Portugal Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide To 2 Weeks in Portugal

This guide to 2 weeks in Portugal is the ultimate itinerary for first-time visitors. During you’re two weeks in Portugal you’ll discover the Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, Douro Valley, and a few small towns and villages along the way.

This itinerary is largely based on our one-month trip to Portugal in the fall. I’ve based this on our favorite cities, towns, and experiences and consolidated it into a 2-week itinerary. If you are traveling to Portugal for 2 weeks and aren’t sure where to start or what to do, you’ve come to the right place.

Portugal is home to many beautiful beaches, natural landscapes, incredible architecture, rich history, and of course delicious food. It offers everything you could want from a trip.

In this 2-week Portugal itinerary, we’ve included everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip. In fact, this itinerary is so perfect, that if you were short on time to plan your trip, you could simply print and follow this itinerary. The itinerary includes some of Portugal’s top attractions and must-see highlights. At the same time, you’ll find some of those hidden gems, the best things to eat, and how to get around.

This 2 – week Portugal itinerary is busy, and fast-paced but so varied and filled with history, beaches, culture, and mind-blowing gastronomy. Whether you are traveling to Portugal for 14 days or 20 days, you can easily adapt this itinerary based on the places you’d like to visit. So, let’s dive into the itinerary to give you a taste of what Portugal has to offer.

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Portugal Travel Guide

Getting Around Portugal

The best and easiest way to see Portugal is to hire a car. Renting a car provides you with convenience and gives you the flexibility to discover some of those off-beaten paths.

However, if you aren’t too comfortable driving in a foreign country, then you can stick to public transportation. Portugal has great public transportation with trains connecting all major cities and buses that take you almost everywhere. While this may seem like an easy option, keep in mind you have to cart your luggage around with you on all the public transport.

We had a car for the entire duration of our trip to Portugal. You won’t necessarily use it much in larger cities like Lisbon and Portugal because parking can be a nightmare. It’s easier to get around on foot or on public transport in bigger cities.

Overall, I firmly believe a car will give you the best flexibility and make your 2 weeks in Portugal a great experience.

Driving in Portugal

Driving in Portugal isn’t too difficult. In fact, it’s probably easier than in most other European countries. One thing to be aware of is the electronic toll roads. Portugal has an electronic system that records your use of and payment for using a toll road.

If you’re traveling with a foreign license plate vehicle, you can purchase and activate a prepaid toll card, or purchase pre-defined journeys online.

Where to land in Portugal: Where to Start your Portugal road trip

The main airports in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and Faro (Algarve). The itinerary below starts from the Algarve, but you can adapt it to start from Porto or Lisbon. It’s best to start at one of the major cities and then you can always make your way around the country.

Is 2 weeks enough to cover Portugal?

Portugal has now become a top tourist destination in Europe. Tourists are attracted to the amazing atmosphere and culture; surfers to the world-famous waves and beaches, and foodies to the delicious cuisine. Moreover, Portugal provides some of the more affordable holiday options in Europe.

Spending two weeks in Portugal allows you to see the highlights including major cities like Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and Douro Valley while also being able to explore some of the small towns and villages along the way. With a couple of days in the Algarve, you can also spend time at some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches. What I love the most about Portugal is all the hidden treasures and little surprises you find along the way.

2 Weeks in Portugal Road Trip Itinerary

Below is our suggested itinerary which includes the North, South, major cities, and some incredible beaches. This Portugal itinerary includes some of the most amazing sights. The itinerary is quite fast-paced with a lot of driving, but you’ll also have some downtown towards the end of the trip to unwind in the Douro Valley and Porto. Alternatively, you can choose to swap out or eliminate some places and stay put in others for longer durations. As long as you know what you want to get out of your trip, this itinerary can be adapted quite easily.

Summary of 2 weeks in Portugal

• Day 1 – Algarve: Portimão and Lagos
• Day 2 – Algarve: Benagil Caves
• Day 3 – Evora
• Day 4 – Lisbon
• Day 5 – Belem and Cascais
• Day 6 – Sintra
• Day 7 – Óbidos and Nazaré
• Day 8 – Batalha, Alcobaça and Coimbra
• Day 9 – Porto
• Day 10 – Porto
• Day 11 – Braga
• Day 12 – Guimaraes and Douro Valley
• Day 13 – Douro Valley
• Day 14 – Porto

2 weeks in Portugal: The Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors

Deciding on where to go, what to see, and what regions to explore can be a challenge when you have only 2 weeks in Portugal. But if you follow this 2-week Portugal itinerary, it will help you make the most of your time in this amazing European city. This itinerary is based on my personal experience in the country and provides a detailed breakdown of places to visit in Portugal. You’ll have ample time to enjoy some of the main highlights in Portugal, including places like Lisbon, and Porto, and drinking your way through the Douro Valley.

