6 Days in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve Itinerary

6 Days in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve Itinerary

Yes, you can visit Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve in 6 days—it's tight but absolutely doable. A typical breakdown: 2 days in Lisbon, 2 days in Porto, and 2 days in the Algarve. The Algarve, often overlooked in favor of typical beach tourism, is actually a world-class diving destination. If you're open to trying diving, a discovery dive or intro course (1–2 days) fits perfectly into your timeline and would be the real highlight of your trip. Portugal's Algarve coast has underwater caves, stunning reefs, and visibility that often reaches 20–25 meters in spring. Here's how to make it work.

Is the Algarve Worth It for 6 Days?

Yes, absolutely—but only if you know what you're going for. The Algarve is NOT a "do it all" destination. It's a specialist region: caves and diving in the west, fishing villages and quieter beaches in the east, tourist beaches in the center (skip these). Most travelers come to the Algarve for 2–3 days and regret not staying longer. Your 6-day window is perfect because you can see Lisbon and Porto's city culture AND get underwater in the Algarve, which is where the region's real strength lies.

The west coast (around Lagos, Carvoeiro, Sagres) has dramatic cliffs, underwater arches, and consistently good diving conditions March–October. Water temperature in April is around 15–16°C (59–61°F), which is cold but manageable with a proper wetsuit. Visibility averages 12–18 meters in spring, with excellent days hitting 25+. That's genuinely excellent for an April trip.

How to Structure Your Days

Lisbon (days 1–2): Full day walking Belém, the Alfama, and Time Out Market. One evening exploring Príncipe Real. This gives you Lisbon's character without rushing.

Porto (days 3–4): Ribeira district, the famous bookstore Livraria Lello, and explore by foot. If wine interests you, a day trip to the Douro Valley is doable but cuts into Porto time—skip it on a 6-day trip.

Algarve (days 5–6): Base yourself in Lagos or Carvoeiro. If you're diving, book a discovery dive or intro course with a certified school—most run early morning (7–9 AM) so you can explore the town afterward. Use your second day for coastal walks at Ponta da Piedade or the fishing village vibe of Olhão. If diving doesn't interest you, focus on beaches and fresh seafood.