Portugal-2-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Day 1: Lisbon

9:00 AM - Arrival: Arrive at Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) and pick up your rental car or take a taxi/Uber to your hotel.
10:00 AM - Belem Tower: Visit the Belem Tower, a medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its stunning architecture and learn about Portugal’s rich history.
11:30 AM - Pastries and Coffee: Stop by a local bakery and try some traditional Portuguese pastries like custard tarts (pastéis de nata) and flan.

1:00 PM - Lunch: Head to a nearby restaurant for lunch. Try some traditional Portuguese dishes like bacalhau à brás (cod with potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs) or frango grelhado (grilled chicken).
2:30 PM - Alfama Neighborhood: Explore the historic neighborhood of Alfama, known for its narrow streets, Fado music, and stunning views of the Tagus River.
4:00 PM - National Pantheon: Visit the National Pantheon, a beautiful church that houses the tombs of famous Portuguese figures like Luís de Camões.

7:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious food.
9:00 PM - Fado Music: Experience traditional Portuguese music and dance by watching a live Fado performance at a local club or restaurant.

Day 2: Sintra and Cascais

9:00 AM - Departure from Lisbon: Pick up your rental car or take a taxi/Uber to the town of Sintra ( approx. 45 minutes).
10:00 AM - Pena Palace: Visit the stunning Pena Palace, a royal palace with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
12:00 PM - Lunch: Have lunch at a nearby restaurant and try some traditional Portuguese dishes.

1:30 PM - Moorish Castle: Explore the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 9th century.
3:30 PM - Cascais: Head to the charming town of Cascais (approx. 20 minutes), known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque streets.

6:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Cascais, trying some fresh seafood or traditional Portuguese dishes.
8:00 PM - Beach Time: Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset before heading back to Lisbon.

Additional Information

Visa Requirements: EU citizens do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Non-EU citizens should check with the Portuguese Embassy in their home country for requirements.
Transportation:
- Rental Car: Recommended for exploring rural areas and having flexibility.
- Public Transportation: Trains (Comboios de Portugal) and buses are available between cities and within Lisbon.
- Taxi/Uber: Convenient for short trips or when public transportation is not available.
Things to Know:
- Portuguese currency is the Euro.
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.
- Tipping is not expected but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants).
- Be prepared for crowds and lines during peak season (June-August).

Additional Tips

Language: While many Portuguese speak English, it’s helpful to learn some basic phrases like “obrigado” (thank you) and “desculpe” (excuse me).
Safety: Lisbon is generally a safe city, but be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Weather: Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly for your visit.

Getting There

Flights: Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) from major European airports or international destinations.
Trains: Trains connect Lisbon to other major Portuguese cities like Porto and Faro.
Buses: Bus companies like FlixBus and Eurolines operate between cities.

Accommodation

Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels in Lisbon, from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments.
Airbnb: Rent apartments or houses in Lisbon or surrounding towns for a more local experience.
Hostels: Affordable hostels are available in Lisbon and other major tourist areas.

More Information

For detailed information on Portugal’s history, culture, and attractions, consider consulting resources like: