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Portugal charms travelers with its distinct vibe, vibrant landscapes and palpable history. It’s a place where the past mingles with the present and local cuisine calls to the curious. With 2 weeks in Portugal, travelers can discover the country’s most riveting destinations. Below, we’re sharing an ideal way to do it in our Portugal 14-Day Itinerary!
Our initial Portugal vacation was in 2010…and it was a tale of two cities. We fell head over heels for Porto, but Lisbon perplexed us. Since our first trip to Portugal, we have returned countless times, revisiting favorite spots and seeking out new locales. Quick to rectify our Lisbon missteps – we are now just as smitten with the capital city as the rest of the country!
Portugal 14-Day Itinerary Overview
Based on our personal experiences, we have created the best Portugal trip itinerary. The route features three top destinations: Lisbon, Porto and the Azores.
Days 1-5: Lisbon
In our 2 Week Portugal Itinerary, you spend the first five days in the City of Seven Hills. It’s a place where yellow trams rattle down the streets packed with tourists and, above, locals lean out windows to hang laundry and gossip. Lisbon is colorful and bright, soulful and evocative.
With five days, you’ll have time to discover the distinct neighborhoods, see the top attractions and explore the region’s best sights on two separate day trips. We offer a wealth of information in our Lisbon 3-Day Itinerary.
Days 6-9: Porto
Boasting a compact center – and convenient destinations nearby – we outline how to spend four incredible days in Porto. Splayed across the Douro River, dramatic cityscapes rise from the banks, providing one of the most impressive backdrops in all of Europe.
You’ll get acquainted with the stunning azulejo architecture and sink your teeth into the region’s unique cuisine. Plus, discover sights outside of the city center – like the gorgeous coastline, the Douro Wine Valley and quaint Northern Portugal towns. Read our Porto Itinerary for more insight into the area.
Days 10-14: Azores
Next, hop on a flight to Sao Miguel in the Azores to explore Portugal beyond the mainland. The volcanic island is characterized by a sublime coastline, rolling green pastures and hidden waterfalls.
Although the island is relatively small, it is incredibly diverse. Sao Miguel highlights include the city of Ponta Delgada, the Sete Cidades Crater, amazing viewpoints, fantastic treks and thermal hot springs. Our Sao Miguel Itinerary is packed with all the pertinent details.
Quick Tips about Logistics
If at all possible, we suggest flying into one city and out of another. All three stops offer direct flights to the United States and major cities throughout Europe. It doesn’t necessarily matter which order you visit the destinations. We recommend opting for the route that offers the best flights and fares from your origin point.
To get between Lisbon and Porto, you can opt to fly or take the train. Obviously, flying is the best way to get to the Azores.
For the mainland portion of our 2-Week Portugal Travel Itinerary (Lisbon and Porto), a car is not necessary. However, we believe a rental car is essential for touring Sao Miguel Island in the Azores. We share more Portugal trip planning information in the Travel Tips section later in the article.
Best Portugal Itinerary 14 Days
In order to make this the Best Portugal Itinerary for 2 Weeks, we have filled every moment with fun adventures. Additionally, we provide helpful hacks and detailed information throughout the post.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our 2 Weeks in Portugal Itinerary to easily plan your trip!
DAY 1: Lisbon Sights and Alfama
Begin your 14-Day Portugal Itinerary by dropping the suitcases off at your hotel (recommendation below) and getting right to the sights. Set off on foot to discover the iconic city center, including the neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and Baixa.
Top attractions are Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, Sao Roque Church, Praca Luis de Camoes, Rua Garrett, Carmo Convent, Santa Justa Elevator, Praca do Rossio, Sao Domingos Church and Rua da Augusta. (For more detailed info about the churches, use our guide to the Best Lisbon Churches).
By midday, make your way to the vast Praca do Comercio. Rebuilt after the devastating 1755 Lisbon Earthquake, the buzzing square opens onto the Tagus River. Eat an al fresco lunch at Ministerium Terrace. The local Pica Pau snack with fresh bread and sangria are a fantastic combo!
In the afternoon, ascend the hills to Alfama. It’s a quintessential Lisbon neighborhood to visit. The birthplace of Portugal’s Fado music and home to a slew of sights, there are countless ways to spend an afternoon in Alfama. A few of the must-see places are the Se Cathedral, St. George Castle, Portas do Sol Viewpoint and the National Pantheon.
The Feira da Ladra Market (best on Tuesdays and Saturdays) and Miradouro Graca are more top Alfama attractions (and fun Free Things To Do in Lisbon). End your day with a dinner of regional dishes and the stirring sounds of Fado at Sr. Fado de Alfama.
Travel Tips for Day 1
Because Lisbon is rich in history and saturated with so many sights, you may prefer to get an introduction to the city from a local. We wish we had on our first visit! Consider joining this highly-rated walking tour – or save some energy and enjoy a private tuk-tuk tour.
Where To Stay in Lisbon
My Story Hotel Augusta is the perfect place to stay in Lisbon for five days. Located right in the heart of the city, the property offers impeccably clean rooms and friendly staff.
DAY 2: Belem and Cristo Rei
Belem is a must-see destination on your Portugal 2-Week Itinerary. The riverside town, just 4 miles west of the Lisbon city center, was the centerpiece of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. The area is adorned with lavish architecture, magnificent monuments and marvelous museums.
Our Belem Guide details all the sights, but not to be missed are the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries. Both the Tower and the Monastery typically have very long lines for entry. With only a half day in Belem, consider skipping the interiors and simply gazing at the beautiful exteriors. The Church of St. Maria (next to the Monastery) is free to enter and often has the shortest line.
One line worth waiting in is at Pasteis de Belem, where they excel at baking the country’s signature Portuguese egg tart!
Be back in central Lisbon by midday to secure a seat at the always busy Time Out Market for lunch. The revitalized hall hosts 40 stalls that serve classic local cuisine alongside international fare.
In the afternoon, hop on an inexpensive ferry to cross the Tagus River to Cacilhas. Ride a bus or walk uphill to the 269-foot-tall Christ statue that stands on the bluff looking back at Lisbon. Read more in our guide to visiting Lisbon’s Cristo Rei.
End your day in Lisbon’s Chiado and Cais do Sodre districts, both of which are full of fun bars and excellent eateries. Make a reservation for dinner at By the Wine. Order plates for sharing or go all in with the Iberian Pork Plume. Then, sip an after-dinner cocktail at the risqué Pensao Amor on rowdy Pink Street.
Top Travel Tip for Day 2
An alternative option to visiting Cristo Rei is spending the afternoon at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda, just north of Belem. Once home to the Portuguese royal family, the interior is sumptuously decorated with fine furniture, fixtures and artwork.
Instead of Time Out, stop for lunch at Mestrias Tasca Nova, a favorite neighborhood restaurant. Order the Bacalhau a Bras, which is considered by many to be the national dish of Portugal.
DAY 3: Sintra Day Trip
On the third day of your Portugal vacation itinerary, embark on an excursion to picturesque Sintra. The fanciful town is highlighted by whimsical estates and brightly painted palaces.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sprawling region is one of the best day trips from Lisbon. The top things to see are the famous Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle and Quinta da Regaleira Estate. Visitors can plan their own trip or join a tour. We share everything you need to know in our Guide to Sintra, Portugal.
Back in Lisbon City Center for the evening, kick off the night with a taste of Portugal’s cherry liqueur at A Ginjinha. Wind your way up the streets to Miradouro de Santa Catarina – one of the Prime Lisbon Viewpoints. and a fantastic place to watch the sunset (depending on the time of year). Then settle into a casual dinner of traditional Portuguese food at Toma La Da Ca (the grilled Robalo Sea Bass is amazing!).
Top Trip Planning Tip
Those who opt to take a guided expedition to Sintra have a number of choices. Just be aware that many tours cram in sights beyond Sintra, like Cascais (which we will visit on Day 5).
