Lisbon and the Algarve

Hi Debbie,

I'd divide my time between Lisbon and Salema. Consider flying into Lisbon and taking a bus to Salema. Surprisingly, it doesn't look like discounts airlines fly between Lisbon and Faro. I plan carefully for holiday scheduling.

Thanks! Have you been to the Algarve? We are looking forward to warm, sunny weather in winter. Any other tips would be appreciated.

Hi Debbie,

I've been to Lisbon and Salema but not in December. From what I've read, it could be cool and rainy. I'd check one of the weather sites to see the history from previous years!

I was in Portugal Dec. 25-31, 2007. I flew into Lisbon, spent the night, took the train to Lagos, and then the bus to Sagres, enjoyed Sagres for 2 nights, and then bus+trained it back to Lisbon to tour/day-trip around there (Belem, Sintra, etc.). I don't think it matters whether you fly into Faro or Lisbon--both the Algarve and Lisbon can be visited in one trip, even with only public transportation (as I had). I had an absolutely fabulous time--the Algarve weather was marvelous (there were even surfers!), and Lisbon was very tourist-friendly, with at least 2 days of sight-seeing thrills.

Thanks! I can hardly wait!!

While the weather will probably be nice and sunny, I wouldn't bother to pack a bikini if I were you. Portugal can be chilly during the summer, let alone in mid-winter. If you do end up wishing for a sweater, each evening at the Cabo San Viciente (The lighthouse just outside Sagres, and the most southwestern point in continental Europe) you'll find hucksters selling wool fisherman's sweaters. A great bargain, a great souvenir and a lifesaver when the wind starts blowing off of the ocean. The view of the sunset from the lighthouse is something that everybody should see at least once a lifetime. Enjoy the trip.

Thanks! We were in Barcelona last December and it was cold and rainy. We will bring warm clothes just in case.