Crafting a One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve means combining the cultural depth of the capital, the soulful charm of the north and the golden beaches of the south in a route that is both efficient and rich in experiences, without feeling rushed or overloaded.

Starting Your Journey in Lisbon

Your One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve begins naturally in the capital, where historic neighbourhoods and panoramic viewpoints set the tone for the trip. Start in Alfama, exploring its steep lanes, Fado echoes and the views from Miradouro de Santa Luzia. A short walk brings you to São Jorge Castle, which offers one of the best perspectives over the city’s terracotta rooftops and the Tagus River.

In the afternoon, head to Baixa and Chiado. These central districts blend elegant squares, trams and modern cafés, making them ideal for a relaxed introduction to Portuguese urban life. Don’t miss the Elevador de Santa Justa, especially if you enjoy architectural details and elevated viewpoints. Ending your day in Time Out Market gives you the chance to sample multiple regional dishes in one place.

Your second day should take you to Belém, home to Portugal’s maritime legacy. Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries anchor this part of the itinerary. Pair these visits with a stop at Pastéis de Belém to enjoy the original pastel de nata fresh from the oven. In the evening, consider crossing the river to Almada for dinner with skyline views—an excellent way to round off your time in Lisbon.

Following the Rails to Porto

The second part of your One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve centres on Porto, easily reached by train in about three hours. Porto’s charm lies in its dramatic hills, medieval lanes and the way life unfolds along the Douro River. Begin at the Ribeira waterfront, where colourful facades, traditional boats and stone arches create one of Portugal’s most photogenic areas.

In the afternoon, cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the historic port wine cellars. Tasting sessions provide insight into the region’s winemaking traditions while giving you panoramic river views. Dinner in Gaia offers excellent vantage points for sunset, with the city lights reflecting beautifully on the water.

Your second day in Porto should be more relaxed, focusing on culture and neighbourhood exploration. Start at Livraria Lello—arrive early to avoid queues—before strolling to Clerigos Tower for a sweeping overview of the city. The surrounding streets are full of artisan shops, coffee houses and tiled buildings that highlight Porto’s artistic identity. If time allows, finish with a river cruise on a traditional rabelo boat to see the city from a different angle.

Flying South to the Algarve

The final chapter of your One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve takes you to the Algarve, best reached via a short domestic flight or a long but scenic train ride. Base yourself in Lagos or Albufeira, depending on whether you prefer dramatic coastal landscapes or livelier evening options. Regardless of location, the region’s cliffs, coves and warm waters provide a perfect contrast to the urban energy of Lisbon and Porto.

Start with Ponta da Piedade, one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural formations. Its golden cliffs and winding staircases lead to viewpoints that capture the Atlantic’s changing colours throughout the day. Boat tours through the grottos offer a close look at the arches and rock patterns, and are particularly memorable in the late afternoon light.

On your second day, explore the beaches at your own pace. Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are favourites for their sheltered coves and crystal-clear waters. For those who prefer something quieter, the long stretches near Meia Praia provide space to unwind far from crowds. The Algarve also offers excellent opportunities for dolphin watching, sea kayaking and cliff-top hiking, giving you multiple options depending on energy and preference.

Making the Itinerary Flow Smoothly

A One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve benefits significantly from smart timing and efficient transport. Travellers typically spend two full days in each destination, leaving one day divided between transfers. Booking train and flight tickets early keeps costs reasonable, and Portugal’s compact size ensures travel never dominates the day.

Packing light helps enormously, especially when navigating Lisbon’s hills or Porto’s stairways. Comfortable shoes are a must, as many historic areas are paved with slippery calçada stones. Food-wise, aim to try regional dishes in each area: bacalhau in Lisbon, francesinha in Porto and fresh seafood in the Algarve.

Your One Week in Portugal Itinerary Lisbon Porto Algarve becomes truly rewarding when approached with a balance of structure and spontaneity. Each region offers its own pace, flavours and scenery, and experiencing them together builds a complete picture of Portugal’s character. With clear planning and the right information, your week in Portugal becomes a memorable journey through history, coastline and culture—one that invites you to return and explore even deeper.