Discovering Portugal: A Three-Week Odyssey Through Lisbon's Charm, Porto's History, and the Coastal Beauty of Algarve

So, I went on this three-week trip to Portugal, and let me tell you, it was more like hanging out with an old buddy than a regular vacation. We're talking Lisbon, Sintra, Belem, Cascais, Azenhas do Mar, Figueira da Foz, Fatima, Porto, Braga, Douro, Lagos, Nazaré, Piodão, and Albufeira - a whirlwind of amazing places, good food, and friendly faces.

 

Week 1: Lisbon and Surroundings

Day 1-3: Lisbon

Lisbon is not your typical city; it's like that lively friend who knows all the cool spots. Wandering through Alfama, it felt like getting lost in a maze of history and cool vibes. 

• Explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Baixa.
• Visit iconic landmarks such as São Jorge Castle, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Lisbon Cathedral.
• Stroll along the waterfront at Terreiro do Paço.
• Enjoy the nightlife in Bairro Alto.

Day 4: Sintra

Sintra is like a fairytale land, seriously. Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira felt like I stepped into a storybook. Dinner at Cantinho Gourmet was like eating magic - local flavors that

• Day trip to Sintra to visit Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle.
• Explore the charming town center of Sintra.

Day 5: Belem and Cascais

Belem is all about history and sea vibes. The Jerónimos Monastery? Mind-blowing. And you haven't lived until you've tried a pastel de nata at Antiga Confeitaria de Belem. In Cascais, watching the sunset at Mar do Inferno was like the perfect ending to a chill coastal day.

• Visit Belem to see the Jerónimos Monastery, Belem Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries.
• Take a train to Cascais for a relaxing afternoon by the beach.

Day 6: Azenhas do Mar and Figueira da Foz

Azenhas do Mar is this tiny village hanging off cliffs. Azenhas do Mar Restaurant had me eating seafood with a view. Figueira da Foz’s O Pescador? Fresh seafood, good vibes - perfect combo.

• Explore the picturesque Azenhas do Mar.
• Drive to Figueira da Foz for a seaside experience.

Week 2: Central Portugal and Porto 5. Day 7: Fatima

Alright, Fatima is like the spiritual epicenter of Portugal. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and the Basilica - they're not just buildings; they're places that make you pause and feel something. Dinner at A Cave? It felt like a homely feast after a day of reflection.

• Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and the Basilica.

Day 8-10: Porto

Porto, my friends, is a whole different vibe. The Ribeira district is like a postcard come to life. Livraria Lello is book heaven, and the Clerigos Tower gives you the best view of the city. For a chill vibe, boat tour on the Douro River is a must. And don't skip the port wine tasting - I hit up Cantinho do Avillez for a mix of old-school and modern Portuguese eats.

• Explore the historic Ribeira district.
• Visit Livraria Lello, Clerigos Tower, and the Stock Exchange Palace.
• Take a boat tour on the Douro River.
• Visit a port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.

Day 11: Braga

Braga is like a hidden gem. Bom Jesus do Monte and the old town give you a taste of history. Dinner at Arcoense? Proper Portuguese comfort food.

• Explore Bom Jesus do Monte and the historic center of Braga.
• Visit the Braga Cathedral.

Day 12-14: Douro Valley

Now, Douro Valley is where the wine magic happens. Driving through those vineyards is like stepping into a dream. DOC, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a view of the Douro River, is like the grand finale of this leg of the trip.

• Drive through the stunning Douro Valley.
• Visit vineyards and enjoy wine tastings.
• Cruise along the Douro River.

Week 3: Southern Portugal 9. Day 15: Lagos

Lagos is like the cool cousin who knows all the best beaches. Ponta da Piedade is a jaw-dropper, and the old town is a maze of charm. Dinner at Adega da Marina - fresh seafood and beach vibes.

• Explore the beautiful beaches of Lagos.
• Visit Ponta da Piedade and the historic old town.

Day 16: Nazaré

Nazaré, with its big waves and even bigger views, is a surfer's paradise. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré adds a touch of history. For dinner, Taberna d'Adelia is a local spot with all the good stuff.

• Visit the beach and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré.
• Explore the picturesque village.

Day 17: Piodão

Piodão is like stepping into a postcard. The narrow streets and traditional houses are just straight-up picturesque. Dinner at A Taberna - rustic and cozy, serving up mountain vibes on a plate.

• Drive to Piodão, a charming mountain village.
• Explore its narrow streets and traditional houses.

Day 18-19: Albufeira

Albufeira is all about those sandy toes and beachy vibes. A Ruina in the Old Town is like seafood central - tasty and no frills.

Relax on the beaches of Albufeira.

• Explore the Algarve region.

Day 20-21: Return to Lisbon

Heading back to Lisbon feels like coming home. Adega Machado is the spot for Fado music and Portuguese comfort food, a perfect way to wrap up this epic three-week journey.

• Return to Lisbon for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Explore any remaining attractions or simply relax.