Portugal 10 days itinerary

Home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches across its 500 miles of coastline, Portugal is also a place that invites cultural exploration, walks on the wild side, and stacks of staggeringly scenic drives. On that subject, if you’re thinking of visiting Portugal and aren’t sure how to focus your trip, here we present a rewarding self-drive 10 days in Portugal itinerary that’ll see you uncover everywhere from Lisbon and Sintra, to Porto and the Algarve, and much more besides.

Is 10 days enough in Portugal?

On balance, ten days is generally enough time to enjoy a satisfying Portugal vacation.

While you won’t cover every nook and cranny, you'll certainly get to savor a rich taste of Portuguese culture, history and landscapes, especially as the Portugal itinerary shared below is a self-drive trip. This means you have plenty freedom and flexibility to explore more of the country, according to your tastes.

Conversely, if you’re short on time, following a 7 days in Portugal itinerary will still enable you to, for example, soak up top highlights in the likes of Lisbon, Sintra and Porto.

Have even less time? Our 5 days in Portugal itinerary has your name all over it.

Still not sure how long to spend in Portugal? Contact our Portugal travel experts — they can curate Portugal itineraries for any duration.

Portugal itinerary 10 days overview

Covering some of the best places to visit in Portugal — and the best things to do — here’s a handy overview of this Portugal itinerary 10 days.

• Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon, collect rental car
• Day 2: Discover Lisbon
• Day 3: Day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais
• Day 4: Transfer to Porto via Obidos and Batalha
• Day 5: Discover Porto’s top attractions
• Day 6: Transfer to Nazaré via Coimbra
• Day 7: Transfer to Albufeira via Evora
• Day 8: Day trip to Sagres and Lagos
• Day 9: Day trip drive to Olhao and Faro
• Day 10: Depart Portugal

Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon, collect rental car

On arriving in Lisbon — Portugal’s cultured capital — collect your rental car and head to your hotel to check-in.

Once you’re settled, venture out for your first taste of one of Europe’s most captivating capitals.  

Scenically sited overlooking the Tejo river estuary, Lisbon serves an alluring mix of the ancient and the contemporary. As such, it’s a wonderful place for a rewarding weekend city break, which is why we’ve allocated it a few days of this 10-day Portugal itinerary.

To start exploring, you could take you first look at the Alfama — Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric quarter, which is also home to many fado clubs. Why not visit one during your first evening in the city?

Prefer to go your own way? Discover the best things to do in Lisbon off the tourist trail.

Where to stay

Put simply, there are plenty of great places to stay in Lisbon, with Baixa and Chiado coming especially recommenced for first-timers. 

Both central, these neighborhoods will have you staying close to the action, with plenty of restaurants and attractions within walking distance.

Prefer a more historic and atmospheric vibe? Check out the Alfama area, but come prepared for all its steep hills and cobblestone streets.

Day 2: Discover Lisbon 

Day two is devoted to discovering Lisbon’s rich history through an immersive walking tour of the city.

We suggest starting out at Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s grand riverside square, and then strolling to the old Alfama district.

While it’s a dream to simply wander the streets, history buffs will want to head inside the stunning Sé Cathedral. 

We also suggest stopping at the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for stunning views of the Tagus River, and then continuing to Castelo de São Jorge — a hilltop castle that also offers splendid views.

Come the afternoon, make your way to Belém, where iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, no less — await.

Love local food? Be sure to stop by to Pastéis de Belém to enjoy the original — and best — local custard tarts.

If you love doing deeper dives into local culture, you could take an afternoon cookery class, during which you might just get to learn how to make the likes of à brás (salt cod) or caldo verde (kale soup).

Next, round off your day in Lisbon’s lively Bairro Alto, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and traditional eateries.

Day 3: Trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais

Day three will see you venture further afield on a scenic day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca — mainland Europe’s westernmost point — and the seaside town of Cascais.

How to get from Lisbon to Sintra

Start your day with a 30-minute drive via the IC19 road to Sintra — a magical UNESCO World Heritage town nestled in the hills that really does seem to be conjured from a storybook. 

Your first stop in Sintra should be the vibrant Pena Palace — a bedazzlement of bright reds and yellows perched high on a hill.

Next, head to Quinta da Regaleira — a whimsical estate known for its gardens, secret tunnels and the mysterious Initiation Well — before visiting the Sintra National Palace. 

Its mix of Gothic, Moorish and Manueline architecture offers beautiful insights into Portugal’s royal past. 

Once you’ve soaked up Sintra’s charm, it’s time to make your way to Cabo da Roca.

How to get from Sintra to Cabo da Roca

Drive west on the N247 road to reach Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. 

