Fly into Lisbon. 3-4 nights in Lisbon (not including first night). Some cities we have on our radar - Sintra, Cascais, Obidos(maybe). Then we head to Algarve region for a couple of days. We decided not to go to Porto as we live in the PNW and it looks much like here and on a time constraint so another time. We are in our 60's, healthy, don't mind hills or stairs but want to use our short time wisely. Should we stay overnight in Sintra or just as easy to stay in Lisbon and go back and forth to places. After Algarve we head to Southern Spain.
Thanks for the help. Just really wondering if in the short time we are in Lisbon, a few places we really should see.
Posted by
Chicago
4130 posts
For such a short time, I would just stay in Lisbon. I took a couple of great tours that included the cities on your radar.
You might find my trip report helpful:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/solo-in-lisbon-portugal-my-trip-report
Posted by
the great P-NW
542 posts
Your TR was so helpful! Thanks for posting the link. Great stuff.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
9228 posts
We did a similar trip, went to Lisbon, then broke up public transport by staying a few nights in Tavira. Took the train to Tavira from Lisbon, a change in Faro. Then Alsa bus from Tavira to Seville.
For Lisbon, I suggest just spending the nights in Lisbon, day trip to Sintra, which is what most do, the other towns as your interest demands, but there is lots to do in Lisbon.
Posted by
576 posts
May I add another question please? Can anyone recommend their hop on/off buses? I see on trip advisor Lisbon’s sightseeing buses of this type gets terrible reviews. We have a family group of 11.
Posted by
Auburn, CA
30 posts
Have you ever...stupid question I know, done free walking tours? You asked about the hop on hop off tours, and we have always had a great time on the walking tours, very informative, great exercise, and you can always ask the guide questions....there are a whole bunch of operators, just google free walking tours.
Posted by
576 posts
Yes we have…thanks Ken. They are great! Problem is grandkids. They get done or (undone) walking way before us. Hoho buses gives us options. Problem is Lisbon’s buses sound very undependable! A risk we cant take. The tuk tuks would split us up so much? Still looking.