While it is tempting to see numerous sights in one fell swoop, tours that feature too many attractions usually results in a very long and rushed day. We suggest seeking out an option that includes free time in Sintra, like this full day tour.
DAY 4: Lisbon Neighborhood Exploration
Lisbon’s neighborhoods are fascinating – and exploring them is what’s on Day 4 of your 2-Week Portugal Itinerary!
Start off at the renowned National Tile Museum. Dedicated to the history of Portuguese tiles, the museum (which occupies a former monastery) showcases the ceramic artwork in dazzling displays.
Next, make your way to Martim Moniz Square and hop aboard Tram #28 for a ride through some of Lisbon’s best districts. Disembark at the final stop (Prazeres) and go to Campo de Ourique Market for a scrumptious lunch. We’ve tried everything from falafel to focaccia…and it’s all delicious!
Then set off to see the grandiose Basilica da Estrela, wander through the beautiful Jardim da Estrela and check out the peaceful Prazeres Cemetery. If time allows, stroll through Tapada das Necessidades Park or visit the National Museum of Ancient Art.
Stay in the area for dinner at an off-the-beaten-path gem, Leziria Casa de Petiscos (be sure to make reservations). The cozy restaurant excels at preparing small plates for sharing with advice from the friendly staff. If you are enjoying the vibe of local haunts, go to Cascavel for an after dinner drink!
Time and Money-Saving Travel Tip
The distances covered in Day 4 extend from one end of the city to the other. To get to the Tile Museum and then to Martim Moniz Square, we recommend using Uber. Rides are still very affordable in Lisbon.
DAY 5: Day Trip to Cascais
What we love about spending two weeks in Portugal is that there is time to discover places beyond the city centers. In Lisbon, that means a jaunt to the charming seaside town of Cascais!
In the morning, depart from Cais do Sodre Train Station to Cascais. Start off at Mercado do Vila, which has been the town’s meat, fish and produce market since the 1950s.
Although tempting to grab a meal here, we suggest dining at Taberna Clandestina. It’s always busy for a reason, so be sure to book ahead. Order the Ze Povinho Pork Cheeks Focaccia, a Burrata and Asparagus Salad and perhaps a glass of their house wine.
In the afternoon, take in the top attractions highlighted in our One Day in Cascais guide. Walk along Cascais Bay and past the Citadel as you make your way to Museu Condes de Castro Guimaraes.
After touring the 19th century palace, meander through the gardens, sink your feet into the sand at Praia de Santa Marta and gaze across the turquoise water at the picturesque lighthouse. Continue on foot to the Boca do Inferno, where waves crash against the sea wall.
Return to Lisbon via train – but exit at the Alcantara-Mar Station, which is just steps from LX Factory. The repurposed industrial complex is now a hub of entertainment, featuring boutique shops, fashionable restaurants and chic bars. Dine at Cantina LX (order the Iberian Pork Cheeks) or 1300 Taberna (try the Octopus Rice).
Budget Travel Tip
As one of Lisbon’s latest hip hangouts, the prices at LX Factory are a bit inflated. However, Ni Michi Cocina Latina offers one of the best happy hours in town!
DAY 6: Discover Porto
We believe Porto is one of the best places to visit in Portugal. We have actually spent months in this city! Check into your hotel (recommendation below) and then lace up your shoes to discover Porto on foot.
Use our Self-Guided Walking Tour to navigate your way to the top attractions. The route features the Azulejo-covered Sao Bento Train Station, the striking Clerigos Tower, the famous Livraria Lello bookstore and the remodeled Mercado do Bolhao. In the afternoon, relax on a 1-hour Douro River Cruise – then cross the striking Ponte Luis I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia.
Known for the spectacular number of Port Wine Cellars, Gaia welcomes visitors to sample local spirits and tour the Port Wine facilities. In the evening, dine at Gaia’s Mercado Beira Rio or a small family eatery, like Gourmet da Emilia, where you can try cod cakes and flame-grilled sausages.
