Places to Visit in Portugal

Cities to visit in Portugal

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Lisbon/Lisboa Info

Lisbon is situated along the Atlantic coast in western Portugal, right where the Tagus River (Rio Tejo) meets the ocean. Key Landmarks: The historic Alfama district, Belém Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the iconic yellow Tram 28. You should reserve tickets online in advance when possible, especially for Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. In Portuguese, Belém literally means Bethlehem (the biblical city).

Public Transportation in Lisbon – Rechargeable Navegante Card

You should purchase a physical rechargeable Navegante transit card if you plan to use the metro, trams, funiculars, and lifts of Lisbon. Paying on board without the Navegante costs twice as much! Purchase the navegante at any station kiosk. It costs only €0.50, plus any pre-loaded credit you’d like. If you plan to walk a lot and only take short metro trips, “zapping” €10 will last you a few days. Otherwise, opt for one of these 24-hour rates:

Pass Type	Price	What It Covers
Carris / Metro	€7.00 – €7.25	Unlimited rides on Metro, Carris city buses, iconic trams (like Tram 28), and funiculars/elevators within central Lisbon. For reference, each single ride in Zone 1, which includes the airport and Baixa (downtown) is about €1.90.
Carris / Metro / Ferry (Transtejo)	€10.00	Everything in the base pass plus the ferry across the Tagus River to Cacilhas/Almada. For reference, roundtrip ferry to Almada is about €4.
Carris / Metro / CP Train (Best for Sintra)	€11.00 – €11.40	Everything in the base pass plus CP suburban train lines—including the trains to Sintra and Cascais. For reference, roundtrip by CP train to Sintra is about €5.

Get the Lisboa Card

This tourist card gives you unlimited public transport in Lisbon, comp entrance to many city attractions, and discounts in many others. The 24-hour Lisboa Card pays for itself once you visit at least 3 paid sights/museums in 24 hours and use public transit heavily. Keep in mind it might not be worth it for sold out timed-entry attractions during the busy months.

You can purchase the card online but you still need to pick it up in a physical location. So might as well purchase it on site in one of these places:

Lisbon Airport (Most Convenient): Located in the Arrivals Terminal. If you pick up your card here, you can immediately use it to take the metro into the city center for free.
Praça do Comércio (Terreiro do Paço): Main tourist office in downtown Lisbon.
Cais do Sodré Train/Metro Station: Inside the terminal.
Centro Tejo / Codfish History Center: Located near Praça do Comércio.

2026 Lisboa Card Pricing:

24 Hours: €31 (Adult) / €21 (Child 4–15)
48 Hours: €51 (Adult) / €28 (Child 4–15)
72 Hours: €62 (Adult) / €35 (Child 4–15)

The card activates the first time you tap/swipe it. Note that the card includes round-trip CP train tickets from central Lisbon to both Sintra and Cascais, but don’t get blinded by this option as it doesn’t cover anything else in these cities.

Things To Do / Places to Visit in Central Lisbon

Baixa & Chiado / Principe Real & Avenida da Liberdade / Alfama are all within 15 minutes walking of one another and close to the waterfront. They make up downtown. In Portuguese, baixa (pronounced BYE-shah) refers to the central, low-lying area or downtown district of a city. Baixa features majestic pedestrian streets, while Chiado is lined with cafes and boutiques. It’s in the heart of everything. You can step out of your hotel and immediately reach major sights, taxi stands, metro lines, and the waterfront without negotiating Lisbon’s steep hills with heavy luggage. As expected, it’s crowded with pedestrians, trams, tuktuks, street vendors, restaurants, etc.

Miradouros. The top of every hill has a viewpoint (miradouro). In the downtown areas, these viewpoints are crowded with guided walking tours, tuktuks, and street vendors.

Lisbon’s iconic historic funiculars. Lisbon has three famous yellow vintage funiculars running up steep hills in downtown Lisbon. They are part of the public transit system (Carris) and therefore a single ride is €1.90 with the Navegante.

