3 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

That sounds like an incredible adventure! Portugal is a beautiful country with diverse landscapes, from lush mountains in the north to stunning beaches in the south. Since you’re looking for a 3-day itinerary that showcases nature, let’s dive right in!

## Day 1: Northern Portugal - The Douro Valley

Morning:

• Start in Porto: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try a pastel de nata (custard tart) with your coffee!
• Douro Valley: Rent a car or take a train to the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenic ride along the river is breathtaking!

Midday:

• Wine Tasting: Once you arrive, visit a vineyard for a wine tasting. Quinta do Crasto or Quinta da Pacheca are fantastic options. Enjoy the stunning views of terraced vineyards and the Douro River.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish) or a hearty francesinha.
• Explore Nature: After lunch, take a leisurely hike along the river or through the vineyards. The views are simply spectacular!

Evening:

• Dinner in Pinhão: Head to the charming village of Pinhão for dinner. Enjoy local cuisine at a riverside restaurant.
• Stay Overnight: Consider staying at a vineyard hotel for a unique experience, where you can soak in the beauty of the valley.

## Day 2: Central Portugal - Serra da Estrela

Morning:

• Drive to Serra da Estrela: After breakfast, make your way to Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest mountain range. The drive will take about 2-3 hours, so enjoy the scenic route!

Midday:

• Hiking: Once you arrive, head to the Torre, the highest point in mainland Portugal. There are several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The views from the top are worth the effort!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic or find a local eatery in the nearby village of Manteigas. Try some local cheese, like Queijo da Serra, which is delicious!
• Explore Glacial Valleys: Spend the afternoon exploring the glacial valleys and beautiful landscapes. Don’t miss the stunning Lagoa Comprida!

Evening:

• Dinner in Seia: Head to Seia for dinner. Enjoy traditional dishes like roasted lamb or grilled trout.
• Stay Overnight: Find a cozy guesthouse or a mountain lodge to rest and recharge for the next day.

## Day 3: Southern Portugal - Algarve Coast

Morning:

• Drive to the Algarve: After breakfast, set off for the Algarve region. It’s about a 4-hour drive, so enjoy the changing landscapes along the way!

Midday:

• Arrive in Lagos: Once you arrive, head straight to the stunning Ponta da Piedade. The dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters are a must-see!

Afternoon:

• Beach Time: Spend some time at one of the beautiful beaches, like Praia Dona Ana or Praia do Camilo. Relax, swim, or even try some water sports!
• Lunch: Grab a bite at a beachside café. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!

Evening:

• Sunset at the Cliffs: As the day winds down, find a spot along the cliffs to watch the sunset. It’s a magical experience!
• Dinner in Lagos: Enjoy your final dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like grilled sardines or cataplana (seafood stew).
• Stay Overnight: Consider staying in Lagos or nearby for a relaxing end to your trip.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that takes you from the lush Douro Valley to the majestic Serra da Estrela and finally to the stunning Algarve coast. Each day is packed with nature, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy your travels in Portugal! 🌍✨