9 Days in Portugal: The Ultimate Lisbon, Sintra, Porto & Douro Valley Itinerary
We’re so excited to share our journey through Portugal with you! From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the enchanting palaces of Sintra, this 9-day itinerary blends culture, history, and incredible food into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you're wandering the picturesque alleys of Alfama, savoring pastéis de nata at every opportunity, or soaking in stunning views of Porto, each day brings something special. We hope our love for Portugal shines through and inspires your own adventure in this beautiful country!
Sneak Preview:
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon – Baixa Neighborhood & Walking Tour
Day 2: Alfama District Day
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
Day 4: Belém and Lisbon’s Neighborhood
Day 5: Travel to Porto, Gaia Exploration
Day 6: Explore Porto
Day 7: Day Trip to Douro Valley
Day 8: Porto Day Exploration + Sunset
Day 9: Porto and Gaia Relaxation
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Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon – Baixa Neighborhood & Walking Tour
Arrival & First Impressions
After landing in Lisbon, take a rideshare to your hotel and settle in.
We recommend staying centrally as always and would choose Baxia and Chiado are centrally located offering easy access to a wide variety of attractions/food/transportation. If you are looking for more charm- Alfama is a beautiful neighbohood with cobblestone streets. A great place to start here.
On the way, you’ll notice Lisbon’s famous hilly terrain — a preview of what’s to come on foot!
Explore Baixa
Kick off your adventure by wandering through Baixa, Lisbon’s vibrant downtown. Stroll along Rua Augusta, buzzing with shops, street performers, and open-air cafés. Don’t miss the majestic Arco de Rua Augusta, a great spot for photos. Nearby, Praça do Comércio offers stunning views of the Tagus River — a perfect welcome to the city, especially after a long flight.
Walking Tour
Our favorite way to dive into a new city is with a walking tour (with a local). We joined one that started in Baixa and ended at the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, giving us a great orientation and glimpse into Lisbon’s history. Our guide was absolutely amazing! She took us uphill to a beautiful sunset spot at the end! If you are interested check this out.
Our other favorite ways to explore Lisbon include:
Guided walking tour with a Special Food Treat!
Private walking tour- offers more flexibility and customization
An Award Wining Guided Walking Tour with Portuguese Food and Drinks! (need we say more?)
If you need an alternative to walking: we recommend Lisbon Private TukTuk Tour with True Local Guide
No matter which way you choose to explore Lisbon, there is something for everyone.
Sunset Viewpoints
Cap off your day by catching the sunset at one (or more than one) of Lisbon’s beautiful viewpoints! Here are our favorites:
Miradouro das Portas do Sol – views of the Tagus River and the Igreja de São Vicente de Fora.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia – charming tiles and close to Portas do Sol.
Miradouro da Graça – shady trees and relaxing vibes.
Miradouro da Senhora do Monte – a bit of a hike but worth it for panoramic views.
Dinner
We loved dining at DaPrata52, a cozy spot offering contemporary Portuguese dishes with a twist. No reservations were needed, but expect a short wait.
Day 2: Alfama District Day
Our morning starts with a hike to the castle!
Castelo de São Jorge
Either take a leisurely hike up or hop on the iconic Tram 28 and head up to Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle offering panoramic views of Lisbon’s winding streets and the Tagus River.
This is a historic castle perched on one of Lisbon's highest hills, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. Originally it was built by the Moors in the 11th century. Spend time checking out the ancient walls, courtyards, and gardens, while learning about Lisbon’s history at the on-site museum. Be sure to check out the peacocks that live here!
The castle’s Miradouro de São Jorge viewpoint is a highlight, providing one of the best vistas of Lisbon.
Lunch
After exploring on foot it’s time for a well deserved lunch. We had lunch at Taberna Sal Grosso Lisboa that was a treat for the senses, with traditional Portuguese flavors in a rustic, intimate setting. Here, you can try dishes like tender octopus and fresh vegetarian dishes.
Did you know Sangria was invented in Portugal? It’s a must try here! Such a refreshing drink after a morning of walking. Be sure to make a reservations at this popular hidden gem restaurant!
Alfama District
Afterwards, explore the cobblestone alleys of the Alfama District, known for its maze-like alleys and steep stairways that lead to hidden squares, cafés, and viewpoints, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the authentic soul of Lisbon.
Lisbon Cathedral
Visit the Lisbon Cathedral and soak up the views from Miradouros like Portas do Sol, where you can see the city unfold below you. As the sun begins to set, head to Santa Luzia for even more spectacular views and unique tile murals.
Make your way to the Time Out Market in Lisbon in Cais do Sodré for food, drinks, and a stroll through unique shops.
Tallking about unique shops- definitely stop by The Fantastic World of Portuguese Sardines—it's a vibrant, eye-catching shop that's perfect for gifts. They even offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options!
Pastéis de Nata Time
Be sure to stop by Manteigaria for the best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon! Just so happens to be a location in the Time Out Market. These iconic Portuguese custard tarts are a must-try, especially paired with a rich espresso.
With a crisp, golden crust and a smooth, warm custard filling that's perfectly balanced, each bite is pure bliss.
For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for a delightful treat! They are freshly made in front of you. We had these everyday and everytime we were blown away with the delciuosness!
If you are in the mood for a fun afternoon activity check out Lisbon Small-Group Food Tour with 18 Tastings in Alfama District
Dinner
After exploring Cais do Sodré neighborhood, head to Peixola for dinner, where the freshest seafood is paired with local wine in a modern yet cozy atmosphere.
It’s a great place to taste the catch of the day and relax after a full day of sightseeing. They have excellent vegetarian dishes as well. Seating is limited so be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
This is an epic day and we recommend starting early. Sintra is the home of beautiful palaces and architecture!
How to Get to Sintra
There are several ways to do Sintra- you can take a guided tour or take a train, or ride share. It all depends on how much time you want to explore and what you want to see. Here are our top favorite guided tours:
Wonders of Sintra & Cascais – Private Tour
A wonderful options of stops with added flexibility to spend as much or little time at each place.
Half-Day Sintra Pena and Regaleira palace with Small Group
A great option for those who want to travel in a small group with a more structure tour style. Includes two of our favorite places in a this half day tour.
From Lisbon: small-group Sintra, Pena, Regaleira, Roca & Cascais
A great option for those looking for a daytrip and seeing the best of Sintra with an added stop at the Portuguese Riviera.
We decide to take the morning train to Sintra and DIY our way since we wanted to explore more palaces than the tours offered. We warn you though the DIY version involves a lot of walking (we were at 15 miles by the end of the day) around town (many hills) in addition to the sights and a lot of advance planning. Sintra is a magical town that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale! No matter what adventure you choose, you have to visit!
Pena Palace
Our first stop was at the famous Pena Palace. It truly has a beautiful vibrant color and stunning gardens. Be sure to explore the lush grounds and climb to the top of the palace for unforgettable views of the surrounding countryside. To get to this viewpoint DIY-style will require rideshare/bus and some hiking (be sure to give you plenty of time not to miss your timed ticket).
Book your ticket ahead of time if you want to visit inside. We recommend coming in early morning here to avoid the crowds and spending time taking in the views at least a hour before your ticketed entry indoors. It is truly magical!
Castelo dos Mouros
Afterwards we hiked our way to Castelo dos Mouros- a beautiful Moorish fortress perched high on the hills. Walk along its ancient walls, taking in breathtaking views of the town below and the Sintra mountains. It is quite a cool experience being outdoors climbing stairs and taking it all in! Highly recommend! We were able to buy tickets at the desk for this one.
Lunch and Old Town
Next, we walked over to the Old Town Sintra for lunch and exploration. Be sure to check out the travesseiro at Piriquita, a light, flaky pastry filled with sweet almond cream that’s a local specialty. For lunch, there are some delicious places to choose from to pair with Sangria of course!
Quinta da Regaleira
Next we walked over to this mesmerizing estate known for its secret passageways, mystical wells, and enchanting gardens. The Initiation Well is a highlight—descend its spiral staircase and discover hidden chambers and tunnels.
We did not buy tickets ahead of time as this was supposed to be hidden gem. Luckily we got the last few tickets but did end up waiting a hour before we could enter. Thus, we highly recommend buying a timed ticket early in the day at the very least online or even the day before. Some guided tours above include this option creating a more stress free experience.