Ascensor Bica: Clambers up a narrow street between Cais do Sodré and Bairro Alto (the most photogenic, running down to the water).
Ascensor Glória: Connects Praça dos Restauradores to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara viewpoint in Bairro Alto.
Ascensor do Lavra: The oldest funicular in Lisbon, running between Largo da Anunciada and Campo Mártires da Pátria.

The Santa Justa Elevator (Elevador de Santa Justa). TEMPORARILY CLOSED. This neo-Gothic wrought-iron elevator stands in the heart of downtown (Baixa) and lifts passengers up to the Carmo Convent plaza. There is an optional spiral staircase leading to the very top viewpoint terrace above the elevator landing. Entry to the top viewpoint costs €1.50 (often included with the Lisboa Card, but charged extra if using standard transit tickets).

Tram 28 (known locally as Elétrico 28) is Lisbon’s iconic vintage yellow electric tram. It is famous because it rattles and squeaks its way through the city’s narrowest, steepest, and most historic neighborhoods—like Alfama, Baixa, and Graca—providing a charming moving tour of the old city. Because it is world-famous, Tram 28 is almost always packed. Tourists often queue for 30 to 60 minutes at the main terminal stops (like Martim Moniz).
Pickpocket Warning: Because the tram gets shoulder-to-shoulder crowded, it is a hotspot for pickpockets. Keep your bags zipped and in front of you. If you just want the vintage tram experience without the massive tourist lines, Tram 12E runs a shorter loop through Alfama using the exact same vintage cars, but with a fraction of the crowds.

Belém Tower. Closed Mondays and public holidays. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a complete visit including exploring the 5 floors and observing the panoramic views. The Underground Metro does not extend all the way out to Belém. Tram 15E departs from central spots like Praça da Figueira or Cais do Sodré and drops off right in front of the monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos stop).

Jeronimos Monastery. Next to Belem Tower. Closed Mondays and public holidays.

Codfish History Interpretation Centre (Centro Interpretativo da História do Bacalhau). Located right in the heart of downtown Lisbon along the riverfront at Praça do Comércio, this interactive museum is dedicated specifically to the 500-year history of cod and Portugal. Interactive rooms show the journeys across the Atlantic to Newfoundland and Greenland, simulating fishing experiences (like rowing in sub-zero conditions), artifacts, and culinary history. Right next door is the Terra Nova tasting room/restaurant, where you can sample traditional and modern bacalhau dishes right after learning about them.

Food to try to Portugal

Beyond salt cod (bacalhau), Lisbon has an incredible food culture centered around fresh seafood, hearty street sandwiches, and legendary pastries.

Pastel de Nata is Portugal’s famous egg custard tart, encased in ultra-crispy, flaky puff pastry and served warm with a dusted layer of cinnamon and powdered sugar. Try it at Pastéis de Belém (the historic birthplace, baking them since 1837) or Manteigaria (widely considered by locals to have the best tart in the city).
Travesseiros de Sintra are pillow-shaped puff pastries filled with an almond and egg cream, traditional to the nearby town of Sintra.
Bifana: The ultimate Portuguese comfort sandwich. Thinly sliced pork steak simmered in a garlic, white wine, and lard broth, stuffed into a crusty roll. Pair it with a cold imperial (draft beer) and hot mustard.
Prego: A garlic-marinated beef steak sandwich, often eaten at the end of a seafood meal as a “dessert” sandwich.
Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines): Whole sardines seasoned with sea salt, grilled over charcoal, and served atop a thick slice of rustic bread or boiled potatoes. They are especially famous during the June Festas de Lisboa festival season.
Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Fresh clams sautéed in garlic, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, and a generous heap of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget extra bread for dipping in the pan juice!
Polvo à Lagareiro: Tender octopus baked with crushed garlic, roasted potatoes (batatas a murro), and drowned in rich Portuguese olive oil.
Arroz de Marisco: A rich, hearty seafood rice soup packed with clams, shrimp, crab, and white fish cooked in a tomato and cilantro broth.
Caldo Verde: Portugal’s signature soup made from mashed potatoes, shredded thinly sliced kale, garlic, and topped with a slice or two of spicy chouriço sausage.
Frango Assado / Piri-Piri Chicken: Whole grilled charcoal-roasted chicken brushed with spicy piri-piri chili sauce, served with crispy fries and tomato-rice.
Pataniscas de Bacalhau: Battered and deep-fried flat cod fritters served with parsley and tomato rice.

Drinks to Try in Portugal

Ginjinha (Ginja): A sweet cherry liqueur served in tiny shots—often with a alcohol-steeped cherry at the bottom or in an edible chocolate cup. Grab one at A Ginjinha near Rossio Square.

Vinho Verde: “Green wine” from northern Portugal—a young, crisp, slightly sparkling white wine that pairs perfectly with seafood and hot days.

9-Day Portugal Overview

Day	Destination	Core Highlights	Transit Mode
Day 1	Arrival & Lisbon	Baixa, Chiado. Stroll along Rua Augusta toward Praça do Comércio on the waterfront. Sunset at Miradouro de Santa Catarina or Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for sweeping rooftop views, then head into Alfama for a cozy dinner with live Fado music.	Taxi/Uber from LIS
Day 2	Lisbon – Porto (via Sintra or Óbidos)	Alfa Pendular train directly from Lisbon’s Oriente station to Porto Campanhã (2.5 hours). Alternative with Rental Car: Drive north via Sintra to see the fairytale Pena Palace with zero summer crowds, or stop at the walled medieval village of Óbidos for Ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur served in a chocolate cup). Arrive in Porto by late afternoon and check into the Ribeira riverside area.	Express Train or Rental Car
Day 3	Porto	Spend the full day exploring Porto’s walkable center: Livraria Lello: The stunning neo-Gothic bookstore (book timed tickets online ahead of time). São Bento Station: Admire the famous blue-and-white azulejo tile murals in the main hall. Clérigos Tower: Walk up for panoramic views of the red-tiled city roofs. Vila Nova de Gaia: Walk across the double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge to the south bank for a port wine tasting and cellar tour (e.g., Taylor’s or Graham’s)	Walking & Tram
Day 4	Douro Valley Day Trip	Day trip into the Douro Valley—one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions. Take the scenic train along the Douro line from Porto to Pinhão or drive the scenic N222 road	Day Tour or Train
Day 5	Porto – Lisbon	Take the train or drive back to Lisbon (3 hours). Spend the afternoon in Belém: visit the Jerónimos Monastery, snap photos of Belém Tower, and pick up warm, fresh Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) right at the original 1837 bakery.	High-Speed Train (Alfa Pendular)
Day 6	Lisbon – Algarve (Lagos)	Head south into the Algarve (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours drive or direct train from Lisbon to Lagos). A charming coastal town with limestone cliffs and an authentic local feel. Spend the late afternoon at Ponta da Piedade, marveling at the sea arches and rock formations.	Car or Intercidades Train
Day 7	Algarve Coast	Hike part of the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail (Praia da Marinha to Vale Centeanes). If sea conditions are calm, take a boat tour out of Benagil or Carvoeiro to see the interior of the Benagil Sea Cave.	Car
Day 8	Algarve (Lagos / Sagres)	Drive 30 minutes west to Sagres and Cabo de São Vicente—the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, historically known as the “End of the World.” Watch dramatic waves crash against 200-foot cliffs and explore the wind-swept Sagres Fortress. Return to Lagos for dinner at a local seafood tasca (try fresh sea bass or Cataplana seafood stew).	Car
Day 9	Algarve – Lisbon Airport	Drive back to Lisbon for departure flight	Car or Train

Porto

Porto is situated along the picturesque banks of the Douro River in northwestern Portugal, right where the river flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Key Landmarks: The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, the stunning blue-and-white tilework of São Bento Railway Station, Clérigos Tower, and the historic Lello Bookstore (often cited as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world). You should reserve tickets online in advance when possible, especially for Livraria Lello and Clérigos Tower.

