The closest airport is Porto, where you can easily do a roundtrip form and rent a car or use the train service for getting around.
If vacationing for the week, we recommend flying into Lisbon for your trip, and making your way North to Porto for the wedding. Below are some must-see cities to visit.
Lisbon is a charming and historic city in western Portugal known for its picturesque neighborhoods, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. From the scenic hills of Alfama to the vibrant nightlife of Bairro Alto, Lisbon offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences that make it a must-visit destination.
Day 1:
1. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon and evening exploring the Real Principe district. Visit Embaixada, a beautifully restored palace featuring unique shops and outdoor bars.
2. For dinner, consider dining at A Tasca do Chico, a cozy and affordable restaurant serving traditional Portuguese cuisine, or Café Comércio, a historic café offering a range of local dishes.
Day 2:
1. Start your day with a free walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide.
2. After the tour, head to Castelo de Sao Jorge and enjoy a coffee break at Miraduro da Senhora do Monte, which offers a panoramic view of the city.
3. In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise for a memorable experience.
4. Conclude the day with dinner and a night out in Baixa. Tapa Bucho or Leve Leve Tapas Bar are excellent dining options.
Day 3:
1. Begin your exploration from Alfama to Belem. Walk to Praça do Comércio, stroll along the waterfront, and wander through the charming Alfama neighborhood. Rua Augusta, the main avenue in downtown Lisbon, is lined with shops and restaurants.
2. Rent bikes to reach the LX Factory, where you can enjoy brunch along the main street of restaurants. Explore the warehouse shops, Bolo Da Marta cakeshop, and Ler Devagar bookstore.
3. Visit the Belem Tower and walk along the water to Padrão dos Descobrimentos, Belem Palace, and the Monastery. Don't miss the viewpoints at Miradouro da Graca and Belem Tower. Treat yourself to the famous pastries at Pasteis de Belem.
4. End the day at Ponto Finale. Take a 20-minute ferry ride from the Cais do Sodré ferry terminal in Lisbon.
5. After disembarking at Cacilhas terminal, walk about a kilometer along a pier by a row of seemingly abandoned warehouses. Try the arroz de tamboril or monkfish stew with rice while enjoying the view.
For nightlife, explore the vibrant Rua Rosa. As Rua Rosa ends, you'll be just ten minutes from Pink Street, a popular nightlife area. Consider visiting Penso de Amour, Red Frog speakeasy, O Bom O Mour for dancing, and Casa Independente for a local experience.
Other Places Worth Noting:
Fonteira Palace, near Monsanto Forest Park and Sete Rios
Restaurants to Try:
Lisboa Tu E Eu: Authentic meals made by two grandmothers
Casa Reia: A beach club/restaurant located 45 minutes outside of Lisbon
Rooftops: Seen Restaurant, Rossio Gastrobar, Topo Martim Moniz
Brunch: Seagull Method Cafe, Heim Cafe, Neighborhood
Seafood: Cervejaria Ramiro, Solar do Castelo
Traditional Portuguese: Café Comércio, Café Nicola
Pastries: Pastéis de Belém, Manteigaria
Food Markets: Mercado da Ribeira, Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Sintra is a 1-hour train ride from Lisbon and a must-see city. For the girls who love beautiful things, you'll be in awe. For the guys who are looking for some activity, you won't be short of hiking around. Worth spending a night in but also plenty fine for just a day trip. Just be sure to see the closing times of each place and plan accordingly. Afterwards, enjoy cheeseboards, wine, and taste the traditional pastries from Sintra, Travesseiro, especially Pastel de Nata on the main block.
📍Palacio de Pena
📍Castelo de los Mouros
📍Quinta da Regaleira
📍Cabo da Roca
📍Parque e Palacio de Monserrate
1. Visit 📍The Benagil Caves, a must see spectacle. The cave itself is located close to several popular Algarve destinations, including Lagos (45 minutes away), Albufeira (30 minutes away), and Portimão (45 minutes away)
2. Enjoy lunch at a vineyard underneath a 2,000-year-old Olive Tree at the📍Morgado do Quintão Estate
3. Hike the 📍Seven Hanging Valleys Trail
4. Relax on one of the more quiet beaches at 📍Praia Da Coelha
5. Take a Jeep safari to a distillery with lunch
6. Check out the cliffs and find the hidden grottos of Ponta Da Piedade
7. Explore 📍Vila Real de Santo António, a cute town nestled right on the border of Portugal and Spain. A visit here takes you on a journey back in time, from the stately Pombaline buildings to the iconic 19th-century obelisk standing proudly in 📍Marquês de Pombal Square. In addition to the rich history, you can indulge in the local cuisine at the seafront restaurants and cafes. As a final stop, take a walk along the 📍Guadiana River for views of Spain.
If you can't make it to the Algarve, Cascais offers a beach town just 30 minutes outside of Lisbon!
Stay a couple of nights here to completely submerge yourself in beach life. The town and architecture are stunning. The food is authentic and fresh. And the beaches are breathtaking. Like Sintra, it is a must, at least for a day trip.
Porto is a charming city in northwest Portugal known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-famous Port wine. The city's picturesque riverside quarter, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the Douro River and a glimpse into Porto's vibrant cultural heritage.
There are trains from most towns to Porto. If you are coming from Lisbon it should cost you about $37. You can book here.
Day 1:
1. Begin your exploration of Porto with a free walking tour, which will give you a great orientation and understanding of the city's history and culture.
2. Cross the iconic bridge into Gaia and visit the Time Out-style market. Enjoy some Ginginha shots, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur.
3. Head to the Terrace Lounge 360 for a stunning sunset view over Porto.
4. Dinner: Enjoy a delicious meal at Em Canto, known for its delightful Portuguese cuisine.
Day 2:
1. Start your day at Mercado de Bolhao, a traditional market where you can experience the local culture and buy fresh produce.
2. Take a 12-minute walk to Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, famous for its stunning architecture and moving stairs reminiscent of Harry Potter. Be sure to get tickets in advance.
3. Head to Base Porto for a refreshing drink and enjoy the views.
4. Visit Torre dos Clérigos for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
5. Wander through Porto's "Old City" and make your way down to the river, soaking in the charming atmosphere.
6. Shop along Catherine Street and visit the Chapel of Souls, known for its beautiful blue-tiled facade.
7. Indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
8. End your day with a night out on R. de Candido dos Reis and the neighboring streets, where you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Porto.
Braga is a historic city in northern Portugal known for its stunning Baroque architecture, picturesque streets, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to the iconic Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga) and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 1:
1. Start your day with a visit to the Jardim de Santa Bárbara, a beautiful garden located next to the Braga Cathedral. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Head to the Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga), a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Explore the cathedral's interior and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
3. Take a break and try some traditional Portuguese cuisine at one of the local restaurants.
4. Visit the Arco da Porta Nova, a historic arch that marks the entrance to the old town. From there, explore the narrow streets and alleys of the city center.
Day 2:
1. Take a funicular ride or hike up to the Bom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal's most famous landmarks. Enjoy the stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
2. Visit the Palace of Raio, a beautiful Baroque palace that now serves as a museum. Learn about the history and culture of Braga and its people.
3. Try some local specialties at a restaurant near the palace.
4. Spend some time exploring the city's shops and cafes, or visit any attractions you may have missed on the first day.