What to do in Portugal in 15 days (2 weeks): Itinerary

Portugal, with its captivating history, vibrant cities, and breathtaking beauty, invites you to explore the fascinating tapestry of the Iberian Peninsula in Europe. Its geography is diverse, featuring lush green mountains and vineyards in the north, medieval villages in the central region, and charming beaches along the southern coast, making this beautiful country exceptionally varied.

Furthermore, Portugal encompasses both the Azores and Madeira, situated in the expansive Atlantic Ocean. Each of these regions is renowned for its lush landscapes, adding to the diverse and enchanting allure of the country.

Day 1 – A Quick Glimpse of Lisbon, Portugal

On our first day, a whirlwind of travel unfolded: waking up early, rushing to the airport, catching our flight, and finally settling into our accommodation. Despite the sun setting, our curiosity got the better of us. Consequently, we decided to take a short stroll around Lisbon’s neighbourhood.

Day 2 – Immersed in Lisbon’s Charm

The next day, we were all excited to see what Lisbon had to offer. Initially, we strolled along the Tagus River, taking in the sights until we reached the Belem Tower. Along the route, we couldn’t resist stopping to admire the Golden Gate-style bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril, and the breathtaking views from the Padrão dos Descobrimentos.

Afterward, we returned to the city center, visited the Santa Justa Lift, and meandered through the nearby streets.

Tip: How to Get the Santa Justa Elevator View for FREE in Lisbon, Portugal!

If you find yourself facing the lift, you’ll likely see a queue of people waiting to go up. Instead of waiting, head to the stairs and climb to the top. Once there, you’ll spot the Carmo shop on your right. Enter the shop and use its elevator – it will take you to an amazing rooftop bar. However, don’t stop there; continue up the stairs until you reach the Santa Justa viewpoint. This shortcut not only saves you at least 5 euros but also a considerable amount of time by avoiding the queue.

Day 3 – Exploring Sintra, Portugal: Rain or Shine Adventures

Day three held a special place in our hearts as we were eager to explore Sintra, including the Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, the mysterious Initiation Well, and perhaps even some nearby castles or a coastal beach. However, our plans took an unexpected turn when the weather suddenly shifted, bringing rain and fog.

Undaunted, we embarked on our hike towards the Pena Palace, choosing the scenic, hilly path over more crowded transportation options. The lush surroundings treated us to glimpses of distant castles on the horizon, making the walk truly enchanting. Upon reaching the palace’s entrance, we joined the queue, mindful that our ticket’s entry time was crucial.

As we arrived at the palace, the rain and fog persisted, obscuring much of its splendour. We sought refuge indoors, hoping for clearer skies. Sadly, nature had other plans, and heavy rain forced us to opt for a tuk-tuk ride back to the train station. Despite the weather, we remained determined to explore, even though some of our plans had to be postponed.

Some price info:

Train tickests from Lisbon to Sintra: 2.10 EUR/ one way

Pena Palace & Park: 14 EUR/pers ( park and the palace from the outside: 7.5 EUR)

TukTuk: 5 EUR/pers

Day 4 – From Lisbon to Madeira, Portugal

On the fourth day of our Portuguese journey, we had a mix of relaxation and travel. We began the day in Lisbon, where we enjoyed a peaceful morning by the Tagus River. In the afternoon, our adventure continued as we hopped on a flight to the scenic island of Madeira, Portugal.

Upon landing, we decided to rent a car, allowing us the freedom to explore the island at our own pace. If possible, I highly recommend renting a car to maximize your experience. However, if that’s not an option, staying in Funchal and utilizing buses or private tours is a great alternative for getting around the island.

For me, having a car was a game-changer. It meant we could hit the road early in the morning, avoiding the crowds and making the most of our time on this stunning island. Our first stop was Caniço, where we got settled in our accommodation, all fired up to start our Madeira adventures.

Day 5 – Cabo Girao, Funchal, and Santana

On the fifth day of our journey, we set off for Cabo Girao. Moreover, this destination is easily accessible by car without the need for hiking. Renowned as Europe’s highest sea cliff and the second highest in the world, Cabo Girao claimed an impressive title. Moreover, it offered awe-inspiring views from its glass and steel platform, perched 580 meters above sea level.

