Are you dreaming of a family adventure that combines the rich culture of a vibrant city with the stunning natural beauty of coastal landscapes? Look no further than Portugal’s captivating duo: Lisbon and the Algarve. This essential itinerary will guide you through the best of both worlds, from exploring the historic streets and iconic landmarks of Lisbon to basking in the sun on the breathtaking beaches of the Algarve. Whether you’re traveling with little ones or teens, this itinerary is designed to keep everyone engaged, offering the perfect mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and family-friendly fun.
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DAY ONE
Avenue da Liberdade
Starting the day on this stunning, tree-lined boulevard is the perfect way to set the mood. This wide avenue is lined with luxury boutique shops, tempting for anyone in the mood to splurge.
Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, the avenue is a fantastic place to start exploring Lisbon. There are plenty of benches along the way, offering great spots to rest and soak in the surroundings.
Restauradores Square
Restauradores Square is an elegant plaza, surrounded by beautifully designed buildings. Its expansive open space and the striking monument at the center make it a captivating and inviting spot, full of charm and grandeur.
Praca Dom Pedro IV
Although Restauradores Square is undeniably captivating, this nearby plaza truly steals the show. Like its neighbor, it boasts an impressive monument at the center, framed by two exquisite fountains.
The northern side of the square is home to the stunning Queen Maria II National Theatre, adding to the area’s allure. Tree-lined pathways and numerous stone benches make it an ideal spot to relax, recharge, and soak in the vibrant energy of the surroundings.
The square is also bordered by several restaurants, perfect for enjoying a meal with a scenic view.
Santa Justa Lift
From the southwest corner of the square, make your way toward Rua Aurea, which will take you almost directly to the Santa Justa Lift. Even if you don’t plan to ride to the top, simply admiring this architectural marvel is a treat.
The lift is an impressive feat of design, and for those who do want the experience, be prepared for potentially long lines, just as we encountered.
However, if your main interest is the panoramic view, there’s always the option to take the stairs instead.
Shopping/Chiado
Continuing past the Santa Justa Lift, one can follow Rua Aurea until it meets Rua Nova do Almada, where the shopping adventure begins. Entering the lively Chiado neighborhood, visitors find themselves in a vibrant retail district brimming with popular stores like H&M, ZARA, Nike, Levi’s, and more. Eagerly exploring this bustling area, they might soon stumble upon a favorite store of the day.
Bertand Bookstore
Lisbon proudly hosts the world’s oldest operating bookstore, a true paradise for book lovers, not only because of its extensive selection but also for its incredible historical value. Despite its cozy atmosphere, the store features an impressive English section.
When I visited, I was thrilled to pick up a book on Portugal’s history and a souvenir bag to go with it. Having my book stamped with the Bertrand Bookstore seal was a special touch.
This charming establishment is perfect for finding meaningful souvenirs of your Lisbon adventure or selecting a thoughtful gift for someone special.
Carmo Convent
After shopping adventures and book purchases, climb one of Lisbon’s many hills to visit the Carmo Convent. Admission tickets are reasonably priced at 5 euros per adult, with free entry for children aged 14 and under. The site also features an on-site museum to explore.
The historic structure suffered extensive damage during the catastrophic earthquake of 1755, especially to its roof, which was never fully restored.
This leaves visitors with a unique and awe-inspiring experience: admiring the convent’s impressive walls and arches while taking in unobstructed views of the sky through the open ceiling.
DAY TWO
Jeronimos Monastery
Despite being on the far west end of the city, reaching Jerónimos Monastery is straightforward. Visitors can opt for the modern, efficient tram, using Viva Viagem tickets—valid across metro, bus, and tram services.
Boarding the 15E tram at Praça do Comércio, travelers enjoy a pleasant 30-minute ride before being conveniently dropped off right in front of the monastery.
Although pre-purchased tickets are available, skipping the line isn’t an option here. Tickets cost 10 euros for adults, while children 11 and under enter free.
Fortunately, the line, though long, moves quickly, making the wait bearable. While advance tickets help, they may not save as much time as expected.
Nonetheless, the tram ride and brief wait are well worth it. Many choose to explore just the monastery, a truly incredible experience. The structure offers two main levels connected by a central courtyard, with several additional rooms off the main floor.
Visitors are captivated by the intricate designs, monochromatic color scheme, and the way light dances through the columns. Grand hallways, adorned with beautiful arches, and winding staircases feel like secret passageways through history.
Jerónimos Monastery is a must-see, an unforgettable treasure waiting to be explored.
