Planning 11-12 day trip to Portugal...
Only thing set in stone is we will be spending 4-5 days in Lisbon..
After that we have two options..
I was trying to follow RS recommended Itinerary for 11 day trip.. it entails from Lisbon, drive to Algarves (spend 4 days in Salema, Lagos etc.. ) and drive back to Lisbon and on the way, stop by Evora and possibly drop by Nazare...
This would require a car rental..
OR
I could just take a train to Porto from Lisbon and spend 4 days at Porto... day tripping to possible Nazare/alcobaca etc.. region...
This would not require a car rental..
We are not a beach person.. we much prefer Mountains and cultural aspects of a city explorer.. Never been to Porto, so I don't know how much culture it can offer vs. Lisbon.. (are they the same?? or do they give different vibes??)
And also just because we don't like beaches, doesn't mean we don't enjoy nature hikes along the beach exploring natural formations.. etc.. we are not a party person by any means..
We are a foodie.. so we love Seafood and Portual cuisine..not sure if SEafood in Algarves will be different than at Porto..(not a wine drinker either)
WE are planning this for October, so any help would be appreciated..
the way we figure it, not renting a car would save us money as well.. - so there is that..
Thank you in advance for any help in this matter..