Where to go and what to see in Portugal

When visiting Portugal, many ask me the recurring question about where to go and what to see in Portugal, given my role as a tour guide.

The answer to this inquiry always varies based on the individual’s preferences, as not everyone seeks the same experiences.

The response also hinges on the available time and budget for the vacation.

The recommendations diverge significantly between those desiring walking vacations and those opting for leisurely beach days or museum visits.

Nevertheless, let me simplify the plan for visitors looking for an active but not necessarily hiking-centric experience in Portugal.

This plan caters to those who appreciate historical sites, relish Portuguese cuisine and wines, and are interested in cultural nuances.

The focus here is on a more relaxed exploration, valuing quality over quantity.

Answering the question “Where to go and what to see in Portugal” and considering two potential durations for the trip – 7 days and 14 days – I offer the following itinerary suggestions:

7 days

Option A:

– Spend 2 days in Porto
– Allocate 1 day for Guimarães
– Dedicate 1 day to Fátima/Óbidos
– Invest 2 days exploring Lisbon
– Reserve 1 day for Sintra/Cascais

Option B:

– Devote 2 days to Lisbon
– Set aside 1 day for Sintra/Cascais
– Explore Évora for 1 day
– Discover Monsaraz and Tavira over 1 day
– Enjoy 2 days in Setúbal, including Palmela and the Natural Park of Arrábida

Note: Our company provides day tours for most destinations mentioned above. For detailed information and booking options, please refer to our offerings available here.

14 days

For a more comprehensive 14-day journey, commencing from Porto and concluding in Lisbon, I propose the following itinerary:

– Spend two days in Porto
– Allocate 1 day each for Guimarães and Viana do Castelo
– Dedicate 1 day to Pinhão in the Douro Valley
– Explore Coimbra, Fátima and Óbidos over two days
– Devote 3 days to Lisbon
– Spend 2 days exploring Évora and its surroundings
– Reserve 1 day for Sintra/Cascais
– Conclude the trip with 1 day in Setúbal, Tróia, and the Natural Park of Arrábida.

This 14-day journey is designed to provide a comprehensive experience, starting from the north and concluding in the south. Porto is the arrival city, and Lisbon is the departure point due to its extensive flight connections.

Note: Our company provides multi-day tours for most destinations mentioned above. For detailed information and booking options, please refer to our offerings here.

I trust you find these suggestions helpful and informative. I eagerly await the opportunity to guide you on a tour through the captivating landscapes of Portugal.

Enjoy yourself,
David Monteiro