My partner and I (mid-20s) are planning a 14-day trip to Portugal at the end of August – Beginning of September, flying in and out of Porto. We're considering two routes and need advice on which to choose:
- Douro Valley – Lisbon - Porto
- Douro Valley – Algarve - Porto
We'll have a car and prefer a mix of landscapes, nature, and urban experiences. We're more interested in experiencing local culture, food, and exploring than visiting churches or museums. We'd like to balance seeing multiple places with having enough time to truly experience each area.
For Route 1, we'd appreciate staying at beach towns or seaside resorts near Lisbon/Porto for a few days of relaxation.
For Route 2, we're considering flying between Porto and the Algarve to save time.
Which route would you recommend for our preferences? Any must-see spots or experiences along either route? Tips for balancing our itinerary between cities and the rest?
We would also love any hidden gems that you got!
Thank you so much ahead and have a wonderful weekend!