellers who want to combine city time with coast or countryside without long transfer days.

City guides for Portugal

Best time to visit Portugal

Spring and early autumn are usually ideal for cities and sightseeing. Summer is the peak season for the Algarve's beaches, and winter is mild but wetter, especially in the north.

Spring · March to May

Mild temperatures and green countryside, a good time for city breaks and walking.

Summer · June to August

Hot inland and busy on the coast, especially in the Algarve. Lisbon celebrates its popular saints' festivals in June.

Autumn · September to October

Warm days, the grape harvest in wine regions and calmer beaches after the summer peak.

Winter · November to February

Mild compared with much of Europe but rainier, particularly in Porto and the north.

How many days in Portugal?

A week covers Lisbon and Porto comfortably; ten days lets you add the Algarve or the Douro Valley.

3–4 days
Lisbon with a day trip to Sintra, or Porto with a day in the Douro Valley.
7 days
Lisbon and Porto at a relaxed pace, with a stop in Coimbra or a day trip from each city.
10–14 days
Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley, plus several days on the Algarve coast or in the Alentejo.

Top things to see in Portugal

  • Lisbon

    A hilly, walkable capital with historic neighbourhoods, viewpoints and the riverside Belém district.

  • Porto

    A riverside city known for its old town, bridges and the port wine cellars across the Douro.

  • Sintra

    Palaces and gardens in wooded hills, an easy day trip from Lisbon.

  • Douro Valley

    Terraced vineyards along the river, explored by car, train, boat or tour from Porto.

  • The Algarve

    Cliffs, coves and beaches along the southern coast, with towns such as Lagos and Tavira.

  • Évora and the Alentejo

    A walled historic city and rolling countryside with a slower rhythm.

Turn this into your own Portugal itinerary

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Getting around Portugal

  • Trains link Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto, and also reach the Algarve. Check current timetables and fares with CP, Portugal's national rail operator.
  • Long-distance buses fill gaps in the rail network and can be convenient for some routes.
  • A car is useful for the Douro Valley, the Alentejo and the quieter parts of the Algarve, but not needed in Lisbon or Porto, where parking is difficult and public transport is good.

Planning considerations

Entry requirements
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area. Visa requirements and the EU's newer border systems depend on your nationality, so check the official EU and government sources listed below before booking.
Money
Portugal uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted, though some small cafés and shops prefer cash.
Terrain
Lisbon and Porto are built on steep hills with cobbled streets, so comfortable, grippy shoes make a real difference.
Peak season
July and August are busy in the Algarve and popular coastal towns, so book accommodation early for summer beach trips.

Tips for visiting Portugal

  • Combine Lisbon and Porto by train rather than flying; it's simple and you arrive in the city centre.
  • Plan the hilliest walks downhill where you can, using trams, funiculars or taxis for the climbs.
  • Expect dinner to start later than in some other countries; many restaurants get busy from around 8pm.
  • The Atlantic stays cool even in summer, so check sea conditions and swim at supervised beaches.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Portugal?

A week is a good length for a first trip covering Lisbon and Porto with a day trip from each. With ten days to two weeks you can add the Algarve coast, the Douro Valley or the Alentejo without feeling rushed.

What is the best time to visit Portugal?

Spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to October) are often ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is best for beach holidays in the Algarve but is the busiest season, while winter is mild but wetter.

Is it better to start in Lisbon or Porto?

Either works, and the two cities are linked by a direct train. Many travellers choose based on flight availability and prices, starting in one city and finishing in the other to avoid backtracking.

Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?

It depends on your nationality and the length and purpose of your stay. Portugal follows Schengen Area rules and the EU is introducing new border systems, so check the official EU entry website and your government's travel advice before booking.

Ready-made itineraries

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Travel planning guides

Official sources and further reading

Practical details such as entry requirements, prices, timetables and opening days change. Always confirm them with the official sources below before you travel. Last reviewed by the AIFlyTrip editorial team on .