You can purchase your tickets here.
Belem Tower
Covering the distance from the monastery to Belém Tower typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. However, with children in tow, many families opt to save their energy by boarding the conveniently located bus right in front of the monastery.
Bus number 729 provides a quick ride to the next destination.
If Lisbon has an iconic landmark, it’s undoubtedly Belém Tower. Approaching it, visitors are captivated not only by the tower’s historic architecture but also by the picturesque pathway that winds through a lovely park.
Walking among the trees, the tower gradually comes into view, offering a magical perspective.
Surrounded by a scenic walkway, the tower provides stunning panoramic views from every angle. Despite the crowds, the area feels spacious, allowing plenty of room for capturing photos and admiring the scenery without feeling overcrowded.
You can buy your entry tickets to Belem Tower here.
Pasteis de Belem
Although they enjoyed plenty of pastéis de nata throughout their trip, they somehow missed the chance to try them from this iconic bakery.
For those looking to sample the famous custard tarts from this world-renowned spot, it’s conveniently located just steps away from Jerónimos Monastery.
Visitors can either queue up for takeout or opt to sit indoors, where the crowds are usually lighter and the wait shorter.
Rua Augusta
Rua Augusta is one of Lisbon’s most prominent streets, known for its distinctive pedestrian walkway paved with Portugal’s iconic tiles and lined with an array of shops and restaurants.
Stretching from Rossio Square in the north to Praça do Comércio in the south, this lively street places you right in the heart of the city.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and soak up the local energy as you stroll toward the impressive Arch, just a short distance away.
Arco da Rua Augusta
Following Rua Augusta will lead you to one of its most striking landmarks: the majestic arch. Originally built to celebrate Lisbon’s reconstruction after the devastating earthquake of 1755, this impressive structure offers a perfect photo opportunity.
As you walk down Rua Augusta, the arch gradually comes into view, providing a captivating preview of its grandeur and architectural beauty.
Praca do Comercio
Passing through the Arch unveils a truly captivating area in Lisbon, steeped in history as the former site of the Royal Palace. This expansive square, with its unique allure, is anchored by the imposing statue of King Joseph I at its center.
The open layout enhances its distinctive charm, offering sweeping views in every direction. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the colonnade that surrounds the square; its symmetrical design is an architectural delight and provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
Cais das Colunas
Continuing through the square toward the river, you’ll come across a picturesque vantage point that extends slightly into the water. This spot offers breathtaking views of the river, the April 25th Bridge, and the surrounding landscape.
Flanked by two columns reminiscent of those from Solomon’s Temple, this pier historically marked the entryway from the river into the square, adding a touch of historical significance to the stunning scenery.
DAY THREE
Tram 28
If you’re staying in Baixa, as we were, and planning to explore Alfama, taking Tram 28—or the less famous but far less crowded Tram 12—is the perfect way to go.
The uphill journey to Alfama can be steep and exhausting, especially for families with young children, so riding the tram makes for a convenient and enjoyable alternative.
Tram 28 is popular and often packed with tourists, but choosing Tram 12 provides a similarly scenic ride with the added bonus of fewer passengers and a more relaxed experience.
Miradouro das Portas do Sol
Lisbon is famous for its hills, but it’s equally celebrated for its “miradouros” (viewpoints), and this one ranks among the very best.
Offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the river, the spacious terrace provides an exceptional vantage point, with plenty of charming spots to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Just across from the main viewing area, you’ll find a quaint square that adds to the area’s allure.
From here, a staircase descends through a narrow corridor, leading into the heart of Alfama.
Following this route will guide you through a maze of winding streets and alleys, descending from the heights of the miradouro and immersing you in the neighborhood’s character.
You’ll have to decide whether to embark on this captivating adventure or explore other nearby attractions.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro de Santa Luzia offers a more intimate and secluded experience compared to the expansive openness of Portas do Sol. Divided into two main sections—an upper and a lower area—the upper section stands out with its pergola-covered terrace.
This charming space, adorned with vibrant flowers and surrounded by an adjacent garden, provides ample seating to relax and take in the breathtaking views.
This is a picturesque spot perfect for capturing memorable photos and it’s a bonus that these two viewpoints are only a 5-minute walk apart.
While the lower section of Santa Luzia doesn’t have the same scenic allure as the upper area, it still offers a lovely view with fewer visitors, making it a peaceful alternative just a short stroll away.
Castelo de Sao Jorge
From Santa Luzia, you can ascend the hill via Largo do Contador Mor street to reach the castle, which turned out to be a personal highlight of my Lisbon visit.