You can fly into Faro or Lisbon or you could be driving to Portugal from Spain. That’s exactly what we did. Portugal was part of a wider European road trip where we drove to the Algarve from Seville, Spain. So, this itinerary is based on the fact that you’ll kick off your 2 weeks in Portugal in the Algarve. You can however choose to start your road trip from any major destination in Portugal and adapt this itinerary to suit your travel needs. You want to keep it stress-free and relaxed and enjoy every moment of your 2 weeks in Portugal.

Without further ado, here’s how to spend your 2 weeks in Portugal.

Day 1 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Arrive in Algarve

Welcome to Portugal! Portugal’s southernmost region is famous for its fresh seafood, limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and white-washed villages. With over 100 beaches in the Algarve, it’s a premier holiday destination during the summer months. If you fly into the Algarve, we recommend flying into Faro Airport. The airport has many connections to other cities in Europe.

The best way to see the Algarve is to stay in one of the bigger towns and use it as a home base to explore the surrounding areas. Most tourists tend to stay in Faro or Lagos. We chose to set up base in a town called Portimão and made day trips to other places within the Algarve region. If you rent a car, it’s pretty easy to get around from one place to another. I’d recommend picking one of these three areas to stay in during your 2 weeks in Portugal.

Portimão also has excellent public transportation connections which means you can easily access the western Algarve by bus or train. Popular day trips from Portimão are to Lagos and Silves.

Once you arrive at your chosen destination, check in and spend the rest of the day exploring the town, beaches, and other nearby towns.

Portimão

This place is one of the more popular tourist destinations in western Algarve. Portimão was once known for its shipbuilding and fish processing. Today the fishing docks have been transformed into a scenic promenade. Further inland you’ll find several pedestrian shopping streets, plazas filled with cafes, and plenty of restaurants that serve delicious seafood.

What we loved about Portimão is that while it is still considered one of the larger cities on the coast, it still provides an authentic and relaxed ambiance and caters more to the locals.

Things to do in Portimão

• Visit Praia da Rocha, a beautiful white sand beach
• Portimão Museum
• Marina de Portimão
• Nossa Senhora Da Conceição, the beautiful whitewashed church of Portimão
• Mercado Municipal de Portimão: Perfect way to experience Portimão just like a local
• Fortaleza de Santa Catarina: An ancient fortress located right near Praia da Rocha
• Eat delicious seafood

If you are located in another part of the Algarve, you can easily make a day trip to Portimão. You’ll only need about half a day to explore the main area of the city. You can check out some of the local attractions here.

Lagos

Assuming you spent the first half of the day exploring Portimão, make your way to Lagos where you’ll spend the rest of the day.

Lagos is visually stunning, packed with history, and is one of the best towns in the Algarve. It has some of the most beautiful beaches, incredible rock formations, and plenty of hotels, bars, and restaurants. It makes the perfect base to explore the southern region of Portugal. However, just keep in mind that tourists from all over Europe flock to this part of the Algarve. So, it can get quite busy and touristy. Wander around Old Town and get a feel for the city. Then visit some of the best beaches in the Algarve.

Here are some of the top things to do in Lagos

• Ponta da Piedade displays the absolute beauty of the rugged coastline. Marvel at the unique rock formations rising from the glistening turquoise waters. The rocks stretch up to 20 meters and there’s a footpath you can use to explore them from various angles. You’ll also find several sea arches and grottos. Alternatively, you can explore the coast by boat or take a sunset tour to enjoy the magic of the region.
• Old Centre of Lagos features cobblestone streets with patterns, whitewashed houses, bustling squares, beautiful churches, and a plethora of restaurants and cafes. The best way to see the sights of the Old Town is to aimlessly walk around and lose yourself in its charm.
• Igreja de Santo António: A beautiful whitewashed church crested by two bell towers.
• Lagos Marina: A stroll down the marina is a must. It’s the place to go for water-based activities and is also lined with bars and restaurants.
• Indulge in authentic food from the region including mackerels, deep-fried squid, and grilled sardines

Best Beaches in Lagos

• Praia do Camilo is a fabulous cove at the foot of the ochre-tinged cliffs. You’ll have to descend about 200 steps to get to the bottom. It’s one of the most picturesque beaches in Lagos. Perfect for kayaking and swimming.
• Praia de Dona Anna is probably the most popular beach in Lagos. It’s definitely worth a visit
• Meia Praia stretches for 4 km and is the perfect place to spend a few hours relaxing in the sand as the beach doesn’t get too crowded.

Finish up day 1 at one of the hottest spots for nightlife in Lagos, 25 de Abril. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars and just an overall great atmosphere on this street.

Day 2 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Exploring the Algarve

Day 2 of this 2-week Portugal itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. Spend the day beach hopping, you’ll be blown away by just how amazing the beaches are.

Benagil Caves

Start your day nice and early and make your way to the beautiful Benagil Caves. Benagil is a small fishing village that has now become world-famous for its astonishing sea caves. These really are some of the most beautiful rocks and caves in the world. This cave is only accessible by the sea. So, you can either take a kayak or a boat tour to get to the caves. If there’s anything you shouldn’t miss in the Algarve, let it be this. The experience is just surreal and it’s as beautiful in person as it is in the photos you see. Check out some tours here.

