4 day itinerary for Portugal

Itinerary

Portugal is such a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. Here’s a delightful 4-day itinerary that will let you soak in the charm of this lovely country. Let’s get started!

## Day 1: Lisbon – The Vibrant Capital

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pastéis de Belém: Start your day with the iconic custard tarts at this famous bakery. Trust me, you’ll want to try more than one!
• Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery: After breakfast, stroll along the river to visit these UNESCO World Heritage sites. The architecture is stunning, and the history is fascinating!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Alfama District: Head to Alfama, the oldest district in Lisbon. Grab a bite at a local tavern and enjoy some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (codfish).
• Explore Alfama: Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Lisbon Cathedral, and don’t miss the Miradouro de Santa Luzia for breathtaking views.

Evening:

• Dinner in Bairro Alto: This lively neighborhood is perfect for dinner. Try a cozy restaurant and enjoy some fado music while you eat.
• Nightlife: After dinner, explore the bars in Bairro Alto. The atmosphere is electric, and you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy a drink.

## Day 2: Sintra – A Fairytale Escape

Morning:

• Train to Sintra: Take an early train from Lisbon to Sintra (about 40 minutes).
• Pena Palace: Start your day at this colorful, romantic palace. The views from the top are simply magical!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Sintra: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in the town center. Try the local specialty, travesseiros (puff pastries filled with almond cream).
• Quinta da Regaleira: After lunch, explore this enchanting estate with its mystical gardens, initiatory well, and intriguing architecture.

Evening:

• Dinner in Sintra: Dine at a local restaurant and savor some Portuguese wine.
• Return to Lisbon: Head back to Lisbon for a good night’s rest.

## Day 3: Porto – The City of Bridges

Morning:

• Travel to Porto: Take a morning train or a short flight to Porto (about 3 hours by train).
• Ribeira District: Start your exploration in the picturesque Ribeira district along the Douro River. Grab a coffee and enjoy the views.

Afternoon:

• Lunch by the River: Enjoy a meal at one of the riverside restaurants. Don’t miss trying the famous Francesinha sandwich!
• Livraria Lello: Visit this stunning bookstore, often considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s a must-see for book lovers!

Evening:

• Wine Tasting: Head to one of the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for a tasting session. Learn about the wine-making process and enjoy some samples.
• Dinner in Porto: Find a cozy restaurant in the city center for dinner. Try some local seafood dishes, and don’t forget to pair it with a glass of port wine!

## Day 4: Douro Valley – Scenic Beauty

Morning:

• ## Day Trip to Douro Valley: Rent a car or book a tour to the stunning Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and breathtaking landscapes.
• Wine Estate Visit: Start your day with a visit to a local vineyard. Enjoy a tour and tasting session while soaking in the views.

Afternoon:

• Lunch with a View: Have lunch at a vineyard restaurant overlooking the river. The scenery is just as delicious as the food!
• Boat Ride on the Douro River: Take a relaxing boat ride to appreciate the stunning landscapes from the water.

Evening:

• Return to Porto: Head back to Porto for your last evening.
• Farewell Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city. Reflect on your wonderful trip and toast to new memories!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider getting a Lisboa Card for public transport in Lisbon and discounts on attractions.
• Reservations: Make dinner reservations in advance, especially for popular spots.
• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Portugal! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌍❤️