Exploring The Cultural Wonders of Portugal In 5 Days

  • Day 1: Jerónimos Monastery
    20 minutes (7.9km) from Lisbon Airport

    The Jerónimos Monastery is a symbol of the Portuguese Age of Discovery and a World Heritage site. Its exquisite architecture is an example of the Manueline style, a unique Portuguese artistic style that combines maritime elements with Christian symbology.

  • Day 2: Sintra
    30 minutes (33.3km) from Lisbon

    Sintra is a charming town that's home to not one, but three stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit the colorful Pena Palace, the romantic Quinta da Regaleira estate, and the Castle of the Moors that overlooks the town.

  • Day 3: Évora
    1h 30m (136km) from Sintra

    Évora is a city that's full of myths and legends. This ancient Roman city is filled with well-preserved medieval architecture, such as the 17th-century Chapel of Bones which is decorated with the bones of thousands of exhumed bodies.

  • Day 4: Porto
    1h 10m (313km) from Évora

    Porto is a charming coastal city that boasts an impressive history, great food, and a culture that's steeped in tradition. Stroll on the Ribeira waterfront, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, visit the Livraria Lello bookshop, and sip on some port wine in the picturesque wine cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia.

  • Day 5: Belém Tower
    3h 30m (315km) from Porto

    The Belém Tower is another Manueline architectural masterpiece that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. A fortified tower set on the bank of the Tagus River, it was once used as a watchtower and a ceremonial gateway to Lisbon.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Jerónimos Monastery (2 hours, €12)
  • Sintra tour (4 hours, €20)
  • Évora Day Trip (8 hours, €80)
  • Porto Walking Tour (6 hours, €30)
  • Belém Tower (2 hours, €6)

  • Total Estimated Costs: €148

Transportation

Portugal has excellent public transportation, including trains that connect most major cities. Consider purchasing a Lisboa Card or a Porto Card for discounts on public transportation and attractions. Taxis and Uber are also widely available.

The estimated cost for transportation will vary depending on the mode of transport, but travelers should budget around €30-€50 per day.

Useful tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other parts of Portugal, such as the Algarve region for its beaches or the Douro Valley for its vineyards. If you have less time, skip Évora and head straight to Porto from Sintra.

Airports

The main airport in Portugal is Lisbon Airport (LIS), which is located 7.9 km from the city center. Other airports include Porto Airport (OPO) and Faro Airport (FAO).

0