Portugal! A land often overlooked by mainstream tourism, yet one that absolutely captivated us from the moment we arrived. In our humble opinion, it’s a truly underrated gem, brimming with culture, history, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering gastronomy. My partner, Etienne, and I embarked on a spontaneous adventure to this Iberian jewel, not entirely knowing what awaited us, only that it had always intrigued us as a potentially “neat” place to visit. What we discovered was nothing short of amazing – a country that far exceeded any expectations.
Our journey spanned a delightful seven full days, and while it felt like just scratching the surface, we immersed ourselves fully, making every moment count. Portugal offers an incredible diversity that could easily fill weeks of exploration, presenting new wonders daily. Imagine ancient, majestic castles whispering tales of old, sun-kissed beaches stretching endlessly along a dramatic coastline, an abundance of fresh, exquisite seafood, and, of course, the world-renowned wines that flow as freely as conversation. This blog post recounts our unforgettable week, offering a glimpse into the magic we experienced.
From the vibrant, historic streets of Lisbon to the fairytale castles of Sintra, the rustic charm of the Alentejo wine region, and the breathtaking beauty of the Algarve coast, our itinerary was packed with discovery. Join us as we recount our adventures, hoping to inspire your next European getaway to this magnificent country!
Our Unforgettable Week-Long Portugal Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lisbon – A Taste of Alfama’s Charm
My flight touched down in Lisbon around 11:30 AM on a Wednesday, leaving me quite weary from the long, overnight journey but simultaneously buzzing with anticipation to explore. Etienne, having arrived a couple of hours earlier from Amsterdam, was already eagerly awaiting our adventure. Stepping out of the airport, a subtle wave of culture shock washed over me – it had been quite some time since I’d traveled to a country where English wasn’t the primary language. This initial disorientation, however, quickly turned into an exciting immersion into the local rhythm.
Our first challenge? A brief, yet tumultuous, encounter with a train ticket vending machine, which ultimately yielded to our persistence. Soon, we were on our way to the heart of Lisbon. After checking into our hotel and settling in, we wasted no time venturing into the city’s most charismatic and historic district: Alfama. This ancient quarter, with its labyrinthine, narrow, village-like lanes, instantly transported us back in time. The scent of grilled sardines occasionally wafted from open doorways, and the melancholic strains of Fado music seemed to drift from hidden taverns.
We wandered through Alfama, soaking in the authentic atmosphere, past vibrant tiled buildings and clotheslines strung across alleyways, until we reached the majestic waterfront. Here, overlooking the Tagus River, stood the impressive equestrian statue of King Jose I, a perfect spot for my first photograph of Lisbon (as seen above). As evening descended, we found a cozy spot in the same charming area for dinner, savoring delicious pizza and local wine – a simple yet perfectly satisfying end to our arrival day. Exhausted but content, we decided on an early night, recharging for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Castles, Palaces, and Fairytale Sintra
Our second day began with an absolutely delightful buffet breakfast at the hotel. A full stomach is always the best start to a day of extensive exploration! Rejuvenated, we made our way back to the enchanting Alfama district, this time ascending to the magnificent São Jorge Castle. Perched atop one of Lisbon’s highest hills, the castle offers truly breathtaking panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops, the Tagus River, and the sprawling city below. It was an absolutely spectacular vantage point. Inside the castle grounds, amidst the ancient battlements and peacocks roaming freely, we discovered a charming little wine cart. As kid-free travelers, what else could we do but indulge? We settled down, savored a glass of exquisite Portuguese wine, and simply absorbed the mesmerizing vista – a moment of pure bliss and relaxation.
Post-castle exploration, our next destination was the nearby town of Sintra, an absolute marvel that truly warrants its feature on the cover of the Lonely Planet guidebook. Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its romantic 19th-century architecture, historic estates, gardens, and palaces. Our visit focused on two of its most iconic landmarks: the vibrantly colorful Pena Palace and the ancient Castelo dos Mouros.
The Pena Palace, with its whimsical, eclectic blend of Romantic, Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline styles, is like something plucked from a fairytale. Its vivid red and yellow facades, intricate details, and expansive gardens make it an unforgettable sight. We spent a considerable amount of time exploring its opulent interiors and marveling at the panoramic views from its terraces. Just a short distance away, the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle) offered a stark contrast. These ancient ruins, dating back to the 9th century, are nestled amongst lush forests and provide a more rugged, historical experience with incredible views of the surrounding landscape and even the distant Atlantic Ocean.
A particularly fascinating part of our Pena Palace visit was discovering the palace kitchen. It was preserved with the actual pots and pans used by the royal household, each piece intricately engraved! It was easy to imagine the bustling activity and exquisite meals prepared within those walls. I couldn’t help but think how much I would enjoy testing out a few traditional Portuguese recipes in such a historically rich setting.
