1 Week in Portugal: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary

Portugal punches well above its weight as a travel destination. It has world-class food and wine, extraordinary history, beautiful coastlines, and some of Europe's most architecturally fascinating cities -- all at prices that are significantly lower than many Western European counterparts. One week is enough to do both Lisbon and Porto properly, with a day trip or two built in.

Days 1-3: Lisbon

• Day 1: Alfama district, Lisbon Cathedral, Miradouro da Graca viewpoint, Fado dinner
• Day 2: Belem Tower, Pasteis de Belem (custard tarts), LX Factory market, Time Out Market for dinner
• Day 3: Day trip to Sintra -- palaces, the Moorish Castle, and Pena Palace are all within walking distance of the train station

Day 4: Evora or Setubal Peninsula

If you have a hire car, the Setubal Peninsula south of Lisbon has dramatic coastal scenery and excellent seafood. Alternatively, take the train to Evora -- a perfectly preserved medieval city with a Roman temple in the town centre and a famous chapel lined with human bones.

Days 5-7: Porto

• Day 5: Travel to Porto by train (3 hours). Ribeira waterfront, Luis I bridge walk, Livraria Lello bookshop
• Day 6: Port wine cellar tours in Vila Nova de Gaia (on the south bank), sunset over the Douro river
• Day 7: Day trip into the Douro Valley wine region -- take a train to Pinhao and walk the vineyards

Portugal eSIM tips

Portugal has reliable 4G coverage in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and most tourist areas. Rural Alentejo and some coastal villages have slower connections. A LimitFlex Europe eSIM covers Portugal and any other European destinations you visit, saving you switching between plans.

Portugal practical tips

• Lisbon trams are charming but very crowded with tourists -- bus or metro is often faster
• Restaurants add bread and olives at the start of meals; you will be charged for anything you eat
• Porto wine caves in Vila Nova de Gaia are free to visit; tastings are pay-per-glass
• Book Sintra day trips early in the morning -- palaces sell out by midday in summer

Frequently asked questions

Do British citizens need a visa for Portugal? No. Portugal is part of the Schengen Area and British citizens can visit without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.