Two Weeks in Portugal
Once a powerful, seafaring nation, Portugal offers its visitors a remarkably rich history particularly surrounding its maritime period. The constant inflows of several inhabitants such as the Moors, Romans, Celts and other pre-Romans have also left their mark not only on its history but also on its architecture and culture.
Situated in the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal has a lot to offer: From gorgeous seaside cities and distinct small towns to a stunning countryside housing quaint villages and medieval towns. If you are deciding on the next place to go in Europe, consider Portugal. Its people are friendly, its climate is wonderful and most importantly, its food is some of the best you will ever have!
The Trip
Our trip took 2 weeks and it was completed almost in a loop where we started and ended in Lisbon. We visited major Portuguese cities, picturesque towns, medieval villages, old Roman ruins and explored some of its vast countryside.
I take pleasure in taking the train whenever we go to Europe, however for Portugal; I discovered that the best way to see the country is by renting a car. That is because once you leave Lisbon, the rest of the countryside has few options of public transportation and is best reached by car.
The Itinerary
Click on each separate date for more information on what to do and where to go:
- Lisbon: Arrival/Half Day
- Lisbon: Day Trip to Sintra
- Lisbon: Full Day
- Lisbon: Full Day
- Lisbon - Évora
- Évora - Alentejo Countryside - Óbidos
- Óbidos: Half Day & Peniche
- Óbidos - Drive through Small Towns - Coimbra
- Coimbra: Full Day
- Coimbra - Porto
- Porto: Full Day
- Porto: Day Trip to Minho Region
- Porto: Day Trip to Vale do Douro
- Porto: Drive Back to Lisbon (depart following day)
The Route
Tips to Consider Before You Head Out the Door
Portugal does not have the huge influx of tourists as other European countries. However, if you can, try to travel off season to beat some of the larger crowds that come into the country during the summer. Our trip in September also had constant clear skies and temperatures that were perfect for long walks.
As for several countries in Europe, Portugal has many of their attractions, especially museums, closed on Mondays. Therefore, make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly.
- For this trip we rented a car at Lisbon International Airport and if you do the same, try to schedule it as early as you can! By booking early, we saved money and time since I had my reservation in hand when we arrived at the rental office. One great aspect of car rentals in Portugal is the option of remote Wi-Fi. It was like having our own in-home Wi-Fi at all times!
I am originally from Rio de Janeiro and while back home visiting my family, I decided to become a tourist in my own city and go check out some of Rio’s distinct neighborhoods and tourist spots. I must confess that even though I grew up close to the heart of town, some of the places I went on this trip where actually my first time visiting!