Portugal is definitely having a second — or a decade — as a journey vacation spot darling. People are lastly realizing that between the structure, panorama, tradition, and meals, this nation deserves greater than a passing look or a fast metropolis journey. But if you end up planning your Portugal itinerary, it may be exhausting to determine what to squeeze in, particularly in case you solely have one week in Portugal and you might be visiting from the United States or exterior of Europe.
On my second journey to Portugal, I spent 17 nights traversing the nation, shifting from place to position nearly day-after-day. But that’s no option to spend a real trip. While it’s a small nation, in case you solely have 7 days in Portugal, you might be higher off simply visiting two (or max three) main cities or areas and saving the remaining for a return journey.
To assist make planning a visit to Portugal somewhat simpler, I’ve put collectively 4 completely different Portugal itinerary choices to select from. These make sense geographically and logistically, and I’ve tried to supply some steering that can assist you select between them to search out the suitable match for the kind of journey you might be searching for.
While that is geared for a one-week Portugal itinerary, you may combine and match to create a ten day Portugal itinerary or two-week journey to Portugal in case you have extra time.
These Portugal itineraries deal with the mainland and don’t embrace to the islands, since these actually deserve per week on their very own, however I do have some ideas for visiting the Azores and nice strategies on issues to do on São Miguel, the biggest of the 9 islands.
Before you begin planning your journey, you might also need to see my breakdown of how a lot a visit to Portugal prices to see how lengthy you may afford to remain. While Portugal remains to be extra inexpensive than some neighboring European nations, it’s not a pure finances vacation spot.
If you need some assist planning your Portugal journey and discovering distinctive actions and locations to remain, make sure you attain out to my accomplice EPIC Travel. EPIC is a bespoke journey firm specializing in luxurious journey in Morocco and Portugal. Its journey planners dwell within the nation and have shut relationships with boutique and luxurious resorts, tour guides, and winery homeowners. Nothing beats that native experience!
EPIC will seek the advice of with you after which create a customized Portugal itinerary, designed particularly in your pursuits. Just point out that you just examine them on We3Travel to obtain a free VIP welcome reward or improve on arrival. (As a accomplice I’ll obtain a small fee in case you e-book a visit via EPIC Travel however I’ve traveled with EPIC twice and may’t suggest them extremely sufficient!)
Portugal Itinerary Options:
I’ve put collectively 4 choices so as to decide the Portugal journey itinerary that’s most attention-grabbing to you in your one week in Portugal:
Portugal Itinerary #1: Lisbon, Douro, Porto
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One of the most well-liked selections for a one-week Portugal itinerary is to go to the capital metropolis of Lisbon, together with Porto and the Douro River Valley. This is a good alternative for {couples}, wine lovers, solo vacationers, and even households that take pleasure in a mixture of city exploration, historical past, and agritourism. I might suggest at the least three nights in Lisbon, two nights within the Douro, and two nights in Porto. Usually, with a one-week trip, you may squeeze in eight nights in case you use each weekends. If you might have eight nights, I might add an additional evening in Lisbon.
When to Go
While finest time for this journey is through the early fall, when the wine harvest is in full swing, it may be taken year-round. I might suggest making an attempt to keep away from the most well-liked summer season months and vacation/college breaks, because the cities can get extraordinarily crowded at these occasions.
Getting There
What I like about this itinerary is that it’s actually doable as a car-free trip if you’re keen to both do some practice journey or pay for a switch. While you may drive from Lisbon to Porto simply sufficient, you do NOT need to must drive (and particularly park) in both Lisbon or Porto. And, if you’ll be wine tasting whereas within the Douro Valley, it’s higher to take a wine tour or rent a driver there as nicely.
You can both fly into Lisbon and fly out of Porto, or the reverse. TAP Airlines is mostly going to have probably the most choices, with direct flights to Lisbon or Porto from various main USA cities together with Boston, New York (EWR), Washington D.C., Miami, Chicago, and San Francisco.
I might suggest going to the Douro Valley in between Lisbon and Porto, so you may break up your journey with somewhat downtime after fast-paced metropolis touring. You can both take a practice in between Lisbon and Porto (technically you may fly however that doesn’t appear value the time and effort concerned) or organize a switch. I usually search for drivers on GetYourInformation or use a service like MyDayJourney.com.
If you may’t get a direct flight into or out of Porto, you can at all times return to Lisbon or join via Lisbon. However, if you’re connecting within the US anyway, it ought to be straightforward so that you can go into one metropolis and out of the opposite.
Day 1: Lisbon
You can begin your journey in both Porto or Lisbon, however I like beginning in Lisbon as a result of there may be simply a lot to do right here that I wouldn’t need to put it aside till the tip if you end up getting drained. If you might be flying in from the United States, you’ll probably land early within the morning. A great way to beat jet lag in your first day is with a fast overview tour of town. You may join a free strolling tour, however since you may be drained, one of the simplest ways is both a sidecar tour or a tuk-tuk tour.
The tour will begin to get you acquainted with town, and you may establish among the finest locations that it would be best to return to later by yourself. Another choice could be to make use of the historic Tram 28 as a enjoyable option to see town, however these are inclined to get actually crowded so that you may need a tough time getting a spot on board. Plus you gained’t get the private consideration and historical past that you’ll get on a personal tour.
Just a few websites that you just need to be certain that to go to over the subsequent few days embrace the next. If you might have the vitality, stroll to a couple of those on the primary day and save the remaining for later. For extra particulars, make sure you try my 3 days in Lisbon itinerary.
Also, if you end up in crowded areas, make sure you be careful for pickpockets and preserve your valuables in theft-proof luggage or wallets. You may even want some correct strolling footwear for the hills and the slippery tile walkways.
- Rossio Square (black and white tiled sq.)
- Elevador da Glória (Funicular)
- Terraços do Carmo (overlook)
- Santa Justa Lift (elevator)
- Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara (overlook)
- Bairro Alto district (eating places & bars)
- Commerce Square (Praça do Comércio)
- Rua Augusta Arch (you should buy a ticket to climb this too)
- Se Cathedral Lisbon
- Miradouro das Portas do Sol (overlook)
- Miradour de Santa Luzia (overlook)
- Alfama district (oldest neighborhood with slim, winding streets)
- Miradouro de Nossa Senhora do Monte (overlook)
- São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge – Gothic structure fortress)
Where to remain in Lisbon
I’ve stayed in three completely different locations in Lisbon and every would attraction to a distinct kind of traveler. First, I might suggest staying in a central location, simply take into account that the historic heart is busy and could be fairly noisy at evening. The first was the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa, which is a luxurious lodge on the tree-lined Avenida da Liberdade. While it’s quiet simply on the outskirts of town heart, it is usually a brief strolling distance to get to the center of the motion. The rooms are spacious, the service top-notch, and there’s a beautiful rooftop bar and restaurant.
The subsequent place, Martinhal Lisbon Chiado, is ideal for households. These suites supply loads of house and all the things you would wish when touring with youngsters — from step stools within the toilet or kid-friendly utensils within the kitchen. See my full evaluation of household resorts in Portugal.
The final was Baixa House, which has a set of luxurious flats in an 18th-century constructing within the coronary heart of the historic metropolis heart. These are good for households, {couples}, or buddy teams that need to be centrally positioned, with self-catering choices and a classy “local living” really feel. Just take into account that this space can get noisy.
Day 2: Lisbon & Belem
On your second day in Lisbon, it would be best to hit the bottom early, as there may be a lot to discover! Start off with a visit out to Belem (you may take a tram or practice, however an Uber isn’t that rather more and cheaper in case you have a couple of individuals.) In Belem, there are a couple of main sights you don’t need to miss.
- Jerónimos Monastery — the road could be very lengthy so purchase your ticket prematurely and go early
- Belém Tower — you may see this fifteenth century tower from the skin, or, when it’s open purchase a ticket to climb as much as the roof terrace
- Monument to the Discoveries (Padrão dos Descobrimentos)
- Pastēis de Belēm — line as much as buy these well-known custard tarts, some declare these are the perfect
Once you might have seen these most important sights, in case you have extra time, it’s also possible to try the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology.) Also word that if you’ll go to fairly a couple of of those sights, chances are you’ll need to look into buying the Lisbon Card.
If you may squeeze all that into your morning, I might suggest heading over to Time Out Market in Lisbon for lunch. Stroll via this meals corridor and market and pattern small plates from a variety of distributors. You can also need to style the pastel de nata from Manteigaria and see which you want higher.
In the afternoon, take a while to get misplaced within the Alfama district. Try among the native Ginjinha cherry liqueur and take a look at the road artwork. If you might have time, pay a go to to the Fado Museum or the Museu Nacional do Azulejo (National Tile Museum.)
In the night, take a sundown sail on the Tagus River. You will sail from the docks and go beneath the 25 de Abril Bridge to Belem. On the return journey, you should have nice views of the Sanctuary of Christ the King statue, which is a smaller model of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. For a particular splurge, deal with your self to a personal crusing with Lisbon ByBoat.
At evening, ensure you soak up a fado present. There are many locations within the Alfama neighborhood well-known for this soulful track and guitar efficiency, however it’s also possible to e-book a reservation at O Faia (Rua Barroca 56) in Bairro Alto, simply be ready to pay the minimal cowl cost in your meal and drinks.
Day 3: Sintra
Located simply half-hour from Lisbon by practice, a day journey to Sintra is a should while you go to Lisbon! Sintra has been a summer season retreat for monarchs and right this moment Sintra is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set on a hilltop, it’s best to both take the practice into Sintra or rent a driver for the day as a result of parking on the town is loopy. If you are taking the practice, you may then take a bus to the assorted sights.
