Ah, Portugal! A land where golden beaches meet cobblestone streets, and where the aroma of freshly baked pastéis de nata mingles with the salty sea air. Did you know that Portugal was named the World's Leading Destination at the World Travel Awards for the third consecutive year in 2023? It's no wonder why! If you're planning to spend 2 weeks in Portugal, you're in for a treat. Get ready to embark on a journey that'll have you saying "obrigado" to every unforgettable moment. Let's dive into the perfect itinerary that'll make your Portuguese adventure one for the books!
Days 1-3: Falling in Love with Lisbon
As I stepped off the plane in Lisbon, I could already feel the charm of this vibrant city washing over me. The Portuguese capital has a way of capturing your heart from the moment you arrive. I couldn't wait to dive into the historic Alfama district, with its narrow winding streets and colorful buildings.
One of the best ways to explore Alfama is by hopping on the iconic Tram 28. This vintage yellow tram rattles through the steep, cobblestone streets, offering a unique perspective of the neighborhood. I found myself hanging out the window, trying to capture the perfect shot of the picturesque scenes unfolding before me.
No trip to Lisbon is complete without a visit to São Jorge Castle. Perched atop one of the city's seven hills, this Moorish fortress offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River. I spent hours wandering the castle grounds, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago.
When hunger struck, I made my way to the Time Out Market. This bustling food hall is a foodie's paradise, featuring some of Lisbon's best chefs and restaurants under one roof. I indulged in pastéis de nata, those heavenly custard tarts that Portugal is famous for, and sampled fresh seafood that tasted like it had just been plucked from the ocean.
On my third day, I took a day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra. Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra feels like stepping into a storybook. The colorful Pena Palace, with its whimsical architecture and stunning gardens, was a highlight of my trip. I couldn't help but feel like royalty as I explored its lavish interiors and admired the breathtaking views of the surrounding forests.
Days 4-5: Coastal Charms of Cascais and Óbidos
After the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, I was ready for some relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Cascais. This charming coastal town, once a favorite summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, offers a perfect blend of history and seaside bliss.
I spent a day lounging on Praia da Conceição, soaking up the sun and watching local fishermen bring in their daily catch. The golden sand and crystal-clear water were just what I needed to recharge my batteries.
In the evening, I strolled along the marina, admiring the luxury yachts and enjoying a delicious seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants. The fresh grilled sardines, a local specialty, were simply divine.
The next day, I made my way to the medieval town of Óbidos. As I walked through the main gate, I felt like I'd been transported back in time. The narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and flower-filled windowsills created a postcard-perfect scene.
One of the highlights of Óbidos was sampling ginjinha, a local cherry liqueur, served in small chocolate cups. The sweet and slightly tart flavor of the liqueur paired perfectly with the rich chocolate. It was a delightful treat that I couldn't resist trying more than once!
I spent hours wandering through the town's well-preserved medieval walls, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Castle of Óbidos, now converted into a luxury hotel, was particularly impressive. Even though I wasn't staying there, I treated myself to a drink at the castle bar, savoring the historic atmosphere.
Days 6-7: Spiritual Serenity in Fátima and Coimbra
My journey then took me to Fátima, one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. The atmosphere here was quite different from the bustling cities and coastal towns I'd visited so far. There was a palpable sense of peace and devotion in the air.
The Sanctuary of Fátima, with its massive Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, was an awe-inspiring sight. I watched as pilgrims made their way across the vast square on their knees, a testament to their faith. Even as a non-religious person, I found the experience deeply moving.
I also visited the Chapel of Apparitions, built on the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. The simplicity of this small chapel contrasted beautifully with the grandeur of the basilica.
The next day, I headed to Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities. The historic University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, was a feast for the eyes. The Joanina Library, with its gilded bookshelves and elaborate frescoed ceilings, left me speechless. It's easy to see why it's often considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
After exploring the university, I took a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Mondego River promenade. The riverside park was filled with students and locals enjoying the sunshine. I joined them, finding a cozy spot to relax and watch the world go by.
As evening fell, I made my way to the old town for dinner. The narrow streets were alive with the sound of fado, the traditional Portuguese music that originated in Coimbra. I found a small restaurant where students were performing and spent the night listening to haunting melodies while enjoying delicious local cuisine.
Days 8-10: Porto's Pleasures and the Douro Valley
Arriving in Porto, I was immediately struck by the city's unique charm. The colorful houses stacked along the hillsides and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge create a picturesque scene that's hard to forget.
My first stop was a tour of Porto's famous port wine cellars. I crossed the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where most of the cellars are located. The tour was fascinating, offering insights into the history and production of this fortified wine. The tasting at the end was, of course, the highlight. I discovered that I have a particular fondness for tawny port!
The next day, I took a cruise along the Douro River. As we sailed under Porto's six bridges, our guide shared stories about the city's history and pointed out landmarks along the way. The perspective from the water gave me a whole new appreciation for Porto's stunning architecture.