Not knowing much about the castle beforehand, I was unprepared for the incredible experience that awaited us.
Purchasing tickets in advance to bypass the long queue proved to be a smart move.
As soon as we entered the castle grounds, we were greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of Lisbon.
While you may have seen the castle from afar, perched high on Alfama’s hills, being within the grounds gives you the full impact of its commanding position.
The vistas are truly spectacular, and we spent plenty of time walking along the castle walls, soaking in the magnificent scenery.
Exploring the castle interior was equally enchanting.
We were delighted to find peacocks roaming freely around the grounds, their vibrant plumage and distinctive calls adding to the magical atmosphere.
The castle itself is a maze of staircases, open spaces, elevated walkways, and hidden pathways. Every corner held something new to discover, from watchtowers and lookout points to the battlements scattered throughout.
Wandering the winding paths, climbing the stairs, and navigating the castle’s various nooks and crannies felt like a thrilling, endless adventure. In hindsight, I wish we had allocated even more time to fully appreciate everything the castle has to offer.
You can purchase tickets to the castle here.
Lisbon Cathedral
This Gothic cathedral, built in 1147, is yet another remarkable landmark in Lisbon. Purchasing a ticket to explore the interior provides an up-close view of its stunning architecture, featuring soaring ceilings and majestic arches.
Visitors can also ascend the steps for an elevated perspective of the cathedral, granting access to its upper rooms and a balcony that offers sweeping views of the city.
Alfama
Arguably the most famous neighborhood in Lisbon, this district is ideal for wandering without a specific destination in mind. Meandering through its winding streets and narrow alleyways is a delightful way to spend the day, fully immersing yourself in Lisbon’s charm.
Alfama is also one of the best neighborhoods to stay in when you’re visiting Lisbon.
Embodying the essence of the Lisbon experience, the neighborhood is visually captivating and home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring its streets, even beyond well-known attractions like São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral, and the miradouros.
DAY FOUR
Lisbon to Algarve
The best way to travel from Lisbon to the Algarve is by driving. The journey takes approximately three hours and is mostly a straightforward route, making it easy even for first-time travelers.
Starting in Lisbon, take the A2 and follow signs for the Algarve, which will cover the majority of the drive. From there, continue on the A22 West and then take the N124-1 to reach Carvoeiro.
If you’re going to fly, you’ll fly out of Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport and land in Faro Airport which serves the Algarve region. From the airport you can either rent a car or hire a driver to take you to your accommodations.
To travel from Lisbon to the Algarve by bus, depart from Sete Rios or Oriente stations with companies like Rede Expressos or FlixBus. The 3 to 4.5-hour journey offers stops in popular Algarve destinations, including Faro, Albufeira, and Lagos.
DAY FIVE
Carvoeiro
This charming coastal town is an ideal starting point for an Algarve adventure, thanks to its gorgeous beach area. White-painted houses cascade down the hills toward the beach, creating a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
Further up from the shoreline, several streets are lined with vibrant shops and inviting restaurants, perfect for exploring and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Just a short distance from the town center, you’ll find this scenic boardwalk that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an ideal place to soak in the panoramic vistas or snap some amazing photos.
The path is also easy and family-friendly, making it perfect for a stroll with kids. Following the boardwalk will lead you to one of the Algarve’s most impressive rock formations, a must-see natural wonder.
Algar Seco
This stunning rock formation is a series of dramatic cliffs, tunnels, grottoes, and caves, some of which you can explore on foot via a staircase descending from the boardwalk.
One of the most famous spots in Algar Seco is the Boneca Cave, where two large openings in the rock provide a breathtaking view of the ocean from inside the cave.
Additionally, there are natural pools in the area that are safe for swimming, making it an incredible place to enjoy both the scenery and the water.
Benagil Caves Tour
From the town of Carvoeiro, embarking on a boat tour to the renowned Benagil Caves is both convenient and rewarding. We chose CarvoeiroCaves for our family excursion and were thoroughly impressed with their service.
Opting for the 90-minute speedboat tour proved ideal, especially with two children in tow. The duration was just right, and the smaller speedboat allowed us to explore numerous caves efficiently, including some of the more secluded ones.
The agility of the vessel ensured we could navigate in and out of tighter spots, enhancing our experience. I highly recommend this tour for families seeking a memorable adventure.
DAY SIX
Praia da Marinha
Praia da Marinha is one of the most stunning beaches in the world, standing out even in a region celebrated for its natural beauty.
