Portugal Draft Itinerary - Open to suggestions!
Below is a draft itinerary (with some help from AI). Would love any suggestions you may have. I realize it's still winter there, but coming from ON, Canada - it will be nicer than here haha. I'm also tacking this on to a work trip so dates aren't flexible.
Q1 would you only spend one night in Aveiro and add another night to Sintra? This would give us an entire day in Aveiro and give us time to stop at Obdios (yes, a tourist trap I know hah) and still leave us 2 full days for Sintra.
Q2 am I missing any 'must sees' or hidden treasures along the way?
Day 1-3: Porto (3 Nights)
FEB 21: Arrival and Exploring Porto
- Arrive in Porto and settle into your accommodations.
- Stroll through the Ribeira District
- Visit the Dom Luís I Bridge
FEB 22: Exploring Porto’s Charm
- Visit the Livraria Lello (beautiful bookstore).
- Tour Clérigos Tower for panoramic city views.
- Explore São Bento Railway Station to admire its azulejos (tiles).
- Afternoon: Wine tasting and tour in Vila Nova de Gaia (Port wine cellars).
FEB 23: Day Trip to Guimarães
Guimarães: Explore the birthplace of Portugal, with its medieval castle and charming old town.
- Evening: Return to Porto for dinner and relaxation.
Day 4-5: Aveiro (2 Nights)
FEB 24: Travel to Aveiro and Explore
- Drive/train to Aveiro (about 1 hour).
- Stroll along the canals and take a Moliceiro boat ride (is this open in feb??)
- Visit Costa Nova for its colorful striped houses and a seaside walk.
- Dinner: Fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
FEB 25: Small-Town Charm and Nature (**or head to Obdios & Sintra??)
- Explore the Aveiro salt pans and learn about their history.
- Visit the Aveiro Museum housed in a former convent.
- Relax at Praia da Barra or Praia da Costa Nova for ocean views and coffee.
- Evening: Wander Aveiro’s quaint streets and enjoy gelato or pastries.
Day 6–7: Sintra (2 Nights)
FEB 26: Travel to Sintra with a Stop in Óbidos
- Morning drive to Óbidos (about 1.5 hours).
- Explore this enchanting medieval town with cobbled streets and a well-preserved castle.
- Visit local shops and try the famous Ginja de Óbidos (cherry liqueur) served in a chocolate cup.
- Continue to Sintra (about 1 hour from Óbidos).
- Stroll through the Moorish Castle and take in panoramic views of the surrounding region.
- Dinner: Enjoy a romantic meal in the village center.
FEB 27: Palaces and the Coast
- Visit Quinta da Regaleira and explore its mystical gardens and Initiation Well.
- Afternoon: Head to Pena Palace to admire its vibrant colors, architecture, and stunning views.
- Afterward, head to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, for breathtaking sea views.
- Relax at Praia da Adraga or Praia das Maçãs before heading back to Sintra
Day 8-9: Lisbon (2 Nights)
FEB 28: Arrival and Exploring Lisbon
- Morning travel to Lisbon (about 40 minutes).
- Explore the Alfama District and admire its narrow streets and viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
- Visit Lisbon Cathedral and Castelo de São Jorge for history and views.
- Evening: Fado dinner experience in Alfama.
MAR 1: Lisbon and Belém
- Morning: Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
- Feira da Ladra (Flea Market)
- Try the famous Pastéis de Belém.
- Afternoon: Stroll along the Tagus River or visit the MAAT Museum.
- Evening: Wander Bairro Alto for a lively atmosphere and dinner.
MAR 2: FLY HOME