3 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and three days is just enough to get a taste of its charm. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that balances culture, food, and stunning sights. I’ll assume you’re starting in Lisbon, as it’s a fantastic gateway to the country. Here we go!

## Day 1: Explore Lisbon

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém: Start your day with the iconic pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at this famous bakery. The flaky pastry and creamy filling are a must-try!
• Visit Belém Tower: After breakfast, stroll along the river to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Belém Tower. It’s a stunning example of Manueline architecture and offers great views of the Tagus River.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Alfama District: Head to the Alfama district, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Grab a bite at a local tasca (small restaurant) and try some bacalhau à brás (codfish).
• Explore the Lisbon Cathedral: After lunch, visit the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa). Its impressive architecture and beautiful interior are worth the visit.
• Tram 28 Ride: Hop on the famous Tram 28 for a scenic ride through the city’s narrow streets. It’s a fun way to see the sights!

Evening:

• Dinner in Bairro Alto: Head to Bairro Alto for dinner. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and great restaurants. Try some petiscos (Portuguese tapas) and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Fado Music: End your day with a Fado performance in one of the local bars. The soulful music is a beautiful representation of Portuguese culture.

## Day 2: Day Trip to Sintra

Morning:

• Train to Sintra: After breakfast, take a short train ride to Sintra (about 40 minutes). This fairy-tale town is known for its stunning palaces and lush gardens.
• Visit Pena Palace: Start your exploration at the colorful Pena Palace. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the architecture is straight out of a storybook!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Sintra: Enjoy lunch at a local café. Don’t forget to try the travesseiros, a sweet puff pastry filled with almond cream.
• Quinta da Regaleira: After lunch, visit Quinta da Regaleira, a magical estate with enchanting gardens, secret tunnels, and the famous Initiation Well. It’s like stepping into a fantasy world!

Evening:

• Return to Lisbon: Head back to Lisbon in the late afternoon.
• Dinner at Time Out Market: For dinner, visit the Time Out Market, where you can sample a variety of dishes from different vendors. It’s a foodie paradise!
• Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront to soak in the evening atmosphere.

## Day 3: Porto Adventure

Morning:

• Train to Porto: After breakfast, catch a train to Porto (about 3 hours). The scenic ride will give you a glimpse of the beautiful Portuguese countryside.
• Ribeira District: Once you arrive, head to the Ribeira district. The colorful buildings along the Douro River are postcard-perfect!

Afternoon:

• Lunch by the River: Enjoy lunch at one of the riverside restaurants. Try the famous Francesinha, a hearty sandwich that’s a local specialty.
• Visit Livraria Lello: After lunch, visit Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The stunning architecture is a treat for book lovers and Instagrammers alike!

Evening:

• Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for a port wine tasting at one of the many wine cellars. Learn about the history of port wine and enjoy some tastings!
• Dinner with a View: For your final dinner, choose a restaurant with a view of the river and the Porto skyline. Savor some local dishes and toast to your amazing trip!

And there you have it! A delightful three-day itinerary that captures the essence of Portugal. Enjoy your adventure, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to ask! 🌍✈️🍷