This is one of the most popular attractions in Portugal. So, brace yourselves for crowds, especially if you are traveling during peak season. If you start early enough, you’ll only have a handful of people on your tour or at the caves. So, it’s worthwhile kicking off your day early. Tours start from as early as 7 am, so jump onto the first one you can. They usually last about 1.5 hours.

Praia da Marinha

After your spectacular experience of visiting the Benagil caves, make your way to Praia da Marinha. This was one of our favorite beaches. It’s a short downhill walk to the beach from the parking lot. On either side, there are beautiful limestone cliffs that provide shelter from harsh waves. The water here is simply wonderful.

After your very early and busy morning, spend some time relaxing at this beautiful beach. Expect large crowds given the popularity of this beach. You’ll have someone’s beach mat right next to you in the summer months.

Tip: Find a spot a little further away from the water. Once the tide starts coming in, you’ll find yourself having to shuffle your mat continuously, or in our case get completely soaked for not paying attention 😊

Once you’ve relaxed and recovered from your early start, make your way to Faro. Spend the rest of your time exploring at your own pace.

Some of the best things to do in Faro

• Explore old town
• Faro Cathedral
• Arco de Vila
• Cidade Villa
• Igreja do Carmo
• Visit Faro’s ancient ruins
• Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones
• Rekax in Praia de Faro (beach)

Optional: If you have more time and want to visit other areas on the Golden Coast, here are a few other towns you can explore:

• Carvoeiro
• Ferragudo
• Albufeira
• Luz
• Vilamoura
• Loulé
• Silves

These are some of the best places to visit in the Algarve.

If you are after history, you should visit Loulé, Faro, or Silves. If you prefer beautiful beaches don’t miss Lagoa and Portimão which have two of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.  

Day 3 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Évora

Once you’ve had your dose of sun and sand, you’ll make your way to the charming walled city of Évora. Along the way feel free to stop by Tomar to visit the Convento de Cristo. Allow a couple of hours to visit the monastery.

After departing Tomar, make your way to Évora. You’ll spend the night in this city so check into your hotel, and freshen up before you head out to explore.

The best way to explore Évora is on foot. Walk through the cobbled streets and get a taste of the city’s architecture and dining options. You can explore the best of Evora on this private full day tour which covers main attractions like Giraldo Square, the Roman Temple of Evora, and the Church of St. Francis.

These are the must-see attractions in Évora

• Évora Cathedral: Évora Cathedral sits on the highest point of the city. The Roman Catholic church is beautiful with a rooftop that provides spectacular views of the city as well as the surrounding countryside. It’s one of the most important monuments in Évora. There is a small entrance fee of €2.50 for the church and cloister or €3.50 if you want to include a visit to the rooftop.

• Chapel of Bones: The Chapel of Bones also known as the Capela dos Ossos is the most popular attraction in Évora. The interior walls, columns, and ceiling of the small chapel are decorated with human bones. It’s an eerie but interesting place to visit, one that especially provides you with a history lesson.

• The Roman Temple: The Roman Temple or the Templo de Diana is another unique monument in Évora. It’s part of the historical center of the city and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Praça do Giraldo: This is Évora’s central square where you’ll find all the locals meeting for a coffee or a drink. The square has several boutiques and shops that sell curios and handicrafts.

• Old Town Centre: Walk around the narrow streets of the Old Town where you’ll stumble across white houses with colorful yellow window frames. It’s a beautiful sight and makes for the perfect evening walk.

If you have some time left over, you can explore the surrounding Alentejo region, Portugal’s biggest, which covers about 30% of the country. The region lies between the Algarve and Lisbon and is filled with olive groves, vineyards, and charming small towns.

Day 4 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Lisbon

You’ll start day 4 nice and early and make your way from Evora to Lisbon. The drive is roughly 1 hr and 30 minutes. So, if you plan to stop at other small towns along the way, make sure you allow enough time for that.

After years of having Lisbon on my bucket list, I was finally able to make it to this magnificent city as part of our Portugal road trip. I was ecstatic to say the least.

Lisbon has a plethora of history and an atmosphere that is bound to blow you away. It’s the perfect place to explore as part of a long weekend, but at the same time, you could spend a few weeks here and still not get through everything.

Lisbon is a multifaceted city filled with culture and history. It’s so underrated but recent years have seen an influx of tourists to this amazing city. It is one of my favorite cities to visit in Europe.

If this is your first time visiting Lisbon, we’ve got you covered with some of the best highlights in Lisbon. You can even consider taking this Lisbon city tour which covers some of the top attractions in Lisbon. These are a few places you can cover on your first day in Lisbon.

Best things to do in Lisbon

·       Ride tram 28

Start with a ride on Tram 28, the city’s infamous tram that gives you the best insight into the city, especially if you are visiting for the first time. The tram gets extremely busy so make sure you try and jump on early in the morning.

