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5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Portugal in October 2023

  1. Day 1: Lisbon
    10 minutes (3.2 km) from Lisbon Portela Airport

    In the morning, head to the historic district of Alfama to explore its narrow streets and charming alleys. In the afternoon, visit the São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city. At night, visit the vibrant Bairro Alto neighborhood for a taste of Lisbon's nightlife.

  2. Day 2: Sintra
    45 minutes (26.5 km) from Lisbon

    Visit the Pena Palace, famous for its colorful architecture and stunning gardens. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic center of Sintra and visit the Moorish Castle. End the day with a visit to the Quinta da Regaleira, a magical estate with stunning gardens, grottoes, and underground tunnels.

  3. Day 3: Porto
    2 hours 30 minutes (313 km) from Sintra

    In the morning, visit the Clérigos Tower and Church for panoramic views of Porto. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Ribeira neighborhood and visit the São Bento train station, famous for its stunning tilework. In the evening, head to the Majestic Café for a taste of Porto's coffee culture.

  4. Day 4: Coimbra
    1 hour 30 minutes (120 km) from Porto

    In the morning, visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Mondego River and visit the Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery. End the day with a visit to the Biblioteca Joanina, a stunning baroque library.

  5. Day 5: Albufeira
    2 hours 30 minutes (270 km) from Coimbra

    Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Albufeira. In the evening, head to the old town for a taste of traditional Portuguese cuisine at one of the many local restaurants.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to try Portugal's famous custard tarts, pastéis de nata, which can be found in most cafés and bakeries. If you have time, consider a day trip to the Douro Valley to visit some of Portugal's famous wineries.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Pena Palace (2-3 hours, €14)
  • Moorish Castle (2-3 hours, €8)
  • Quinta da Regaleira (2-3 hours, €10)
  • Clérigos Tower and Church (1-2 hours, €6)
  • São Bento train station (30 minutes, free)
  • Majestic Café (1-2 hours, €5)
  • University of Coimbra (2-3 hours, €15)
  • Santa Clara-a-Velha Monastery (1-2 hours, €6)
  • Biblioteca Joanina (1-2 hours, €10)
  • Beach Day in Albufeira (full day, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €74
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