Unveiling Portugal: Your Perfect 4 Days Travel Itinerary

As a travel lover, I can’t deny that I’ve fallen in love with Portugal. It’s a country packed with character, where every street has a story – and those views! 

A treat for the eyes, nose, and every other sense, truly getting to know this wonder of southern Europe is a fine art. But get the route right, and you can experience it all. 

That’s where I come in – here are my tips for planning your journey down to the last minute, and a six day itinerary that will ensure your trip is anything but forgettable. Come with me on a jaunt through beautiful Portugal!

1. Considerations When Planning Your Portugal Travel Route

Visiting Portugal also needs to be tailored to your individual needs and interests, with a number of considerations to make along the way. Here are some of the biggest points to take into account:

• Budget: Your wallet is likely to have the biggest say in where you can afford to stay, eat, and go in Portugal.

• Accommodation Options: Whether you're wanting a cozy B&B, a luxury hotel, or a budget hostel, where you lay your head has to match your bank balance and comfort levels.

• Time of Year: On a country with such varied offerings as Portugal, the time of year can make a lot of difference, whether that's the tourism swell of the summer or the sleepy, sunny winters.

• Interests and Activities: Customize your trip to your personal interests, whether that's wine tasting, surfing, or historical sightseeing.

• Health and Safety: The basics! Be in the know about travel insurance and general good health while in the country.

• VISA and Border Information: Especially important if you're visiting from outside of the Schengen Zone.

2. Recommended Travel Routes for Portugal 

Alright, let's take a look at what this trip to Portugal includes:

Begin an incredible journey through Portugal in the romantic sights of Lisbon, investigate the raw coastline at Boca do Inferno and Cabo Roca, experience the cultural wonder of Porto, and finish back in Lisbon.

Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 4:

Day 1: Discover Lisbon

Welcome to Lisbon, where the old-world meets new. Our first day's itinerary will take you deep into the heart of the city, setting the scene for the days to come.

Here's What You Can Discover Today:

Pastéis de Belém: Start your Lisbonian exploration with a taste of this famous pastry that was literally invented here.

Jeronimos Monastery: A gorgeous example of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, the monastery will give you an insight into Portugal's grand history. Walk the rooms and halls, admiring the ridiculously detailed stonework.

Discoverers Monument and Belém Tower: More from the Age of Discoveries. The towering Monument to the Discoveries and river-side Belém Tower pay homage to Portugal's navigational roots.

Santa Justa Lift: Jump on this historical lift to get an unconventional view of Lisbon, taking in a chunk of late 19th century city planning as you do so.

Sailboat Sunset Cruise: Sailing serene on the Tagus River is a beautiful and peaceful way to end your day one, with the fiery colors of sunset reflected in the water.

Where to Stay: Check in to lodgings in Baixa or Chiado – we recommend them for their central locations for your city-sightseeing convenience.

If you'll be hopping around a lot of the museums or using public transport loads, consider the Lisboa Card for access to many and free public travel.

Day 2: Coastal Wonders: Mouth of Hell and Cape Roca

Immerse yourself in the dramatic seascapes near Lisbon today, transitioning beautifully from urban explorations to the awe-inspiring rugged coast.

Here's What You Can Discover Today:

Boca do Inferno: Its name means 'Hell's Mouth', this natural fissure is a place to watch the surging waves crash against the cliffs.

Cabo Roca: With Europe's mainland westernmost point upon these sheer cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, you won't find grander vistas.

Where to Stay: That evening, you can be back in Lisbon quickly – but we'd recommend an overnight in Cascais instead for the full coastal experience, with hotels placing you practically on the beach.

Pack a pair of sturdy shoes and a windbreaker to combat the breezy conditions typical of the Portuguese coast. 

Day 3: The Charm of Porto

Today, you'll explore Porto, a city that elegantly strings together its celebrated river, renowned port wine, and striking architectural beauty, setting the stage for tomorrow's scenic ventures.

Here’s What You Can Discover Today:

Igreja do Carmo (Carmo Church): This church entrance is cloaked in detailed blue and white painted azulejo tiles, serving as a taster for Porto’s artsy side.

Torre e Igreja dos Clérigos: Scale the tower here for views across Porto’s historic cityscape, helping you appreciate the architectural layout of the city.

Livraria Lello: Also simply known as ‘Lello Bookshop’, this is considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, complete with an incredibly ornate staircase and beautiful carved wooden features.

McDonald’s Imperial: Not just a fast food joint, Imperial is a lavishly decorated space offering fast food in opulent surroundings – a fun place to grab a quick meal surrounded by history.

Ponte Luiz I and Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls): The bridge and the nearby chapel are both key landmarks in understanding Porto’s history and cultural identity.

Where to Stay: We’d recommend staying in the Ribeira district overnight – it’s right by the river and perfect for exploring the more lively nightlife on offer.

Get to Lello Bookshop early to avoid the crowds and soak up some of the quiet charm.

Day 4: Last Day in Lisbon

Explore Lisbon's diverse neighborhoods on foot or via the iconic tram 28.

Revisit Lisbon to uncover more of its cultural treasures and scenic vistas, setting a leisurely pace as we prepare for tomorrow's new adventures.

Here's What You Can Discover Today:

Rua Augusta: An (over)crowded pedestrian shopping mall, but worth a walk through, if only for the street performers and buskers and the sweet little cafes flanking it. Spend an afternoon shopping and people-watching downtown.

Elevador da Bica: One of three funiculars left in town, the short but hair-raising journey on this will take you through one of the most picturesque parts of Lisbon. Brilliant for photos of the cityscape.

Where to Stay: Opt for accommodations in the Alfama district. This area promises a peaceful retreat with its quaint, narrow streets and is conveniently located for those catching early flights or trains.

Wandering on foot or hopping on the iconic tram 28 offers the best way to experience Lisbon's diverse neighborhoods, each brimming with its own unique charm and history.

Tips for Adjusting the 4-Day Route:

If you have more time, add a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon to explore its fairy-tale castles. If you need to shorten the trip, focus on Lisbon and its immediate surroundings, possibly dropping Porto to concentrate on the rich experiences available closer to the capital.

3. Top 10 Portugal Food and Drink

Exploring Portugal's culinary delights, let's dive into the diverse flavors that define its cuisine. Here are ten must-try dishes and drinks that capture the rich gastronomic heritage of this captivating country:

1. Bacalhau à Brás: 

This popular dish combines shredded salted cod with onions, straw fries and scrambled eggs.

2. Caldo Verde: 

A simple soup featuring potatoes, shredded kale and chorizo, originating from the north but beloved across Portugal.

3. Francesinha: 

Porto’s signature dish, this meat sandwich layers types such as ham, sausage and steak, each topped with melted cheese and a sauce of tomatoes and beer, served with fries.

4. Pastéis de Nata: 

These egg custard tarts are best enjoyed warm, dusted with cinnamon and sugar.

5. Piri Piri Chicken: 

Influenced by Portugal’s former African colony, spicy grilled chicken is marinated with a paste made from the namesake chilies, then cooked over charcoal.

6. Port Wine: 

Enjoy a fortified glass of wine from the Douro Valley as either dessert or quaffed alongside cheese and dark chocolate.

7. Sardinhas Assadas: 

A particularly summertime favorite, especially when the sardines have been freshly caught for Lisbon’s festivals celebrating Saint Anthony. Eaten with bread or salad.

8. Alheira: 

This smoked Portuguese sausage derives from types made by Jewish people pretending to not consume pork. It’s often grilled or fried and served with boiled potatoes and greens.

9. Arroz de Pato: 

This baked rice dish is combined with duck, and often chorizo and/or bacon, creating a firm crust on the oven-baked dish.

10. Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato: 

Named after 19th-century poet Bulhão Pato, these clams are loving simmered in a stock of olive oil, garlic, white wine, and stirred with cilantro and lemon juice; a light, zingy starter.

4. Additional Tips for Portugal Traveling

Packing Essentials

For summer, pack light, breathable clothing. For the rest of the year, pack layers. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses and (just in case) a light raincoat. Don’t forget a power adapter for European sockets, and a portable charger too.

Cash, Local Apps for Payment and Transport

While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s worth keeping some cash on you for smaller towns and markets. Use payment apps like MB Way, and ride apps like Uber or Bolt. Travel-wise, the CP app will be your friend for train journeys.

Local Etiquette and Customs: Greetings and Manners

Portuguese society is generally polite; remember to handshake or nod in greeting, and use expressions such as 'Bom dia', 'Boa tarde', and 'Boa noite' as appropriate. Say 'Por favor' and 'Obrigado' for 'please' and 'thank you'. When visiting churches and the like, dress modestly, and be well-behaved in general.

Transport Options

Portugal offers a variety of transport options, including extensive train and bus networks that connect most cities and towns. For urban areas, metros in Lisbon and Porto provide an efficient way to navigate the cities. Taxis and rideshare apps are readily available, and ferries are a great option for visiting the islands like Madeira or the Azores.

Communication: Language Tips

English is common in tourist spots, but knowing some Portuguese phrases is better: Sim-Yes

Não-No

Desculpe-Sorry

Falas inglês?-Do you speak English? 

Quanto custa?-How much does it cost? 

Of course, you also can consider using a translation app for more complex conversations.

Suammary

I hope this four-day itinerary gives you some ideas for exploring the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Portugal. 

It’s all planned to be enriching, from historical must-sees in Lisbon to the peaceful shores of the Algarve. Experience it all, and use my planning and advice to have an amazing trip. 

May every moment in Portugal be fantastic and memorable for you. I can’t wait for you to go and to see how wonderful it truly is!