Portugal 3 Day Itinerary

Title: 3-Day Itinerary for Exploring Portugal

Day 1: Lisbon

Places to Go

  1. Lisbon Downtown (Baixa): Start your day exploring the historic Baixa neighborhood, famous for its neoclassical architecture, elegant squares, and the beautiful Rossio Square. Don’t forget to visit the famous Trinity Square (Praca da Trindade) and the Lisbon Cathedral (Se Cathedral).

  2. Alfama District: Discover the oldest district of Lisbon with its narrow cobblestone streets and charming Fado houses. Visit the Saint Anthony’s Church and the Moorish Sao Jorge Castle for a panoramic view of the city.

  3. Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) & Jeronimos Monastery: These UNESCO World Heritage sites are must-visit landmarks in Lisbon, known for their architectural beauty and historical significance.

Activities

  1. Tram 28 Tour: Hop on the vintage Tram 28 to explore the city’s various districts with ease.

  2. Visit Timeout Market: This food market offers a variety of Portuguese cuisine from some of the best chefs in Lisbon.

Things to Know

  1. Portugal uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
  2. The primary language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  3. The local time is GMT +0.
  4. Lisbon’s summer can be quite warm, so pack light clothing and sunscreen.

Transportation

Lisbon has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, metros, and a funicular railway. Consider getting the Lisboa Card for unlimited travel and entrance to several museums and attractions.

Day 2: Sintra & Cascais

Places to Go

  1. Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena): A colorful hilltop palace in the Sintra Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  2. Quinta da Regaleira: Another enchanting estate in Sintra featuring an initiation well, grottoes, and mysterious symbols.

  3. Cascais: After exploring Sintra, head to this charming coastal town known for its sandy beaches, cobbled streets, and bustling seafront promenade.

Activities

  1. Visit the Boca do Inferno: A scenic cliffside viewpoint overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

  2. Surfing in Cascais: Rent a board and try your hand at surfing or simply enjoy watching the professionals ride the waves.

Things to Know

  1. These locations are a short train ride away from Lisbon, making them perfect day trips.
  2. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.

Day 3: Porto

Places to Go

  1. Ribeira District: The historic heart of Porto, filled with narrow streets, colorful houses, and the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.

  2. Church of São Francisco: A stunning Gothic church known for its intricate wood carvings and gold decorations.

  3. Porto Cathedral (Se do Porto): Visit this Romanesque-Gothic cathedral offering breathtaking views over the city.

  4. Crystal Palace Gardens (Jardim do Crystal): A beautiful park with an impressive gazebo and stunning panoramic views of the Douro River.

Activities

  1. Visit a Port Wine Cellar: Sample different varieties of Port wine at Taylor’s, Sandeman, or Graham’s cellars.

  2. Douro River Cruise: Take a boat tour along the Douro River to admire the beautiful cityscape and six bridges of Porto.

Things to Know

  1. Porto is approximately 3 hours by train from Lisbon, or you can fly directly into Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
  2. The best time to visit a port wine cellar is during the afternoon.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days in Schengen Area countries like Portugal. However, it’s essential to check your country’s specific requirements before planning your trip.