7 Days in Portugal Itinerary
Lisbon, Sintra & the Algarve - the perfect family road trip
Portugal packs incredible variety into a small country. This one-week itinerary combines the cultural highlights of Lisbon and Sintra with the beautiful beaches of the Algarve - perfect for families who want both exploration and relaxation. We recommend renting a car for flexibility, though the train between Lisbon and the Algarve is also an option.
Days 1-3: Lisbon & Sintra
Day 1: Arrive & Explore Belem
Arrive in Lisbon
Fly into Lisbon airport. Pick up rental car or take taxi/metro to hotel.
Belem District
Visit the famous Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. Walk along the waterfront.
Pasteis de Belem
Mandatory stop for Portugal's most famous custard tarts. Queue moves fast.
Dinner in Belem
Plenty of family restaurants near the waterfront. Try grilled fish.
Day 2: Central Lisbon
Tram 28 & Alfama
Take the famous yellow tram (or walk) up to the castle. Wander Alfama's narrow streets.
Sao Jorge Castle
Fantastic views over the city. Peacocks roam the grounds - kids love them.
Lunch in Mouraria
Multicultural neighbourhood with great food options.
Oceanarium
One of Europe's best aquariums. Central tank is mesmerising. Plan 2-3 hours.
Dinner in Baixa
Bustling downtown area with restaurants for all tastes.
Day 3: Day Trip to Sintra
Drive to Sintra
30-40 minutes from Lisbon. Arrive early to beat crowds.
Pena Palace
Colourful fairy-tale palace that looks like a Disney creation. Kids are enchanted.
Lunch in Sintra Town
Pretty town with cafes and the famous travesseiros (pillow pastries).
Quinta da Regaleira
Mysterious gardens with underground tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
Return to Lisbon
Final evening in the city. Consider sunset at a miradouro (viewpoint).
Tip
Sintra is extremely popular. Arrive before 10am or visit late afternoon to avoid the worst crowds.
Days 4-7: The Algarve
Day 4: Drive to the Algarve
Drive South
3-hour drive from Lisbon to the Algarve. Motorway is easy and well-maintained.
Arrive & Settle
Check into accommodation. We recommend Lagos, Albufeira or Carvoeiro as bases.
First Beach Visit
Find your local beach and let kids burn off car journey energy.
Explore Local Town
Wander, find an ice cream, scout dinner options.
Day 5: Beach Day & Water Activities
Beach Day
The Algarve's beaches are spectacular. Try Praia da Marinha (dramatic cliffs) or Praia de Dona Ana (Lagos).
Boat Trip
Grotto tours from Lagos or Albufeira show the famous sea caves. Dolphins sometimes spotted.
Day 6: Water Park & Exploration
Slide & Splash or Aqualand
Large water parks with slides for all ages. Full day out.
Zoomarine
Marine park with dolphin shows, aquarium, small water park. Divisive ethically but popular.
Day 7: Final Day & Departure
Last Beach Time
Squeeze in a final swim and sandcastle.
Drive to Airport
Faro airport is 30-60 minutes depending on your base. Return rental car.
Get your Portugal packing list - includes city essentials and beach gear.
Build My Packing ListBudget Breakdown
Estimated costs for a family of four for 7 days:
- Flights - 400-800 GBP return (varies hugely by season)
- Car hire - 200-350 GBP for 7 days
- Accommodation - 700-1400 GBP (apartments/hotels)
- Food - 400-600 GBP (mix of eating out and self-catering)
- Activities - 200-400 GBP
- Total - Approximately 2000-3500 GBP depending on choices
Money-Saving Tip
Portugal is excellent value compared to Spain or France. Eating out is affordable, and supermarkets are cheap.
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