3 day itinerary for Portugal (including Lisbon, Madeira, Azores)

Itinerary

Portugal is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With your desire for a relaxed yet unique experience, I’ve crafted an itinerary that balances exploration with leisure. Since you want to include Lisbon, Madeira, and the Azores, we’ll focus on a blend of these beautiful locations. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary for you and your partner:

## Day 1: Lisbon – The Heart of Portugal

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém: Start your day with the iconic custard tarts at this famous bakery. The flaky pastry and creamy filling are a must-try!
• Explore Belém: After breakfast, stroll along the riverfront to see the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower. The architecture is stunning, and the history is rich!

Afternoon:

• Alfama District: Head to the charming Alfama district. Wander through the narrow streets, and don’t miss the stunning views from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
• Lunch at a Local Tasca: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Portuguese restaurant. Try some bacalhau à brás (codfish) or a hearty caldo verde (green soup).

Evening:

• Fado Experience: In the evening, immerse yourselves in the soulful sounds of Fado music. Book a table at a Fado house in Alfama for dinner, where you can enjoy authentic Portuguese cuisine while listening to this beautiful genre.

## Day 2: Madeira – A Slice of Paradise

Morning:

• Fly to Madeira: Take an early flight to Madeira (about 1.5 hours). Once you arrive, grab a quick breakfast at a local café.
• Explore Funchal: Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market where you can sample local fruits, cheeses, and even the famous Madeira wine.

Afternoon:

• Levada Walk: Experience the unique levadas (irrigation channels) of Madeira. A popular and relatively easy walk is the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, which offers breathtaking views of lush landscapes and waterfalls. Pack a picnic to enjoy along the way!

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: Head to a restaurant with a view of the ocean, like Restaurante do Forte. Savor fresh seafood and local specialties while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

## Day 3: Azores – Nature’s Wonderland

Morning:

• Fly to São Miguel, Azores: Take an early flight to São Miguel (about 2 hours). Grab a quick breakfast at the airport or on the plane.
• Sete Cidades: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Sete Cidades crater lakes. The views from the Vista do Rei viewpoint are simply breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Hot Springs at Furnas: Head to Furnas, where you can relax in natural hot springs. Visit the Terra Nostra Park for a dip in the thermal pool surrounded by lush gardens. Don’t forget to try the local dish, cozido, which is cooked underground using volcanic heat!

Evening:

• Dinner in Ponta Delgada: Return to Ponta Delgada for dinner. Enjoy a romantic meal at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some Azorean cheese and fresh fish.
• Stroll Along the Marina: End your day with a leisurely stroll along the marina, soaking in the serene atmosphere and reflecting on your amazing trip.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Consider renting a car in Madeira and the Azores for flexibility in exploring the beautiful landscapes.
• Timing: Make sure to check flight schedules between Lisbon, Madeira, and the Azores to maximize your time.
• Relaxation: Don’t rush! Take time to enjoy each moment, whether it’s sipping coffee in a quaint café or watching the sunset.

This itinerary is designed to amaze you with Portugal’s diverse beauty while allowing for relaxation and unique experiences. Enjoy your romantic getaway! 🌍❤️✈️