10 Days in Portugal: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Every Corner

The journey for 10 days through Portugal is to travel to realize a wish fulfilled in each day, that each day serves up a new gem for the discovery. The alleys to the hills or from Lisbon’s bright streets to the Douro Valley’s vineyards, 10 days in Portugal representing an authentic experience that enraptures the essence of this country. This guidebook becomes your navigational toolbox because it will take you through every historical or cultural tours in Portugal.

You won’t miss to explore a single corner for you will be able to uncover Portugal’s intriguing history and beauteous landscapes. As such, you are welcomed into our day to day life on a trip through the virgin soul of Portugal.

Here are something to know before visiting Portugal for the first time.

7-Things to Know before visiting Portugal

1. Language:

Portuguese is the official language. It is true that most people in tourist areas can also speak English, but it is always nice if you can manage a few basic phrases.

2. Weather:

Normally, Portugal has a pleasant Mediterranean weather; however, it may be sometimes tricky. Summers are the hottest time of the year, making the south the most challenging for this climate, however, winters are usually mild.

3. Currency:

The Euro (EUR) is the used medium of exchange. A credit card is a convenient means of payment in most stores, but anyhow, it is not amiss to keep some cash handy for minor purchases and to pay at places that don’t accept cards.

4. Tipping:

Tipping is not a must but you can leave a nice tip if you received good service. Tips should be at 5% to 10% when service charge is not already included in your bill in a restaurant.

5. Cuisine:

Portuguese gastronomy is filled with good tastes and pleases the palate . So as not to miss out on having a taste of Bacalhau (salted cod), Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) and grilled sardines which are the country’s iconic dishes.

6. Public Transport:

Portugal features a developed network, including buses, trams, and train as well, primarily in built-up areas like Lisbon and Porto. Take a look at a multi-trip rechargeable travel pass for more comfort.

7. Cultural Etiquette:

Most Portuguese are genuinely friendly and helpful. It is obligatory to greet people according to the tradition of respective countries, for instance, with a handshake or a kiss on each cheek (air kisses). Also, it is convention to call people by their titles (Mr. , Mrs. , etc.) unless they allow you to use their first names.

itinerary: 10 days in Portugal with travel tips:

Day 1-2: Lisbon – The city of seven hills

Feed the fire for the journey by launching in Lisbon, the enchanting capital city of Portugal. Start your investigation in the famous Alfama area (Historic district), where streets are labyrinthine and houses are painted in bright colors. You’ll immediately notice the distinctive music movements of Fado and probably will want to come back later when the music sounds louder and gets livelier.

Take up the prevailing Belém Tower and S. Jorge Castle of the historic city maritime portray, drinking in the essence of the city. Lose distinct taste of Pastéis de nata, custard tarts, from Portugal at Pastéis de Belém when sampling.

The evening walk in the vivid streets of Bairro Alto (Bohemian quarter) is an awesome idea which together with the Portuguese authentic cuisine and the joyful atmosphere is just worth it. Lisbon is also one of the cheap destinations in Europe.

Travel tips:

• Tram 28: Take a journey from Tram 28, a pretty historic tram that crosses in the city`s narrow streets, showcasing notable sites.

• Lisbon Card: Consider buying Lisbon Card which encompasses a lot of discounts as well as unrestricted journeys on public transportation.
• Take in the Views: Lisbon is famously popular for its beautiful viewpoints, popularly known as the “miradouros. ” You can savor the view from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or Miradouro de Santa Catarina.
• Enjoy the Nightlife: Lisbon can boast of a fantastic night scene: the choice of the bars, clubs, or live music can keep you amused for the whole night. Join the city’s vibrant nightlife in the neighborhoods like Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré for a nice time.

Day 3-4: Sintra and Cascais – Fairytale Palaces and Coastal Splendor

On the 3rd day, leave for the fairytale town of Sintra that is a heritage site intertwined with greenery and is located away from the city.

Take a trip to Pena Palace and get a taste of a whimsical structure of the same name, which is one of the colorful and fascinating architectural marvels of the area on the top of a hill, nearby which you can enjoy some amazing natural views.

Let the magic captivate you as you walk about the charming gardens of Quinta da Regaleira. The symbolic features and hidden grottoes will leave you thrilled and spellbound! If the afternoon hours give you energies, go to Costa Cascais, with its long stretch of beaches and rugged cliffs, where you can collect shells and other mementos of the sea.

Take a contemplative walk on the seafront embankment, marveling at the beautiful views, and absorbing the vitamin D.