Helpful Trip Tip for Day 6
Our outlined Porto Walking Tour includes walking directions and map links – but some might prefer to let a local provide an introduction to their city. This 3-hour guided walk gets rave reviews.
Where To Stay in Porto
In our Two Week Portugal Itinerary, we recommend spending four nights in Porto – and Hotel da Bolsa is our pick for where to stay. Located in the central Ribeira District, the property offers basic and affordable rooms that are just steps from top sights.
DAY 7: Douro Valley Wine Region
On Day 7 of your 2 Weeks Portugal Itinerary, delve deep into the Douro Valley on a full day tour. Join an organized trip or travel on your own by train to Peso da Régua or Pinhão.
Port wine estates open their cellar doors for inexpensive tours and tastings. Spend the day admiring the landscapes, learning the history of Port and sampling the famous Portuguese wine.
After a fun day of sipping and swirling, enjoy a casual dinner back in Porto at Casa Guedes Tradicional. Order the house specialty, Pernil com Queijo de Ovelha (Roasted Pork and Sheep Cheese). The succulent sandwich absolutely hits the spot!
Porto Foodie Tip
Casa Guedes is so popular, they now have multiple locations in Porto. However, they are far from the only game in town.
A few of our other top recommendations are Conga (for a different style pork sandwich), Venham Mais 5 Original (for steak sandwiches) and Pedro dos Frangos (for rotisserie chicken). Read our guide of What and Where to Eat in Porto for more fantastic spots!
DAY 8: Matosinhos and the Coast
The western coast of Portugal is just a quick bus or Metro ride from Porto City Center. Start in the historic fishing village of Matosinhos, known for it’s seafood specialties. Savor an authentic and unpretentious meal at Restaurante O Lusitano, where fresh-caught fish and squid are grilled over hot coals. Consider pairing the meal with the local Vinho Verde (Green Wine).
After lunch, stroll south along the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Attractions along the way include Francisco Xavier Fort, Parque da Cidade do Porto, Pergola da Foz, So Joao Baptista Fort and Felgueiras Lighthouse.
Take classic Porto Tram #1 or #18 back into the city – then make your way to Virtudes Miradouro Viewpoint. Join locals and other visitors to watch the setting sun, complimented nicely with local craft beer from the MUSA taproom located at the viewpoint.
Dinner is just around the corner at Taberna Santo Antonio – an inconspicuous establishment serving homecooked favorites. The ever-changing menu features in-season local specialties that are perfect for sharing. In order to ensure a table, make reservations in advance.
Travel Tip for Beer Enthusiasts
Porto has a cracking craft beer scene. Fellow fans of inventive brews can use our guide to the Top Porto Craft Beer Bars for advice on where to get a taste!
DAY 9: Day Trip to Braga or Aveiro
One of the things we love about Northern Portugal are the fabulous towns that are just a short train ride from Porto. Two of our favorites are Braga and Aveiro. Now you just have to determine which one to include on your 2-Week Trip to Portugal Itinerary!
Braga, tucked in the hills 35 miles northeast of Porto, is best known for the extraordinary Bom Jesus do Monte Church. The charming Old Town also boasts several more ancient churches, as well as gorgeous architecture. Read our guide of Things To Do in Braga for additional info.
Coastal Aveiro, 40 miles south of Porto, is bright and buzzing. Famous for its canals that wind through town and sprawling salt pans, the city is slathered in pastel hues and art installments. Our One Day in Aveiro guide highlights all the prime sights.
Whichever one you choose, spend your last evening on the mainland back in Porto dining at O Afonso. Visited by celebrities – like the late Anthony Bourdain and Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna – the iconic restaurant is known for their Francesinha. This gut-busting Porto specialty is worth every calorie!
Top Tip for Day 9
While we enjoy exploring the region around Porto, there is still plenty to see and do in the city center. Those who would prefer to stay put in Porto can spend the day discovering green spaces (like the Crystal Palace Gardens) and visiting top museums (such as the National Museu Soares dos Reis or Casa da Música).