Our thoughts on Sintra:
There are so many beautiful palaces and places to visit in Sintra that we felt we can spend so much time exploring each area. We loved the three places we visited with a lunch break in between. Doing more will likely be too much in one day. Transportation is not the easiest to get around in Sintra, thus a lot of walking and climbing hills is required. Would highly recommend considering guided tours above for easier mobility or more structured days.
Day 4: Belém and Lisbon’s Neighborhood
Jerónimos Monastery
Take a tram or Uber to Belém, where you can marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The intricate architecture and peaceful cloisters will transport you back in time. Don’t forget to check out the Church of Santa Maria de Belém inside the monastery.
Monument to the Discoveries
The Monument to the Discoveries is another must-see, celebrating Portugal’s rich maritime history. Here you will see the famous Vasco da Gama, Portuguese explorer.
Belem Tower
Take in the views from the Belem Tower, which stands proudly along the riverbanks.
Pastéis de Belém
This is an absolute must! This pastry shop is the birthplace of the beloved Pastéis de Nata, and these creamy, golden tarts are an irresistible treat. They have many delicious lunch savory options as well and so many desserts to try. Needless to say we ordered a ton! Let us know which one is your favorite below- Manteigaria or Pastéis de Belém??
Explore Beautiful Neighborhoods
You can choose to spend the day in Belem, or explore additional neighborhoods below. We ended up doing all three and really enjoyed the diversity.
Some Fun Options:
Half-Day Lisbon Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour: Alfama, Belém & More
Devour Lisbon: The Ultimate Portuguese Food Tour
LX Factory
In the afternoon, head to LX Factory, a vibrant cultural space with trendy shops, art galleries, and some of the best food spots in Lisbon. Don’t miss Livraria Ler Devagar, a beautifully curated bookstore that will steal your heart.
Barrio Alto
This area is also famous for its nightlife so definitely deserves a circle back in the evening. Be sure to check out these spots:
San Pedro de Alcantara Viewpoint
Calçada da Glória - Gloria Funicular
Igreja de São Roque
Igreja de Santa Catarina
Santa Catarina Viewpoint-/ Miradouro de Santa Catarina- a relaxed viewpoint with stunning sunset views over the city
Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara- marble tiles here too!
Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo- most photographed street! (funicular)
Dinner
For dinner, check out Bahr! This place offers a great combination of fine dining and panoramic views, making it the perfect spot for an evening meal and a great sunset meal. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time!
Day 5: Travel to Porto, Gaia Exploration
Train to Porto:
After breakfast, we recommend taking the scenic train ride to Porto which is about 3.5 hours long.
Check-in to Accommodations: We always recommend staying central. The beauty of Porto is that you can stay on either side of the River (in Porto or Gaia next to the Port houses for a relaxed getaway).
Best places to stay in Porto - great place to start here or with a map of the area. We loved this property in Gaia .
Mercado Beira Rio
Upon arrival, head to the Mercado Beira Rio, a lively riverside market offering fresh, regional products. A great stop for a local lunch before we go port tasting.
Port Tasting:
Spend the afternoon in Gaia, Porto’s riverside district known for its famous port wine cellars. Visit one for a tasting and a tour! Check out Cálem Porto or Sandeman for a wine tour and tasting. We personally loved the Sandeman tour.
Stroll Porto, Luís I Bridge, and Dinner
The journey across the bridge is scenic, so be sure take in views, sunset, and explore the streets as you head to dinner. As evening falls, cross the river to Porto’s historic center for dinner at Patio 44, a charming spot with delicious Portuguese food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Day 6: Explore Porto
Walking Tour
Start your day with a Walking Tour of Porto. Walking is our favorite way to explore a city! We got to learn about the blue-and-white tiles depicting scenes from Portugal’s history and understand Porto’s structure more while discovering hidden gems!
Check out our favorite tours for exploring Porto:
Discover Porto's Highlights on a 2-Hour Private Electric Tuk Tuk
Porto Walking Tour, Lello Bookshop, River Cruise and Cable Car
Livraria Lello
For a dose of literary magic, visit Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. The intricate woodwork and stained-glass windows make this one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. It is ticketed and does get very crowded, but may be worth it if you are interested! Plan ahead if this is on your list.
Torre dos Clérigos
If you want a high vantage point, consider climbing to the top of Porto’s iconic bell tower for incredible views of the city and the Douro River.
Mercado do Bolhão
A wonderful market and a great stop for lunch! When you enter, you can get a glass of wine that you can take along with you as you browse the market.
Enjoy lunch here, where you can sample a variety of local produce, fresh seafood, and Portuguese delicacies. There are some good vegetarian fresh pasta options too!
Rua Santa Catarina
Afterward, take a stroll down Rua Santa Catarina, Porto’s vibrant shopping street. Be sure to lookout for the Manteigaria for your daily dose of Pastéis de Nata!
Dinner
For a true Porto experience, enjoy a Francesinha (a local sandwich filled with layers of meat, cheese, and a rich sauce) at the famous Brasão Coliseu. We choose this place because they have vegetarian options too! It is very popular stylish place and reservations will be needed at least a day before. A must try!
Cais da Ribeira
Finish your day by exploring Cais da Ribeira, Porto’s UNESCO-listed riverside district, full of colorful buildings and lively bars.
Day 7: Day Trip to Douro Valley
Spend the day in the breathtaking Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions! We highly suggest taking a guided tour to Douro Valley tour to visit picturesque vineyards, taste rich Port wine, and learn about the winemaking process.
Grapes here are all handpicked! Once you see the hills and landscape you too will be amazed at how this is done!
We loved our guided tour that included a cruise and two wineries with a special fresh cooked lunch!
There are so many options to fit your preference:
The one we took and we loved: Douro Valley Wine Tour with Wineries, Lunch and Boat Trip
Dinner
After a day of wine-tasting and exploring the valley’s picturesque villages, return to Porto for a late dinner at Gruta, a cozy, intimate restaurant offering refined Portuguese cuisine in a relaxed setting. Be sure to make reservations here!
Day 8: Porto Day Exploration + Sunset
Today we explore and stroll the streets of Porto with more beautiful views.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal
Explore this beautiful park with stunning views of Porto and the Douro River.
Riberia District
Then, wander through the Ribeira district, shop, eat, and relax.
Porto cathedral
Must visit place for a small admission fee, beautiful architecture with blue tiles.
Miradouro da Vitória viewpoint. - a great place to stop by!
Explore the iconic Luis I Bridge, and enjoy panoramic views of Porto from Jardim do Morro.
Sunset
Sunsets are a big deal here and you have to plan to catch one at least from a beautiful viewpoint. Join the locals and tourists alike watching the stunning sunset. There may even be live music. Our favorite spot was the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar for even better views.
For dinner, enjoy Portuguese tapas-style dishes at Be Le Baxia, where traditional flavors are reimagined with a modern twist.
Day 9: Porto and Gaia Relaxation
In the morning pick one of the fun activities below or take it slow:
Porto: Luxury Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting & Snacks
Authentic Food and Wine Tour in Porto by Food Lover Tour
3-Hour Porto Highlights on a Electric Bike Guided Tour
Pastel de Nata | Workshop from scratch | Porto's city center
Late Afternoon Port Tasting
We did a Sandeman Port Tasting in Gaia - A wonderful experience! Highly recommend!
We recommend booking directly with the port house but for a fun guided tour check out Port Wine Lodges Tour Including 7 Port Wine Tastings
Porto Final Sights
Visit your favorite spots or relax today
Can consider a Six Bridges Cruise along the Douro River for a scenic journey with views of the iconic bridges and colorful riverside buildings.
Walk across the Luis I Bridge for unbeatable views and end your day at Cais da Ribeira for one last stroll along the river before enjoying a final dinner at a local spot.
This 9-day itinerary provides a perfect blend of Portugal’s rich culture, history, and cuisine, with plenty of delicious food, scenic views, and unforgettable experiences. Thank you for reading! Let us know your favorites below!
Planning a trip to Italy or Spain next? Check out our 10 Days in Italy and 12 Days in Spain guides!