·       Time Out Market (Mercado da Ribeira)

Lisbon has a thriving food scene and what better place to experience it than the local market. This isn’t just any market; it has some of Lisbon’s best chefs under one roof. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite especially when you are on the go. Don’t forget to try the delicious Pastel de Nata. No trip to Portugal is complete without trying one of these delicious custard tarts. It’s a mix of sweet custard and flaky pastry. You’ll find these all over the place.

·       Elevador Da Bica

This funicular railway has become one of the most iconic sights in the city. You’ll notice most people walking alongside to get some iconic photos.

·       Rua Nova do Carvalho

Around the corner from the market is Lisbon’s popular pink street which is all over social media. It lies in the neighborhood of Cais do Sodre, once Lisbon’s Red-Light District. It’s home to some of the best bars these days. You’ll have to take a stroll to get your Instagram worth shot!

·       Praça do Commercio

This is one of Lisbon’s most iconic spots. You’ll see photos of this very place all over social media. The grandeur of this building is a symbol of Lisbon rising from the devastation of the earthquake and tsunami that razed the city to the ground in 1755. The square is one of the top places to visit in Lisbon.

·       Santa Justa Lift

The Santa Justa Lift stands out because of its French Eiffel-style architecture. It connects central Lisbon’s lower streets to the much higher Largo do Carmo.

·       Rossio Square

Rossio Square is one of the main squares in Lisbon filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s the liveliest square in the city, where people stop to sit and relax or grab a drink at one of the many cafés with outdoor sitting 

·       Rua Augusta

This street is Lisbon’s main pedestrian street located in the city center. Comercio Square opens onto Rua Augusta through the triumphal arch. This is a lively pedestrian street filled with outdoor cafés, international shops, and street artists.

·       Lisbon Cathedral

This Roman Catholic cathedral is the oldest church in the city. You can wander through the inside and learn about the history of this cathedral.

·       Castelo de São Jorge

This hilltop fortress is one of the best places to visit in Lisbon. It’s a reminder of the fact that Lisbon was once under Moorish rule. To visit the castle and find out more about its history, it’s best to buy the skip the line tickets.

·       Explore Alfama

Alfama is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Lisbon. It provides an authentic feel for the city and is filled with traditional shops and quaint cafes. If you don’t feel like walking down through this neighborhood you can always take tram 28 which winds its way through the area.

·       Visit Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro da Graça

Visit for some breathtaking views of Lisbon. You won’t be disappointed. Carry along a drink or ice cream while you soak up the vibes of the city.

·       Watch the sunset at a rooftop bar

Lisbon is a city that provides spectacular views. So, it’s only fitting that you should visit one of the many impressive rooftop bars during their time in the city. Grab a drink as you watch the sunset and then make your way to dinner.

Day 5 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Belém & Cascais

Today will be a bit more laid back, with some sightseeing in the morning followed by a relaxing trip to the beach in the afternoon.

Belém is a lovely neighborhood in Lisbon known for its colorful houses, famous landmarks, and of course Pastel de Belém. Check out this tour which covers a few of the highlights in Belem.

Top highlights in Belém

• Belém Tower: The tower is built in typical Portuguese Manueline style and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, don’t miss this activity on your 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary.
• Jeronimo’s Monastery: If you don’t have sufficient time, you can always view the Monastery from the outside. Otherwise, make sure you buy your tickets online in advance so you can skip the line.
• Eat a pastel de nata at Pasteis de Belém: You’ve probably eaten a lot of pastel de nata’s by now. But you can’t leave Lisbon without trying the pasteis de Belém.

Cascais

Cascais is a cute fishing town covered in narrow cobbled pathways. There are lots of shops and restaurants and a few famous landmarks. It’s the perfect place for exploring on foot.

Cascais is filled with some of the best beaches in Portugal. Give your feet a well-deserved break and spend the rest of your day relaxing at one of the beaches. When you have had your fill of sun and sand, head back to Lisbon where you can enjoy a delicious authentic meal.

This day trip from Lisbon takes you on a guided day tour of Cascais, and Sintra. The perfect way to get a taste for both these beautiful places.

Day 6 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Sintra

You have two options on day 6, you can either make a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon or spend the night in Sintra if you don’t want to drive back to Lisbon. The option is completely yours. Just remember accommodation in Sintra can be a bit more expensive as there aren’t a lot of options compared to Lisbon.

Today you’ll spend the day exploring the beautiful region of Sintra. I highly recommend you start as early as you can to avoid crowds. The drive from Lisbon to Sintra is only 30 minutes.

Sintra is unlike anything you have seen. It’s a magical place filled with castles, palaces, and villas. It’s one of Portugal’s most visited places so be sure to arrive early and have all your tickets booked well in advance. Or to take the hassle out of doing it yourself, you can take one of the tours from Lisbon to Sintra.