Just a few “must-see” stops in Sintra embrace:
- Peña Palace and Park — you may choose to go to both the Palace and the Park, or simply buy a ticket to the park. The Palace ticket will get you into the inside, to view the royal rooms. To be sincere, except you might have a specific curiosity in castles and palaces, you may be simply as nicely off simply visiting the Park and having fun with the panoramic views from the Palace grounds. Even the park entrance will get you into the bottom of the fortress. To go to the primary Palace space, you’ll need at the least an hour, extra if you’re going inside. But additionally, you will need to go away time to stroll via park, with its winding paths, pavilions and stone benches. Much of that is behind the palace and will take you half a day or extra to totally discover.
- Quinta da Regaleira — make your subsequent cease this residence and park that was constructed on the finish of the nineteenth century and blends romanticism and fantasy in a parklike paradise that youngsters will completely go loopy over. Plan on spending a half a day right here in case you can (there’s a cafe onsite.) The gardens are filled with secret tunnels and passageways, grottos and towers and the issues that make your creativeness come alive. One factor that may’t be missed is the Initiation Well (Poço Imperfeito) and Lago da Cascata.
- Palacio de Setais — is a five-minute stroll from Quinta da Regaleira and worthy of a cease. If for nothing else, you must get a photograph right here with a view throughout the valley beneath. However, it is usually a peaceable oasis for an expensive lunch on the Seteais Restaurant on the Tivoli Palacio de Setais.
- Castelo dos Mouros — climb alongside the traditional partitions of this Moorish fortress.
Day 4: Cascais or Quinta de Sant’Ana
If you might have time for a fourth day in Lisbon, I’d suggest both spending time exploring Lisbon or taking one other day journey. If you need to simply calm down, take pleasure in extra time strolling the small streets, historic websites, and boutiques in Lisbon. Otherwise, I’d suggest taking a meals tour with Devour Tours. If you need to be taught somewhat extra about Lisbon’s historic landmarks, take a strolling tour with Inside Lisbon.
However, that is additionally an excellent alternative for one more day journey. In heat climate, a preferred spot is Cascais. This seaside vacation city has a seaside, strolling or bike paths alongside the coast, and a captivating downtown with vacationer retailers, eating places, and bars. A enjoyable spot for sundowners is the rooftop at Cafe Galeria House of Wonders. You may additionally go to Praia das Maçãs (Apple Beach), one other common seaside, however it’s a little additional north than Cascais and places you a bit additional away from Lisbon.
If you favor one thing a bit extra culturally immersive, plan a go to to Quinta de Sant’Ana. This household wine property is a well-liked wedding ceremony venue, however additionally they supply particular experiences like wine tasting, winery excursions, Portuguese bread making, and even a flower arranging workshop utilizing clippings from the farm’s personal flower fields.
Day 5: Douro River Valley
The lengthy drive from Lisbon to the Douro River Valley in Northern Portugal takes about 4 hours. You can at all times break up your journey with stops in Nazaré, well-known for its browsing seaside, or Coimbra, a college city and one in all Portugal’s largest cities. However, I’d suggest making an attempt to drive proper via and revel in a stunning lunch overlooking the terraced vineyards of the Douro River Valley.
I’d suggest both DOC, from Chef Rui Paula, in Folgasa, or Cantina de Ventozelo in Ervedosa do Douro for lunch. Afterward, take pleasure in a scenic boat journey alongside the Douro River on one of many conventional boats that was used to move Port barrels downriver to Porto. An ideal spot for that is within the city of Pinhão.
Where to Stay in Douro
If you are taking the practice, Pinhão is an efficient spot to make your own home base. The Vintage House has a main location on the river, with a full-service restaurant, wine workshops, tennis courts, and a pool.
If you might be driving a rental automobile or have a driver, and you’ve got the finances, you may’t beat a keep on the Six Senses Douro Valley. This centrally-located luxurious lodge has loads of actions and facilities on the property in case you can calm down and revel in your keep. I’ve additionally written about different choices for the place to remain within the Douro Valley.
Day 6: Douro River Valley
Take a full day to benefit from the beautiful panorama and wineries of the Douro River Valley. Keep in thoughts that you just want appointments to go wine tasting on the Quintas. Navigating the slim roads alongside the river and up into the hills could be difficult if you end up sober, so it’s extremely really helpful that you just take a wine tour or rent a driver for a day tour.
We beloved our day exploring with Lab Portugal Tours. Our driver and information Miguel organized three tastings and lunch for us, giving us an opportunity to pattern all styles of Port and desk wine. At the tip of the day, you may take pleasure in some actions or leisure at your lodge.
Day 7: Porto
The drive from the Douro Valley to Porto takes about an hour and a half, leaving you loads of time to take pleasure in Porto. After you arrive, I’d suggest you head throughout the river to Gaia (Vila Nova de Gaia), which is definitely its personal metropolis but it surely feels loads like Budapest with Buda and Pest divided by the river.