After a day filled with so much walking, history, and architectural marvels, we were utterly exhausted and ready for a well-deserved dinner. We had our hearts set on dining al fresco, but to our surprise, finding an available outdoor restaurant in Sintra proved challenging. Undeterred, we hopped back on the train to Lisbon, determined to satisfy our craving. We eventually found a charming restaurant with outdoor seating, though by the time we were settled, the sun had already dipped below the horizon, and it was dark anyway! Still, the delicious meal and the vibrant city atmosphere made up for the hunt.
Day 3: Alentejo Road Trip – Cork Forests, Wine, and Evora’s Ancient Streets
Our third day marked a significant shift in our Portuguese adventure as we bid farewell to Lisbon’s urban charm and embarked on a road trip. The first order of business was picking up our rental car at the airport, a process that, to our slight frustration, involved a nearly two-hour wait in line. Eventually, we were handed the keys to our spirited little Toyota Yaris – a stick shift! For me, it was a delightful trip down memory lane, as this was the newer version of a car I used to drive. There’s a particular joy in driving a manual transmission, and we were both incredibly grateful that Portugal’s roads operate on the same side as ours, making the transition seamless.
With Lisbon behind us, we set our sights southward, heading into the vast and enchanting Alentejo region, Portugal’s largest and most tranquil province. The Alentejo is renowned for its expansive cork oak forests (it’s the world’s leading cork producer!), its rich traditional cuisine, and its burgeoning wine industry. The landscape gradually transformed from coastal hills to rolling plains dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and white-washed villages. Our destination for the night was Évora, a historic city and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Navigating Évora’s ancient, cobblestone streets proved to be an adventure in itself. The roads were impossibly narrow, almost resembling walking paths, where our compact Yaris barely fit. It was a true test of driving skill, requiring much patience and several re-navigations through the labyrinthine alleys. But the effort was well worth it, as Évora unveiled its medieval beauty around every corner, from Roman temples to gothic cathedrals. After successfully reaching our hotel, we were eager to delve into the region’s culinary and vinicultural offerings.
We soon found ourselves at a local winery for some much-needed wine tasting, a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the region’s bounty. That evening, we dined at their exceptional in-town restaurant, Cartuxa. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The local wines were surprisingly affordable and remarkably delicious, complementing the food perfectly. The cuisine itself was simply amazing; we indulged so much that my stomach hurt, a testament to the incredible flavors and generous portions!
Our memorable feast at Cartuxa included a succulent fresh fish and vegetable stew, bursting with vibrant, unique flavors, and a beautifully roasted rabbit salad, a traditional Alentejan delicacy. Every dish was prepared with such freshness and artistry. The combination of exceptional wine, unforgettable food, and the incredibly reasonable prices made it easy for us to get a little carried away – but absolutely no regrets! To cap off the night, we discovered there was a lively carnival happening in Évora. We spent the rest of the evening happily wandering through the festive crowds, enjoying the local music, lights, and vibrant atmosphere, a perfect end to a day of exploration and indulgence.
Day 4: Exploration of Alentejo’s Hidden Gems (Implicit)
While the original itinerary jumps directly from Day 3 to Day 5, we can imagine Day 4 as a perfect opportunity to further explore the Alentejo’s rich offerings. This could involve a leisurely morning exploring more of Évora’s historical sites, perhaps visiting the infamous Chapel of Bones or climbing the cathedral for more panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, a scenic drive through the vast cork forests, stopping at local artisan shops to witness traditional crafts, or discovering another charming Alentejan village for a relaxed, authentic lunch would be equally appealing. The Alentejo truly invites a slower pace of travel, allowing visitors to savor its authentic charm, tranquil landscapes, and the genuine warmth of its people. This unspoken day serves as a wonderful buffer, highlighting the flexibility and depth of a Portugal itinerary, and perfectly prepares us for the dramatic coastal beauty ahead.
Day 5: Algarve Coast – Sun, Sand, and Fresh Seafood Delights
Bright and early on Day 5, we eagerly set off towards the stunning Algarve coast, a drive of about two and a half hours from Évora. Our destination was a charming small town nestled near Albufeira, Portugal’s renowned coastal party hub, though we opted for a more serene experience. The moment we arrived, we headed straight for the beach – and what a beach it was! I honestly don’t understand why Portugal’s beaches aren’t raved about more frequently. They were absolutely breathtaking, a magnificent panorama of dramatic red rocky cliffs contrasting beautifully with stretches of golden, fine sand. We spent our entire afternoon basking in the glorious Portuguese sun, swimming in the refreshing Atlantic waters, and simply reveling in the unparalleled beauty of our surroundings.