Here are some of the best things to do in Sintra

• Palacio Nacional da Pena: This is probably Sintra’s most visited place, so start off here as it gets quite crowded as the day progresses. The palace has beautiful colorful walls and an unimaginable view of the surrounding landscape.
• Quinta da Regaleira: The best way to describe Quinta da Regaleira is like it’s Alice in Wonderland. With a palace, beautiful chapel, lush green gardens, tunnels, fountains, and a well with a spiral staircase, this place takes you to a whole different world of exploring. Quinta da Regaleira is one surprise after another.
• Castle of the Moors: The castle was once used as a strategic point in medieval wars, but now you can visit the well-preserved ruins and enjoy the view over the stunning surrounding landscape. You’ll also get a great view of Pena Palace from here.
• Sintra Old Town: The old town is so cute and can easily be explored on foot. Make sure you grab a bite before you finish up for the day.

Head back to Lisbon for a restful evening. Grab a drink on a rooftop bar or enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the local establishments.

Day 7 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Óbidos and Nazaré

You’ll leave Lisbon and make your way to Nazaré. On the way, you’ll stop at a small village called Óbidos.

Óbidos is a pretty small medieval village with a few things to explore, especially its cherry liqueur called Ginjinha d’Obidos. No trip to Óbidos is complete without savoring this sweet drink. We grabbed a few bottles of the cherry liqueur to carry along with us for the remainder of our Portugal road trip. If you aren’t sure about driving yourself, take this private tour which will cover both places. The tour is well worthwhile as it takes away the hassle of driving. Both these places are incredible and you shouldn’t miss out on visiting them.

Spend a couple of hours walking through this town. One of the best things to do in Óbidos is to walk through the old city walls that surround the center. (I wouldn’t recommend this for young children)

Other places to visit in Óbidos are as below:

• Obidos Castle
• The Praça de Santa Maria
• Óbidos Aqueduct

The best way to explore Óbidos is to walk around its cobblestone streets. It’s like stepping back in time.

When you are done exploring Óbidos, make your way to Nazaré, a small fishing village famous for its huge waves. The drive is about 35 minutes. You’ll be staying in Nazaré for the night. Once you’ve settled in, head out and explore the beautiful town of Nazaré.

Nazaré sees some of the best surfers in the world who come here to ride the 20+ meter waves. It is divided into two areas; Sítio (on top of the hill) and downtown (along the beach). Both are worth visiting and you can easily do so in half a day.

Here are some of the best things to do in Nazaré:

• Nazaré Beach: This one is not to be missed
• Faro de Nazaré: A viewing point with a lighthouse where you can watch some amazing waves
• Old Town Nazaré
• Bairro dos Pescadores is a local neighborhood filled with white houses and narrow streets. From here you can walk along the beach and enjoy the sunset.
• Visit the Mercado Municipal
• Indulge in some delicious seafood
• Ride the funicular
• Miradouro do Suberco: Located high on the cliffs of O Sitio, Miradouro do Suberco is a viewing point that gives you stunning views of the town and the beach below.
• O Sitio is located high above the sea and can be reached by funicular or road
• The Chapel of Ermida da Memoria
• The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré

Finish your day by dining at one of the local restaurants and enjoy the delicious seafood Nazaré has to offer.

Day 8 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Alcobaça, Batalha, Fátima

Today you’ll make your way to Coimbra for the night. You’ll make three stops along the way: Alcobaça, Batalha, and Fátima before you make it to Coimbra. It’s a long day ahead so if you are a bit tired you can always make your way directly to Coimbra. Honestly, it doesn’t add any extra driving time as such and you only need an hour or two in these small towns. If you have chosen not to drive yourself, this tour from Lisbon will take you to the charming towns of Fátima, Batalha, Alcobaça, and Nazaré, and the medieval town of Óbidos.

Alcobaça Monastery

The Alcobaça Monastery is only about a 20-minute drive from Nazaré. It’s a nice little pit stop on this Portugal road trip itinerary. Alcobaça is a low-key town except for the Monastery which is the main reason most people stop in at this town.

We only visited the free section of the monastery, without going in to see the cloisters and museum. The workmanship of this building is simply spectacular and you can even just admire it from the outside.

Batalha Monastery

The next stop of this 2-week Portugal itinerary is the Batalha Monastery. It’s a stunning building with intricate architecture that combines Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance styles.

If you only visit one monastery during your time in Portugal, let it be this one. It has a small entrance fee of about 7.50 EUR and includes the church, cloisters, and unfinished chapel. Allow yourself an hour to wander around the monastery while taking in the beautiful architecture and learning about its history.

Fátima

Visiting Fátima is completely optional. I’ve added it to this 2-week itinerary as it’s not very far from Batalha and also on the way to Coimbra.

Fátima is a city known all over the world for its religious context. It sees millions of visitors each year for its pilgrimage. It is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to three young shepherds in the town of Fátima. You don’t have to be a catholic to appreciate this pilgrimage site. You’ll be awe-struck as you stand in the middle of the Sanctuary of Fátima. Spend a couple of hours walking through the grounds, visiting the Basilicas, or sit silently at the Chapel of Apparition.