In Gaia, it would be best to go to one of many Port homes for a tour and Port wine tastings, similar to Taylor’s, Churchill’s, Sandeman, or Calem. Right subsequent door to Taylor’s is the fabulous WOW (World of Wine) leisure district. WOW is residence to seven completely different museum experiences and twelve eating places in a single massive leisure advanced. One of those experiences is The Chocolate Story, which covers the historical past of chocolate and explains the main points of the cacao harvesting and chocolate-making course of. Here you may organize a Port and chocolate pairing workshop.
At WOW it’s also possible to go to the Pink Palace, which immerses guests on the planet of rosé wine or be taught extra about Porto historical past on the Porto Region Across the Ages museum. Plan to have dinner at one in all WOW’s many eating places, just like the Golden Catch Fish Restaurant or PIP, the family-friendly restaurant.
Where to Stay in Porto
If you need to be near the motion within the metropolis heart, chances are you’ll need to take a look at Gran Cruz House proper on the river, Canto de Luz within the heart of city, or the Myo Design House, which was owned and refurbished by an architect. Personally, I beloved our keep on the Vila Foz Hotel & Spa.
While Vila Foz is exterior of town heart, it has a stunning location throughout from the ocean and so they supply transportation to downtown (or you can hop on a tram.) This luxurious, boutique property presents top-notch visitor service, connoisseur eating, a soothing spa, and fashionable design rooms or extra conventional decor within the manor home. Read my full evaluation on Vila Foz.
Day 8: Porto
Take your final full day in Porto to discover. I’d suggest taking a guided strolling tour with Explore Sideways, however if you wish to do a self-guided tour, see my information to Porto. Some of the must-see sights embrace:
- Igreja de São Francisco (Church of St. Francisco) — well-known for its gold-dust inside and the crypts
- Igreja do Carmo — try the blue and white tiles on the facet of the church
- Clérigos Tower — the Clérgios church and its tower is among the most recognizable monuments in Porto. It was constructed between 1735 and 1748 in a baroque fashion. Today, you may go to the church (at no cost) and the tower (for a charge). For an excellent view of Porto, climb the 200+ steps of the tower and see its 49 bells.
- Livraria Lello bookstore — purchase tickets prematurely and skip the road. Harry Potter followers gained’t need to miss this fantastical bookstore. While it’s rumored to be J.Okay. Rowling’s inspiration for the dramatic staircases within the Harry Potter books and films, Rowling by no means really visited the store, regardless of residing in Porto for some time.
- São Bento practice station – step inside to see among the beautiful tile murals that inform the story of Porto
- Porto Cathedral — see wonderful views of town from this perch
- Ribeira Square and the waterfront
- Dom Luís I Bridge — connects downtown historic Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia and presents lovely views of town and up and down the Douro River
You could need to finish your day with a river cruise to see the six bridges that join Porto.
For dinner, ensure you pattern one in all Porto’s most well-known sandwiches, the francesinha. The Francesinha sandwich was created in Porto at A Regaleira and is a Portuguese tackle the French Croque monsieur. You will see it marketed throughout Porto, however A Regaleira serves up the unique.
Day 9: Fly Home
If you left on a Friday evening and stayed in Portugal from Saturday to Saturday, you may fly residence on Sunday and nonetheless solely take one week of paid break day in your trip. If you do have additional time, you can begin in Porto after which tack on a couple of days within the Algarve, Comporta, or Alentejo on the finish of your keep to create a 10-day Portugal itinerary.
Portugal Itinerary #2: Lisbon and Alentejo
If you might have by no means heard of the Alentejo area of Portugal, you aren’t alone. This under-the-radar vacation spot is the Tuscany of Portugal. Comprising one-third of the nation, this arid panorama of rolling hills, cork timber, and vineyards is the breadbasket of Portugal. You will discover remnants of Ancient Roman ruins, fortified medieval cities and castles, and huge wine estates.
With all of the wide-open areas, this can be a nice area for a Portugal highway journey that will attraction to historical past buffs, wine lovers, households, and adventurous vacationers seeking to join with the land, the individuals, and agriculture. Given the dimensions of the area, it may be tempting to divide your keep into two completely different locations. However, the place you keep relies on how a lot time you need to spend driving between lodging and what number of occasions you need to transfer in a brief one-week trip.
Personally, I might suggest spending three nights in Lisbon and 4 nights in Alentejo of the right period of time. I might decide a central location like Evora or Monsaraz and provides myself extra time to calm down on the property and take a few day journeys from there.
When to Go
The factor to bear in mind about Alentejo is that it’s dry and could be highly regarded in the summertime, with temperatures in extra of 100 levels Fahrenheit. If you need to do a Lisbon and Alentejo Portugal itinerary, it might be finest to plan it throughout May-June or September-October. April and November can are typically wet in Alentejo and a few properties shut or have extra restricted facilities within the winter. I visited in October and the climate was nonetheless heat sufficient to need to take pleasure in a day or two by the swimming pool.
