Journey to the Heart of Portugal: Lisbon and its Surroundings in 8 Days
Discover Local Culture and the Best Places
Get ready to embark on a captivating journey to the heart of Portugal, where the golden sun will warmly welcome you from the moment you set foot in Lisbon. Our eight-day adventure will take you through the cobbled streets of the capital, but also beyond, to the enchanting landscapes of Sintra and the sun-drenched coasts of Cascais. Enjoy every moment to explore hidden treasures, taste pastries worthy of the gods (the pasteis de nata, of course) and engage with local life like a true Lisboan. From vibrant street art to breathtaking architecture, our itinerary is a perfect blend of tradition, modernity, and moments of pure magic. So, put on your comfortable shoes and fasten your culinary belt, as this trip promises to be a feast for the senses and an unforgettable adventure. 🌅🍷
Top 10 Activities
1. Walk at the Top of the 25 de Abril Bridge
Cross the skies on this iconic bridge for a panoramic view of Lisbon.
2. Exploration of the Alfama District
Get lost in this maze of narrow streets and discover the essence of fado.
3. Visit to Pena Palace in Sintra
Dive into a fairy tale by exploring this colorful palace perched on the hills.
4. Tasting Pasteis de Belem
Delight your taste buds with these delicious cream tarts.
5. Excursion on Tram No. 28
A nostalgic and authentic way to discover the charms of the city.
6. Surfing in Carcavelos
Catch a wave on this beach favored by local surfers.
7. Visit to the Lisbon Oceanarium
Discover impressive marine life through enormous aquariums.
8. Fado Night at Clube de Fado
Listen to this emotive music in an intimate and authentic evening.
9. Hiking in the Pena Park
Enjoy the lush nature and breathtaking views.
10. Shopping at Mercado da Ribeira
Taste local flavors and bring home gourmet souvenirs.
Discovering Lisbon, the Enchanted Capital (Day 1 to Day 3)
welcome to Lisbon, the city of seven hills! For three days, you will have time to savor the charms of this unforgettable capital. Stand out on your first day by exploring Alfama, the oldest district of Lisbon. As you weave through its winding streets, listen to the soft echo of fado resonating from taverns. Be sure to visit the famous São Jorge Castle, majestically overlooking the city. Enjoy a panoramic view of the red roofs stretching to the Atlantic. For the second day, head to Belém. Admire the Manueline architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery and don't leave without tasting the famous pasteis de Belém, those little delights that awaken every taste bud. On the third day, board a traditional yellow tram and let yourself be lulled to the Bairro Alto district, where vintage shops and bohemian cafes await you for picturesque discoveries. ladies and gentlemen, Lisbon is your playground! 🍕
Activities
Stroll in the Alfama District
Description: Explore Alfama with its cobbled streets and colorful houses. The atmosphere is steeped in history, every corner is an invitation to discover authentic Lisbon.
Price: Free
Address: Alfama District, Lisbon
Tasting Pasteis de Belém
Description: Head to the famous Belém pastry shop to savor the authentic pasteis. Their secret recipe will transport you to dessert paradise.
Price: 1-3 € per pastel
Address: Rua de Belém 84-92, Lisbon
Visit to the Jerónimos Monastery
Description: Admire the Gothic architecture of the monastery and discover the historical treasures of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Price: 10 €
Address: Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisbon
Restaurants
Tasca do Chico
Description: A must-visit place to experience a fado evening. In this typical tavern, traditional Portuguese dishes are accompanied by enchanting melodies. Try the bacalhau à bras, a fish delight.
Price: 15-30 € per person
Address: Rua Diário de Notícias 39, 1200-141 Lisbon
A Cevicheria
Description: For a contemporary touch, this restaurant offers exquisite ceviche in a chic and modern setting. A world of exotic flavors awaits you.
Price: 20-40 € per person
Address: Rua Dom Pedro V 129, 1250-096 Lisbon
Time Out Market
Description: This culinary market offers a variety of options, from traditional Portuguese cuisine to international dishes. A paradise for food lovers!
Price: 15-35 € per person
Address: Av. 24 de Julho 49, 1200-479 Lisbon
Accommodations
Sunset Destination Hostel
Description: With a breathtaking view of the Tagus, this hostel is perfect for backpackers. Offering movie nights and a friendly atmosphere, it is ideal for meeting people.
Price: 20-50 € per night
Address: Cais do Sodré, Lisbon
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel
Description: A tribute to Fernando Pessoa with a refined decoration and impeccable service. A literary stay in the heart of Lisbon for poetry and discreet luxury lovers.
Price: 100-200 € per night
Address: Rua da Oliveira ao Carmo 8, 1200-309 Lisbon
Pousada de Lisboa
Description: A historic establishment offering luxury and comfort. The elegant rooms and four-star service will make your stay in Lisbon a royal experience.
Price: 250-500 € per night
Address: Praça do Comércio 31-34, 1100-148 Lisbon
After three intense days in Lisbon, you will have a clear vision of this fascinating city. But don't rest on your laurels, as your adventure is just beginning. Make sure not to miss the surprises awaiting you in Sintra, your next destination. Ready for a change of scenery? ✨🇵🇹
The Enchanted Palaces and Gardens of Sintra (Day 4)
After enjoying the delights of Lisbon, it's time to dive into a fairy-tale setting! Just 30 km from the capital, Sintra is an enchanting city, famous for its colorful palaces nestled in lush vegetation. Take the train from Rossio and leave the city behind for a magical day. Begin your exploration at Pena Palace, whose bright colors and whimsical architecture dominate the view. Then, stroll through the Palace gardens, a true labyrinth of greenery, before exploring the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its incredible tunnels and secret nooks. At the end of the day, don't miss the historic center of Sintra, where picturesque streets are full of craft shops and lovely café terraces. don't forget to taste the famous queijada, a sweet snack that will delight your taste buds. Sintra is a must-stop that will transport you to another world, filled with mysteries and beauty around every corner. 🌲🏰
Activities
Visit to Pena Palace
Description: Explore this brightly colored palace, a symbol of the Romantic era. Its extravagant architecture and magnificent gardens will make you feel like you're living a waking dream.
Price: 14 €
Address: Estrada da Pena, Sintra
Discovery of Quinta da Regaleira
Description: Dive into this mysterious universe, famous for its initiatic well and secret tunnels. A place where history and mysticism blend brilliantly.
Price: 10 €
Address: R. Barbosa du Bocage 5, Sintra
Stroll in the Monserrate Gardens
Description: Walk through these botanical gardens, home to a multitude of plant species from around the world. Perfect for nature lovers and the singular architecture of the palace.
Price: 8 €
Address: Estrada de monserrate, Sintra
Restaurants
Tascantiga
Description: This charming small restaurant offers delicious Portuguese cuisine with a welcoming setting. Don't miss their tapas and sangria on the terrace!
Price: 15-30 € per person
Address: R. da Ferraria 14, Sintra
Café Saudade
Description: For coffee and pastry lovers, this vintage café offers a retro setting and flavors to die for.
Price: 10-20 € per person
Address: Av. Dr. Miguel Bombarda 6, Sintra
Cantinho Gourmet
Description: A perfect place for lunch after a day of sightseeing. Enjoy innovative cuisine with local ingredients.
Price: 20-40 € per person
Address: R. Gago Coutinho 1A, Sintra
Accommodations
Sintra Bliss Hotel
Description: A modern hotel combining comfort and style, with bright rooms and impeccable service, located a stone's throw from the historic center.
price: 80-150 € per night
Address: R. Dr. Alfredo da Costa 15-17, Sintra
Palácio de Seteais
Description: Discover the luxury of a charming hotel set in an 18th-century palace, with breathtaking views of Sintra and beautifully maintained gardens.
Price: 300-600 € per night
Address: R. Barbosa du Bocage 8, Sintra
Monte da Lua
Description: Charming guesthouse with a family atmosphere. Perfect for a quiet stay in a picturesque setting.
