Portugal Trip Planning Hack: Start in Paris or Barcelona

If you’re planning a Portugal trip, here’s a smart hack to make your trip easier and more exciting. With limited nonstop flights to Portugal, skip the hassle of long layovers or drives by starting with a bonus destination!

Here is the gist: Use the easiest travel resources and fly nonstop into a nearby European city like Paris or Barcelona for a fun stopover, then hop on a quick regional flight to Faro—the gateway to the Algarve’s stunning beaches. From there, it’s an easy drive to Lisbon or Porto, where you can fly back to the US from cities with the best air connectivity in Portugal. This plan takes the stress out of International travel, and we’ll break it down into four simple steps.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like tour links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and end up booking. That said, we would never recommend something we don’t stand behind 100%. 

Step-by-Step: Portugal Trip Planning from the US

Step 1: Fly Overnight from the US to France or Spain

Catch an overnight flight from the U.S. to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN). This is the most efficient way to start your journey, as both airports offer frequent nonstops to Portugal. Once you arrive, congratulations—you’re in Europe with a bonus city on your itinerary! Whether you opt for a single night or extend it to two, you’re perfectly positioned to explore a little before heading to Portugal.

Related: 10 Easy-to-Find Instagrammable Restaurants in Paris, Effortless Guide to 2 Days in Paris

Step 2: Hop on a Regional Flight to the Algarve, Portugal

From Paris Orly (ORY) or Barcelona El Prat (BCN), take a short regional flight to Faro Airport (FAO), the gateway to the Algarve. If you haven’t heard of the Algarve yet, you’re in for a treat—this southern gem is loved for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, charming towns, and delicious food.

See what TripAdvisor says about travel to the Algarve! You’ll be sold.

Once you land, pick up a rental car and head out to explore. Popular towns include:

• Tavira: Known for its historic charm and peaceful vibe.
• Albufeira: Famous for its whitewashed buildings, vibrant marina, and family-friendly beaches.
• Lagos: A lively spot with stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. We stayed here with our family.
• Carvoeiro: Perfect for seaside relaxation and coastal hikes.
• Sagres: Nicknamed the “end of the world,” it’s ideal for dramatic views and laid-back charm.

With its natural beauty, seaside adventures, and relaxed pace, the Algarve is a dream destination to unwind for a few nights (or more).

Related: Algarve’s Must See Caves: Benagil Caves vs Ponta da Piedade, Guide to Benagil Caves, Guide to Ponta da Piedade

Step 3: Drive from the Algarve up the coast to Lisbon or Porto

Your road trip from the Algarve to Lisbon (or Porto) is a scenic adventure with diverse stops that showcase Portugal’s natural beauty and culture. This part of the journey is perfect for taking your time, exploring coastal gems, or detouring to historical inland sites.

If you prefer a coastal route, here’s what to include:

• Castle of Aljezur: A hilltop medieval castle built in the Bronze Age offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Very unknown, it’s just a quick pass-by and stretch your legs stop. Free to visit.
• Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentajano e Costa Vicentinan: This national park is a treasure for nature lovers, with dramatic cliffs and serene beaches. It’s worth a stop! Park near here.
• Vila Nova de Milfontes: A charming coastal town perfect for a lunch break or stroll along the river.
• Porto Covo: Known for its idyllic beaches and quiet fishing village vibe, it’s a lovely spot for a short stop if you haven’t already stopped in Vila Nova de Milfontes.

If you want history and culture, take the inland route through Évora:

• Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history, from its Roman temple to the Cathedral of Évora.

The coastal drive offers scenic views and opportunities for hiking, while the inland route through Évora takes you deeper into Portugal’s historical heart. Either way, the drive from the Algarve to Lisbon takes around 3 hours, and continuing to Porto takes another 3 hours. Once you arrive in either large city, return your car and rely on public transportation for the rest of your trip.

Step 4: Fly back to the US from Lisbon or Porto

Wrap up your adventure in Lisbon or Porto, depending on your preference and flight schedules back to your home airport. Lisbon Airport (LIS) is the most connected to U.S. cities, making it the easiest option for many travelers. It is also South or Porto, and therefore less of a drive from the Algarve region of Portugal. However, if Porto (OPO) works better, you’ll be treated to a charming final stop. Each city creates the opportunity for unforgettable day trips if you ever want to leave the cities themselves.

• From Lisbon: Take a day trip to Sintra, a fairytale destination known for its vibrant palaces, castles, and gardens. The Pena Palace, Moorish Castle, and Quinta da Regaleira are must-sees. Get tickets in advance.
• From Porto: Indulge in a Douro Valley wine escape, with scenic river views, vineyards, and wine tastings that capture the essence of Portugal’s wine culture. Of course, including port! Book this small group tour or this bus tour for visits to multiple wineries and a boat cruise — pickups in Porto.

Whether you choose castles or wine, you’ll close your trip with unforgettable memories before boarding your flight home.

Need a cell phone data plan while abroad? See how an eSIM for travel is an easy option.