How to Get There
Plan to fly out and in of Lisbon, as described above. Then, if you end up prepared to depart Lisbon, lease a automobile in your drive to Alentejo. While many actions could be loved on the property at lots of the resorts, you want a automobile if you wish to discover the countryside and the medieval cities. When touring in Europe, I normally use Auto Europe to search out the perfect charges and protection for rental automobiles.
Days 1-3: Lisbon
I might recommend beginning your journey in Lisbon so as to calm down and revel in your downtime after some busy metropolis exploration. Follow the instructed Lisbon itinerary from above.
Days 4: Evora
On the fourth day of your Portugal itinerary, I like to recommend heading east to Alentejo. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Lisbon to the favored metropolis of Evora. Evora has turn out to be a preferred day journey from Lisbon, however you may spend somewhat extra time if you’re really staying in Alentejo.
Just a few of the “must-see” sights in Evora are:
- Bone Chapel Of The Church Of St. Francis (Capela dos Ossos) — The Bone Chapel of Evora was constructed by a monk through the Sixteenth-century church with a purpose of encouraging individuals to mirror on the transitory nature of life. The chapel is constructed utilizing the bones of roughly 5,000 our bodies exhumed from town’s graveyards. Quite macabre, however a preferred attraction none-the-less.
- The Roman Temple of Diana — Built within the 2nd or third century, this temple remains to be in good situation, with 14 surviving columns topped by Corinthian capitals on a granite base.
- Evora Cathedral (Se) — there are a lot of church buildings to see in Evora, however in case you solely have time for one you must try the cathedral close to the Temple of Diana. The inside is extra spectacular of the skin, that includes an 18th-century excessive altar and polished marble chancel. The treasury homes many sacred artifacts, together with uncommon and priceless items fabricated from gold, silver, and different treasured metals.
- Aquaduct of Silver Water — accomplished in 1530 and designed by Francisco de Arruda (who designed the Tower of Belem), cease to see this spectacular aquaduct in your approach in or out of city.
After visiting Evora, proceed on to your lodging. I might suggest São Lourenço do Barrocal in case your finances permits, however I’ve visited 4 resorts in Alentejo and actually beloved all of them.
Where to Stay in Alentejo
- Torre de Palma — close to the village of Vaiamonte, the historic Torre de Palma Wine Hotel dates again 1338. Restored in 2014, the Torre de Palma presents a variety of distinctive and individually adorned rooms and suites. On property, you may calm down on the pool, stroll via the vineyards, or take pleasure in both a horse-drawn carriage trip or horseback using. Torre de Palma additionally has a powerful wine tasting room and winemaking operation, providing excursions, tastings, and wine mixing courses.
- Octant Hotel Evora — this lodge presents 56 rooms and 5 villas, all of which have an open-air balconies or terraces and the villas have a balcony and personal pool. Some rooms are even outfitted with family-friendly bunkbeds along with the double mattress.
- São Lourenço do Barrocal — São Lourenço do Barrocal has earned the Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Award for Top Hotel in Spain and Portugal for 2021 and it’s straightforward to see why. On property, company can take pleasure in property excursions, wine tasting, horseback using, birding, archeological visits, backyard visits, and family-friendly treasure hunts. In addition to stress-free on the spa or outside swimming pools, the lodge also can organize scorching air balloon rides, star gazing experiences with an astronomer, sky diving, boat excursions, and extra.
- Herdade da Malhadinha Nova — This Relais & Chateaux property is in contrast to different wine resorts in Portugal. Spread out between six uniquely completely different buildings on this 450-hectare wine property, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova blends into the magnificent panorama, providing authenticity with high-touch service and splendid environment. Daily actions can embrace: archery, quad bike rides, horseback using, fishing, operating and exercise courses, hikes, tennis, mountain biking, guided walks, wine tasting programs, cooking workshops, household treasure hunts, portray, jeep excursions, carriage rides, using classes, star gazing, pottery, canoeing, chicken watching, scorching air balloon rides, connoisseur picnics, and a lot extra.
See opinions of those wine resorts in Portugal and extra.
Day 5: Relaxation
After a busy few days, you’ll recognize the chance to calm down. Many of the resorts on this space supply a variety of on-site properties. I’d recommend beginning your keep off on a excessive word by pre-arranging a scorching air balloon trip over Alentejo. Granted, it makes for an early morning (not as unhealthy within the fall as it’s in the summertime), however the views could be spectacular. Just take into account that wind or climate situations may cause the tour to get canceled (that is what occurred to us however fortunately I’ve gone hot-air ballooning earlier than in Ronda, Spain, not too far-off.) That is why you need to plan this early in your keep so you might have an opportunity to reschedule if the climate improves.
After an early morning begin, it would be best to take pleasure in a leisurely breakfast and a few of that scrumptious Portuguese orange juice, honey, and pastries. This can also be an excellent day to take a seat by the pool, take pleasure in a conventional Alentejo picnic, or a soothing horseback or carriage trip.
End your day with a personalised wine tasting, vineyard tour, or wine pairing workshop earlier than having fun with among the connoisseur eating on the property.
Day 6: Redondo
An effective way to attach with the native tradition is to spend a day on a cork farm with Cork Trekking. You will take a 4×4 safari via the farm property and be taught extra about one in all Portugal’s hottest merchandise. You will see cork timber and learn the way cork is harvested. Cork is definitely a sort of oak tree and timber should be at the least 25 years outdated earlier than they’ll harvest cork (though some wait as much as 40 years). The bark is fastidiously shorn from the trunk and decrease limbs after which farmers wait at the least 9 to eleven years between harvests.
A cork trekking expedition will embrace a stroll via the timber, together with a 4×4 trip as much as a surprising viewpoint overlooking Alentejo. You also can embrace a picnic lunch and a wine tasting from the farm’s award-winning vineyard. This is really a novel expertise that you may’t do wherever else!
Finish your day with a late-night stargazing session. Your lodge can in all probability organize a personal stargazing session with an astronomer, but when that isn’t within the finances, all you really want to do is stroll exterior and on a transparent evening, you may see the Milky Way together with your naked eye. There are additionally two observatories close by, the Observatorio Dark Sky Alqueva and the Observatorio Lago Alqueva.
Day 7: Monsaraz & Estremoz
On your final full day in Alentejo, chances are you’ll need to take some extra time to discover. Start off with a hike to the close by Roman Ruins or Megoliths (if you’re staying at Torre de Palma or São Lourenço do Barrocal.)
Then got down to discover the close by walled small city of Monsaraz. This little village is completely enclosed inside fortress partitions and is residence to a well-preserved medieval fortress. Also make sure you cease within the city of Sao Pedro do Corval, which is understood for its pottery and residential to greater than 20 artisanal pottery workshops.
Next, I might suggest getting lunch in Estremoz and taking a while to discover this glowing white city, the place lots of the buildings are constructed utilizing locally-quarried marble. Only Carrara in Italy exports extra marble than Estremoz, and the quarries exterior of city have been in use since Roman occasions. When I visited, we had a really good lunch at Alecrim.
Day 8: Return residence
On your ultimate day, attempt to schedule a mid-day flight again residence, providing you with loads of time to get again from Alentejo, return your automobile, and nonetheless get to the airport in time. If you may take an additional day, you may both spend extra time at your lodge in Alentejo or break up your keep between two resorts, so you may have a while having fun with each properties.
Another choice is to come back again to Lisbon, however cease for the afternoon and spend the evening in Cascais. Alternatively, you can spend an additional day in Lisbon earlier than heading to Alentejo.
Portugal Itinerary #3: Lisbon and Algarve
The Algarve area is among the hottest locations to go to in Portugal. Located alongside the nation’s southern coast, this area is legendary for its coastal cities, beautiful cliffs, and sea caves. While many individuals may spend a full week within the Algarve, I might suggest spending three to 4 days in Lisbon after which three to 4 days within the Algarve.
When to Go
The Algarve is a well-liked vacation spot for Portuguese, British vacationers, and different vacationers, particularly in the summertime. In reality, for some, a trip to Portugal means per week or extra spent within the Algarve. So, if you wish to keep away from the crowds, it’s best to go within the shoulder season, from mid-April via June and September-October, though the Algarve can actually be beautiful year-round. Even within the winter, the Algarve coast sees temperatures from the mid-40s F to the 60s, however will probably be a bit rainier from November via February.
I visited in October and located the climate completely good with sunny days for climbing the cliffs and even heat sufficient that I used to be tempted to take a dip within the Atlantic Ocean.
Getting There
It takes about three hours by automobile to get from Lisbon to the Algarve. If you favor, you may take a practice in about 4 hours, however I might suggest having a automobile to discover the Algarve.
Days 1-4: Lisbon
Use the itinerary above for the start of your keep in Portugal with a house base in Lisbon. Since you may be visiting the coast for the remainder of your journey, I might skip the day journey to Cascais and spend extra time in Lisbon with a meals tour or historical past tour, go to extra of the museums, or plan an tour to Quinta de Sant’Ana or a day journey to Fatima, Nazare, or Óbidos the place you may stroll the partitions, go to the assorted church buildings, and discover the cobblestone streets.
Day 5: Sagres and LagoS
Make your approach down the coast, stopping in Sagres, the southernmost level of Portugal. Sagres is named a browsing vacation spot, but when that isn’t for you, make a cease to see the Fortaleza de Sagres (Sagres Fortress). This fortified sea wall and surrounding cliffs make a pure look-out level. Sagres’ distant location on a peninsula retains among the crowds away, so chances are you’ll need to try the golden sands of Praia da Mareta.
If you need to see the westernmost level of mainland Europe, Cabo São Vicente lies round 4 miles from Sagres. There isn’t a lot to see past the lighthouse, and the winds could be whipping, so don’t fear about lacking something in case you determine to skip it.
On your option to Lagos, make a cease within the former fishing village of Burgau. There are many scenic strolling paths round Burgau and you’ll benefit from the colourful homes on the town.
Next up, head to Lagos, one of many bigger cities within the Algarve, it nonetheless maintains a small-town really feel with a glowing clear historic heart and slim streets with tiled sidewalks which are lined with retailers and eating places. You could need to take time to discover the city and the traditional metropolis partitions, and recognize the influences of the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors who all invaded this area at one level in historical past. Another focal point is the Igreja de Santo António, often known as the golden church as a result of spectacular baroque gilt work on show that includes cherubs and animals customary out of Brazilian gold.
Where to Stay within the Algarve
If you need to profit from your keep within the Algarve, I might suggest avoiding among the very talked-about cities like Albufeira or Faro. You are higher off both staying barely off the coast or all the best way east or west within the Algarve. Personally, I beloved the cities of Lagos and Carvoeiro, and I do know Sagres is common with surfers and households. Just a few suggestions on the place to remain embrace:
- Morgado do Quintão — in case you favor a self-catering, genuine vineyard expertise, check out the Morgado do Quintão. While not on the scenic shoreline, this wine lodge is only a brief drive to the dramatic cliffs and seaside villages. This landmark winery presents a country, however idyllic farm keep expertise with three-bedroom cottages that includes a full farm kitchen and personal pool. Breakfast could be offered by the kitchen in the primary home as nicely.
- Casa Mae — positioned in Lagos, Casa Mae presents quick access to eating places, retailers, and historic sights in addition to the seashores and cliffs. The lodge contains a farm-to-table restaurant, pool, and modern however minimalist decor utilizing Portuguese traditions.
- Casa Modesta — positioned in Olhão, Casa Modesta is a household owned lodge that overlooks a pure park.
- Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort — each since staying within the Tivoli in Lisbon, I’ve been a fan of those luxurious resorts. If you might be searching for a bigger resort property with a main location and wonderful views, the Tivoli Carvoeiro delivers.
- Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort — nobody beats Martinhal with regards to family-friendly resorts and this sprawling advanced has one thing for everybody, making it one in all my picks for finest household resorts in Portugal.
Day 6: Lagos
If you might be staying in Lagos (and even if you’re not), I might suggest spending the day exploring the close by seashores and strolling paths alongside the cliffs. Praia da Batata is a good looking seaside with a small seaside bar. However, if you need one thing extra intimate, stroll over to Praia dos Estudantes. Set in a small cove, you may stroll via a rock tunnel for a quieter seaside with a view of the Roman bridge. Just control the tides!
One of the prettiest spots is Praia do Camilo. You might want to wind your approach down the 200+ wood stairs to get there, however it’s value it. Next, drive or bike right down to Ponta da Piedade. You can spend hours strolling the paths alongside the coast right here and simply sitting and taking within the gorgeous viewpoints. Do take the time to stroll down the steps to see the rock formations and cliffs from up shut. Just take into account that happening is loads simpler than coming again up.
See extra issues to do in Lagos in your journey!
Day 7: Explore Towns & Beaches
You may even need to take a day to discover extra of the cities and seashores alongside the coast. If you might be staying close to Sagres or Lagos, begin in Carvoeiro. Carvoeiro is a fishing village turned vacationer vacation spot, however whereas it has among the indicators of the tourism inflow from Irish Pubs to memento retailers, it nonetheless maintains its small-town allure. There are loads of eating places and bars (I had an excellent peri peri rooster at Don Carvoeiro) too if you wish to cease for lunch.
From Carvoeiro, you may stroll alongside the cliffs to see among the lovely rock formations, like Algar Seco, which is for its rock home windows. If you find yourself coming again via Carvoeiro, Restaurante Boneca Bar is a good spot to have a drink and dinner and benefit from the sundown. Also try Praia de Vale Covo, the place you may get an excellent view inside one of many Algarve’s cliff caves.
If you wish to go to some seashores, Praia da Marinha is usually praised as probably the most lovely seashores within the Algarve. Located between golden cliffs, you’ll want to stroll round a promontory of rock to get there so take note of the tides. Praia de Albandeira somewhat additional east is one other nice decide. The proper facet of the seaside presents a view of the Arco de Albandeira – a placing pure arch main from the cliffs into the ocean.
If you proceed east alongside the coast, you can see Praia da Coelha, one of many quieter seashores within the Algarve. Or, in case you favor to discover cities, cease at Olhão. This cute fishing city has a fairly waterfront, fishing harbor, and a maze of cobblestone streets to discover. This is extra of a working city than a vacationer city, so it’s the place to go if you wish to see an genuine Portuguese fishing village.
