Hi, we're still trying to figure out our trip (thanks Carl and everyone else for advice in previous topic). We've debating between these two choices, which we know is hard to give advice on but any are still welcome: 1) Lisbon for 8 days and Porto for 5 days only (we'd go with this option to have a slower paced mellow trip without jumping from apartment to apartment) or 2) Lisbon for 6 days, Porto for 3 days, and Seville for 3 days plus Cordoba day trip from Seville for one day (this option if we think it's worth this busy schedule). For those who have been to Lisbon, Porto and Seville, which option do you think makes sense? We like to check out the main attractions but also like to wander the neighborhoods in non-touristy areas - cafes, bookstores, photograph interesting architecture, do some shopping in local boutiques, etc.
Second question, if we choose the first option to not go to Seville, should we start in Porto first and then end in Lisbon or should we stay in Lisbon for a few days, Porto for a few days, then end the trip in Lisbon for a few days?
Third question, what would be the best way to travel between Lisbon and Porto that's easy and not too long? A train ride? Rent a car? Or just fly?
Fourth question, we found a Lisbon airbnb that looks promising because of the good reviews and price point and it's in the Chiado neighborhood. Is this a good area to stay? I know it's central, but I'm concerned if it's too touristic (like a Times Squares in New York - which we don't like to do). We'd like to stay in an area that's central where we can walk to everything by foot but that also has good options for food and cafes that are also not so touristic. The reason we didn't want to stay in Alfama was because one of us has an injury and we'd think it would be difficult with our luggage in that neighborhood. People advised us that in Chiado the taxi will drop you off right in front of your apartment. Another apartment we're considering is in the Mouraria neighborhood - is anyone familiar with this area? Any other suggestions for a good central area where taxi pick up and drop off won't be a problem but filled with charming food spots and cafes? Also, we are light sleepers so need an area that we can sleep well at night (we had an issue with this staying in the El Born neighborhood in Barcelona).
Thank you in advance for your time and apologies for so many questions.