Price: 50-100 € per night
Address: Av. Dr. Miguel Bombarda 51, Sintra
After a wonderful day in Sintra, you will be enchanted by this charming city. Let yourself be inspired by its timeless beauty and get ready to continue your journey to the dazzling coast of Cascais, where the sun and sea eagerly await you. 🌊✨
Relaxation and Beaches in Cascais: Paradise by the Water (Day 5 to Day 6)
After exploring the wonders of Sintra, head to Cascais, a charming little coastal town known for its fine sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Easily accessible by train from Lisbon, Cascais was once a fishing village and is now a popular seaside resort. start your first day by walking along the seaside promenade, where you can admire the crystal-clear waters and colorful fishing boats. Take time to relax on Praia da Conceição, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. You can also explore the picturesque alleys of the city center, filled with artisan shops and welcoming cafés. On the second day, why not visit Boca do Inferno, a spectacular rock formation where the waves crash dramatically? For water sports enthusiasts, try your hand at surfing or sailing in these ideal waters. Finally, end your stay in Cascais with a romantic dinner by the water, enjoying fresh seafood and savoring the gentle Portuguese way of life. Cascais is the perfect place to unwind while staying close to the action in Lisbon. 🌊🏖️
Activities
Beach Day at Praia da Conceição
Description: Enjoy a lazy day at Praia da Conceição, with its fine sand and calm waters. Perfect for sunbathing, reading a book, or taking a refreshing dip.
Price: Free
Address: Av. rei Humberto iI de Itália, Cascais
Exploration of Boca do Inferno
Description: Explore this impressive natural formation and admire the power of the waves crashing against the cliffs. A spectacular natural show!
Price: Free
Address: Boca do Inferno, Cascais
Surfing Lesson at Praia do Guincho
Description: Take a surfing lesson on one of Portugal's most iconic beaches. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, the waves are waiting for you!
Price: 30-50 € per session
Address: Praia do Guincho, Cascais
Restaurants
Mar do Inferno
Description: This family-run restaurant offers a stunning view of the ocean and serves incredibly fresh seafood. Don't miss their famous seafood platters.
Price: 25-50 € per person
Address: Av. Rei Humberto II de Itália 102, Cascais
Hemingway Cascais
Description: For a trendier ambiance, Hemingway offers modern Portuguese cuisine. Enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the marina.
Price: 30-60 € per person
Address: Marina de Cascais, Cascais
Taberna Clandestina Cascais
Description: Discover this hidden tavern to savor traditional dishes in a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a casual meal with friends.
Price: 20-40 € per person
Address: rua Afonso Sanches 50, Cascais
Accommodations
Hotel Baia
Description: Located facing the beach, Hotel Baia is perfect for enjoying the sun of Cascais and offers friendly service and comfortable rooms.
Price: 90-150 € per night
Address: Av. Marginal 7034, 2754-509 Cascais
Grande Real Villa Itália
Description: Luxurious five-star hotel offering top-notch facilities, a relaxing spa, and refined gastronomy for those seeking the pinnacle of comfort.
Price: 250-500 € per night
Address: R. Frei Nicolau de Oliveira 100, Cascais
The Oitavos
Description: A contemporary hotel surrounded by nature, ideal for golf enthusiasts. The perfect place to retreat from the city's hustle and bustle with modern comfort.
Price: 200-400 € per night
Address: R. de Oitavos, 2750-374 Cascais
Two days spent in Cascais will have given you a glimpse of the Portuguese coastal charm. Recharge with the soothing sound of the waves before returning to Lisbon for the last two days of your trip, where the city still has many surprises in store for you. 🌅✨
Return to Lisbon for Final Discoveries (Day 7 to Day 8)
After a refreshing getaway on the beaches of Cascais, it's time to return to Lisbon to conclude your Portuguese adventure in style. These last two days offer you a perfect opportunity to dive into the less-known corners of the city and discover what it has most unique to offer. Start with the district of Belém, rich in maritime history, where the monuments tell the golden age of discoveries. Next, let yourself be charmed by the lively Bairro Alto district, famous for its vibrant nightlife. Soak up the energetic sounds of live music while sipping a port wine. Finally, don't miss the village of LX Factory, a creative hub nestled in a former industrial area where modern art and artisan shops coexist. Every second of these last days will be filled with memorable moments reminding you why Lisbon is a city you always come back to. 🎨🍷
Activities
Exploration of the Jerónimos Monastery
Description: Revisit this Gothic masterpiece and dive into the history of the great Portuguese navigators. A must-visit for any maritime history enthusiast.