One of the absolute highlights of my trip was a visit to a vineyard in the stunning Douro Valley. I took a day trip from Porto, winding through the terraced hillsides covered in vineyards. The landscape was breathtaking, with the Douro River snaking through the valley below.
At the vineyard, I learned about the wine-making process and even had the chance to participate in grape stomping (it was harvest season!). The experience was topped off with a wine tasting paired with local cheeses and olive oil. Sitting on the terrace, overlooking the vineyards with a glass of wine in hand, I felt like I was in paradise.
Back in Porto, I couldn't miss a visit to the São Bento train station. From the outside, it looks like a typical station, but step inside and you're greeted by stunning azulejo-covered walls. These blue and white tiles depict scenes from Portuguese history and daily life. I spent far longer than I'd planned just admiring the intricate details.
As I wandered through Porto's streets, I found myself constantly looking up, admiring the colorful tiles adorning many of the buildings. It's a city that rewards the curious explorer, with hidden gems around every corner.
Days 11-12: Algarve's Sun-Soaked Splendor
After the cooler climates of northern Portugal, I was ready for some serious beach time in the Algarve. This sun-soaked region in the south of Portugal is famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns.
I based myself in Albufeira, a lively town with a beautiful old quarter and stunning beaches. Praia dos Pescadores, or Fisherman's Beach, quickly became my favorite spot. The soft golden sand and clear blue water were irresistible. I spent hours lounging in the sun, occasionally cooling off with a dip in the Atlantic.
In the evenings, I explored Albufeira's old town, with its whitewashed buildings and narrow streets lined with restaurants and bars. The seafood here was out of this world. I tried cataplana, a traditional Algarve dish of seafood stewed in a copper pan, and it was absolutely delicious.
On my second day in the Algarve, I took a boat tour to explore the dramatic cliffs and grottoes of Lagos. As we cruised along the coastline, I was amazed by the rock formations carved by centuries of wind and waves. The highlight was Ponta da Piedade, where we navigated through narrow openings in the cliffs to discover hidden beaches and caves.
Back on land, I wandered through Lagos' historic center. The town has a rich maritime history, and you can feel it as you walk along the 16th-century walls or visit the Slave Market Museum, a sobering reminder of the town's role in the transatlantic slave trade.
For dinner, I found a small restaurant in one of Lagos' narrow streets. The menu was simple – fresh fish caught that day, grilled to perfection and served with local vegetables. It was one of the best meals of my entire trip, proof that sometimes the simplest food can be the most delicious.
Days 13-14: Évora and Back to Lisbon
For the final leg of my journey, I headed to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the Alentejo region. This small city is a living museum of Portuguese history, with monuments spanning two millennia.
My first stop was the Roman Temple, also known as the Temple of Diana. Standing in front of these ancient columns, I couldn't help but marvel at how they've survived for nearly 2000 years. It's a testament to the rich history of this region.
Wandering through Évora's narrow, winding streets, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The whitewashed houses with their yellow trim, the Gothic cathedral, and the Renaissance fountains all tell the story of Portugal's past.
One of the most unique – and slightly eerie – attractions in Évora is the Chapel of Bones. As I stepped inside, I was surrounded by walls and columns decorated with human bones and skulls. It's a macabre sight, but also a powerful reminder of the transience of life.
For lunch, I tried some traditional Alentejo cuisine. The region is known for its hearty, rustic dishes. I particularly enjoyed the açorda, a bread soup with garlic, olive oil, and poached egg. It was simple but incredibly flavorful.
On my last day, I reluctantly made my way back to Lisbon. I used this time for some last-minute shopping and to revisit some of my favorite spots from the beginning of the trip.
I couldn't resist one more visit to the Time Out Market for a final pastéis de nata. As I sat there, savoring the creamy custard and flaky pastry, I reflected on my two weeks in Portugal. From the vibrant cities to the peaceful countryside, from the sun-soaked beaches to the historic towns, Portugal had shown me its incredible diversity.
As I prepared to leave, I realized that two weeks had only scratched the surface of what this beautiful country has to offer. I was already planning my next visit in my head, thinking of all the places I still wanted to explore. Portugal had well and truly captured my heart, and I knew I'd be back soon.
Conclusion
As your 2 weeks in Portugal come to an end, you’ll find yourself with a heart full of memories and a camera roll bursting with stunning photos. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon to the sun-drenched shores of the Algarve, you’ve experienced the very best of what this incredible country has to offer. Remember, the Portuguese have a saying: “Quem não viu Lisboa, não viu coisa boa” – “He who hasn’t seen Lisbon hasn’t seen anything good.” But now, you’ve seen so much more! So raise a glass of Port, savor that last bite of bacalhau, and start planning your next visit. Because trust me, once you’ve had a taste of Portugal, you’ll be craving more before you even board your flight home. Até a próxima vez, Portugal!