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These days it seems everyone is flocking to Portugal. The whole world has suddenly discovered what we locals have known for a long time: Portugal is an amazing country!
If you’re reading this, you’re probably planning to visit it yourself and wondering about the best things to do and see in Portugal.
If you want to explore Portugal off the beaten path, see an authentic side of the country, and avoid the tourist traps, then this 2 weeks in Portugal itinerary is for you.
Why should you trust me?
Well, I was born and raised in Portugal and lived there for most of my adulthood. I have lived in the Azores, Lisbon, and Porto, and traveled extensively throughout the country. And even during the 10 years I was based in Zurich, Switzerland, I still visited Portugal at least one month per year.
The good news is that you won’t need a month to explore the country. You can easily visit some of the most beautiful places in Portugal in 2 weeks and have a great time. It all comes down to proper planning and preparation.
Ready to start? Here’s my 2 week Portugal itinerary and travel tips.
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Best time to visit Portugal
The best time to visit Portugal is in the spring or summer when the weather is warmer and you can enjoy the best Portugal has to offer: its amazing coastline.
Avoid August though, if you’d like to escape the crowds and peak temperatures – in this time of the year thermometers can easily go up to 40 degrees Celsius or more.
Autumn is also nice with still plenty of sunshine and warm days, fewer tourists and cheaper deals.
How to get around Portugal
Although Lisbon is easy to explore by foot or public transportation, if you plan to see more of the country your best option is to rent a car.
There are also trains and buses connecting major cities if you are on a budget, but beyond that public transportation in Portugal is often late, slow and scarce.
So I would definitely recommend renting a car to make the best of your two weeks in Portugal. Still not sure? Check out these tips for renting a car in Portugal.
2 weeks in Portugal itinerary
Terceira Island, Azores – 4 days
Start your 2 weeks in Portugal in the Azores.
Considered one of the most beautiful places on the planet, the Azorean islands are 9 (still) hidden gems in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Each island has its own personality and attractions, but in all of them you’ll find jaw-dropping nature, welcoming people, and a pure sense of authenticity.
So which one should you visit?
If you’re looking for a truly off-the-beaten-path Portugal experience, I’d recommend skipping the biggest and most popular island of São Miguel and heading to Terceira Island instead.
Here you’ll find untouched nature and rich culture and traditions without the crowds.
There are daily flights from Lisbon to Terceira Island all year round. The journey from the mainland to the Azores takes around 2,5 hours.
The best way to get around the island is to rent a car and explore at your own rhythm.
I recommend staying for at least 4 days. Although you could easily spend one week or more in Terceira, 4 days should give you enough time to explore the island.
Top things to do in Terceira Island:
#1 Go inside a volcano
Terceira Island is one of the few places on earth where you can go inside an extinct volcano.
Having been born here, I’ve visited Algar do Carvão many times already, but each time I can’t help marveling at what I see.
Located in the center of the island, Algar do Carvão is a spectacular ancient lava tube that is now covered by lush vegetation and unique stalactites.
Book a tour to Algar do Carvão here.
#2 Visit Angra do Heroísmo UNESCO site
Angra do Heroísmo is one of the most beautiful Portuguese cities.
The historic center was classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1983, due to its architectural heritage and important role as a port of call between the 15th and 19th centuries.
The city was built around its lovely bay (hence its name Angra, which is Portuguese for bay), where today you can see a marina and a pleasant city beach.
If you’d like to learn more about the history of the city, I recommend joining a walking tour with a local guide.
#3 Explore the fairylike Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve
The magical Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve looks straight out of a Lord of the Rings movie.
Lagoa das Patas means Ducks’ Lagoon and it’s easy to understand why: the small lagoon in the middle of the forest is populated by ducks, who choose its banks to breed.
#4 Swim in lava pools
The small town of Biscoitos, in the north of the island, is famous for its wine and lava pools.
These natural swimming pools of black volcanic stone are one of Terceira’s top attractions, and justifiably so.
Biscoitos is one of my favorite places in Terceira to have a swim and relax under the sun.
And I’m not alone: the area is very popular among the locals, many of whom own beach houses here.
#5 Go whale watching
The Azores are a great place for whale and dolphin watching.
Lying in the North Atlantic Ocean, the islands are home or a point of passage for many cetacean species, offering a great opportunity to spot these animals in their natural habitat.
If you’d like to get even closer, some companies also offer swimming with dolphins tours.
Book your whale-watching experience here.
#6 Hike the island’s trails
The best way to discover the Azores’ pristine nature is to adventure yourself through its hiking trails.
Terceira Island has an accessible and extensive network of footpaths uncovering some of its most scenic landscapes: from hidden lagoons and secret waterfalls to volcano craters, lush forests, and stunning viewpoints.
One of my favorite hikes on my native island is the Mistérios Negros trail. You can join a hiking trail tour with a specialized company here.
Where to stay in Terceira Island
Hotel Cruzeiro
Hotel Cruzeiro is the newest and most exquisite 4-star hotel in Angra do Heroísmo.
With a privileged location right in the UNESCO city center, Hotel Cruzeiro converted a historic building into a design hotel inspired by the island’s nature.
All rooms are decorated with images of Terceira’s landscape and have a unique atmosphere.
Hotel Cruzeiro has also a delicious breakfast buffet, friendly and professional staff, as well as a restaurant and a bar.
What’s more, it offers great value for money.
Click here for more info and booking.
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Tavira, Algarve – 3 days
With its sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Algarve, in southern Portugal, is one of the most beautiful regions in the country.
It’s also one of the most touristy, especially during the summer months, when both visitors and locals head south to enjoy the endless sunshine.
But it’s still possible to find some hidden gems. If you want to experience the Algarve without the crowds, drive further east to the picturesque town of Tavira.
I spent a weekend here during my last visit to Portugal and saw a different side of the Algarve.
Top things to do in Tavira:
#1 Stroll around Tavira town center
Tavira is considered the most picturesque beach town in the Algarve.
Spend a couple of hours wandering through its narrow, white streets and enjoying its quaint charm.
Or hop on the tourist train of Tavira and enjoy a guided tour of its main sights.
#2 Enjoy the local life at Santa Luzia
Santa Luzia is a small fishermen’s village where time seems to have stopped.
Just 3 kilometers from Tavira, this is the perfect place to enjoy authentic local life.
Here locals still outnumber visitors, and little has changed over time.
#3 Relax on the beach
The Algarve is all about the beaches. And Tavira has no shortage of stunning white sandy beaches.
Located on Tavira Island, Praia da Terra Estreita is the best and quietest beach in the area. Only accessible by ferry, it has a secluded feeling to it.
A bit more organized, Praia do Barril is another great option.
#4 Explore Ria Formosa Natural Park
Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of the most important wetlands in the world due to its rich biodiversity.
This unique coastal lagoon is also one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve, with an impressive diversity of habitats and landscapes, from barrier islands, salt marshes, islets, tidal flats, saltpans, dunes, and freshwater lagoons to agricultural areas and woodlands.
Book a Ria Formosa boat cruise from Olhão here.
#5 Try the seafood
You can’t possibly leave the Algarve without enjoying some delicious local seafood.
Tavira is famous for its tuna and octopus, as well as for its clams and oysters.
While you’re here, try some local dishes like estupeta de atum (tuna), salad de polvo (octopus), and muxeta de atum.
Some other typical Portuguese dishes that taste even better in the Algarve are Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice) and Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams).
Where to stay in Tavira
Pedras d’el Rei
Located in the heart of Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, in Santa Luzia, Pedras d’el Rei is the perfect place to enjoy the best of Tavira.
Pedras d’el Rei is a beach resort with a traditional and calm atmosphere. Its apartments and villas host up to 7 people and are ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends traveling together.
The resort has several restaurants with terraces, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool, and beauty and massage services.
There’s also a complimentary mini-train service to Praia do Barril and free parking spaces.
You can even bring your dog since this place is pet-friendly.
Click here for more info and booking.
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Ericeira – 3 days
The third stop of your Portugal 2 weeks itinerary is Ericeira.
Ericeira may not be as famous as Nazaré, but it’s certainly a surf mecca.
This traditional fishing village, with 4 kilometers of perfect waves, is the first (and only) World Surfing Reserve in Europe and was the second place on the planet to receive such a distinction.
But there’s more to Ericeira than surfing (although that’s a big part of its charm).
Just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, this quiet and picture-perfect village is a favorite among the locals to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital.
And, from the food to the beaches, there are many reasons why.
