Are you intrigued by Portugal but short on time? I always say that a short trip is better than no trip at all and Portugal is definitely doable in a long weekend although it's even better savored on a 5 day, one week, or 10 day itinerary.
I recommend centering your short trip around one of Portugal's major airports in Lisbon, Porto, or Faro.
Let's explore some possible 4 day Portugal itineraries focused on Lisbon, Porto, or the Algarve to help you make the most of an efficient European vacation.
4-Day Lisbon Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Lisbon's Historic Neighborhoods
Start your day by riding Tram 28E through the charming neighborhoods of Graça, Alfama, and Baixa Chiado. Jardim Guerra Junqueiro (Jardim da Estrela) offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
In the evening, savor a taste of Lisbon's culinary scene at the trendy Time Out Market, one of my favorite food halls in Europe, featuring a variety of food stalls and restaurants.
Day 2: Journey to Belém
Take a day trip to the historic district of Belém, home to iconic landmarks such as the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Tagus River, taking in the Monument to the Discoveries and Torré de Belém.
Indulge in a traditional Portuguese pastry, pastel de nata, at a local cafe. Pastéis de Belém is famous, but crowded. Since this is a short trip and you won't want to waste time standing in line, I recommend skipping the queue and going to any of the other nearby cafes.
Day 3: Discover Lisbon's Hidden Gems
Escape the tourist crowds and explore some of Lisbon's hidden gems. Visit the National Tile Museum to learn about the history of Portugal's decorative tiles.
Explore the serene gardens of Jardim da Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian. For a unique experience, wander through the historic Cemitério do Alto de São João. In the evening, enjoy a performance at Culturgest, a cultural center known for its independent films and festivals.
✨ Deep dive on Lisbon's hidden gems
Day 4: Day Trip to Sintra or Setúbal
Choose between two equally awesome day trips from Lisbon. Immerse yourself in the fairytale-like palaces and gardens of Sintra, including the Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira.
Alternatively, embark on a wine tasting tour in Setúbal, savoring local wines while exploring historic towns and scenic viewpoints.
Return to Lisbon in the evening for a unique dining experience: Restaurante Pastanaga. Raise a glass of Portuguese wine to toast your successful 4 day trip!
4-Day Porto Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Porto and Settle in Vila Nova de Gaia
Fly into Porto Airport and consider staying in Vila Nova de Gaia, offering convenient access to both Porto's attractions and surrounding day trip destinations.
Vila Nova de Gaia boasts stunning views of Porto's Old Town, is home to the immersive WOW (Porto's World of Wine Experience), and provides easy access to historic port cellars.
Day 2: Explore Porto's Historic Ribeira District
Begin by exploring Porto's historic Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meander through its charming, narrow streets lined with colorful buildings.
Take a stroll along the Douro River, admiring the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and the traditional rabelo boats. In the afternoon, indulge in a port tasting at one of the renowned port houses in Vila Nova de Gaia. Consider Offley which offers tours and generous port samples.
Day 3: Douro Valley Day Trip
Embark on a memorable day trip to the Douro Valley, a region renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wineries. Consider a private tour for a more personalized experience, allowing you to visit smaller, family-run wineries and savor unique Douro Valley wines.
✨ Plan your Porto day trip
Day 4: Choose Your Own Adventure
On your final day, personalize your itinerary with a choice of day trip experiences based on your interests. Explore the charming town of Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal" due to its picturesque canals and colorful moliceiro boats.
Visit Guimarães, a historic town with a well-preserved medieval center and a magnificent castle. Alternatively, venture to Braga, Portugal's oldest city, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and religious sites.
4 Day Algarve Itinerary
Itinerary 1: Eastern Algarve
Day 1: Arrive at Faro Airport (FAO)
Rent a car, drive to Tavira and check into Quinta do Caracol. Enjoy the hotel's amenities, including the swimming pool and gardens. Have dinner at Restaurante Al-Far-Roba in Tavira and try the sea bass or arroz com polvo.
Day 2: Explore Tavira
Visit the Roman Bridge, Mercado da Ribeira, and Castelo de Tavira for panoramic views. In the evening, take a stroll along the River Gilão and enjoy the illuminated architecture.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Vila Real de Santo Antonio
Head to the far eastern limits of the Algarve near the Spanish border. Consider stopping for drinks or dinner at the Grand House or at their Beach Club which is on the way to Esporão de Castro Marim and Farolim de Vila Real de Santo António (VRSA's lighthouse).
Day 4: Drive back to Faro
Stop at Ilha Tavira on the way back to Faro. Take the floating pedestrian bridge and tourist tram to the beach. Depart from Faro Airport (FAO).
✨ Explore things to do in the Algarve to add to your itinerary.
Itinerary 2: Western Algarve
Day 1: Arrive at Faro Airport
Rent a car and drive to Carvoeiro. Check into the Tivoli Carvoeiro Hotel and Resort. Enjoy the hotel's amenities, such as the ocean view rooms and outdoor pool. Have dinner at The One Restaurant for a high-end Portuguese meal.
Day 2: Visit Algar Seco
Hike along the boardwalk or scramble over the limestone rock formations. Explore Carvoeiro town and enjoy the local restaurants.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Portimão and Sagres
Visit Mercado Municipal de Portimão. Stroll through the town and admire the architecture, including the doors (door photography is my obsession). Enjoy the beaches and the views from the cliffs.
Continue on to Sagres, the southwestern-most corner of mainland Europe. Explore Fortaleza de Sagres which was built in the 15th century by Henry the Navigator, the man who launched Portugal's Age of Exploration. Sagres is the ideal destination for history lovers.
Day 4: Visit Alvor
Start early and hike along the boardwalk through the sand dunes. If you enjoy birdwatching, this is a great spot. Explore Alvor town and admire the colorful architecture. Drive back to Faro Airport for your departure.
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As you can see, it's possible to cover a lot of ground in Portugal in 4 days. Pick a region and focus your attention there for an efficient and fulfilling Portuguese trip.
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