Highlights of Portugal: 11 Days Itinerary
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Ahmer Khan
Sacramento, CA Travel Agent· 9 Years of Experience
Hourglass Expeditions, an independent agent with Cruises & Tours, Unlimited, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
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COUNTRIES VISITED:On the River, Portugal
PLACES VISITED:Braga, Douro River, Evora, Lisbon, Obidos, Porto, Sintra
SUGGESTED DURATION:11 Days
Experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Portugal on this captivating 11-day Portugal itinerary. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the fairytale castles of Sintra, the historic charm of Evora, and the coastal beauty of Porto, this journey takes you through some of the most iconic destinations in Portugal. You’ll explore the picturesque vineyards of the Douro Valley, uncover medieval treasures in Obidos, and soak in the spiritual history of Braga. This Portugal travel adventure is tailored to give you an unforgettable taste of the country’s diverse experiences. Here’s a breakdown of your Portugal tours: Lisbon (2 Days), Sintra (2 Days), Evora (1 Day), Obidos (1 Day), Porto (2 Days), Douro Valley (2 Days), and Braga (1 Day).
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DAY1
Lisbon
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Arrival in Lisbon
Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, and immerse yourself in its rich culture and history. Start with a leisurely stroll through the historic Alfama district, where narrow streets wind past colorful buildings and traditional Fado music fills the air. Visit the iconic Belém Tower and the nearby Jerónimos Monastery, both stunning examples of Manueline architecture. In the evening, explore the bustling Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods, and enjoy a dinner of traditional Portuguese cuisine at a local restaurant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stroll through the historic Alfama district.
Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
Explore the Baixa and Chiado neighborhoods.
Dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant.
Enjoy the view from Miradouro de Santa Catarina.
DAY2
Lisbon
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Discover Lisbon
Continue your exploration of Lisbon by taking a tram ride on the historic Tram 28, which offers a scenic tour of the city's most charming neighborhoods. Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of European and Oriental art. In the afternoon, head to the Bairro Alto for panoramic views of the city from the Miradouro de Santa Catarina. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, offering a unique perspective of Lisbon’s waterfront.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ride the historic Tram 28 through Lisbon's neighborhoods.
Visit the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
Walk through the Bairro Alto and enjoy the views from Miradouro de Santa Catarina.
Sunset cruise on the Tagus River.
Explore the lively nightlife in the Bairro Alto.
DAY3
Sintra
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Lisbon to Sintra
Travel to Sintra, a picturesque town known for its fairy-tale palaces and lush gardens. Begin your visit at the colorful Pena Palace, perched high on a hill and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the Moorish Castle and its ancient walls, followed by a stroll through the beautiful gardens of Quinta da Regaleira, famous for its enigmatic Initiation Well. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal in Sintra before settling into your accommodations for the night.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit the colorful Pena Palace and its stunning gardens.
Explore the Moorish Castle for panoramic views.
Discover the mystical Quinta da Regaleira and its Initiation Well.
Enjoy traditional Portuguese cuisine in Sintra.
Wander through Sintra’s charming town center.
DAY4
Sintra
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Explore Sintra
Spend another day in Sintra, delving deeper into its charming attractions. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, known for its distinctive twin chimneys and medieval architecture. Take a relaxing walk through the historic town center, exploring its quaint shops and cafes. In the afternoon, venture to the coastal town of Cascais, a short drive away, and enjoy its beautiful beaches and marina. Return to Sintra for the night.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Tour the National Palace of Sintra with its unique twin chimneys.
Visit the historic town center and its quaint shops and cafes.
Travel to Cascais and relax on its beautiful beaches.
Explore Cascais marina and enjoy seaside views.
Return to Sintra for the evening.
DAY5
Evora
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Sintra to Evora
Travel to Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture. Visit the Roman Temple of Évora, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. Explore the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) and the historic Évora Cathedral. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the city’s charming streets and squares, and sample local Alentejo cuisine for dinner before settling in for the night.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit the Roman Temple of Évora.
Explore the Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones).
Discover the Évora Cathedral and its medieval architecture.
Wander through the charming streets of Évora.
Enjoy a local Alentejo dinner.
DAY6
Obidos
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Evora to Obidos
Journey to Obidos, a picturesque medieval town surrounded by ancient walls. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. Visit the imposing Obidos Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the town's charming shops and cafes, and indulge in a glass of the local ginjinha, a cherry liqueur. Spend the night in Obidos, soaking in the town’s medieval charm.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Walk through the medieval streets of Obidos.
Tour Obidos Castle and enjoy panoramic views.
Visit local shops and cafes in Obidos.
Taste the local ginjinha (cherry liqueur).
Explore the picturesque scenery surrounding Obidos.
DAY7
Porto
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Obidos to Porto
Travel north to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its historic architecture and wine production. Begin your visit with a stroll along the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the picturesque views of the Douro River. Explore the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, and visit the Porto Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a tasting of Porto’s famous port wine at a local wine cellar.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Stroll along Porto’s Ribeira district.
Visit Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores.
Explore Porto Cathedral.
Taste Porto’s famous port wine at a local wine cellar.
Dinner in the historic center of Porto.
DAY8
Porto
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Discover Porto
Continue your exploration of Porto by taking a scenic boat tour along the Douro River, offering stunning views of the city’s landmarks and historic buildings. Visit the Serralves Museum and its surrounding gardens, a contemporary art museum housed in a stunning Art Deco building. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the Boavista district and explore the Casa da Música, an iconic modern concert hall. Enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner at a local restaurant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take a scenic boat tour along the Douro River.
Visit the Serralves Museum and its gardens.
Walk through the Boavista district.
Explore Casa da Música, a modern concert hall.
Enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner.
DAY9
Douro River
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Porto to Douro Valley
Travel to the Douro Valley, a renowned wine-producing region famous for its terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes. Take a guided tour of a local winery, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the region’s exceptional wines. Enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the vineyards and spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque town of Peso da Régua. Return to your accommodations in the Douro Valley for a relaxing evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Tour a local winery and sample regional wines.
Enjoy lunch with vineyard views.
Explore Peso da Régua, the heart of the Douro Valley.
Take a scenic drive through the terraced vineyards.
Relax at your accommodations in the Douro Valley.
DAY10
Douro River
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Explore the Douro Valley
Spend a full day exploring the Douro Valley’s stunning scenery. Take a scenic train ride along the Douro River, passing through picturesque vineyards and charming villages. Visit the historic town of Lamego, known for its beautiful sanctuary and the impressive Lamego Cathedral. In the afternoon, relax with a boat cruise on the Douro River, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Return to your accommodations in the Douro Valley for the night.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ride a scenic train along the Douro River.
Visit the historic town of Lamego and its Sanctuary.
Enjoy a boat cruise on the Douro River.
Explore more vineyards and charming villages.
Return to your Douro Valley accommodations.
DAY11
Braga
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Douro Valley to Braga
Travel to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, known for its rich religious history and beautiful architecture. Visit the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, famous for its elaborate baroque staircase and stunning views of the city. Explore the historic city center, including the Braga Cathedral and the picturesque Praça da República. Enjoy a final Portuguese meal in Braga before heading to the airport for your departure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary and its baroque staircase.
Explore Braga Cathedral and Praça da República.
Wander through Braga’s historic city center.
Enjoy a final Portuguese meal in Braga.
Enjoy a final Portuguese meal in Braga.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Plan ahead to make the most of your 11-day Portugal adventure and fully enjoy its rich history and stunning landscapes. Embrace local cuisine and stay flexible for spontaneous discoveries to enrich your travel experience.