Portugal

Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Portugal that includes good food, outdoor adventures, mountains, and water:

Day 1: Lisbon and Sintra

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of Lisbon's many cafes. Then, head to Sintra, a picturesque town just outside of Lisbon. Here, you can explore the stunning Pena Palace, a colorful castle perched on a hilltop. Afterward, take a hike in the nearby Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding mountains. For lunch, try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (salt cod) or cozido (a hearty stew). In the afternoon, head back to Lisbon and take a stroll through the historic Alfama neighborhood, which is known for its narrow streets and colorful buildings. End your day with a dinner of fresh seafood at one of Lisbon's many seafood restaurants.

Day 2: Douro Valley

Today, head north to the Douro Valley, a region known for its stunning vineyards and scenic river. Start your day with a wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the area, where you can sample some of Portugal's famous port wine. Afterward, take a scenic boat ride down the Douro River, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. For lunch, try some of the local cuisine, such as roasted lamb or grilled sardines. In the afternoon, take a hike through the vineyards or go for a swim in the river. End your day with a dinner of traditional Portuguese dishes, such as arroz de pato (duck rice) or cozido à portuguesa (Portuguese stew).

Day 3: Algarve

On your final day in Portugal, head south to the Algarve, a region known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Start your day with a hike along the cliffs of the Rota Vicentina, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Afterward, head to one of the many beaches in the area, such as Praia da Rocha or Praia do Vau, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For lunch, try some of the local seafood, such as grilled octopus or fried sardines. In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the famous Benagil Cave, which is known for its stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters. End your day with a dinner of fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in the area.