5 day itinerary for Portugal Westcoast

Itinerary

Portugal's west coast is a stunning blend of beautiful beaches, charming towns, and rich history. Here’s a delightful 5-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of this gorgeous region. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Lisbon – The Vibrant Capital

Morning:

• Start your day with a traditional Portuguese breakfast of pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at Pastéis de Belém. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
• After breakfast, head to the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Both are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are absolutely breathtaking.

Afternoon:

• Stroll through the Alfama district, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Get lost in its narrow streets, and don’t forget to visit the Lisbon Cathedral.
• Grab lunch at a local tasca (tavern) and try some bacalhau à brás (codfish dish).

Evening:

• Take a tram ride on the famous Tram 28 for a scenic tour of the city.
• For dinner, head to the Bairro Alto district. Enjoy some tapas and maybe catch a live Fado performance!

## Day 2: Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

Morning:

• Take an early train to Sintra (about 40 minutes from Lisbon). Start your day at the Pena Palace, a colorful and whimsical castle that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Moorish Castle for stunning views of the surrounding area. Then, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, known for its enchanting gardens and initiation well.
• Enjoy lunch at a café in the town center, trying the local specialty, travesseiros (puff pastry).

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon and have dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Tagus River. Try some grilled sardines, a local favorite!

## Day 3: Cascais & Estoril – Coastal Charm

Morning:

• Head to Cascais, a beautiful coastal town (about 30 minutes from Lisbon). Start your day with a walk along the Cascais Marina.
• Visit the Boca do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth) for some dramatic coastal views.

Afternoon:

• Spend some time at Praia da Rainha, a lovely beach perfect for sunbathing or a quick dip.
• Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood.

Evening:

• Stroll through the charming streets of Cascais, and then head to Estoril for a glamorous evening. Try your luck at the casino or enjoy a cocktail at a beach bar.

## Day 4: Ericeira – Surf and Relax

Morning:

• Drive or take a bus to Ericeira, a picturesque fishing village known for its surf culture (about 45 minutes from Lisbon).
• Start your day with a surf lesson if you’re feeling adventurous, or simply relax on the beach.

Afternoon:

• Explore the town’s quaint streets and grab lunch at a local seafood restaurant. Don’t miss trying the arroz de marisco (seafood rice).
• Visit the Foz do Lizandro beach for some stunning views and a laid-back vibe.

Evening:

• Enjoy a sunset walk along the cliffs, and then have dinner at a beachside restaurant. The fresh fish here is a must-try!

## Day 5: Óbidos & Nazaré – History and Waves

Morning:

• Head to Óbidos, a charming medieval town (about 1 hour from Ericeira). Walk along the castle walls and explore the cobbled streets filled with shops and cafés.
• Don’t forget to try the local cherry liqueur, ginjinha, served in a chocolate cup!

Afternoon:

• After exploring Óbidos, make your way to Nazaré (about 30 minutes away). This town is famous for its massive waves and surf culture.
• Have lunch at a local eatery and try the caldeirada (fish stew).

Evening:

• Spend some time at the beach, watching surfers tackle the waves. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the sunset over the Atlantic.
• For your final dinner, enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean, reflecting on your wonderful trip!

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for all the walking!
• Try to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases; the locals appreciate it!
• Don’t rush; take your time to soak in the beauty and culture of each place.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure along Portugal's west coast! Enjoy every moment! 🌊✨