DAY 10: Sao Miguel, Azores
Today you’ll board a flight to Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores. After getting situated in your hotel for the next 2 nights (suggestion below), waste no time getting acquainted with the city.
See top attractions (like the Portas da Cidade City Gates), climb the Ponta Delgada Bell Tower (it’s free!) and shop for local products (Principe dos Queijos is our favorite). Use our Things To Do in Ponta Delgada article for more ideas.
Eat a tasty pizza for lunch at Nonna’s Teeth and Tomatoes (the Amanda Lear is delicious). Then, set off on a whale watching boat trip. On the 4-hour tour we took with Moby Dick, we spotted 7 whales and countless dolphins!
In the evening, eat dinner at A Tasca, a hopping restaurant that serves homestyle Portuguese cuisine. Order the Acorda de Camarao and the Alcatra beef. They do not accept reservations, so arrive early and be prepared to wait for a table.
Itinerary Planning Tip
Whale Watching Tours are one of the top things to do in the Azores and there are several different companies that provide seafaring expeditions. While the smaller rib boats offer the opportunity to be closer to the water and whales, the ride is quite uncomfortable. Catamarans and wooden boats (like the Moby Dick) are a more pleasant experience.
Where To Stay in Ponta Delgada
We stayed at Hotel do Colegio, which sits right in the heart of Old Town. The boutique property is housed in a former school building, yet offers all of the modern conveniences. Plus, it has a pool, an excellent included hot breakfast and wonderful staff!
DAY 11: Sete Cidades Crater and West Coast
Sete Cidades is one of the top places to see on Sao Miguel Island. In the morning, pick up your rental car to discover the natural beauty of the Sete Cidades Crater and the western coastline.
Take in the view from Boca do Inferno, which overlooks the volcanic terrain and pristine lakes. Then, follow the hiking trail around the east side of the crater rim. After your hike, marvel at the view from Miradouro da Visto do Rei, which encompasses Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde – the Blue and Green Lakes.
Eat a local lunch from the Food and Friends Food Truck (get the Chicken Bifana). Once satiated, drive the picturesque route through Sete Cidades Town. Pause at the bridge and Miradouro da Lomba do Vasco for super views, then continue on to Mosteiros.
Contemplate the offshore monoliths from Mosteiros Beach. Check out the wonderful vista from Miradouro da Ponta do Escalvado (it’s one of the Top Sao Miguel Viewpoints!). Dip your toes in the natural thermal water at Ponta da Ferraria Beach.
As you route your way back toward Ponta Delgada, stop at any of the fine scenic spots along the way. For dinner, indulge in a fantastic burger at Suplexio (order the 1427 for a taste of the Azores).
Tip of the Day
Sao Miguel weather is wild and changes quickly (especially at altitude). Before setting off on your drive, check the current conditions on SpotAzores.com.
DAY 12: Lagoa do Fogo and North Coast Waterfalls
On Day 12 of our suggested itinerary for Portugal, transfer from Ponta Delgada to Nordeste, where you will stay for the next two nights. As you route your way to the east side of the island, stop at a few picturesque places.
Head east from Ponta Delgada to the EN5-2A, a twisting road that leads you along Sao Miguel’s most famous scenic route. As you drive north, stop at the various panoramic Lagoa do Fogo viewpoints that overlook the unspoiled lake.
At Ribeira Grande, merge onto the EN1-1A Highway and drive east. Stop at the Santa Iria Viewpoint to peer over the long northern coastline. Next, visit the Gorreana Tea Factory to tour the plantation, sample the tea (for free) and eat a simple lunch.
In the afternoon, get off the beaten path and observe the basalt rock columns at the Jose Furtado Viewpoint. Then, stretch your legs on the Trilho Moinho do Felix Cascades hike that passes by 3 tumbling waterfalls (it’s one of the Best Sao Miguel Trails!).
If time allows, stop at Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiroes (for more waterfalls) and take in the views from Vigia das Baleias in Algarvia and Miradouro do Pelado on the northeast corner of the island.