Coimbra

From Fátima, you’ll make your way to the medieval city of Coimbra. The drive from Fátima takes roughly an hour.

Coimbra is located in central Portugal and used to be the capital city. It’s known for its historical and medieval architecture and its river-facing views. Coimbra is also known for its historic University, one of the oldest in Portugal and in Europe.

You’ll probably get to Coimbra early in the evening. Settle in and although you might want to relax, Coimbra is a town worth exploring, even if only briefly. So before making your way to a delicious dinner, be sure to check out some of the best attractions in the city.

Start by exploring the Old Town and Igreja de Santa Cruz. The New Cathedral of Coimbra and the Botanical Gardens are not too far off so check them out before you call it a day.

Top things to do in Coimbra

• Visit Coimbra University. Important buildings here are Sé Velha de Coimbra,Via Latina, Sala Capelos, Michael’s Chapel and Biblioteca Joanina.
• Take a walk around Old Town
• Visit Igreja de Santa Cruz 
• Old Cathedral of Coimbra
• Visit the New Cathedral
• Botanical Gardens

There are quite a few things to do in Coimbra. If you want you can adjust this road trip itinerary and add another day in Coimbra. Alternatively, you can eliminate Alcobaca and Batalha and spend more time in Coimbra.

After you explore Coimbra, be sure to have a restful night as you’ll be setting off for Porto the next day.

Day 9 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Coimbra and Porto

Today you’ll start off by making your way to the Old Cathedral (Sé Velha). Close to the old Cathedral is Coimbra University. Spend some time exploring its grounds, and other important buildings.

Once you are done exploring, hop into your car and drive straight to Porto. The drive takes about an hour and 30 minutes.

Note: Aveiro is on the way to Porto so if you feel like you need to break up your journey, feel free to stop at Aveiro. Otherwise, head straight to Porto.

Porto

I didn’t know what to expect of Porto. It’s a vibrant city that is irresistible in every sense. With a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and scenic viewpoints all over the city, Porto is now one of my favorite cities in Portugal. If you haven’t been to Porto before, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Between its iconic bridge, historic building, and a plethora of delicious restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do in Porto. This walking tour in Porto covers some of the main attractions int he city.

Top Porto Attractions

• Ribeira District
• Cais de Ribeira (Waterfront)
• Walk the Dom Luis I Bridge
• Port Wine Tasting In Gaia
• River Cruise

Ribeira

On your first afternoon in Porto, you should take a stroll through the city’s historic center and explore the district of Ribeira. Ribeira is famous for its narrow streets and colorful buildings that line the riverfront. The area has a lovely vibe with plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Cais de Ribeira

Make your way down the waterfront also known as Cais de Ribeira. Walking by this waterfront is one of the top things to do in Porto. It’s an area you’ll want to come to over and over again.

Dom Luis I Bridge

You’ll notice the Dom Luis I Bridge nearby. This is Porto’s most iconic structure and was designed by Gustav Eiffel. The stunning bridge spans the River Douro and walking across this bridge is something you definitely shouldn’t miss.  It leads you to the neighborhood of Vila Nova de Gaia, which is the hub of the port wine trade. Thirsty yet?

Taste some Port in Gaia

You’re probably well aware that Porto is the birthplace of Port wine, so it’s only obvious that you can’t leave here until you’ve sipped on some. Lucky for you, there are plenty of port cellars within walking distance from Ribeira. These cellars are located in Vila Nova da Gaia, the town right across the river. The wine is aged here for years before it is shipped all over the world.

With so many cellars to choose from, I’d recommend you look at some reviews online and pick one that stands out the most. Just make sure you book a tour to learn about the history while tasting the wine. We did ours at Caves Calem.

We walked in on the day and were lucky enough to get a spot. However, it may pay to book in advance as it’s one of the more popular things to do in Porto.

Take a cruise down the Douro River

Finally, wrap the day up with a relaxing boat cruise before grabbing a bite. One of the best ways to see the city of Porto is to jump on a boat cruise in a traditional Rabelo Boat. It takes you from Gaia along the Duoro for just under an hour. You’ll learn about the history and architecture of the six bridges that cross the river. I wouldn’t skip this at any expense. It’s such a beautiful way to end your day. You can book your tickets here.

End your night with dinner at one of the restaurants at the waterfront in Ribeira. Enjoy traditional food and get a good night’s rest.

You can check out some of these tours in Porto. I’ve done all of them and can’t rate them enough!

• Porto: Six Bridges Cruise
• Taylor’s Port Cellars & Tasting
• Guided City Tour by Tuk-Tuk and Douro River Cruise
• Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch
• Pastel de Nata Cooking Class with Grandma’s Recipe

Day 10 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Porto

The 10^th day of your 2 weeks in Portugal is dedicated to discovering the exquisite city of Porto. With an abundance of things to do in Porto, I’ve highlighted my top favorites, these are attractions you must see in Porto.

·       The Chapel of Souls

The entire exterior of the building is covered in blue and white azulejos tiles which makes it an incredibly attractive site.

·       Mercado do Bolhao

The perfect place to purchase souvenirs and traditional products

·       Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso is an 18th-century church that’s located close to Batalha Square. The church stands on a slight incline and has a striking façade of over 11,000 classic blue and white azulejos. The church also has some beautiful stained glass windows and a pipe organ dating from 1811. The two bell towers are topped with stone crosses, masonry spheres, and flag poles with flags of Portugal.

·       São Bento Railway Station

This is probably one of the most striking railway stations I’ve come across. The main area is covered is over 20,000 tiles that reflect the history of Portugal. It’s a sight not to miss.

·      Clérigos Church and Tower

This captivating church is perched on a hilltop and is topped by the Clérgios Tower. It’s one of the most iconic sights that can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. If you don’t mind climbing the 200 + steps, then you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the city from the tower.

·       Livraria Lello

It’s not often you would visit a place to go visit a library. However, Livraria Lello is no ordinary library. In recent years it’s become famous for being JK Rowling’s inspiration for Harry Potter. Make sure you book tickets in advance if you want to visit inside the bookstore.

·       Eat a Francesinha

A francesinha is a multi-layered meat sandwich covered with melted cheese and a thick hot spiced tomato sauce. It’s usually served with fries on the side. The sauce is incredibly delicious so ask for extra on the side so you can dip your fries in it. It’s usually a large serving and quite a rich sandwich so if you are not a big eater, split it with your travel buddy.

·       Porto Cathedral (Sè do Porto)

This Roman Catholic Church is one of the oldest monuments in Porto and stands as a symbol of the city. You can visit the interior for a small fee, or just stick to the stunning views of the exterior. This walking tour in Porto includes a visit to the Porto Cathedral.

·       Sunset at Kittie Rock Viewpoint

Head over to Kittie Rock Viewpoint to get a spectacular view of the Dom Luis I Bridge, and the Douro River. While you’re there enjoy a beautiful sunset. It’s the perfect way to end your time in Porto.

After enjoying the sunset head back to Ribeira where you can enjoy a delicious Portuguese meal at one of the many riverfront restaurants. 

Day 11 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Braga, Viana do Castelo and Ponte de Lima

After two spectacular days in Porto, you’ll make your way to Braga where you’ll spend the night. You’ll also visit either Viana do Castelo or Ponte de Lima in the afternoon. The drive from Porto to Braga takes about 45 minutes. It’s totally up to you to decide which city you add to your Portugal 2-week itinerary. If you have enough time on your hands or are feeling adventurous enough, you could probably do both.

Once you’ve settled in, you’ll spend the morning exploring Braga’s main attractions. In the afternoon you’ll make your way to Viana do Castelo and/ or Ponte de Lima.

Braga is the second most important city in Portugal and is famous for the Bom Jesus do Monte and the Braga Cathedral.

Top attractions to visit in Braga:

• Bom Jesus do Monte: Sitting high on a hilltop, this is the city’s most popular tourist attraction. This pilgrimage site can be reached by car or you can walk up the 640 zig-zag steps to get to the top.
• Braga Cathedral: The Cathedral is a mix of many styles and is one of the most important monuments in Braga.
• Praça da República: Right in the center of Braga you’ll find the famous square which is lined with restaurants and cafes and is also home to the tourism office.

After you’ve had some lunch make your way to Viana do Castelo or Ponte de Lima.

Viana Do Castelo

Viana do Castelo is a little gem in Northern Portugal. The city is full of history and culture but at the same time is surrounded by natural scenery. It sits at the mouth of the River Lima and is surrounded by hills characteristic of the Minho region and sandy beaches along the coastline.

The city is not popularly known to tourists, but it was recommended to us by a local so we decided to check it out. If you are looking for a unique destination to visit in Portugal, this is it. Viana do Castelo is a wonderful city with beautiful monuments, great gastronomy, and religious festivities.

You can explore the historical center, the waterfront, and Monte de Santa Luzia Hill. The best way is to walk around the city. Some of the top highlights in Viana do Castelo include:

• Funicular of Santa Luzia
• The Santuario de Santa Luzia: The magnificent white church that sits on top of a hill.
• Praca da Republica:  Heart and soul of the city filled with historic buildings and cobblestoned streets.
• Sé Catedral de Viana do Castelo
• Igreja de São Domingos: This church is classified as a Portuguese national monument.
• Ponte Eiffel: Beautiful bridge created by Gustav Eiffel
• Praia do Cabedelo (Beach)

Ponte de Lima

This is one of the most charming towns we came across in Northern Portugal. Ponte de Lima is also one of the oldest towns in Portugal. You’ll find everything from plazas, religious buildings, beautiful flower gardens, and a few museums.