Price: 10 €
Address: Praça do Império, 1400-206 Lisbon
Evening at Bairro Alto
Description: Dive into the effervescence of Lisbon evenings with its lively bars and upbeat music. An evening that will surely make you want to dance until dawn.
Price: varies according to consumption
Address: Bairro Alto, Lisbon
Discovery of LX Factory
Description: Explore LX Factory, a place where art meets originality in an industrial atmosphere. Be surprised by its galleries, cafes, and unique shops.
Price: Free
Address: R. Rodrigues de Faria 103, Lisbon
Restaurants
A Taberna da Rua das Flores
Description: Savor modern Portuguese cuisine in an intimate setting. Each dish is a culinary journey celebrating local flavors.
Price: 20-40 € per person
Address: R. das Flores 103, Lisbon
Belcanto
Description: Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred gastronomic experience with dishes that reinvent portuguese classics in an elegant and refined setting.
Price: 100-200 € per person
Address: Largo de São Carlos, 10, Lisbon
Cantinho do Avillez
Description: This restaurant by the famous chef José Avillez offers warm and inventive cuisine that will surely captivate your taste buds.
Price: 30-50 € per person
Address: R. dos Duques de Bragança 7, Lisbon
accommodations
Memmo Alfama Hotel
Description: A boutique hotel perched in the heart of Alfama, offering stunning views of the Tagus. Enjoy the discreet charm and hospitality of Portugal.
Price: 150-250 € per night
Address: Travessa das Merceeiras 27, Lisbon
The Independente Hostel & Suites
Description: A unique blend between hostel and hotel, offering large cozy suites in the dynamic Bairro Alto district.
Price: 25-80 € per night
Address: R. de São Pedro de Alcântara 81, Lisbon
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa
Description: Combining classic charm and modernity, this luxurious establishment located on Lisbon's main avenue is perfect for a prestigious stay.
Price: 180-350 € per night
Address: Av. da Liberdade 185, lisbon
With these final discoveries in Lisbon, your trip is coming to an end. The memories of this adventure, from breathtaking landscapes to exquisite flavors, will remain etched within you. Take one last souvenir from Lisbon and leave with the desire to return one day. 🇵🇹✨
Practical Information
Climate: Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers, perfect for enjoying the beaches and exploring the city on foot.
Transport: Lisbon has an excellent public transport network, including picturesque trams, a modern metro, and convenient buses. The train is the best way to get to Sintra and Cascais.
When to go?: The spring months (May and June) and autumn (September and October) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists , ideal for cultural visits and outdoor activities.
Budget: The average daily budget can range from 60 to 150 € per person depending on the choice of restaurants and accommodations.
Practical Tips:
- Learn a few words of Portuguese, the locals will appreciate it.
- Don't miss the local markets for authentic culinary experiences.
- Bring comfortable shoes to explore the many cobblestones of Lisbon.
- Try the vinho verde, a light and refreshing local wine.
- Make sure to taste regional specialties like bacalhau and pasteis de nata.
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This practical information will help you prepare for your trip to portugal and fully enjoy your adventure through this culturally rich and diverse country.
after eight memorable days of exploring Lisbon and its surroundings, you will leave Portugal with a heart full of precious memories. From the architectural wonders of Sintra to the sunny beaches of Cascais, through the lively nightlife of Lisbon, each moment has been a celebration of Portuguese culture. The flavors of portugal will remain on your palate for a long time, and the warm welcome of the locals in your memory. Cheers to this unforgettable adventure, which is only the beginning of your love for this magnificent country. 🇵🇹✨