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Vila Monte and Principe Real neighborhood in Lisbon

Hello all!

My trip is getting closer and closer (leaving for Lisbon on May 1). Our itinerary so far:

May 2-6 in Lisbon, with day trips to Sintra and Obidos.
May 7-8 in Porto.
May 9-14 at Vila Monte.

I just booked two Airbnb places in Lisbon and Porto. In Lisbon, I will be staying in the Principe Real neighborhood - anyone familiar with that area? Would love to hear your suggestions!

In Porto, we will be staying on the Passeio das Cardosas. Suggestions and comments welcome!

Is anyone familiar with Vila Monte? http://www.vilamonte.com/vilamonte
We are thinking to rent a car and drive from Porto.

Thanks in advance!

HI NI!

Hi Jill,

You're lucky. I was born in Lisbon and currently a city guide in Porto and Douro Valley, National park guide in Gerês and I have my own scooter rental shop in central Porto.

Your trip seems well planned.I would just ad one or two extra days in Porto. A lot of people just stay here for two nights and then they regret. It is culturally very rich. And the roots of our culture is between Porto, Braga and Guimarães. Definitely the most traditional towns in Portugal.

In Porto there is a nice riverfront, belvederes, churches, excelent food nad... The Douro river Valley wine producing area. You can go into the vineyards and taste some wine and Port wine, and also learn about it! If you like driving, the N222 between Régua and Pinhão is the best road in the world to drive on (by "the Telegraph")! Going by train is possible but you'll probably miss the really good vineyards, ending up visiting one of the most comercial ones (propably Dow's or Sandeman).

If you consider to rent a scooter, send me a private message if you wish, and I'll tell you the best roads, city spots, and vineyards to visit, ok?
Cheers!