Here are some of the top highlights in Pont de Lima:

• Ponte Medieval: The ancient stone bridge spans the river Lima and was once the only way to cross the river. Today it is the most iconic landmark in Ponte de Lima.
• Historic Centre: Walk through the historic town and take in the sights, and the architecture of the place.
• Largo de Camões: This cute square is a common meeting place for the locals and has a few restaurants and cafes. Perfect place to grab a coffee and give your feet a bit of a break from all the walking.
• Visit beautiful flower gardens

When you are done with all the exploring you can either grab a bite in Ponte de Lima or make your way back to Braga and have a nice dinner there. Relax and enjoy the rest of your evening because tomorrow you’ll make your way to the wine region, Douro.

Day 12 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Guimarães and Douro

Day 12, coming closer to the end of this amazing 2-week Portugal itinerary, but we are not there just yet. Today you’ll make your way to the Douro Valley, the beautiful wine region of Portugal. On the way, you’ll make one stop in a small city called Guimarães, which is about 25 minutes from Braga.

Guimarães has a beautiful historic center, with narrow cobblestone alleys. It’s the perfect kind of place to wander and get lost.

Top highlights in Guimarães:

• Wander the city’s historic center
• Palace of the Dukes
• Guimarães Castle
• Rua de Santa Maria
• Igreja de São Francisco
• Cable car to Pena mountain
• Try the food of the region for lunch (tortas de Guimarães and Toucinho do Céu)

After you’ve grabbed a bite, head back to the car and make your way to Douro Valley.

Douro Valley

The drive to Douro Valley takes approximately an hour. This is your final destination on your Portugal road trip itinerary before you head back to Porto. The idea is to sit back and relax while you sip on wine and learn more about the production process of Port wine.

Douro Valley is a World Heritage Site and you can explore it by train, by the river, on a day tour, or by car.  It’s one of the more popular day trips from Porto. We recommend spending a couple of nights in the region.

Visiting vineyards is exactly what you need after your 10 full-on days in Portugal. On this part of the trip, you are encouraged to take it easy and just enjoy everything around you while also reminiscing on your time in Portugal thus far.

We visited Portugal in October; the grapes had already been harvested and the leaves were dressed in their vivid autumn colors. The view was mesmerizing. This was one of our highlights during our Portugal road trip.

There are many things to do in the Douro Valley. So having two nights here just means you aren’t as rushed and can visit more than just one winery. We stayed in Peso da Régua and just made trips around the Douro Valley. We highly recommend basing yourself here. Once you’ve settled in, grab a coffee or wine and then head out to explore the town.

You’ll visit the famous Quinta da Pacheca and jump on a tour to learn more about wine. It was one of the best tours we experienced in the region. Safe to say we bought many bottles of wine to carry with us.

End your first day in Douro Valley with a traditional meal.

Day 13 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Douro

Have a relaxed day exploring the region and some of the many wineries you’ll find here.

Some of the most famous and best vineyards to visit in the Douro Valley are;

• Quinta da Pacheca
• Quinta das Carvalhas
• Quinta do Bonfim
• Quinta da Roêda
• Quinta de La Rosa
• Quinta do Crasto.

Here are some top things to do in the Douro Valley:

• Take the train from Pinhão to Pocinho, for one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
• Explore Pinhão
• Do a wine tasting at one of the many Quintas.
• Take a cruise on the Douro River.
• Explore the old town of Peso da Régua.
• Visit the Museu do Douro to learn more about the area and the history of port wine.
• Marvel at the view at one of the many Miradouros. We highly recommend Miradouro de São Leonardo de Galafura

You can take this Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch from Porto is you plan to do a day trip.

Day 14 of 2 weeks in Portugal: Porto

Make your way back to Porto where you’ll spend one last night of your 2-week Portugal Itinerary. You can then fly out of Porto.

You can also choose to drive back to Lisbon instead of Porto or even Faro (longer drive time). Alternatively, you can even drive to Spain from the Douro Valley. Have a plan in mind and go from there. This itinerary can be adapted to suit your 2 weeks in Portugal in the most time-effective way.

Spend the day in Porto revisiting your favorite places and enjoy all the traditional Portuguese food before your trip comes to an end.

Final thoughts on 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary

And that’s how you spend 2 weeks in Portugal. Portugal is an incredible country with so many magical sights. There’s so much to do in Portugal, you could spend a month here and still not get through everything. This is why we’ve put together this 2-week Portugal itinerary. It covers some of the best highlights in Portugal.

This itinerary is based on the month we spent in this magical country and I’ve condensed it to a 2-week itinerary with all the top places to visit. As I put together this Portugal road trip guide, I realize there are so many places we would love to go back to and explore. A Portugal road trip is one that’s filled with adventure and should be on everyone’s bucket list.

If you have any questions about your 2 weeks in Portugal, leave a comment below or send me a message.

Happy Travels!

Note: The information here is updated the best we can at the time of writing this article. Please check attractions, activities, and transport before you can as things tend to change from time to time.

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• Famous landmarks in Portugal
• 20 Best Places to Visit in Lisbon
• 16 Best Places to Visit in Porto