In late May, after a trip to Spain, my wife and I will have just six full days and nights to spend in Portugal (plus one travel night on both ends). Portugal is a country that we have not visited before and may not have a chance to travel to again. We plan to spend at least one full day in Porto (we don't have time to go to the Douro Valley) and then on the second day take the train to Coimbra where we think we will either (a) spend just six - eight hours and then catch a train to Lisbon that night, leaving us four full days in Lisbon, or (b) we can spend the whole second day and night in Coimbra (after the short train ride from Porto) and catch a train to Lisbon on morning of the third day, leaving us about 3 1/2 days in Lisbon. Please let us know which of these two plans seems better to you. Alternate suggestions are also welcome! Thanks very much!
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7541 posts
Spending a night in Coimbra is nice. That would give you time to take the self-guided university tour if you’re so inclined and to spend time walking around town in the evening. If you don’t want to visit the university then 6-8 hours is probably sufficient.
Posted by
Calgary, AB, Canada
609 posts
I agree, one night in Coimbra would be my choice. It is a smaller town with a nice feel to it. Also gives you a little leeway to do something in Porto in the morning if you want.
Posted by
OP
Tallahassee, FL, United States
18 posts
Thanks to both of you for the useful feedback
Posted by
128 posts
We visited Coimbra as a day trip from Porto. I feel its very doable. We left in the morning by train and were able to see the University and walk around the town. If you do this ,you will have more time in Lisbon. With 4 days in Lisbon, you could also do a day trip tp Sintra which I would recommend since you may never be able to get back to Portugal.