The city opens onto the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, made up of saltwater lagoons and guarded waterways which are residence to intensive chicken and marine life. You can discover this space by strolling paths, kayaks, or boat excursions that depart from the Olhão Harbor.
Don’t miss a go to to postcard-perfect Tavira. This is a white-washed village that’s typically cited as one of many prettiest cities in Portugal. Popular with vacationers and Portuguese alike, take a while to discover the Moorish influences within the metropolis heart and benefit from the colourful buildings and complicated tilework. You also can go to the Praia do Barril, which is a fairly seaside and residential to the “Anchor Cemetary.”
Day 8: Watersports
You shouldn’t go away the Algarve with out getting out onto the water. Of course probably the most common excursions is a ship tour to the Benagil Sea Cave, whose domed arch and pure skylight are Instagram well-known. Just take into account that that is extraordinarily common and may get very crowded. If you need to do it, it is likely to be value hiring a personal boat.
Otherwise, there are many different boat excursions alongside the coast. I believe an effective way to discover the nooks and crannies of the shoreline could be with a kayaking tour. If the water is calm, it’s also possible to take pleasure in stand-up paddleboarding. Families particularly would additionally take pleasure in both a dolphin-watching tour or a snorkeling tour in the summertime.
Day 9: Fly Home
It is feasible to fly from Faro, within the Algarve, to Lisbon to connect with your return flight residence. However, it would be best to verify the occasions to verify it could actually work. Otherwise, you want a really early morning drive as much as Lisbon or to in a single day in Lisbon earlier than your return residence.
Portugal Itinerary #4: Lisbon and Comporta
If you might be visiting Portugal in the summertime, it’s good to steadiness out a little bit of metropolis touring with downtime on the seaside to beat the warmth. If you don’t have plenty of time and need to spend extra time stress-free than exploring cities or driving lengthy distances, I might suggest pairing 4 days in Lisbon with three to 4 days in Comporta.
Comporta is a seaside and golf city only one and a half hours south of Lisbon which has just lately turn out to be common with celebrities (Madonna has had a home right here). The space is surrounded by rice fields, pine forests, and the beautiful coast. The finest seashores are extensive and lengthy, with comfortable sand and rolling dunes, so that you gained’t have to struggle for a spot in your seaside blanket, in contrast to among the smaller seashores within the Algarve.
When to Go
It is smart to decide on this itinerary if you’re visiting from May via October, however seaside lovers can recognize the fantastic thing about Comporta year-round.
Getting There
With its shut proximity to Lisbon, you may at all times organize a switch for a car-free trip, however then you might be reliant on lodge shuttles to get you to the seaside and again, as most aren’t positioned immediately on the seaside, and features for these can get lengthy. For probably the most flexibility, you must lease a automobile in your approach out of Lisbon on the airport after which drop it off earlier than you fly out.
Days 1-4: Lisbon
Follow the Lisbon itinerary from above for the primary three days of your keep. However, on the third day, I might suggest both taking extra time to discover town with a meals tour or different exercise or take pleasure in a day journey to Óbidos, Nazare, and Fatima. I might skip Cascais this time round since you may be spending the subsequent few days by the ocean.
Where to Stay in Comporta
The Sublime Comporta could be my decide for lodging for each {couples}, solo vacationers, and households. This eco-friendly property has a nature lodge really feel with the upscale facilities of a luxurious property. The commonplace rooms are a bit small, so I might splurge for a little bit of an improve, and households will love the multi-bedroom villa choices. On-site you may benefit from the pool, spa, eating places, and actions. A fast shuttle trip will get you to the seaside and the independently-operated Sublime Comporta Beach Club.
Just a word that if you’re different properties, watch out for these which are positioned near the rice fields, particularly in the summertime. Those wetlands entice mosquitos that would make your keep disagreeable except you might be closely doused in DEET every day.
Day 5-8: Comporta
The good factor about this itinerary is that it is rather laid again. If you need to spend the subsequent 4 days on the seaside — go for it! However, if you’re considering a couple of excursions, one to place in your record is a sundown horseback trip alongside the seaside.
You also can give paddleboarding, kayaking, and even kite browsing a attempt in Comporta. Sublime Comporta also can organize for wine tasting, picnics, dolphin excursions, chicken watching, tennis, golf, or personal yoga classes.
Day 9: Fly Home
Flying residence is simple as Comporta is simply an hour and a half or much less to the Lisbon airport, making it an excellent choice even in case you solely have 5 days in Portugal.
So there you might have it, 4 completely different one-week Portugal itineraries. Remember, if you need some assist planning your Portugal itinerary and discovering distinctive actions with out the headache and time suck of doing all of the analysis and planning, attain out to my accomplice EPIC Travel to see how they can assist (and don’t neglect to inform them you examine them on We3Travel!)
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