In around 30 minutes, you’ll be marvelling at sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from the dramatic cliffs. 

After walking along the cliffs and visiting the lighthouse, it’s time to move to the coastal town of Cascais.

How to get from Sinatra to Cascais

Continue your journey south on the N247 to the picturesque seaside town of Cascais.

After strolling its cobblestone streets or relaxing by the beach, pick a waterfront restaurant for dinner before driving back to Lisbon.

Day 4: Porto via Obidos and Batalha

Day 4 delivers fresh landscapes and experiences, thanks to a transfer from Lisbon to Porto, via the charms of both Obidos and Batalha.

How to get from Lisbon to Óbidos

Set off early to drive from Lisbon to the wonderful medieval village of Óbidos — take the A8 motorway north for approximately an hour.

Park outside the town walls and enter on foot through the blue-tiled Porta da Vila. Besides simply exploring its quaint cobblestone streets, be sure visit Óbidos Castle.

You also won’t want to pass up the chance to try ginjinha — the region’s celebrated cherry liqueur, which is traditionally served in a chocolate cup — before moving to uncover the beauty of Batalha.

How to get from Óbidos to Batalha

In the early afternoon, it’s time to hit the road for an hour. Namely, the A8 and A19 motorways to Batalha.

Home to the magnificent Batalha Monastery UNESCO World Heritage Site, Batalha is steeped in history and elegance. 

Take time to take in the monastery’s grand Gothic architecture along with its Founder's Chapel, the Unfinished Chapels and information offering insights into Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

After a late lunch, Porto awaits.

How to get from Batalha to Porto

To get to Porto, drive north on the A1 motorway for around two hours. 

Where to stay

Good news — Porto is packed with excellent places to stay, no matter what style you’re looking for, and no matter what your budget.

Take your pick from waterfront apartments, cool boutique hotels, and friendly hostels that definitely won’t break the bank.

Given that you’re just here for a little while, we suggesting checking out places to stay in the Ribeira district. It offers lovely river views and easy access to Porto’s top attractions.

Prefer someplace quieter? Try Cedofeita — an artsy area of boutique hotels and trendy cafes.

Wondering when to visit? Dive into our guide to the best time to visit Portugal.

Day 5: Discover Porto’s top attractions

The next leg of this 10 day Portugal itinerary will see you discover Porto’s top attractions.

Stunningly located at the mouth of the Rio Douro, it’s a hugely atmospheric destination, so you’ll want to rise early to make the most of your time in the city.

Start out in the Ribeira District — Porto’s historic waterfront area. Packed with colorful streets, the historic Dom Luís I Bridge is a great spot from which to soak up scenic views of the Douro River. Better still, take a cruise on a rabelo boat.

Next, head to Livraria Lello — one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores — before moving on to the Clérigos Tower, which you can climb to enjoy epic views of Porto’s skyline.

Other must-see highlights of Porto are the São Bento Railway Station, with dazzling azulejo-tiled murals depicting Portuguese history, and the Romanesque Porto Cathedral.

Come the early evening, head over the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia — the heart of Porto’s port wine industry. After touring a port wine cellar, end your day with dinner at a riverside restaurant.

Want a beach break? Read up on Porto beaches.

Day 6: Transfer to Nazaré via Coimbra

A duo of contrasting delights are in store on day six — namely history-packed Coimbra and the surfers’ paradise of Nazaré.

How to get from Porto to Coimbra

To get from Porto to Coimbra, drive south on the A1 motorway, allowing enough time to spend a few hours exploring a charming history-packed city that’s home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Talking of which, the UNESCO World Heritage Site University of Coimbra is the best place to start your exploration. Don't miss the beautiful Baroque Joanina Library.

Next, head to the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha) and wander Coimbra’s medieval Alta district before stopping for a leisurely lunch ahead of driving to Nazaré.

How to get from Coimbra to Nazaré

After exploring Coimbra, continue south on the A1 and A8 motorways to Nazaré — a picturesque fishing village that’s known for its dramatic coastline and giant waves. The drive will take around 1.5 hours.

On arrival, be sure to visit Sitio viewpoint for breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and the Praia do Norte, which is world-famous for its record-breaking surf waves. 

Round off your day with a stroll along Praia da Nazaré beach, where you can find someplace scenic to enjoy dinner.

Where to stay

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Nazaré, beach lovers will want to make a beeline for the Praia District, which is also handy for the town center and local restaurants. 

For example, Hotel Praia and Mar Bravo offer modern comforts and ocean views.

On the subject of views, they don’t come better than those served by accommodation in the clifftop area of Sitio.