Travel Tips:

• Comfortable Shoes: Sintra is in hills and many places of interest involve slow and hard walk uphill. Dress well in comfortable and renewable shoes to explore the town and its places. It will help you to explore the town more comfortably.
• Public Transport: If you not only want to walk through Sintra but also get to the places of your interest faster and with less effort, it is possible to use the buses or tramway (Scotturb 434).
• Weather: Sintra, being at higher elevation (~900ft), could be cooler and foggier than Lisbon on most days. Do not forget to pack a thin jacket or a sweater even when visiting during the warmer months.
• Beach Gear: If you plan to enjoy the beaches of Cascais, take sunscreen, a hat and a swimsuit with you.
• Cycling: Hire a bike and discover this wonderful stretch of coastline by the promenade that starts from Cascais and goes all the way to the city of Estoril. This not only allows us to just to enjoy the view of the ocean and visit nearby beaches.

Day 5-7: Porto – Port Wine and Riverside Charm

Next stop: Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and a home to exhale-worthy Port wine – the globally-known drink. Spend your time walking about Porto, a UNESCO world heritage site on top of its splendid architectural beauty and cultural richness.

Move over the famous Luís I Bridge of Dom towards the Vila Nova de Gaia and let’s have a taste of the different port wines from one of the city’s wine cellars that were established during the time of kings.

Watch the cobbled streets of medieval Ribeira, guess your steps along the narrow lanes, at the same time enjoy the old azulejo tiles in the walls of city.

Do not skip a chance to taste the traditional dishes of Porto, like francesinha and bacalhau, that embody the city’s vibrant culture.

Travel Tips:

• Explore on Foot: Unlike many other worldwide destinations, Porto is better to discover on the foot. Explore the plush narrow cobblestone streets, small alleys and staircases to find an unending treasure trove and stunning views.
• Douro River Cruise: For that, enjoy a romantic boat cruise up the Douro River to ensure you don’t miss out on the Porto skyline and its charming riverside neighborhoods. Sunset cruises is indeed very fascinating and that often has many opportunities available for fascinated viewing.
• Livraria Lello: Booklovers are definitely ought to visit Livraria Lello – a world’s best bookstore. The breathtaking interior, ornate wooden staircase, and stained-glass windows inspired J. K. Rowling when writing Harry Potter.
• Clérigos Tower: Clérigos Tower is the most easily recognizable icon of Porto. Head up to the top floor for a bird-eye view of the whole city and the Douro river. Furthermore, the opposite Clérigos Church is filled with the mysteries of Christianity, and everyone should visit it.
• Street Art: Porto is remarkable for its special street art culture with the works of art stretching all over the city. Find out the art tour on street or just walk through the city to come across the various splendidly colorful murals, graffiti, classical, and contemporary urban artworks.

Day 8-10: Douro Valley – Vineyards and Scenic Splendor

The Portuguese adventure will end with an excursion to the fascinating Douro Valley; a site of UNESCO World Heritage that is known for its beautiful terraced vineyards and breathtaking scenery.

Go for a river boat trip along Douro River, where you will admire the vineyards covered slopes and the picture-scaled villages on your way.

Visit the local wineries and try various varieties of port and table wines, originating from this area. How about getting under the fresh air and walking in the vineyards, listening to the sound of silence and peace which the surrounding nature creates.

When the sun slowly drops behind the Douro Valley, clink your glasses to a remarkable trip across the country’s picturesque lines and cultural wealth.

Travel Tips:

• Choose the Right Time: The most appropriate time to set foot in Douro Valley, usually starting from September and ending in October, is during the grape harvesting time of the year. Weather is the most suitable for walk, and you’ll see vineyards buzzing life.
• Accommodation: Be housed in a classic Douro Valley accommodation – a winery in the Douro Valley or a boutique hotel facing the Douro River. Some accommodations offer wine- themed experiences which will include vineyard tours and tastings and help to polish your lifetime of pleasant memories.
• Visit Historic Sites: Bear in mind that going to historical cities and buildings along Douro Valley can be a memorable and salient experience as Peso da Régua, Pinhão, and the Mateus Palace respectively provide you with breathtaking scenery of the winding countryside roads and green vineyard hills. Here the visitors learn about the fascinating history and the colorful traditions of the local people from the mere exhibits.
• Hiking Trails: Joining one of the hikes that pass through the vineyards and along the hillsides which constitute the natural heritage of the Douro Valley region is a good idea for you to discover the beauty of this place. The trails are providing breath-taking viewpoint and the opportunity to discover unheard-of gems. They are unfolded in exploring off the beaten path.

Conclusion:

This itinerary for “10 days in Portugal” gives you a unique experience of combining old traditions, creative culture, and stunning nature, making Portugal a country worth visiting. Stealing a glance at Lisbon’s colorful avenues and the mesmerizing beauty of the Douro Valley, in an instant, the heart of Portugal visitors is caught by its distinctive, irresistible appeal.

Take your pick, whenever you go to Portugal you can either tread in historical terrains, satisfy your taste buds for good food or just take in the heavenly scenery. There is nothing not to adore at every moment. And yeah, let’s not waste our time anymore. It’s time to hit the road, follow the guide step by step, and get to discover Portugal’s wonders, as many as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions: