Early flight from Manchester to Lisbon to maximise your first day; flight time ~2h40 so you’ll arrive mid-morning. Check flight times and book an early option to make the most of the day.
Grab coffee and a pastel de nata at a popular bakery — Manteigaria is central and opens early, perfect for a quick sweet start that the group will love.
Wander Alfama’s steep lanes and visit the Sé for a first taste of Lisbon’s historic atmosphere and skyline views; the neighbourhood is a great orientation for new arrivals.
A lively food hall with many stalls offering Portuguese and international choices — ideal for groups with diverse tastes; open roughly 10:00–00:00 daily.
Group-friendly modern Portuguese at Bairro do Avillez or traditional small-plates style at Taberna da Rua das Flores — reserve where possible as evenings fill up.
Sleep in or enjoy a slow breakfast at a neighbourhood pastelaria with coffee and pastries — perfect recovery time after travel; typical openings 7:00–11:00.
This day is intentionally free: rest, shop, explore a local neighbourhood or pre-book something spontaneous with friends — no fixed plan so the group can recharge.
If the group feels like fresh air, take the 40-minute train to Cascais for a seaside stroll; as an alternative visit a small museum in Chiado (e.g., MNAA)/MAAT if you prefer culture.
For a cultured evening, book a Fado restaurant in Alfama; shows typically start around 20:00–21:00 and combine music with dinner for a memorable group experience.
A UNESCO site and Manueline architectural masterpiece; opening usually 10:00–17:30 in winter — mornings are less crowded so arrive early to enjoy the cloisters.
MAAT usually opens 11:00–19:00 and offers modern exhibitions and architecture; the Coach Museum (Museu Nacional dos Coches) is another excellent option with 10:00–18:00 hours.
Ramiro is famous for seafood and is an iconic group dining spot (arrive early to avoid a long wait); Sea Me offers contemporary takes on seafood and sushi.
Catch the morning train from Rossio station to Sintra (approx 40–45 minutes); trains are frequent and early starts help you beat the crowds at the palaces.
Mystical gardens, initiation wells and ornate architecture — typically open 9:30–18:30; exploring the grounds is great fun with friends and photo opportunities.
Choose a second site: the romantic Monserrate or the atmospheric Castelo dos Mouros for sweeping views — entry times usually match other palaces (check seasonal hours).
Arrive at Campanhã/São Bento, transfer to central lodging and drop bags. São Bento is perfect for walking to main sights and has the famous tile station.
Visit the famous bookshop (prebook entry) and then climb Clerigos Tower for panoramic city views; Livraria Lello commonly opens 10:00–19:00 and Clerigos 9:00–19:00.
Admire the stunning azulejo tiles in São Bento and wander the nearby streets to feel Porto’s lively centre — the station is free to visit and great for photos.
Take a 50–90 minute river cruise to see Porto from the water; operators run trips typically between 10:00–18:00 depending on season — book in advance for groups.