Dinner that evening was an authentic culinary experience at a fantastic fresh seafood restaurant right off the beach. The concept was wonderfully simple: you literally pointed at the fish, shrimp, or lobster you wanted from the day’s catch, and it was prepared fresh for you. The highlight of the service was when they brought our perfectly cooked fish to the table and expertly deboned it right before our eyes, ensuring every bite was pure pleasure. The freshness was unparalleled! This exquisite meal paired perfectly with a pitcher of chilled red sangria, which quickly became my new obsession – a refreshing and dangerously delicious accompaniment to the seaside feast.
We concluded our magical day with a leisurely wander down the beach, watching in awe as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with fiery hues. The tranquility and beauty of the Algarve at sunset were truly amazing, providing a perfect, serene end to another incredible day in Portugal.
Day 6: Tavira Island – Hidden Beaches and Portuguese Roosters
Our sixth day in Portugal led us to another spectacular beach destination, this time about an hour’s drive away to the picturesque island of Tavira. Before reaching the island, we made a charming stop in a small, authentic Portuguese town. Here, we savored a delicious traditional lunch and I indulged in some souvenir hunting. It was here that I truly grasped the widespread cultural significance of the famous Barcelos Rooster. You might recall the lucky rooster I purchased previously with a Mother’s Day gift card; I knew it was hand-painted in Portugal, but I had no idea these iconic symbols of good luck were literally everywhere across the country! It’s a deeply ingrained cultural tradition. Naturally, I picked up a couple of smaller ones as gifts, each a vibrant piece of Portuguese folklore.
After our delightful lunch and cultural immersion, we made our way to Tavira. To reach the pristine beaches of Tavira Island, visitors have a charming choice: a leisurely walk across a long boardwalk or an exhilarating ride on a delightful mini-train. Without a second thought, I knew I had to experience the mini-train – it added an extra touch of whimsical fun to our journey to the shore.
The beach itself on Tavira Island was simply gorgeous – expansive, serene, and incredibly inviting. For those seeking even more solitude, a short 1 km wander to the east would lead you to an official nudist beach, a testament to the diverse and liberal atmosphere of the region. We spent the majority of our day basking in the sun, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful coastal ambiance. Later, we returned to Albufeira for another delightful dinner. Our culinary highlight this evening was an amazing seafood cataplana. This traditional Portuguese dish is a magnificent stew, cooked and served in a distinctive hinged copper pot, typically featuring a rich medley of fresh seafood, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables in a savory, tomato-based broth. It was an explosion of fresh flavors, perfectly complemented by more refreshing sangria and local wine. My only regret is not capturing a picture of that incredible cataplana!
Day 7: Farewell Algarve, Return to Lisbon, and Lasting Memories
Our final day in Portugal dawned with a bittersweet realization – it was time to say goodbye to the beautiful Algarve region. We began our drive back to Lisbon first thing in the morning, soaking in the last views of the stunning southern coast. Along the way, we made an unplanned but utterly rewarding stop on the East coast at one of the prettiest and most secluded beaches I’ve ever had the privilege to visit. What made it truly special was its hidden nature; there were only a handful of other people there, allowing us to enjoy its pristine beauty in almost complete solitude. It felt like discovering our own private paradise, a perfect final dip in the Atlantic’s embrace.
After a sad farewell to this glorious, hidden beach, we drove straight back to Lisbon to return our rental car. Yes, we did make a quick stop at McDonald’s – sometimes, a familiar comfort food craving just hits after days of gourmet local cuisine, so no judgment, please! Following the car return, we hailed an Uber back into the vibrant heart of Lisbon. For our final dinner, we took a charming little ferry to a small island just off the coast, seeking one last unique experience. By this point, after a week of incredible seafood feasts, we were both a bit “seafood-ed out.” So, we opted for a comforting classic: pizza (and, of course, more excellent Portuguese wine) as we reflected on our amazing journey.
The logistics of departure meant an early start for Etienne; his flight left at 5 AM the next morning. By the time we returned to the hotel and packed up our belongings, he managed a grand total of 2.5 hours of sleep before he had to rush off to the airport. My flight was a couple of hours later, thankfully granting me a bit more precious sleep before beginning the long journey home.
Returning home to our boys was an absolute joy; they were ecstatic to see us, and it was wonderful to find everyone happy and healthy. While I was initially apprehensive about being so far away from my babies, I must say that this dedicated time with Etienne, exploring a new and captivating country, was incredibly special and refreshing. It was a unique opportunity to reconnect, discover, and create unforgettable memories together.
If you’re contemplating a European vacation, please, give Portugal a serious chance! Our week-long adventure only scratched the surface of what this amazing place has to offer. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its diverse natural beauty, delectable cuisine, and welcoming people, Portugal promises an enriching and unforgettable travel experience. We came back with full hearts, incredible stories, and a deep appreciation for this magnificent country.
Now, the eternal question for any avid traveler: where to next…? The world awaits!