Public Transportation in Porto – Rechargeable Andante Card

You should purchase a physical rechargeable Andante transit card if you plan to use the metro and buses of Porto. Paying on board without the Andante costs twice as much! Purchase the card at any station kiosk. It costs only €0.60, plus any pre-loaded credit you’d like. If you plan to walk a lot and only take short metro trips, “zapping” €10 will last you a few days. Otherwise, opt for the 24-hour tourist pass for €7.75.

The Andante card is not accepted on historic wooden trams (Lines 1, 18, 22), the Teleférico de Gaia cable car, or the Funicular dos Guindais—all of which require separate, standalone tickets.

Neighborhoods of Porto

Cais da Ribeira: Porto’s UNESCO-listed riverfront district features pastel-colored townhouses, narrow cobblestone alleys, and waterfront cafes. It is the prime departure point for traditional Rabelo boat cruises along the Douro. Ribeira puts you right on the waterfront overlooking the Dom Luís I Bridge.

St. Ildefonso / Baixa are energetic, historic, and incredibly picturesque. Slightly uphill from Ribeira is São Bento Station and Aliados Boulevard (Baixa).

Livraria Lello: Widely recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, famous for its carved wooden interiors, crimson staircase, and stained-glass ceiling. Located in Baixa. Advance ticket vouchers are required for entry.

Igreja do Carmo & Chapel of Souls (Capela das Almas): Two churches renowned for their exterior walls covered almost entirely in hand-painted ceramic tiles.

Mercado do Bolhão: A historic two-story market hall where vendors sell fresh produce, local cheeses, tinned seafood, flowers, and regional wines.

Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte de Dom Luís I): Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this famous double-decker iron arch bridge connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. Walk across the upper deck for sweeping views of the riverbank, then take the lower deck to move between waterfront areas.

Vila Nova de Gaia offers sweeping, iconic postcard views of Porto’s colorful Ribeira skyline. It is located directly across the river from historic Porto, where all the famous port wine cellars are located like Graham’s, Taylor’s, Sandeman, and Cockburn’s. They offer guided tours and tastings explaining how Port wine is produced and aged. This neighborhood features modern hotel conversions inside historic wine lodges and is a short 10-minute walk across the bridge into central Porto.

Jardim do Morro & Serra do Pilar: Located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, these elevated spots offer the best views of Porto’s cityscape at sunset, with street musicians often performing on the hilltop. Miradouro da Vitória or the terrace at Serra do Pilar provide stunning panoramic vistas without lines or ticket price.

Gaia Cable Car (Teleférico de Gaia): Located on the Vila Nova de Gaia side, this scenic ride glides over the roofs of the Port wine cellars along the riverfront. Tickets often include a complimentary Port wine tasting voucher for a nearby lodge (like Quinta da Boavista or Sandeman).

Guindais Funicular (Funicular dos Guindais): Located on the Porto side, this funicular connects the riverfront (Cais da Ribeira) directly to upper Porto (Batalha), cutting out a massive uphill walk.

Sintra

This picturesque town is about 40 minutes by train from Lisbon. Roundtrip by CP train is about €5. Take an Uber from the train station in Sintra to Pena Palace (€12) and walk everywhere else from there. Bus 434 is a 24-Hour Hop-On / Hop-Off tourist bus and costs €13.50 per person.

You should reserve tickets online in advance when possible, especially for Pena Palace (book timed-entry slots early).

Lagos / Algarve

In November, coastal resort towns get quiet. Lagos is the best base because its historic town center remains lively with local restaurants year-round.

Lagos Old Town (Centro Histórico) is historic, pedestrian-friendly, with whitewashed buildings, seafood tascas, and local bakeries.

Dona Ana / Ponta da Piedade Coastline are scenic and quiet. Located just 5 minutes south of Lagos town center by car, hotels here sit directly above the dramatic sea stacks and golden beaches (Praia da Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo). Perfect if you prefer waking up right next to the ocean.