Quieter than the beach area, with hotels located atop a cliff, this area boasts stunning views of the coastline and the Atlantic

Day 7: Transfer to Albufeira via Evora

Day 7 will see you embark on a scenic drive from Nazaré to Albufeira — a gem of the Algarve.

But first, a stop at the enchanting UNESCO-designated Evora

How to get from Nazaré to Evora 

Taking around two hours, the drive from Nazaré to Evora will see you head southeast via the A1 motorway towards Lisbon, before switching to the A6 to Évora. 

Once you arrive, start exploring at the impressive Roman Temple of Évora — it’s right in the center of town.

You’ll want to stop by the Cathedral of Évora and the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), which is, indeed, adorned with human skulls and bones. 

Next, take a stroll through Evora’s charming cobbled streets to find someplace pretty to tuck into a traditional Alentejan lunch.

How to get from Evora to Albufeira

After exploring Evora, drive south on via the A2 motorway to Albufeira — one of the Algarve’s most popular coastal destinations. 

Encompassing landscapes of rolling hills, the journey will take around 2.5 hours, which should leave you enough time to stroll Albufeira’s old town, or walk the pretty Praia dos Pescadores before dining at a seafront restaurant.

Where to stay

For the perfect mix of charm and convenience, stay in the Old Town (Centro Antigo), with its cobblestone streets, traditional whitewashed buildings, and easy access to Praia dos Pescadores beach. 

Looking for lively nightlife? You might want to be based along the Strip — Areias de São João. Close to countless clubs, bars and Praia da Oura, it offers a mix of buzzy hotels and boutique options.

Or, if you want something less boisterous, check out places to stay near the marina and West Albufeira. Quieter and more family-friendly, this area is also convenient for eating out and beaches like Praia dos Arrifes. 

Day 8: Day trip to Sagres and Lagos

You’ll soak up some of the Algarve’s most stunning coastal scenery on day 8 (hello, Sagres!), along with having the chance to discover Portuguese history, courtesy of a visit to Lagos.

How to get from Albufeira to Sagres

Set off early from Albufeira, taking the A22 motorway west toward Sagres — a small coastal town that packs mighty punch when it comes to dramatic scenery and historic significance. The drive will take around 1.5 hours.

Make your first stop Cape St. Vincent, the south-westernmost point of Europe, which serves sweeping views of the Atlantic.

We also suggest exploring Sagres Fortress, where Prince Henry the Navigator is said to have planned Portugal's Age of Discoveries, and heading to Praia do Tonel. Popular with surfers, the stunning beach is also ideal for a pre-lunch stroll.

How to get from Sagres to Lagos

Come the afternoon, it’s time to drive on to Lagos, which is just 30 minutes away from Sagres.

First, you could hit the beach, and visit the Ponta da Piedade, a collection of dramatic sea cliffs, with natural arches and caves. If you have time, take a boat tour to see the dramatic coast from the water. 

Next up, take time to explore Lagos’ Old Town, with the Slave Market Museum a must-visit for history buffs, before driving back to Albufeira.

Inspired to visit the Algarve? Read our Algarve year round travel guide, and discover the best things to do in the Algarve.

Day 9: Day trip drive to Olhao and Faro

Onn day 9 of this 10-day Portugal itinerary, you’ll discover more handsome highlights of the Algarve, starting out in Olhao.

How to get from Albufeira to Olhao 

To get to Olhao, take the A22 motorway east — in around 40 minutes, you’ll reach this lively fishing town. 

Besides walking the lovely café-lined waterfront promenade — which also offers views of the Ria Formosa lagoon — we also suggest taking time to explore the Mercado de Olhão to pick up regional delicacies. 

Into nature and beautiful beaches? You might want to take a short boat trip from Olhão to the nearby islands of Culatra or Armona before moving to Faro for the rest of the day. 

How to get from Olhao to Faro

Faro, capital of the Algarve, is a mere 15-miute drive from Olhao — simply drive along the EN125 to get here.

Start your afternoon exploring the splendid Old Town (Cidade Velha). If you didn’t eat lunch in Olhao, now’s your chance!

For wonderful views of the Ria Formosa, climb Faro Cathedral’s lofty tower, while eerier history awaits in the Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos).

Day 10: Depart Portugal

On day 10, it’s time to prepare to head back to the airport for your homeward flight.

Be sure to leave enough time to return your rental car, whether you’re flying from Faro or Lisbon.

Keen to uncover Portugal for yourself? Wise up with our Portugal travel tips as you plan your trip.

Alternatively, if you’re not a fan of planning, contact our local experts to have them curate your perfect Portugal itinerary.