3 Weeks in Portugal: A Complete Travel Itinerary

If you’ve got just three weeks in Portugal, this plan is all set to help you check out the best stuff the country has to offer.

From lively cities full of history to gorgeous coastline and cute little towns, it hits all the must-sees.

When I first went to Portugal, I took a month to explore the whole place and followed a route pretty similar to this one.

It was such an awesome way to dive into the culture, sights, and yummy food, and I was super happy with how everything turned out.

Whether it’s your first trip or you’re back for more, this itinerary has got you covered!

Know Before You Go

Is 3 Weeks Enough for Portugal?

Totally! Three weeks in Portugal is just right for checking out all the cool stuff.

You’ll get to hit up the lively cities like Lisbon and Porto, explore the historic spots in Sintra and Óbidos, chill in the beautiful Douro Valley, and relax on those amazing Algarve beaches.

There’s so much to see in Portugal, but this schedule gives you a nice mix of hitting the must-see places and taking it easy a bit, too.

Best Time to Visit Portugal

Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds make this an excellent time to visit.

Summer (June to August): Sunny days and warm beaches, but expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially in the Algarve.

Autumn (September to November): Pleasant weather with the summer crowds gone; perfect for exploring cities and vineyards.

Winter (December to February): Cooler temperatures but still mild compared to much of Europe. A great option for budget travelers.

What to Pack for Portugal

When you’re packing for Portugal, toss in some light layers for spring or fall, your summer must-haves like breathable clothes and swimsuits, and a few warm things for chilly winter nights.

You’ll definitely want comfy walking shoes, and don’t forget your sandals for the beach!

Also, grab some accessories like sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a small backpack for day trips.

Oh, and make sure to pack a universal power adapter and a travel umbrella, especially for spring or fall.

That way, you’ll be ready for whatever weather and fun activities come your way in Portugal!

How to Get Around Portugal

Trains: Excellent for major routes (e.g., Lisbon to Porto or Faro). Affordable, comfortable, and scenic.

Buses: Cover smaller towns and rural areas. Rede Expressos is a reliable option.

Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring off-the-beaten-path areas like the Douro Valley or the Algarve’s hidden beaches.

Public Transport: Efficient in cities like Lisbon and Porto, with metros, trams, and buses readily available.

Language & Currency

Language: Portuguese is the official language. Knowing a few key phrases can go a long way:

Hello: “Olá”
Thank you: “Obrigado/a” (male/female)
Please: “Por favor”
Do you speak English?: “Fala inglês?”

Currency: Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Travel Costs for 3 Weeks

Portugal is generally affordable, but prices can spike in touristy areas and during peak seasons.

Budget Travelers: €50–70 per day (hostels, local eateries, and public transport).

Mid-Range Travelers: €100–150 per day (boutique hotels, nicer restaurants, occasional guided tours).

Luxury Travelers: €200+ per day (luxury accommodations, fine dining, and private transportation).

Visa Requirements

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.

EU/Schengen Area Citizens: No visa required.

US/Canada/Australia Travelers: Visa-free travel for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.

Other Nationalities: Check Portugal’s official visa requirements on Portugal’s official visa page to confirm.

Top Travel Tips

Plan Train Travel in Advance: Tickets are cheaper when booked early.

Respect Local Dining Hours: Dinner often starts late (7 PM or later).

Be Aware of Tourist Traps: Popular spots can be overpriced—venture a little farther for authentic experiences.

Use Free Walking Tours: Free walking tours can be found in most major cities in Portugal, including Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. To join one, simply look for companies that offer these tours, such as:

Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; round up the bill or leave 5–10%.

Tap Water: Safe to drink—bring a refillable bottle.

3-Week Portugal Itinerary

If you’re heading to Portugal for the first time and want to hit all the must-see spots, this 21-day plan is just what you need!

It’s got a great mix of culture, nature, history, and chill time.

You’ll explore the beautiful beaches in the Algarve, the stunning views in Madeira, and the lively cities of Porto and Lisbon—all at a nice, easy-going pace.

Day 1-5: Porto (5 Days)

Explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district (UNESCO World Heritage site)
Visit the Dom Luís I Bridge and enjoy a river cruise
Go wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
Visit the Serralves Museum for modern art and relax at Foz do Douro
Try Porto’s famous Francesinha sandwich in Bairro da Ribeira
Take a day trip from Porto to the Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and scenic landscapes
Explore the best beaches in Porto.

How to get to Lisbon:
Take a train (3 hours) or flight (1 hour) from Porto to Lisbon.

Day 6-9: Lisbon (4 Days)

Explore Alfama and Bairro Alto neighborhoods
Visit São Jorge Castle and Belém district (Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower)
Try the iconic pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém
Check out LX Factory for trendy spots and take the famous tram 28
Visit Miradouros (viewpoints) like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for panoramic views
Take a day trip to the charming seaside town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches
Take a day trip to Sintra to explore the fairytale-like Palácio da Pena, the Moorish Castle, and more

How to get to Madeira:
Fly from Lisbon to Madeira (1.5-2 hours flight).

Day 10-13: Madeira (4 Days)

When my friend and I planned our time in Madeira, we quickly realized that the island’s remote spots and scenic drives would be best explored with our own set of wheels.

So, we rented a jeep with a rooftop tent, allowing us to camp around the island and fully embrace its natural beauty.

It turned out to be the best decision we made!

From exploring the rugged coastline to enjoying peaceful nights under the stars, our road trip around Madeira was an unforgettable experience.

Explore Funchal, visit the Botanical Gardens and Mercado dos Lavradores
Hike the famous Levada trails
Visit Porto Moniz for volcanic swimming pools and Santana for traditional houses
Take a scenic drive through Laurisilva Forest and visit Ponta de São Lourenço for cliff views

How to get to the Algarve:
Fly from Funchal Airport to Faro in the Algarve (1.5 hours flight).

Day 14-20: Algarve (7 Days)

Start in Lagos, explore beaches, cliffs, and historic sites like Fortaleza da Ponta da Bandeira. For more on Lagos, check out the top things to do in Lagos.
Visit Carvoeiro and Albufeira for beaches and nightlife
Take a boat trip to explore Benagil Cave
Visit Silves, known for its Moorish castle and great views
Check out the best hikes in the Algarve.
Spend your final day in Faro, exploring the historic town and Carmo Church
Surf at the beaches around Arrifana or Carrapateira, popular spots for beginners and experienced surfers alike

How to get home:
Fly home from Faro Airport, with direct flights to most major European cities.

Bonus: Azores

If you’ve got some extra time, check out the Azores Islands for an awesome off-the-grid experience.

You’ll find gorgeous crater lakes, green landscapes, and some really cool whale watching spots.

I didn’t get to go there myself when I visited Portugal, but I’ve only heard amazing things about it.

These islands, with their volcanic roots, are perfect for nature fans, offering stunning hikes, unique plants, and cute coastal towns.

Whether you’re wandering around the Lagoa das Sete Cidades or chilling in the natural hot springs at Furnas, there’s something for everyone in the Azores.

If it sounds like your vibe and you’ve got the time, definitely add it to your travel plans!

You just need to take a quick flight from Lisbon, as the Azores are about 1.5 hours away by plane.

It might be a little out of your way, but the islands’ wild beauty and peaceful feel totally make it worth it.

Must-Try Portuguese Food & Drink

Iconic Dishes

Pastéis de Nata – The famous Portuguese custard tart, crispy on the outside with a creamy filling. Best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar!
Bacalhau – Salted codfish, often referred to as the “national dish.” It can be prepared in hundreds of ways, from Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with potatoes and eggs) to Bacalhau com Natas (cod in creamy sauce).

Regional Delights

Francesinha (Porto) – A hearty sandwich made with layers of meat (typically ham and steak), covered in melted cheese, and smothered in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Often served with fries and a cold beer.
Cataplana (Algarve) – A seafood stew cooked in a unique copper pot, combining fresh shellfish, fish, and sometimes pork, with aromatic herbs and spices.

Portuguese Wines & Coffee

Vinho Verde – A light, refreshing wine from the northern region of Portugal, known for its slightly effervescent character. Perfect for sipping on a warm day.
Port Wine (Porto) – A fortified wine from Porto, with varieties like Tawny, Ruby, and White Port. Don’t miss a Port wine tasting at one of the many wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Madeira Wine – A fortified wine from the Madeira Islands, available in a variety of sweetness levels, often enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with dessert.
Ginja – A sweet cherry liquor, typically served in a small glass and often enjoyed in Óbidos or Lisbon. Sometimes served in a shot glass with a cherry inside!
Coffee Culture – Portugal takes coffee seriously, with Bica (espresso) being the go-to choice. Try a meia de leite (espresso with steamed milk) for a typical breakfast drink. Don’t forget to visit the famous Café A Brasileira in Lisbon!

Where to Stay in Portugal

Porto

Yeatman: A luxurious wine hotel with panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River.
Porto Spot Hostel: A cozy and affordable hostel, perfect for those looking to explore Porto on a budget.

Lisbon

Bairro Alto Hotel: A luxury hotel with stylish rooms and stunning views, located in the heart of Lisbon’s historic district.
Yes Lisbon Hostel: A budget-friendly, vibrant hostel with a great social atmosphere, ideal for young travelers.

Madeira Island

Santa Maria Hostel: An affordable and lively hostel in Funchal, ideal for travelers on a budget.
Belmond Reid’s Palace: A luxury hotel perched on a cliff, offering spectacular ocean views and top-notch services.

Algarve

Pine Cliffs Hotel: A 5-star hotel in Albufeira, offering cliff-top views and excellent amenities.
The White Butterfly: A budget-friendly, centrally located hostel in Lagos with a welcoming atmosphere.

Budgeting for Your Trip to Portugal

Expect to spend €50–€100 per day for a moderate trip. You can spend less or more depending on your travel style. Here’s a breakdown:

Accommodation: Budget (€20–€40), Mid-range (€70–€150), Luxury (€200+).
Food: Budget (€5–€10 for casual meals), Mid-range (€25–€50 for a 3-course meal), Luxury (€70+ for fine dining).
Activities: Attractions (€5–€15), Wine tasting or river cruises (€20–€50), Outdoor activities (free to €80).

Portugal is one of those places that just makes you want to come back for more, and with this 3-week plan, you’ll get to check out the best of what it has.

I took a similar trip myself, and trust me, this itinerary is loaded with awesome spots, cool hidden treasures, and memories you won’t forget.

Whether you’re enjoying some Port wine in Porto, checking out the castles in Sintra, or chilling on the gorgeous beaches in the Algarve, you’re gonna have a blast every day.

I hope these tips help make your trip as smooth and fun as mine was. Have a great time, and let me know which part of Portugal you fall in love with!

Jump to: