Lisbon Portugal Itinerary: A 7-Day Journey Through Historic Cities
Embark on a 7-day adventure through Portugal, starting in the vibrant capital of Lisbon. This itinerary guides you through historic districts, a captivating day trip to Sintra, and onward to the ancient city of Évora, before concluding in the university town of Coimbra, utilizing efficient train and bus connections.
- 1Lisbon
- 2Évora
- 3Coimbra
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon and Discover Alfama
Arrive at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) and settle into Lisbon. Spend your afternoon exploring the winding alleys of the historic Alfama district and visiting the commanding São Jorge Castle, offering panoramic city views.
Highlights
- Arrive at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), located 7 km north of the city centre, with easy access via metro (Red Line), public buses, Aerobus, taxis, or ridesharing services.
- Wander through Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, known for its narrow lanes, viewpoints, and fado heritage.
- Explore São Jorge Castle, a hilltop fortress with archaeological remains and sweeping city vistas, providing insight into Lisbon's medieval past.
Day 2: Lisbon's Iconic Landmarks and Riverside Charm
Dedicate a full day to Lisbon's most iconic sights, from the historic Belém district to the grand Praça do Comércio, immersing yourself in the city's rich maritime history and culinary delights.
Highlights
- Visit Belém Tower, a fortified tower on the Tagus River, symbolising Portugal's Age of Discoveries with its distinctive Manueline design.
- Explore Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, housing royal tombs and cloisters linked to Portuguese exploration.
- Stroll through Praça do Comércio, an elegant central square on the Tagus, framed by arcades and grand façades, serving as a key meeting point in Lisbon's public spaces.
Day 3: Day Trip to Enchanting Sintra
Take a scenic train journey from Lisbon to Sintra for a captivating day trip. Discover the vibrant Pena Palace, the ancient Castle of the Moors, and the charming Sintra Historic Centre before returning to Lisbon.
Highlights
- Travel by Comboios De Portugal train from Lisbon to Sintra, with tickets starting from €14. The earliest train departs at 00:08, and the latest return from Sintra is at 23:36.
- Marvel at Pena Palace, a colourful 19th-century Romanticist palace perched on a hilltop, famous for its terraces and panoramic views.
- Walk the ancient walls of the Castle of the Moors, a dramatic hilltop castle offering archaeological insights and sweeping regional views.
Day 4: Travel to Évora and Roman History
Journey by bus from Lisbon to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Upon arrival, delve into Évora's ancient past with a visit to the Roman Temple and soak in the atmosphere of Praça do Giraldo.
Highlights
- Take a Rede Expressos, FlixBus, Alsa, BlaBlaCar, or Carris bus from Lisbon's Terminal Rodoviário de Sete Rios to Évora, Terminal Rodoviário. Tickets start from €4.
- Explore the Roman Temple of Évora, a remarkably preserved 1st-century AD monument and the city's most iconic historic sight.
- Experience Praça do Giraldo, Évora’s main square, lined with arcades and cafés, serving as the social heart of the old town.
Day 5: Journey to Coimbra and University Grandeur
Travel by train from Évora to Coimbra, a city renowned for its historic university. Spend your afternoon exploring the grand University of Coimbra and its magnificent Biblioteca Joanina.
Highlights
- Board a Comboios De Portugal train from Evora station to Coimbra, with tickets starting from €15.
- Discover the historic University of Coimbra, founded in 1290, featuring grand courtyards and heritage buildings atop the old city.
- Visit the iconic Biblioteca Joanina, an 18th-century Baroque library celebrated for its gilded interiors and rare collections.
Day 6: Discover Coimbra's Heritage and Riverside
Spend a full day uncovering Coimbra's rich history, from its fortress-like Old Cathedral to the national museum and the charming riverside quarter.
Highlights
- Explore Sé Velha de Coimbra, the Romanesque Old Cathedral, known for its fortress-like architecture and strong ties to medieval Coimbra.
- Visit the Museu Nacional de Machado de Castro, a national museum housed in the former bishop’s palace, showcasing outstanding Romanesque sculpture and art.
- Wander through Baixa de Coimbra, the historic riverside quarter with narrow lanes, traditional houses, and access to key monuments in the lower city.
Day 7: Depart from Coimbra
Enjoy a final morning exploring Coimbra's beautiful Jardim Botânico before concluding your journey. Depart from Coimbra, with convenient access to international airports.
Highlights
- Take a peaceful morning stroll through the Jardim Botânico da Universidade de Coimbra, a large botanical garden with rare plants and tranquil paths.
- Your journey concludes in Coimbra. The closest and most popular international airport is Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) in Porto, approximately 120 km away, accessible by metro and express train (approx. 1 hour 53 m
- Alternatively, Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon is about 200-210 km away, reachable by metro and express train (approx. 2 hours 17 minutes) or direct bus (approx. 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes).
