10 days in Portugal - 3 travel itineraries

Portugal is home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches, with over 500 miles of coastline. Here you’ll find every corner holds a piece of history, and each meal is a celebration of local flavors. Here’s your guide to creating the perfect 10-day itinerary in Portugal, whether you’re drawn to the colorful streets of Lisbon, the palaces of Sintra, or the sandy shores of the Algarve.

Itinerary #1: Madeira and Sao Miguel

This 10-day itinerary in Portugal will take you through two of Portugal's captivating autonomous regions: Madeira, renowned as the island of eternal spring, and São Miguel, fondly referred to as the green island.

Your journey kicks off on day one with your arrival in Madeira, giving you the chance to explore the vibrant city center of Funchal.

Days two and three are an exploration of Madeira's west and east sides. Highlights include visits to São Vicente, the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, and the dramatic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço.

On day four, you have the chance to soak in the oceanic pools. Day five promises an exhilarating adventure with a wicker toboggan descent from Monte, followed by visits to Funchal's Botanical Garden and the local market.

As you ease into the sixth day, you'll have plenty of opportunities for further exploration or relaxation in Funchal.

On day seven, it's time to bid farewell to Madeira as you catch a flight to São Miguel. The eighth day unfolds with a guided tour of the stunning Sete Cidades Lagoon area.

Day nine brings you to the enchanting Furnas Valley, where you can soak in hot springs and embark on sailing excursions.

Finally, on day ten, your journey comes to a close with your departure from Ponta Delgada. Book this trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10 day itinerary in Portugal:

Day 1

• Arrival at Funchal Airport.
• Free time to explore Funchal’s city center or relax and enjoy your hotel’s amenities.

Day 2

• Scenic drive via the Encumeada Pass.
• Visit São Vicente and swim in the natural pools at Porto Moniz.
• Stop for lunch in Seixal.
• Finish with a visit to Cabo Girão, a dramatic clifftop viewpoint.

Day 3

• Explore the rugged beauty of Ponta de São Lourenço and the coastal village of Porto da Cruz.
• Visit Santana, famous for its traditional triangular houses.
• Take a short Levada walk through the Laurissilva forest.
• Stop by the Santo da Serra market and sample Poncha, a local drink.

Day 4

• Spend the day at your own pace: relax at ocean pools, visit the old town, or wander the Monte area.
• Discover the lush Tropical Garden in Monte.

Day 5

• Experience a thrilling wicker toboggan descent from Monte.
• Visit Funchal’s Botanical Garden and browse the local market for fresh produce and souvenirs.

Day 6

• A full day to explore or relax at your leisure. Take it slow or seek out hidden gems in Funchal.

Day 7

• Transfer to Madeira Airport for your flight to São Miguel in the Azores.
• Half-day guided tour of the Sete Cidades lagoon area, with options for a scenic drive or a hike around this stunning volcanic landscape.

Day 8

• Visit Furnas Lagoon and the charming Nossa Senhora da Vitória chapel.
• Explore the hot springs and fumaroles, and soak in Terra Nostra Garden’s thermal pools or Poça da Dona Beija.
• Try “cozido das Furnas,” a traditional stew cooked underground using geothermal heat.

Day 9

• Full-day sailing trip around Vila Franca do Campo Islet.
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Azores and enjoy local treats onboard.
• Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life.

Day 10

• Transfer to Ponta Delgada Airport for your flight home.

Ready to explore Portugal? Start preparing by finding out how to get there and explore the full range of our Portugal itineraries.

Itinerary #2: The Wines of Portugal

This 10 day itinerary in Portugal is an expedition through the country’s esteemed wine regions, with the stunning Duoro Valley taking centre stage. Your journey begins in Lisbon on day one, where you’ll try some local bites during a tour of the city.

Days two and three are all about soaking up Lisbon's charm. You’ll explore iconic spots like Liberty Avenue and the historic St. George's Castle. Then, you’ll journey to the Belem district's historical treasures before attending a traditional Fado show.

As day four rolls around, it's time to venture to the magical town of Sintra for a dose of fairytale beauty and a culinary experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Transitioning into the heart of Portugal's wine country on day five, you'll find yourself in the Alentejo region. Take it easy on day six with some well-deserved relaxation activities before taking a jaunt to Coimbra for some top-notch wine tasting on day seven.

And then comes the crown jewel of your wine adventure – the eighth day brings you to the breathtaking Douro Valley for a scenic river cruise and, of course, more wine tasting.

Day nine sees you exploring the vibrant city of Porto, soaking in its highlights before bidding farewell. Book this trip. 

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10 day itinerary in Portugal:

Day 1

• Arrival in Lisbon.
• Transfer to hotel.
• Private city tour of Lisbon, exploring local eateries and charming cafés.
• Savor Portuguese tapas (petiscos) and drinks with an expert guide.

Day 2

• Stroll along Liberty Avenue, visit Restauradores Square and Rossio Square.
• Explore the historic Alfama Quarter, Lisbon Cathedral, St. George's Castle, and Roman theater ruins.

Day 3

• Discover Belém’s historical monuments and museums.
• Evening Fado show with traditional Portuguese music.
• Night stroll to the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.

Day 4

• Visit Sintra, the town famously admired by Lord Byron.
• Stop at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
• Tour the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril.
• End the day with dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 5

• Private transfer to Alentejo.
• Visit a winery in southern Alentejo and the Chapel of Bones in Évora.
• Check in to hotel with free time for leisure.

Day 6

• Enjoy leisure activities, including pool, spa, horse riding, or wine tasting.

Day 7

• Private trip to Coimbra for wine tasting and lunch at a winery.
• Continue to the Douro Valley and check in to hotel.

Day 8

• Discover the Douro Valley, famous for Port wine.
• Scenic river cruise in Régua and wine tasting at Mateus Palace.
• Relax with the amenities at Quinta Nova Luxury Winery House.

Day 9

• Transfer to Porto and visit Mercado do Bolhão and Torre dos Clérigos.
• Optional Douro Cruise of Six Bridges.
• Check in to hotel.

Day 10

• Free time to explore Porto at your own pace.
• Transfer to the airport for departure.

Itinerary #3: Cultural Portugal

This 10-day itinerary will take you through Portugal’s picturesque landscapes and cultural gems. Day one kicks off your adventure in Lisbon, where you'll have some downtime to unwind.

In the heart of Lisbon, on day two you’ll explore iconic spots like Liberty Avenue, Restauradores Square, Rossio Square, Alfama Quarter, and Lisbon Cathedral.

Day three is all about digging even deeper into Lisbon's past. You’ll take a trip to St. George's Castle, roam the ancient ruins of the Roman Theatre, and discover the charming Belem District. The day wraps with an evening of traditional Fado music and a taste of local cuisine.

On day four, you’ll venture beyond Lisbon to the enchanting town of Sintra. Here you’ll get the chance to explore its fairy-tale landscapes, including a visit to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe, before heading back to Lisbon.

Days five and six are a journey through the serene Serra do Bussaco and the legendary Douro Valley. Drink in the lush landscapes and savor the region's renowned wines.

Your adventure continues on days seven and eight with a scenic drive to the Douro Valley, where you'll have some free time to explore or simply relax at your hotel. You’ll also take a guided tour, including a leisurely river cruise and wine tasting at the historic Mateus Palace – the perfect way to experience the region's culture and hospitality.

Wrapping up your journey in Porto on day nine, you'll have the chance to explore this vibrant city, from the lively Mercado do Bolhão to the iconic Torre dos Clerigos. And on your final day, bid farewell to Portugal with a scenic Douro River cruise. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check out this 10-day itinerary in Portugal:

Day 1

• Arrive in Lisbon and check in at your hotel.
• Enjoy some leisure time to relax and settle in.

Day 2

• Discover Lisbon’s key landmarks: Liberty Avenue, Restauradores Square, Rossio Square, and the historic Alfama Quarter.
• Visit Lisbon Cathedral, a symbol of the city’s rich history.

Day 3

• Visit St. George's Castle and explore the ancient Roman Theatre ruins.
• Head to the Belém district to see iconic monuments like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower.
• Wrap up with a Fado show featuring traditional Portuguese music and local cuisine.

Day 4

• Day trip to Sintra, known for its fairy-tale palaces and landscapes.
• Visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
• Tour the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril before returning to Lisbon for the evening.

Day 5

• Check out of your Lisbon accommodation and collect your rental car.
• Drive to the lush Serra do Bussaco, known for its diverse flora and the historic Carmelite monastery.
• Check in at your new accommodation and enjoy some leisure time.

Day 6

• Spend the day hiking or exploring the peaceful surroundings of Serra do Bussaco.
• In the afternoon, drive through scenic landscapes to the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest wine regions.
• Check in at your Douro Valley accommodation.

Day 7

• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Douro Valley and admire the picturesque landscapes.
• Spend the day at your leisure, exploring the surrounding area or simply relaxing at your hotel.

Day 8

• Join a guided tour of the Douro Valley.
• Take a scenic river cruise in Régua, surrounded by terraced vineyards and rolling hills.
• Visit the 18th-century Mateus Palace for a wine-tasting session and enjoy the historic atmosphere.

Day 9

• Drive to Porto in the morning.
• Spend the rest of the day exploring Porto at your own pace.
• Check in to your Porto accommodation.

Day 10

• Discover Porto’s vibrant Mercado do Bolhão, known for its lively atmosphere and fresh local produce.
• Climb the iconic Torre dos Clérigos for panoramic city views.
• Take a scenic Douro River cruise to see Porto’s six famous bridges.
• Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Is 10 days enough for Portugal?

Yes, ten days is generally enough for a satisfying trip to Portugal. While you won’t cover every nook and cranny, you’ll get a rich taste of Portuguese culture, history, and landscapes. If you have less time, a 7-day trip is still enough to see highlights like Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto, giving you a mix of historic sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and beautiful coastal views. With only 5 days, focus on one main region—Lisbon and nearby spots like Sintra and Cascais make a great short itinerary.

While it's wise to have a rough plan in place, leave room for spontaneity. You never know what hidden gem you might stumble upon or what local festival might be happening during your visit.

With our tailor-made trip service, you can embark on your dream Portuguese adventure without the hassle of planning or booking. Plus, you’ll get 24/7 support from local experts, so you can travel worry-free, knowing help is always a call away.

Rough Guides tip: If you’re looking to explore more of Europe, check out our convenient European itineraries, designed to help you make the most of the continent.