After marvelling at the breathtaking scenery, we continued our adventure to Funchal, the captivating capital of Madeira. Our time in the city was filled with long walks along the ocean and through its charming hilly streets. Funchal left a lasting impression, meticulously maintained, and boasting pristine cleanliness, while its lush flora added to the city’s enchanting appeal.

Next on our itinerary was Santana, where we explored the iconic triangular and colourful houses. These unique houses hold significant cultural value, representing a part of Madeira’s heritage and offering an opportunity to discover regional products.

This day filled our Madeira adventure with remarkable sights and experiences. From the lofty heights of Cabo Girao to the charming streets of Funchal and the cultural treasures of Santana, it became an unforgettable chapter.

Day 6 – PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

Our day began with an invigorating hike to Madeira’s easternmost point, the striking Ponta de São Lourenço. As we ventured out on this trail in June, we were greeted by a landscape that differed significantly from the rest of the island. The peninsula’s cliffs, surrounded by the vast ocean, painted a desert-like picture with dominant hues of orange and brown, standing in contrast to the usual lush greenery of Madeira. However, it’s important to note that the landscape of São Lourenço undergoes a remarkable transformation during different months. After the rainy season, this very area turns into a vibrant “green rug.”

The hike to Ponta de São Lourenço offered a unique and mesmerizing experience. Furthermore, its ever-changing landscape makes it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast exploring the wonders of Madeira. Read about the hike here.

Day 7.1 – Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and Achada do Teixeira Hike

Day 7 proved to be the highlight of our trip, and it began with an unforgettable hiking adventure. Our journey commenced at Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira (1,818 m / 5,965 ft). Surprisingly, reaching this lofty height was effortless, as the peak is conveniently close to the parking lot. Despite its accessibility, the views from Pico do Areeiro were splendid, especially when we witnessed the mesmerizing sunrise. The awe-inspiring sight left us in awe and filled us with wonder.

Continuing our hike, we made our way towards Pico Ruivo. The route’s difficulty level falls into the moderate category, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. The trail’s technical aspects and the physical exertion required were well worth the effort, as we were rewarded with breathtaking views along the way. I found the scenic vistas and the paths between the peaks more captivating than the peaks themselves.

If you wish to conquer the highest peak in Madeira, Pico Ruivo (1862 m / 6108 ft), you have two options:

• The first option is the more challenging and longer hike from Pico do Areeiro (but undeniably more spectacular) – covering a distance of 7 km (one way).
• The second option is an easier and shorter hike from Achada do Teixeira – spanning a distance of 2.8 km (one way).

Having completed both hikes, I can confidently say that the more scenic and rewarding adventure was the challenging route from Pico do Areeiro. The extraordinary landscapes and the sense of accomplishment make it a truly unforgettable experience for any avid hiker.

Day 7.2 – Exploring Natural Pools and a Black Sand Beach

Following the exhilarating sunrise hike to Pico Ruivo, we embarked on an adventure along Madeira’s northwestern coast. Our first destination was the stunning Seixal beach, a true gem with its picturesque green mountain backdrop, fine black sand, and even waterfalls. What makes it even more remarkable is the nearby natural pool. A blissful spot to relax and soak in the crystal-clear ocean water, all formed by volcanic lava.

Continuing our coastal journey, we arrived at Porto Moniz, where nature’s handiwork continued to captivate us. Here, we encountered two more awe-inspiring natural swimming pools, both filled with ocean water and surrounded by pure volcanic rocks. The first, Porto Moniz natural swimming pool, though artificially enhanced, still provides a unique experience in nature’s embrace (entrance fee: 3 EUR). The second, Piscinas Naturais Velhas, is even more authentic, with fewer infrastructures, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of untouched lava rocks.

On this day of exploration, a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation unfolded. It took us to some of Madeira’s most alluring natural wonders, where the harmony of land and sea truly mesmerized us.

Day 8 – Chasing Waterfalls: Levada das 25 Fontes & Levada do Risco

On the eighth day of our journey, we embarked on a thrilling adventure to discover captivating waterfalls. Our starting point was the Levada 25 Fontes parking lot (Parque de estacionamento Levada 25 Fontes), and from there, the trail stretched approximately 5.8 km one way. In total, we hiked approximately 13.68 km, as we ventured to both Levada das 25 Fontes and Levada do Risco.

