Begin your first day in Portugal by exploring Lisbon, the country's vibrant capital city. Start off at the iconic Belem Tower, a historic monument that was built back in the 16th century. Next, head over to the Jeronimos Monastery to marvel at its beautiful architecture and learn about the history of Portugal. After lunch, visit the Alfama district and explore the narrow, winding streets of the medieval neighborhood. End the day at the Praça do Comércio, a beautiful plaza that offers stunning views of the Tagus River.
For your second day in Portugal, take a day trip to the beautiful town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning palaces and gardens. Start off by visiting the iconic Pena Palace, a colorful palace that is one of the best examples of Romanticism in the world. Next, visit the beautiful gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira, which are filled with hidden tunnels, grottoes, and fountains. End the day in the picturesque coastal town of Cascais, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy some of the best seafood in Portugal.
On your final day in Portugal, head up north to Porto, a beautiful city known for its wine, food, and stunning architecture. Start off by exploring the colorful Ribeira district, which offers beautiful views of the Douro River. Next, visit the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, a beautiful wrought-iron bridge that dates back to the 19th century. After lunch, head over to the historic district of Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can take a tour of one of the many port wine cellars that the city is famous for.
Most of your transportation in Portugal will be via public transportation, such as buses and trains, which are efficient and affordable. However, if you prefer more flexibility, you may want to consider renting a car. The cost of a car rental in Portugal is around €30-€50 per day. You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt in the larger cities. The cost of an Uber in Lisbon, for example, is around €5-€15 per trip.
If you have more time, consider spending an extra day in Lisbon to explore more of the city, or take a day trip to the beautiful beaches in the Algarve region. If you have less time, consider skipping Cascais and spending more time exploring Sintra. Also, keep in mind that many attractions in Portugal are closed on Mondays, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Lisbon Airport (LIS) is the main airport in Portugal and is located just 6 miles from the city center. Porto Airport (OPO) is located about 7.5 miles from the city center of Porto. Both airports are modern and have plenty of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and currency exchange services.