Where to spend 4 days in Portugal.
Portugal has three main regions; north, centre...and south! Each has their own distinct landscapes, culture, history and gastronomy. Depending on where you want to go, Portugal has something for everyone looking where to spend 4 days in Portugal.
So, as a perfect introduction to Portugal, here are 3 itinerary ideas for your trip...
itinerary idea 1 - porto region (north)
Day 1 – Porto
On the slopes above the Douro Estuary, Porto is a historic merchant city. The charming centre is a World Heritage site, and you’ll be struck by how rich and varied this heritage can be: medieval walls, gleaming Baroque churches, the narrow streets of the Ribeira district and Romanesque Cathedral. You can wander the charming neighbourhood of Cais da Ribeira, admire the Luís I Bridge, visit Clérigos Church and Church of Santa Clara, enjoy a Port wine tasting and experience the stunning and unique Livraria Lello bookshop.
Day 2 – Douro Valley
Portugal´s most famous wine region is simply magnificent. The valley extends across the country to the Spanish border. The sloping hills with terraced vineyards form a patchwork-like pattern across the landscape, with the meandering river flowing throughout. This region has hundreds of species of wildlife and birds many of which are endangered, such as golden eagles and Egyptian vultures! There are many amazing viewpoints such as São Leonardo de Galafura and Casal de Loivos. You can easily access the Douro Valley from Porto and the car ride is around one hour. Another great way to see the area is on a relaxing river cruise! These are extremely popular and a favourite way to visit the many `quinta´s´ (wineries) and historic villages.
Day 3 – Guimarães
During the foundation of Portugal it was Guimarães that was briefly the capital of the country. This fascinating northern Portuguese city has many narrow streets and medieval plazas to wander amongst and get lost in. You can explore the 10th century castle and the must-see Monte da Pena. Grab the cable car from the city up to the top of the forest-covered hill and admire the modern church on the hilltop, as well as the views!
Day 4 – Aveiro
On the shore of a lagoon, Aveiro is a maritime city. The Mosteiro de Jesus is the most famous monument in Aveiro. Similar to Venice in Italy, you can ride the brightly painted gondola style boats, the Moliceiros, up the canal. Then a short drive away is the coastal resort of Costa Nova where you can admire the charming little coloured houses. This is the perfect northern choice of where to spend 4 days in Portugal.
itinerary idea 2 - lisbon region (centre)
Day 1 – Lisbon
Discover the Portuguese capital and its distinct neighbourhoods. Admire the monuments, the views and more in historic areas of Alfama, Baixa Chiado, and Belem. Highlights include the famous hilltop castle, Castelo de Sao Jorge, the Santa Justa Elevador where you will admire panoramic viewpoints over Lisbon and in Belem the Jeronimos Monastery (a masterpiece of 16th-century Manueline and late gothic architecture), Discoveries Monument and Torre de Belem.
Day 2 – Sintra
Enjoy the fairytale world of Sintra. The most unique and magical destination in Portugal! A place Lord Byron described as his ´glorious Eden.´ Visit the amazing Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, Monserrate Palace and the mysterious house with many secrets, Quinta da Regaleira.
Day 3 – Arrabida
This beautiful region expands over the southern Setubal peninsular and has towering cliffs, picturesque beaches and ancient ruins dotted amongst the dense mountain vegetation. Sesimbra is a typical picturesque, Portuguese fishing village. Walk along the Marginal next to the beach and taste the local speciality ‘Sour Toast.’ Stop along the beautiful ´secret´ beaches and admire the views from Cabo do Espichel, the most westerly point of Portugal in this region.
Day 4 – Comporta
Secluded golden beaches, wild sand dunes and clear water all make Comporta’s coastal charms unforgettable. Comporta is (for now) a little-known fishing village with a few ultra-luxury spa resorts and hotel. Comporta remains largely undiscovered by tourists. At Praia da Comporta enjoy fabulous beachside seafood restaurants and chilled vibes at Sublime Comporta Beach Club. Explore the tiny boutique and artisan shops on Rua Dom Afonso Henriques and Rua do Secador in Comporta village, where embroidered kaftans, silken cushions and other suitcase-bound souvenirs await. The few luxury resorts boast world-class spas and fine cuisine. A perfect place to stay in the summer months or experience on a day trip from Lisbon. This is the perfect central Portugal choice of where to spend 4 days in Portugal.
itinerary idea 3 - algarve region (South)
Day 1 – Silves, Monchique
Silves is a delightful village to explore on foot. It was originally the ancient capital of Algarve. You can see history is everywhere. The solid, red brick castle, Castelo de Silves, is from where the Moors rules all of Algarve. Monchique is a short drive away and is a pretty inland village surrounded by lush mountain forest. Famous for its strong spirit, Medronho, made from the strawberries, it’s a taste not to be missed. Nearby you can visit the summit of Fóia, the highest point in Algarve, and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 2 – Lagos, Sagres
Situated to the west of Algarve is the delightful city of Lagos. With a strong maritime history there is a marina complex with many restaurants and bars. Enjoy the stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs nearby, with that distinct Algarve orange limestone. There is lots of history to see here including the splendid Santo António church and the 17th century fort. A short drive away is Sagres; the most western tip of Algarve. With dramatic cliffs, windy highs and powerful waves, this spot is popular with experienced surfers. Hike along the cliffside trails or bike the deserted roads. Discover wild beaches, a unique fort and soak up the low-key, laidback atmosphere.
Day 3 – Benagil Caves & Coastal Boat Trip
Probably the most famous sea cave in Portugal, Benagil Cave in the Algarve is a top Portugal landmark. So is it worth all the hype? We think so. Located just to the east of Benagil Beach it is accessed by boat or kayak or paddleboard if you fancy it! Inside the grotto formation, which has taken place over millions of years, you will get the most amazing view of the `eye´ in the ceiling of the cave and marvel at the golden reflections of the sea and sand inside the cave itself. We suggest taking one of the organised boat trips along the coast, so you can visit Benagil and see more of the Algarve coast.
Day 4 – Faro
Sometimes overlooked because of its proximity to the airport, Faro is a delightful, picturesque Portuguese city. The historic centre has ancient city walls, the Arco da Vila gateway and a gothic cathedral. Outside the walls in the modern area of the city you can enjoy pristine squares, pedestrianised walkways and a wide variety of bars and restaurants. This is the perfect southern choice of where to spend 4 days in Portugal.
classic portugal
Classic Portugal is a luxury tours and bespoke tours agency. As travel designers we thrive on curating private tours and custom travel across Portugal. We design intimate experiences to make your trip to Portugal especially memorable. Uncover a unique journey though Portugal and its wonders: gastronomy, art, culture, wellness and more all await you. From prestigious wineries to chic beach clubs; from sleepy, hidden villages to dazzling city nights; from luxurious spas to Michelin star restaurants, your bespoke tour will include all the best Portugal has to offer.
Portugal is a European gem, with distinct locations and beautiful scenery. We seek out Portugal´s best, curating tours for our clients which they will carry in their hearts forever. Our specialities include luxury wine tours, luxury bespoke tours, luxury travel in Portugal, private travel and tours, luxury mini-breaks, luxury stays and luxury holidays. We partner with some of the most acclaimed luxury hotels, wineries and restaurants in Portugal. All of our bespoke travel itineraries are private and personal. We publish your itinerary in our travel app, giving you constant visibility and access to your luxury trip. Our professional chauffeurs and certified tour guides guarantee you are taken good care of and have the most wonderful experience of this beautiful, warm and charming country.
Our vision as a company is to offer world-class client services, with meticulously designed travel itineraries and the most luxurious experiences. We will take care of all your needs and desires in Portugal. Our concierge service is available on all luxury bespoke tours. From private cars, to fine dining to tickets for concerts and sports events, we take care of it all. Our values are important to us. We are inclusive and culturally aware. We believe in social change and equality for all. Inclusion and diversity ignites our creativity, bringing us closer to our clients and our communities. We are experienced in working with global clients, always working in a transparent and communicative way, seeking out new ways of engagement and innovation. Our mission to be the leading lifestyle experts and travel specialists for luxury journeys across Portugal. Please see our full tour programme. If you enjoyed our Where to spend 4 days in Portugal blog you may like our blog posts Portugal Tours for Seniors and Most Beautiful Portuguese Villages.