The journey commenced with a serene walk through a lush forest, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Soon after, an exciting highlight awaited us – a grand, lengthy tunnel. The tunnel stretched for about 800 meters, enveloping us in darkness, and a flashlight was essential to navigate through its depths. However, as we emerged from the tunnel, the route unfolded into a realm of pure beauty, unveiling mesmerizing landscapes and captivating waterfalls.

This day of exploration allowed us to immerse ourselves in the wonder of Madeira’s natural wonders, following the enchanting flow of levadas and unveiling the awe-inspiring beauty of the 25 Fontes and Risco waterfalls. It was truly a day of chasing waterfalls and discovering the unparalleled magic of this island paradise.

Day 9 – Enchanting Fanal Forest and Ponta do Sol

Our ninth day on Madeira took us to the magical realm of Fanal Forest, a treasure steeped in ancient charm. As we stepped into this misty woodland, it felt like we had entered a world straight out of a fairy tale. It’s fascinating to think that 15 to 40 million years ago, similar laurel forests once covered vast stretches of southern Europe. Today, they are exclusive to Madeira, the Azores, and the Canary Islands, making Fanal even more exceptional.

The forest’s hiking trails led us through a breathtaking collection of trees, some of which have stood for over 500 years, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich natural history. The weather here was as unpredictable as it was enchanting, with rapid changes from foggy veils to sunny vistas, each adding its allure to the experience.

After immersing ourselves in the wonders of Fanal, we set out for a memorable sunset walk in Ponta do Sol. This charming coastal town beckoned us with its serene beauty, creating a perfect end to an extraordinary day filled with nature’s wonders and magical moments.

Days 10-14 – Exploring Lagos and the Benagil Cave

Our 10th day marked a transition from Madeira to Lagos. After returning the car early in the morning, we took a flight back to Lisbon. Once in the city, we enjoyed a delightful brunch before heading to Lisbon-Oriente station to purchase train tickets to Lagos. Although there is no direct train route, it was a smooth journey with only one change at Tunes, where there are just two railways.

The next few days were dedicated to relaxation and beach exploration around Lagos. Our primary target was the stunning Benagil Cave, located approximately 40+ km away from Lagos and accessible only by water. We considered several options to reach the cave:

Boat trip (though getting off the boat is not allowed, and it was relatively expensive)

Renting a car and reaching Benagil Beach, followed by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or swimming to the cave (swimming only in calm waters)

Taking a train to Portimao, followed by a taxi ride to Benagil Beach, and then renting a kayak, paddleboard, or swimming to the cave (again, swimming only in calm waters)

Opting for convenience and affordability, we chose the train to Portimao, which costs approximately 2.10 EUR per person. Subsequently, we took a taxi to Benagil Beach for 20 EUR (one way). There, we rented a kayak for 15 EUR per person, allowing us to explore the captivating Benagil Cave up close.

During our stay in Lagos, we indulged in the beauty of several picturesque beaches, including Estudantes, Pinhão, Dona Ana, and Camilo. Each beach had its unique charm, offering us memorable moments and a perfect beach getaway experience.

Day 15 – From Lisbon to Porto, Portugal

Our final day in Portugal marked a return journey to Lisbon from Lagos. Although we initially decided to skip Porto due to our priority to explore other destinations like Madeira, fate had other plans. A flight connection led us to Porto, and we made the most of it by using the hours we had before our night flight to explore this enchanting city.

As the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto boasts an array of attractions to captivate any visitor. While the warmth and our luggage limited our walking, we couldn’t resist glimpsing the beauty of Ribeira, the charming old town nestled along the picturesque Douro River. Additionally, the alluring scenery left a lasting impression, making me contemplate a future return to delve deeper into Porto’s cultural richness and captivating sights.

In summary, our journey through Portugal was a captivating exploration of its diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. From the historic charm of Lisbon to the lush beauty of Madeira and the picturesque beaches of Lagos, each day brought new adventures. Despite weather challenges in Sintra, the unique blend of historical landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant city life created unforgettable memories. Highlights included invigorating hikes, enchanting forests, and the exploration of Lagos and the Benagil Cave. The warmth, cultural wealth, and breathtaking beauty of Portugal have left an unforgettable impression, creating a destination we eagerly anticipate rediscovering in the future.

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