Hi,
I am planning a trip to Portugal in November. I know it will not be as warm this time of year, but would really love to see the Algarve. Would that not be smart to do that time of year?? I want to spend some time in Porto as well. I am thinking we fly into Porto, then go to Lisbon, then Algarve, then fly back out of Lisbon since it is closer. We would rent a car for all of this. Does this seem do-able in a week? Also-how many days would you recommend in each place??
Thanks!!
Though it’s doable, I don’t think it’s advisable. With only 7 days I would concentrate on Porto with a side trip to the Duoro Valley, then Sintra and finally Lisbon. There are so many interesting things to see that for the short time you will visit Portugal, it would be doing an injustice to visit the Algarve - especially in November.
EDIT: If you have 7 FULL days, I would spend 3 in Porto, 1 in Sintra and 3 in Lisbon.
Thank you so much! I didn't even know about Duoro Valley (in the very early stages of planning) :)
I agree that seven days is not nearly enough time to do Porto, Lisbon and the Algarve. I would encourage you to pick two and skip the third area. November is not such a bad time in the Algarve, if that is one of your choices. The tourists would be fewer and the rock formations (the big draw IMO) are still spectacular but there would be more chances for rain. My choices would be Lisbon and Porto but do your research and decide which two you prefer.
Also, I would not rent a car to travel between the two destinations. The trains are good and inexpensive and much less stressful (and cheaper) than driving. If you book tickets 5-30 days in advance, you get 40% off - making them a great deal.
And, lastly, I would day trip to Sintra rather than changing hotels again. It’s a very easy day trip from Lisbon.
Good to know about the train! Is there a certain website you recommend booking tickets through to get that discount?
The general rule for trains is, unless you have a VERY specific reason to do otherwise, book a train through the website of its operator. In this case, that's Portuguese Rail: https://www.cp.pt/passageiros/en
