Cultural Wonders of Portugal and Greece

  • Day 1: Lisbon, Portugal
    Estimated travel time: 30 minutes

    Begin your cultural immersion with a visit to the world-renowned 16th century Jerónimos Monastery. Afterwards, stroll through the Belém district to explore its cultural offerings such as the stunning Belém Tower and the extraordinary Museu Coleção Berardo.

  • Day 2: Sintra, Portugal
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour (via train)

    Take a break from the city and visit the charming town of Sintra. Admire the picturesque Pena Palace and the medieval Castle of the Moors, both notable UNESCO World Heritage sites. Round off the day with a walk around the stunning Quinta da Regaleira.

  • Day 3: Evora, Portugal
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour 30 min (via car)

    Head to the enchanting city of Evora where ancient Roman influences intermix with medieval architecture. Walk through the atmospheric old town and visit the extraordinary Chapel of Bones in the Church of St. Francis. Take a scenic drive to 'Esporão' Winery and enjoy some wine tastings and vineyard views.

  • Day 4: Athens, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 4 hours (via airplane)

    Take a flight to Athens and explore the city's rich history, with a visit to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Agora. Wander through the thriving streets of the ancient Plaka neighborhood and visit the charmingly hidden temple of Hephaestus before retiring for the night.

  • Day 5: Athens, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 10 minutes

    Start your day by visiting the new Acropolis Museum, showcasing a variety of impressive antiquities. Then head to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens to further encounter the country's rich history. Spend the evening experiencing Athens’ finest food at a local restaurant.

  • Day 6: Delphi, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 3 hours (via car)

    Visit the famous archaeological site of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ruins and stunning natural beauty. Explore the well-preserved Temple of Apollo, the Theatre, and the Stadium before taking in the scenic mountain views on the surrounding hiking trails.

  • Day 7: Santorini, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 5 hours (via ferry)

    Take a ferry to the island of Santorini and begin the day with a walk through the charming capital of Fira. Later, explore the picturesque village of Oia and catch a world-renowned sunset from its 15th-century castle.

  • Day 8: Santorini, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 30 minutes

    Start the day visiting the ancient city of Akrotiri, notable for its well-preserved buildings and artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Afterward, relax on the famous black sand beach at Perissa and swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

  • Day 9: Nafplio, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 4 hours (via car)

    Visit the historic city of Nafplio, known for its well-maintained Venetian architecture and picturesque seaside promenade. Walk through the charming old town and visit the Palamidi castle before experiencing traditional Greek cuisine at a local taverna.

  • Day 10: Mycenae, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 30 minutes

    Visit the ancient city of Mycenae, a significant Mycenaean civilization site with well-preserved ruins including the famous Lion's Gate. Afterwards, enjoy some free time in the city of Argos and try some traditional Greek pastries at a local bakery.

  • Day 11: Monemvasia, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 2 hours 30 min (via car)

    Visit the medieval fortified town of Monemvasia, built on an island in the Laconian Gulf. Walkthrough picturesque alleys and take a stroll through the old town, where you'll find historical churches, mansions and fresh seafood cuisine options.

  • Day 12: Athens, Greece
    Estimated travel time: 4 hours (via car)

    End the trip with an excellent meal from top-rated restaurants before heading back to Athens. Before leaving, visit the Panathenaic Stadium known as the location of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Jerónimos Monastery, Portugal (1-2 hours, €12)
  • Belém Tower, Portugal (1 hour, €6)
  • Museu Coleção Berardo, Portugal (2 hours, free)
  • Pena Palace, Portugal (2-3 hours, €14)
  • Castle of the Moors, Portugal (1.5-2 hours, €9.50)
  • Quinta da Regaleira, Portugal (1.5-2 hours, €8)
  • Acropolis, Greece (2-3 hours, €20)
  • Parthenon, Greece (1 hour, €10)
  • Agora, Greece (1-2 hours, €8)
  • New Acropolis Museum, Greece (1.5-2 hours, €10)
  • National Archaeological Museum of Athens, Greece (2-3 hours, €10)
  • Delphi site, Greece (2-3 hours, €12)
  • Akrotiri, Greece (1-2 hours, €6)
  • Palamidi castle, Greece (1-2 hours, €8)
  • Lion’s Gate in Mycenae, Greece (2 hours, €12)
  • Panathenaic Stadium, Greece (1-2 hours, €5)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €143.50 (per person)

Transportation

Transportation between locations varies based on mode of transportation. Public transport such as buses and trains are cost-efficient and reliable in urban areas. Car rental is recommended for more rural areas. Estimated transport expenses are €200 to €300 per person for the entire trip depending on transportation mode and itinerary.

Useful tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the ancient city of Olympia and the archaeological site of Knossos in Crete. If you have less time, consider skipping the island of Santorini and visiting Nafplio or Monemvasia instead.

Airports

Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) is the largest international airport in Portugal, located within 3.5 miles from the city center. The Athens International Airport (ATH) is located 12 miles northeast of Athens city center. The best way to reach the city from the airport is by taking the metro (€8 for one-way ticket) or taxi (€38-€54).

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