Top things to do in Ericeira:
#1 Learn to surf
Ericeira is the perfect place to learn how to surf, even if you’ve never climbed onto a surfboard before.
Don’t get intimidated by the surf pros at Ribeira D’Ilhas, the Portuguese stage of the World Surf League.
There are also great beaches for beginners, like Foz do Lizandro, and plenty of surf houses and schools offering classes for newbies.
You can book a surfing lesson in Ericeira here.
Or you can combine it with a yoga retreat or a yoga and surf camp as I did, for even more fun and relaxation.
#2 Enjoy the beaches
You can’t get far from the beach in Ericeira.
Just a short walk from the village center, you’ll find Praia dos Pescadores and Praia do Sul.
Praia dos Pescadores is a lovely beach right next to the harbor, perfect for a swim or a drink at its cool beach bar.
To the south, Praia do Sul is very popular with the locals and has a couple of nice restaurants and bars.
But there are many other great beaches to choose from further north or south.
#3 Eat and drink
For such a small village, Ericeira has an impressive number of excellent places to eat and drink.
The delicious local food was actually one of the best things about my stay in Ericeira. If you’re a foodie yourself, you can join a private food tour of Ericeira here.
This quiet village has also a lively nightlife scene, with many cool bars and a couple of clubs.
#4 Standup paddle on Lizandro River
If surfing is not your thing, try standup paddle on Lizandro River for some amazing views and a super relaxing experience.
I was busy with surf classes every day, so I haven’t done SUP here this time, but it’s certainly on my bucket list.
#5 Go shopping
Ericeira is a shopping paradise.
The village center is home to trendy design stores, souvenir shops, boutiques, and of course many surf shops.
Believe me, the hardest part about shopping in Ericeira will be to fit everything into your suitcase.
Where to stay in Ericeira
Chill In Ericeira Surf House
Chill In Ericeira is a beautiful surf house just a short 5-minute walk from the village center and the beach.
I stayed here with a friend for 4 nights on a surf and yoga retreat and the only thing I didn’t like was having to leave.
The main house, where we stayed, has a big terrace with a gorgeous view over Ericeira and the nearby beaches and is the perfect place to watch the sunset.
Our double room was very comfortable and beautifully decorated, as were all the common areas. Breakfast is included in the room price and consists of a delicious and healthy buffet.
Chill In Ericeira also has another house just across the street, with more rooms and a barbecue area, where they serve a weekly dinner (at an extra price).
Surf lessons for beginners and intermediates take place every day and are paid separately.
But even if you’re not into surfing, I would definitely recommend staying here if only for the friendly atmosphere and cool vibes.
Click here for more info and booking.
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Lisbon – 3/4 days
You can’t visit Portugal without visiting Lisbon.
The Portuguese capital is not exactly off the beaten path. In fact, it’s one of the most popular European capitals right now.
But there’s a reason why everyone seems to be coming here, from tourists to expats and digital nomads: Lisbon is one of the coolest cities in Europe.
I may be biased since I lived in Lisbon for many years and it’s still one of my favorite places in the world, but Lisbon does have many points in its favor: nice weather, rich history, an exciting urban culture, great beaches at its doorstep, a vibrant nightlife and delicious food. Not to mention the people.
All this to say, you need to spend at least some days exploring the Portuguese capital.
I’d recommend making it the last stop of your Portugal itinerary since you’re probably flying out of the country from here anyway.
Top things to do in Lisbon:
#1 Stroll along Ribeira das Naus
Ribeira das Naus is an avenue connecting Cais do Sodré to Praça do Comércio in the heart of the city.
The whole area was recently recovered and has now a pleasant pedestrian zone offering lovely views over the Tagus River and an escape from the city bustle.
#2 Explore typical Graça and Alfama
Graça and Alfama are two of Lisbon’s most typical and beautiful neighborhoods.
Although gentrification is quickly taking over, especially in touristy Alfama, it’s still possible to witness authentic local life when you lose yourself in the maze of picturesque narrow streets, alleys, and stairways.
Book a guided tour of Alfama here.
#3 Party at Bairro Alto
During the day, Bairro Alto is a calm and quiet old quarter made of cobbled streets, small houses and cafes, and laundry hanging off the windows and balconies.
At night, the restaurants, bars, and clubs open, the streets become flooded with people, and the party begins.
Enjoying the nightlife at Bairro Alto is a mandatory and unique experience to have in Lisbon.
Want to party like a local and meet other travelers from all over the world? Join a Lisbon pub crawl here.
#4 Chill out at LxFactory
LxFactory is a former industrial complex turned hipster district.
This old factory and its warehouses are now co-working spaces, art studios, fashion and design stores, marketing agencies, bookshops, restaurants, bars, and even a hostel.
While you’re here, make sure to visit Ler Devagar, a bookstore installed in an old printing space. Besides books, Ler Devagar also sells food and drinks and offers a diversified program of cultural events.
#5 Admire the views from a rooftop
Rooftop bars and restaurants started popping up all over Lisbon some years ago. And what’s better than enjoying a nice meal or drink with a stunning view of the city?
One of my favorites is Noobai, a restaurant, and café in the Bica district, with one of the best panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River.
#6 Enjoy a concert at Fábrica Braço de Prata
Fábrica Braço de Prata is an old military factory converted into a dynamic cultural center.
The huge building once used to make weapons has now given place to several performance rooms, exhibition spaces, bookstores, bars, and a restaurant.
From live concerts to theatre and dance shows, there’s always something going on here.
Where to stay in Lisbon
The Independente Hostel & Suites
“Not quite a hotel, more than just a hostel.” That’s how The Independente describes itself.
With a perfect location between Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto, The Independente is set in an old palace and beautifully decorated in Art Deco style.
It offers bunk bed dorms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, in a distinct and bohemian atmosphere.
There’s no room service, mini-bar, or phones in the rooms. Instead, you have a common kitchen and a guest-only lounge, where you can enjoy communal dinners, movie nights, cooking lessons, or karaoke.
They also have 2 hip and trendy restaurants and bars on site: The Decadente, serving contemporary Portuguese cuisine, and The Insólito, on the rooftop, offering a panoramic view over Lisbon and Tagus River.
Catering for independent travelers, the goal of The Independente is to make you feel like a local.
Click here for more info and booking.
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Follow this off-the-beaten-track Portugal itinerary and you’ll get to experience the country like a local, witness its authentic culture and way of life, and enjoy some of its most beautiful places and landscapes.
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More travel tips
Travel Insurance
SafetyWing – Travel insurance is very important and you should never leave home without it! I use and recommend SafetyWing travel medical insurance for travelers, remote workers, and nomads.
They cover overseas medical assistance in case of accident or illness, travel delay or interruption, lost checked luggage, emergency medical or political evacuation, natural disasters, and personal liability, at very competitive prices.
You can subscribe online here for a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days, or opt for a monthly subscription instead.
Cheap flights
Looking for the best airfare deals? Skyscanner is my favorite travel search engine for finding cheap flights around the world. They also offer price tracking and alerts to help you secure the best deals.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Booking.com is the best site out there. From hotels to apartments, resorts, villas, B&B, and guest houses, it offers the best prices for accommodation all over the world. I book the majority of my stays through them.
Yoga Retreats
Looking for a yoga retreat near home or in an exotic destination? BookYogaRetreats offers the best yoga retreats, holidays, and courses around the world for all budgets and levels of experience.
Tours
GetYourGuide is my favorite platform for local tours, unique experiences, and skip-the-line tickets to attractions all around the world.
Klook is another great resource for tours and activities, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Asia.
Car Rentals
Rentalcars.com is a car rental search engine that compares the biggest brands in car hire and allows you to find the cheapest deals all around the world.
Have you been to Portugal? What would you add to this Portugal travel itinerary? Share in the comments section below!
Read more:
- Porto Itinerary: How to Spend 2 or 3 Days in Porto, Portugal
- 10 Great Things to Do in Central Alentejo, Portugal
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Emma says
This is such an informative post and sheds loads of light on how awesome Portugal is!! I am planning a trip and it all sounds amazing, especially the Algar do Carvão ! Thank you!
Lynne P Nieman says
Great ideas with some nice details … and some lovely images. I’ve sent travel clients to Portugal but need to get there myself. And soon!
Bree says
Loved this post thank you x
April says
Thanks for such a great post! I fell in love with Lisbon. And, since then, I’ve vowed to go back to Portugal and fully explore that country. So, this post is something I’ll be referencing as some of those places look amazing!
Sarah says
I love local guides so much! Like who would’ve thought that you could go inside an extinct volcano?! That’s so cool!