Seeing it in person is a breathtaking experience, with the vibrant turquoise water, golden sand, and the striking orangish-yellow limestone cliffs framing the beach. At the far end, you’ll find the iconic “M” rock formation, adding to the picturesque setting.
I wish I had known more about this incredible place before our visit. Although I had heard about its beauty, neither words nor photos can truly capture its magnificence.
We didn’t allocate nearly enough time to fully enjoy this gem, so make sure you don’t make the same mistake. Allow yourself plenty of time to soak in the beauty and tranquility of Praia da Marinha.
When you’ve finished your beach adventures, head back to the Lagos area for your next destination.
Ponta de Piedade
Ponta da Piedade is another spectacular natural gem in the Algarve, situated just outside Lagos. The dramatic cliffs and stunning rock formations create a rugged and unspoiled beauty that feels truly authentic.
The area’s lack of development further enhances its natural charm, making it a breathtaking and serene destination.
Visitors can descend the steps to reach sea level, where the formations can be admired up close, or embark on a boat tour to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
While the Benagil Caves may be the most well-known in the region, Ponta da Piedade rivals them with an array of caves, grottoes, and other captivating natural formations waiting to be explored.
It’s a must-visit for those seeking to experience the Algarve’s magnificent coastal scenery.
Green House
As you make your way back into town, head to one of the most popular spots in the old part of Lagos: The Green House. Situated in a lovely, bustling square, this charming building features a stunning green-tiled facade that’s a delight to see.
The area around it is lively and full of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to explore, grab a meal, or do a bit of shopping.
From the square, you can follow the street down to the canal for a picturesque view. Alternatively, wander through the side streets that wind through the old town, where you’ll discover more of Lagos’ historic charm and unique atmosphere.
Old Town
This part of Lagos was our favorite area to explore. The charming side streets, vibrant buildings, unique shops, and inviting restaurants serving delicious food make it a must-visit.
The streets are always full of life and the sound of people enjoying themselves, creating a lively yet welcoming atmosphere. Despite the festive vibe, it never felt overwhelming, making it an enjoyable and family-friendly spot to spend time.
DAY SEVEN
Praia da Camilo
This beautiful little beach, located not far from Ponta da Piedade, is incredibly scenic but quite small. It may have significant amounts of seaweed near the water at times, which can make it less ideal for swimming.
Still, it’s definitely worth a visit. The beach features a unique tunnel that connects one side to the other, adding to its charm. Keep in mind that you’ll need to descend a long staircase to reach the beach, which isn’t suitable for strollers, and the climb back up can be challenging for young children.
Additionally, there are no changing facilities or amenities of any kind, so plan accordingly. If you decide not to go down to the beach, you can still enjoy the stunning views from above and take a walk along the boardwalk, which is family-friendly and perfect for strollers.
Praia Dona Ana
This beach is one of the best in the area for families seeking a fun day by the water. The one downside, like many beaches in the region, is that it’s located at the bottom of cliffs, which means you’ll need to descend a long flight of stairs to get there.
The stairs aren’t too difficult, but it’s worth considering when deciding what to bring along for your beach day.
Once there, you’ll find excellent facilities, including changing rooms and an outdoor shower for rinsing off.
The waves are gentle and perfect for kids to play in, making it an enjoyable spot for the whole family.
Keep in mind that, being part of the Atlantic Ocean, the water is cooler than expected, but we found it wonderfully refreshing on a warm summer day.
Sagres
Have you ever dreamed of traveling to the edge of the world? Now’s your chance. Head west out of Lagos along the N125, and in about half an hour, you’ll arrive at the southwesternmost point of Europe.
This area is renowned for its rugged natural beauty, where wind-swept landscapes and jagged cliffs meet the powerful Atlantic Ocean. The dramatic scenery and wild atmosphere make it an unforgettable destination.
While you’re there, be sure to visit the historic fortress, explore the lighthouse, wander through the nearby town, and relax at one of the stunning beaches. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.
ENJOY YOUR TIME IN LISBON AND THE ALGARVE
Lisbon and the Algarve are the perfect combination of places to enjoy Portugal. From weaving through Lisbon’s historic streets, where every corner seems to whisper a story, to standing on the rugged cliffs of the Algarve, marveling at the raw power of the sea—this journey masterfully blends culture, relaxation, and pure adrenaline. As you continue planning your trip to Portugal be sure to check out our essential guide for Lisbon, some great Lisbon travel tips as well as the best tips for visiting the Algarve. Safe travels!
