10-Day Portugal Adventure

  • Day 1: Explore Lisbon's historic Alfama district with its winding streets and colorful buildings.
  • Day 2: Head to the famous Belém Tower and discover the Monument to the Discoveries before touring the captivating museums.
  • Day 3: Visit Sintra's stunning Palácio Nacional da Pena, a fairy-tale castle with panoramic views of the region.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of the seaside town of Cascais, and delight in its charming beaches, upscale shops, and restaurants.
  • Day 5: Venture off to the Douro Valley for a heavenly wine-tasting adventure in Porto, Portugal's renowned wine region.
  • Day 6: Explore the historic center of Porto, marvel at the iconic Ribeira district, and visit the world-famous port wine cellars.
  • Day 7: Head to Coimbra, known for its ancient university and historic landmarks such as the Biblioteca Joanina.
  • Day 8: Visit Óbidos, a picturesque medieval town wall-mounted designed with vibrant flowers, and then continue to Nazaré, Portugal's most famous surf spot.
  • Day 9: Take a day trip from Lisbon and discover the historic sites of Évora, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Day 10: Tour the city of Aveiro through its canals and find out where to appreciate the Art Nouveau buildings, then back to Lisbon for a final night filled with fado and Portuguese cuisine.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Lunch at Mercado da Ribeira (1 hour, $10)
  • Belém Tower Admission (2 hours, $10)
  • Sintra Day Trip (1 day, $30)
  • Cascais Guided Tour (1 day, $50)
  • Douro Valley Wine Tasting (1 day, $70)
  • Porto City Tour (1 day, $60)
  • Coimbra Guided Tour (1 day, $45)
  • Óbidos and Nazaré Day Trip (1 day, $40)
  • Évora Tour (1 day, $55)
  • Aveiro Tour (1 day, $35)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $405

Transportation

Travelers can use trains or buses to navigate Portugal efficiently. The ticket cost for trains ranges from $10-$30, depending on the distance traveled. Buses are typically less expensive and can cost as little as $5 for short trips. Car rentals are also an option, with prices starting at about $40 a day. Some cities, such as Lisbon and Porto, have excellent public transportation systems, including trams and subways, which are both convenient and inexpensive.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day trip to the Algarve for stunning beaches and coastal views. Alternatively, if you have a shorter stay, consider cutting out a day trip or shortening your stay in Porto, Coimbra, or Évora. It's also important to note that the wintertime can be rainy and cool in Portugal, while summers are hot and can be crowded. Travelers should plan accordingly, and be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as the country is full of flat cobblestones and hills.

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