My daughter is attending a conference in Lisbon in October and asked if I wanted to join her for a week's vacation when her conference ends. Never been one to say NO to travel, of course I wholeheartedly accepted the invitation. Here's the thing, I know nothing about the area. I will be there for 6 full days. I've ordered RS guide, but want to secure lodging asap as I understand our dates are during the pilgrimage.
I am seeking advice on:
1. The best areas to stay, on a budget, but still centrally located. Hotel or apartment rental?
2. What day trips are worth the ride (no car). Tour company suggestions or should we take the train to Porto?
3. What sights are a must within Lisbon, what sites off the beaten path are to be seen? Any fabulous guided tours?
4. I am not in great shape. A little overweight with some knee pain. Last year we stayed in Cinque Terre, Italy. That was quite hilly. Is Lisbon hilly like that? or more like Edinburgh?
5. How early should we arrive at the airport in Lisbon when we are leaving to come back to the US? I've been reading horror stories. I will have a connection at JFK.
Any thoughts will be welcomed. I typically have done a lot more research prior to travel, and have a general sense of what we are doing. This time, I feel like we are winging it.
Thank YOU!
Posted by
Chicago
4391 posts
I think you might find the info. in my trip report helpful:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/solo-in-lisbon-portugal-my-trip-report
I’ll be staying at the same hotel again next March with my sister and her husband.
With just 6 days, I would stay in Lisbon the entire time. There is plenty there, with day trips, to keep you busy.
I had a harder time with the hills in Edinburgh. I have not been to Cinque Terre.
Some of the funiculars and lifts that I would recommend are still closed after last year’s accident.
I like to give myself 4 hours for international flights these days.