We are visiting at the start of June after flying a total of 25 hours from New Zealand! We want to make sure we make the most of our time. We have visited Lisbon before so will just use this as the base to fly in and out of.
At this stage we were thinking train to Porto where we spend 4-5 days doing side trips. From there we wondered about flying to Madeira, spending another 4-5 days. After that we would fly back to Lisbon and hire a car to travel to a destination in the Algarve for 3-4 days.
Does this seem achievable or should we take out the Madeira or Algarve aspect of the holiday? We are a couple who love walking and exploring local cultures.
Thanks in advance!!!
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1689 posts
I, personally, would skip the Algarve. There are lots of beaches and more interesting towns in central Portugal. Coimbrã, Evora, Tomar, etc. Having a car is best for these areas. Take a look at Julie Dawn Fox for lots of ideas.
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Alternative (keeping in mind that we have been to Lisbon and Sintra before).
2 days Lisbon
3 days Coimbra
2 days Aveiro
4 days Porto
4 days Madeira
Back to Lisbon for a day before flying home.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1689 posts
Much better, IMO. Aveiro is small, so one night might be enough. You could add one more night to Porto and be able to visit the Douro, Braga or Guimarães.