Tips: Portugal Trip Planning Back to the US

Your final flight home will likely include a layover unless you’re heading to one of the few U.S. cities with nonstop service. While this part of the trip may not have the most convenient itinerary, remember that steps 1 and 2 of this guide were designed to make the first leg of your journey easier by flying into a country with excellent air service to Portugal’s South region.

It’s about picking the best flight option to wrap up your trip. Lisbon Airport (LIS) is the most connected for U.S. flights, while Porto (OPO) offers a quieter, more intimate departure experience. Choose the airport that aligns with your schedule, and enjoy the flexibility.

Nonstop flights from the U.S. to/from Lisbon (LIS)

• East Coast: New York (JFK), Boston (BOS)
• Midwest: Chicago (ORD)
• West Coast: San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX)

Nonstop flights from the U.S. to/from Porto (OPO)

• East Coast: New York (JFK)

The airlines flying these routes include TAP Air Portugal, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and JetBlue Airways. Flight schedules can change regularly, so check booking tools like Expedia, Google Flights, or Skyscanner for the latest flight options and schedules. This will help you find the best connections for this final leg.

Visit our travel insider resources if you want easy and effortless travel overall.

Ready to Dive Deeper?
Now that you have the basics of our travel hack, let’s dig into the details to make the most of this trip. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about timing, transportation, and maximizing each stop.

Q&A: Portugal Trip Planning from the US

Q: What’s the best time of year to travel to Portugal for this itinerary?
A: The ideal months for Algarve tourism are May through September. The weather is warm and perfect for beach days, with July and August being the hottest and busiest months, ideal for those looking for a lively atmosphere. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, late spring (May/June) or early fall (September) are also great choices.

Q: Is it better to have a layover in Paris or Barcelona?
A: Both Paris and Barcelona make excellent stopovers, but it depends on your preference. Paris is ideal if you want iconic sights, like the Eiffel Tower, and a bit of French charm; Barcelona offers a vibrant mix of city vibes and the unique architecture of Gaudí. If you have limited time, choose the city with direct connections that best fit your flight schedule.

For inspiration, check out our 2 Days in Paris guide to make the most of a Paris stopover.

Q: How long do I need for this itinerary?
A: To fully enjoy this itinerary, plan on at least 8-10 days: 1-2 days for the layover city, 3-4 days in the Algarve, and 3-4 days for Lisbon and/or Porto. For a longer vacation, add more time in each city to explore at a slower pace.

Q: Which regional airlines fly from Paris or Barcelona to Faro?
A: Several budget-friendly airlines, including Ryanair, Vueling, and Transavia, offer direct flights to Faro. Book in advance to secure the best fares and convenient flight times.

Paris to Faro: Most direct flights from Paris to Faro leave from Orly Airport (ORY). Transavia and easyJet are common carriers for these routes, providing a direct, budget-friendly option for reaching Faro in a short 2.5-hour flight​. We flewTransavia and had a great experience.

Barcelona to Faro: For Barcelona, most flights to Faro leave from El Prat Airport (BCN). Airlines offering direct flights include Vueling and Ryanair.​

Q: Can I return my rental car to a different city without extra fees?
A: Most rental car companies in Portugal allow one-way rentals, meaning you can pick up in Faro and return in Lisbon or Porto. However, check with the rental company in advance, as some may charge an additional fee for this convenience.

Q: How should I travel between Lisbon and Porto?
A: You have two main options: train or car. We recommend you travel between these two cities by train. The train between Lisbon and Porto is affordable and scenic, and you’ll avoid city parking. If you’re exploring more rural areas or smaller towns, renting a car might be better, but remember to check drop-off fees if you’re not returning it to the same location.

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Q: Which towns in the Algarve should I visit?
A: From West to East, the major cities we recommend are Sagres, Lagos, Carvoeiro, Albufeira, Faro (airport location), and Tavira. If you stay anywhere along this path, you can go on a day trip to the other cities! Make sure to visit Tavira for its historic charm, Lagos for beautiful beaches and nightlife, Carvoeiro for cliffside views, Sagres, often called the “end of the world,” for its dramatic coastline and laid-back vibe, and Albufeira, known for its vibrant atmosphere, lively marina, and family-friendly beaches.

Q: Is it worth adding an overnight in Paris or Barcelona?
A: Absolutely! A night in either city allows you to enjoy the culture and a mini-adventure before heading to Portugal. Paris has iconic sights within easy reach of the airport, and Barcelona offers a taste of Catalonian culture. Use our 2 Days in Paris guide for easy tips on making the most of your layover!

Summary: Secret to Portugal Trip Planning From the US

Maximize your Portugal vacation with this easy itinerary hack: fly direct to a nearby European city (like Paris or Barcelona) for a mini-stopover, then take a short flight straight into the Algarve. Spend time exploring the southern beaches before driving up the coast to Lisbon or Porto, then fly back home. This itinerary saves you layovers and ensures you hit Portugal’s best spots—from charming coastal towns to iconic city sights—with minimal travel stress.

Happy, breezy travels.

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