Once you reach the east coast, get settled into your accommodation (our choice below). In the early evening, take in different vantage points of the Ponta do Arnel Lighthouse and then explore Nordeste Town. Eat dinner at Restaurante Tronqueira, where the local Bife a Regional steak is the standout dish.
Driving Tips for Day 12
The distance from Ponta Delgada to Nordeste is just 45 miles – and the drive could easily be completed in as little as 1 hour. However, with the viewpoints and hikes that we recommend, travelers will quickly fill their day. Before setting off, plan your must-see sights to ensure you don’t miss anything!
Where To Stay in Nordeste
Azores Casa Atlantis – one of two modern vacation bungalows overlooking the sea – in the village of Pedreira is an absolute gem with lovely owners. If they’re already booked, check availability at The Lince Hotel in Nordeste Town.
DAY 13: Superb Viewpoints and Waterfall Hike
From mountain peaks to flowing waterfalls to quaint villages, there are ample reasons to visit the southeastern corner of Sao Miguel. It’s a quieter corner of the island, and it’s where you’ll spend Day 13 of your 14 Days in Portugal Itinerary.
Start early to savor the sunrise – and if it’s clear, drive up the 2,910-foot-tall summit of Pico Bartolomeu. Learn about the Azores’ rare Priolo bird (and try to catch sight of it) at the Reserva Florestal de Recreio da Cancela do Cinzeiro Nature Reserve.
Wind south along the coastline on the constantly curving road, detouring at Miradouro Picos dos Bodes to take in the view and eat a picnic lunch.
In the afternoon, hike a trail through the forest to the thundering Cascata do Salto do Prego Waterfall. Cool your feet in the teal lagoon, then complete the trek through the old settlement of Sanguinho to admire the stone houses.
In the evening, saunter down an old pedestrian path from Pedreira to the village of Faja do Araujo, which is tucked along the base of a cliff. The panoramic vistas are sensational!
For dinner, eat with the welcoming locals at Café Central. More of a snack bar, the simple menu consists of burgers, bifanas and beers – but the friendly owner makes the meal an experience!
Dining Options for Day 13
The east side of Sao Miguel has far fewer restaurant options than the rest of the island, which is why we recommend packing a picnic lunch. There are a few small grocery stores in Nordeste Town and a mini-mercado in Pedreira.
DAY 14: Furnas, Sao Miguel
On the last day of your Two Weeks in Portugal Itinerary, transfer to Furnas. Nestled in a crater, the area is a hotspot of thermal activity. Steam rises from the ground and boiling water bubbles in pools right in the heart of town and along the edge of Furnas Lake.
Get a first glimpse of the region from an elevated viewpoint (Miradouro do Pico do Ferro is a good one), then park along the lakeside. Make the walk around the lake’s circumference, detouring to see the gorgeous waterfall that is accessed through the botanic garden.
Secure a reservation at Restaurante Tony’s for a lunchtime meal of the iconic Cozido Stew, which simmers in the town’s natural hot springs. At this point, check into your hotel (options below).
Next, discover the sights of Furnas – like the Igreja de Nossa Senhor da Algeria Church, the quirky Casa Invertida Upside House and the pleasant Cascata e Aquario das Furnas Park. Then, wander through the geysers and fumaroles at the Caldeiras.
Spend your last afternoon in Portugal soaking in the thermal hot springs. The atmospheric Poca da Dona Beija, where water streams through five pools of varying depths, is our top pick (just be sure to reserve your spot online). End the day with dinner at Queijaria Furnense, where they offer exceptional local cheese boards and make the most heavenly cheesy garlic bread on earth!
Day 14 Alternate Ideas
Those looking for an adventure should consider tackling the Janela do Inferno and Rota da Agua Hike that features tunnels, ladders and aqueducts.
Another option is going to the former capital, Vila Franca do Campo, where visitors can take a boat to an offshore volcanic islet to swim inside the crater. Or just choose to relax at Agua d’Alto Beach, you’re on vacation!
