One Week in Portugal: Essential Itinerary
Day 1-2: Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital city, is a must-visit destination. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, and visit the Belem Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 3-4: Sintra and Cascais
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais offer breathtaking landscapes and stunning palaces. Visit the Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle in Sintra, and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Cascais.
Day 5-6: Porto
Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is known for its rich history, stunning riverfront, and world-renowned Port wine. Explore the Ribeira neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the Porto Cathedral and the Luis I Bridge.
Day 7: Return to Lisbon
Spend the last day of your trip exploring Lisbon's other neighborhoods, such as the trendy neighborhood of Cais do Sodré, or visit the nearby town of Ericeira, famous for its surfing beaches.
Best Time to Visit
Portugal has a mild climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
Budget
The cost of a week-long trip to Portugal can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences. However, here is a rough estimate of the costs:
| Category | Lisbon | Porto |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $30-50 per night | $25-40 per night |
| Food | $15-25 per meal | $10-20 per meal |
| Transportation | $2-5 per ride | $2-5 per ride |
Visa
As a tourist, you do not need a visa to enter Portugal. However, you will need a valid passport with at least six months' validity.
Weather
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature in Lisbon is around 18°C (64°F) in summer and 12°C (54°F) in winter.
Editorial Methodology & Trust
Last Updated: July 2, 2026
Every Shaivio guide is created through editorial research using publicly available information from official tourism authorities, transportation providers, government resources, and other reliable references where applicable. Our editors review and update content regularly to improve accuracy and usefulness. Shaivio does not accept paid placements or sponsored rankings in editorial content. Because travel information can change, we recommend verifying critical details with the relevant official source before traveling.
