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Extra day in Portugal

Posted by (Richmond, VA) on

It turns out that instead of five days (early morning arrival and 6 pm departure) in Portugal, I may end up with six. My plan had been to spend most of the time in the Lisbon area (including a day in Sintra), and perhaps make a side trip to Evora, either as a day trip or an overnight. Another possibility is Coimbra. I'd like to go to Porto, but I think it's a little too far on the train to make the trip there and back worth it, and I don't want the hassle of a car.

Any suggestions for things to add to the itinerary? I'll be traveling by myself and am really not a beach person. When traveling, especially when traveling alone, I tend to gravitate toward museums, walking tours, etc.

Thanks!
Caroline

Posted by
2447 posts

If they're not on your itinerary already, you might want to think about the Museu Gulbenkian, and the Oceanario (Europe's largest aquarium). I happily spent a drizzly day at both. The aquarium is easily reached by subway.

Posted by
97 posts

We enjoyed a half day at Queluz Palace. It's an easy journey from Lisbon.

Neil

Posted by
119 posts

There are dozens of small museums in Lisbon - try a Google search. Some of my favorites include the Maritime Museum and the Bartolo museum in Belem, the Oriental Museum, and the electricity museum. There are lots more. My guess is that you will find plenty to do in the city. Also, check out the walking tours recommended in Rick's book.

Posted by
7642 posts

I would save Porto and Coimbra for another trip. Porto is a 2 1/2 hour train ride on the fast train from Lisbon.

Sinatra and Obidos with its ancient walls is a must see.

Posted by
11294 posts

Santarém is an hour from Lisbon and is a lovely town with several spectacular churches. If you take a bus, you arrive in the center of town; if you take the train, you arrive in a valley below, so you need a bus (infrequent) or taxi up to the center.

An hour further from Santarém is Tomar, with sights related to the Knights Templar as well as a museum of matchboxes. I know that last point sounds weird, but they're quite fascinating (wait till you see the Nazi one!).

A half day in Santarém, a half day in Tomar, then a 2 hour train ride home would be a very nice long day trip from Lisbon. Of course, if you find more to do, you could spend a whole day trip in just one.

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