Hi there,
We are taking our first trip to Portugal this November. Seven days (which does not include the 2 travel days). We were thinking of spending three nights in Lisbon, three in the Algavre and the last back in Lisbon. I've read a number of posts suggesting the Algavre is not great to go to in the fall but we thought we should go south since the weather may be less rainy and warmer. I'd love to hear people's thoughts on that as well as an itinerary in general. Last, we were going to rent a car so that we could stop here and there. A good idea or not worth the hassle?
Posted by
1 posts
Hi,
I just got back from a 19 day trip to Portugal. We spent the first 3 nights in Lisbon (with one full day on a tour to Sintra, Peña Palace, and Cascais) and also the last night. We also spent 3 nights in the Algarve. I found the Algarve to be very touristy but it did have some beautiful beaches. The weather was warm but it would probably be cooler in November. If you are looking for historical sites, I would head to somewhere other than the Algarve. Most sites are an easy drive from Lisbon - Coimbra, Tomar, Obidos, and Guimarães. The Douro Valley out of Porto is stunning. If you are looking for beach time, I’m sure you can find something in the Algarve that will interest you but we enjoyed the beach town of Nazaré on the Atlantic more.
Posted by
Cascais, Portugal
1673 posts
On such a short trip, don’t go to the Algarve. It’s possibly it might be a bit warmer but not appreciably. And, the rain anywhere is a toss up. We’ve been having rain for the last few days but it’s due to a depression in the Atlantic and could be lovely by November.
You could easily spend seven days in the Lisbon, Silver Coast and maybe Alentejo areas. There are many beaches in the silver coast - Ericeira, Foz de Arelho and possible giant waves in Nazaré. Evora is great and the surrounding area has a lot of wineries, if you’re into that. Coimbra and Conimbriga outside of town are worth a couple of days.
You will more authentic Portugal in these areas rather than the Algarve.
Posted by
OP
26 posts
This sounds like sound advice! dsfaulk, what kind of a day tour did you take to Sintra, Peña Palace, and Cascais? And for this alternate agenda, would you suggest renting a car rather than the train?
Any favorite hotels that either of you stayed at? We favor small, locally owned hotels/pensions.