6-Day Adventure and Culture Immersion in Spain & Portugal on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrive & Explore

Madrid, Spain

9:00AM

Breakfast at Chocolatería San Ginés

Savor traditional churros and hot chocolate at this iconic eatery that has been delighting locals and tourists since 1894.
Located centrally, easily accessible by metro or walking.
EUR5, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Royal Palace

Exploring the opulence of the Royal Palace, you can admire its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Take the Metro to Opera, it’s a short 10-minute walk from the station.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado de San Miguel

Try various Spanish tapas at this bustling market, where you can taste everything from fresh seafood to jamón ibérico.
Easy walk from the Royal Palace.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk through Retiro Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Madrid's central park, featuring beautiful sculptures, a lake, and lush gardens perfect for relaxation.
Head east, approximately 20 minutes on foot.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore the Prado Museum

Dive into Spain's rich artistic legacy with masterpieces from El Greco to Goya at this world-renowned museum.
Take the Metro to Banco de España, then walk 10 minutes.
EUR15 (Free entry later during the week after certain hours), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at El Tigre

Enjoy generous portions of tapas and a drink at this lively restaurant loved by locals, great for grabbing a bite on a budget.
Located in the Chueca neighborhood, about a 15-minute walk.
EUR10, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Toledo

Toledo, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café del Fin

Start your day with a classic Spanish breakfast of tostada with tomato and coffee at a local favorite.
Catch a morning Renfe train to Toledo from Madrid, which takes about 30 minutes.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Toledo’s Historic Center

Wander through the medieval streets of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with ancient architecture and cultural treasures.
Walking tour around the city on foot, the center is compact.
EUR0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Hombre Pez

Taste traditional Castilian dishes in a charming restaurant that is renowned for its rustic atmosphere.
Just a short stroll from the plaza.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Toledo Cathedral

Marvel at one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Spain with mesmerizing artwork and stunning interiors.
A 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Alcázar of Toledo

Check out this impressive stone fortification that houses the Army Museum, offering panoramic views of the city.
A short walk from the cathedral.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Taberna El Botero

Relax with regional dishes like grilled meats in an inviting setting that promises a delightful dining experience.
Head back to the historic center, about a 10-minute walk.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Vibrant Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém

Start your Lisbon adventure at the birthplace of the famous custard tart, trying a fresh pastéis with a coffee.
Travel from Toledo back to Madrid by train, then take a flight or train to Lisbon.
EUR8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Belém Tower

Admire this iconic medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting Portugal's maritime heritage.
Take Tram 15 from the city center to Belém.
EUR6, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Jerónimos Monastery

Wander through this stunning example of Manueline architecture, a celebration of Portugal's Age of Discovery.
A short walk from Belém Tower.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Time Out Market

Experience a food lover's paradise with diverse culinary options, showcasing the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Take Tram 15 back towards Cais do Sodré.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ride Tram 28

Hop on the famous tram for a scenic tour of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods including Alfama and Graça.
Catch the tram at Martim Moniz stop.
EUR3, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Tascardoso

End your day with dishes rich in flavors of the Portuguese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Head to Bairro Alto, about a 15-minute walk from Rua da Graça.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Mystical Sintra

Sintra, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Saudade

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Sintra, featuring local pastries and fresh coffee.
Take the train from Rossio Station in Lisbon to Sintra; journey takes around 40 minutes.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Pena Palace

Explore this colorful, fairy-tale castle perched high on a hill, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Take Bus 434 from the train station to the palace entrance.
EUR14, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through Sintra’s Historic Center

Visit local shops and stop for a coffee, taking in the charming atmosphere of this quaint town.
Walk back into Sintra town center.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cantinho Gourmet

Savor delicious Portuguese sandwiches and other local dishes, perfect for hungry travelers.
Located near the town center, easily accessible on foot.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Quinta da Regaleira

Explore the enchanting gardens and initiatic well, a stunning blend of architecture and nature.
About a 20-minute walk from the lunch spot.
EUR10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tascas do Chico

Unwind with traditional Portuguese dishes while enjoying live music in a cozy tavern atmosphere.
Return to the historic center of Sintra, about a 25-minute walk.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Porto

Porto, Portugal

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Majestic

Begin your day at this historic café known for its stunning décor and traditional Portuguese breakfast.
Travel back to Lisbon and then take a train to Porto.
EUR12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Livraria Lello

Explore one of the world's most beautiful bookstores, which inspired J.K. Rowling in writing Harry Potter.
Located in the center of Porto, within walking distance from the café.
EUR5, 1 hour

11:30AM

Stroll by the Ribeira

Enjoy a riverside walk along the Douro River, taking in the colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere.
Just a short walk away from Livraria Lello.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado do Bolhão

Savor fresh local food options from various stalls, with plenty of casual eateries nearby.
About a 15-minute walk from Ribeira.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Clérigos Tower

Climb to the top for breathtaking views of Porto and explore the stunning church below.
A 20-minute walk from Mercado do Bolhão.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cantinho do Avillez

Enjoy contemporary Portuguese cuisine from one of Portugal’s acclaimed chefs in a chic setting.
Located nearby in the heart of Porto, about a 15-minute walk.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Return to Madrid

Madrid, Spain

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Oriente

Indulge in a delightful breakfast with views of the Royal Palace, setting a perfect end to your adventure.
Take an early train from Porto to Lisbon, then fly or catch a train to Madrid.
EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute Shopping in Gran Via

Explore Madrid's vibrant shopping scene along Gran Via to find souvenirs before your departure.
Take the Metro to Gran Via station.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Casa de las Tortillas

Enjoy a hearty tortilla Española, a simple yet delightful dish perfect to recharge your energy.
Located near Gran Via, within walking distance.
EUR8, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Reina Sofia Museum

Stop by to enjoy modern Spanish art, including Picasso's Guernica, in one of the most important museums in the world.
Walk about 15 minutes from the lunch spot.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Plaza Mayor

Wrap up your trip by soaking in the atmosphere of this grand square, people-watching, and enjoying some gelato.
Just a short walk from Reina Sofia.
EUR5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Casa Lucio

Enjoy your last meal in Spain with a traditional Spanish omelette and more at this beloved local spot.
A 15-minute walk from Plaza Mayor.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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