Where To Stay in Furnas
Hotel Vale Verde offers clean and affordable rooms in the center of Furnas. The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is a fancy place to spend the last night of your Portugal trip – and they allow guests to use their thermal pools around the clock!
Map of Portugal Itinerary 2 Weeks Trip Plan
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Portugal Trip Planner Map below.
Additional Travel Tips
There is a lot more to planning a trip in Portugal than deciding what to see, do and eat each day. Travelers also need to consider how to get there and what to pack. Therefore, in addition to our Ultimate 14 Day Portugal Itinerary, we are sharing practical advice to help ensure an enjoyable vacation.
How To Plan a Trip to Portugal
Portugal is a hot destination. If there are specific places you want to see, hotels you want to stay in and restaurants you want to eat at, then planning ahead is essential!
As you begin to make bookings, you need to keep track of the details. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the specifics.
When To Plan a Portugal Trip
We think the best time to visit Portugal is in the spring. In April and May, temperatures are mild and crowds are (mostly) manageable. That combination really makes it a prime time for exploring Portugal.
How Long To Plan a Vacation to Portugal
Determining how many days to spend in Portugal is one of the first steps to planning your trip. In our Portugal 14 Days Itinerary, we fill each day to the brim – and there is still much more to see! Realistically, we think two weeks is ideal to see Lisbon, Porto and the Azores.
That said, travelers with less available vacation time shouldn’t dismiss the idea of visiting Portugal. It’s possible to shorten timeframes, eliminate day trips or save an entire destination for a return trip.
How To Get to Portugal
As we already mentioned, you can reach all three destinations on our 2 Week Portugal Trip Plan with direct flights from the United States and many major cities in Europe.
When searching for fares, we use Skyscanner to help identify the best options. We dish out all the hacks in our article, Finding Flights for Cheap.
Where To Stay in Portugal
Throughout our 2 Week Itinerary, we shared our top picks for lodging. Although we often stay in Airbnb apartments, we believe hotels are a better option for this itinerary. Booking.com is a good resource for finding hotels in Portugal – but first read our tips for Booking Hotels for Cheap.
- Lisbon (5 nights): My Story Augusta
- Porto (4 nights): Hotel da Bolsa
- Ponta Delgada, Azores (2 nights): Hotel do Colegio
- Nordeste, Azores (2 nights): Azores Casa Atlantis or The Lince Hotel
- Furnas, Azores (1 night): Hotel Vale Verde or Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
What To Pack for 14 Days in Portugal
When visiting Portugal in 2 Weeks, it’s important to pack the right gear! In addition to wearing comfortable clothing that is suitable to the weather, there are a few must-haves for all seasons.
Durable Shoes
From the hilly streets of Lisbon to the cobblestone lanes of Porto to the hiking trails of the Azores, comfortable shoes are essential. A pair of versatile shoes, like my favorite trainers are ideal. You can read about other choices in our reviews for the Best Shoes for Traveling.
Travel Camera
Portugal is a very photogenic country! Upgrade to a real DSLR camera to capture the true beauty of it. We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens.
Power Bank and Wi-Fi
With long days of sightseeing, a power bank is necessary to ensure your phone stays charged. Additionally, you will need connectivity. We use Pocket-WiFi by GlocalMe so that we can both stay connected under one affordable plan.
Day Pack
Be sure to have a good day bag that is large enough for all of your everyday travel items. We often carry small backpacks that have interior zippers (which is great for deterring pickpockets!).
Portugal Itinerary Insurance
No matter how well you plan your trip, things can go awry (like illness or lost luggage). In many scenarios, travel insurance might cover the costs. Check the robust coverage and affordable rates at World Nomads.
More Itineraries for Portugal
In addition to our Portugal 14 Day Itinerary, we have written several other helpful guides for Portugal travelers.
- 10 Day Portugal Itinerary
- Essential Lisbon Travel Tips
- Madeira Island 1 Week Itinerary
- Things To Do in Funchal
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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