On my first trip to Portugal, I piggy backed off a road trip my husband and I took through Spain. Check out my previous First Trip to Spain post for more details.

Southern Coast

Taking it slow, in classic road trip style, we ventured along the southern coast. Faro and Lagos are good stopping points for food and drink. Outside of Lagos, do not skip the coastal boardwalk hike to Ponta da Piedade which showcases beautiful twisted arched rock formations within turquoise and sapphire blue water.

A hidden gem along the southern coast is the tiny town of Sagres, at the Southwest tip of Portugal. It oozes with chill surfer vibes. For coffee and vegetarian bites to eat go to Picnic Sagres.

Lisbon

Of no surprise to anyone who has read my other posts, on our first trip to Portugal we had to do a walking tour in Lisbon. There are so many free walking tour company options and locations that we actually booked two! One of the main downtown area and one of the Alfama area (a unique historic neighborhood). After getting a lay of the land head to the lookout spot of Miradouro da Senhora do Monte to see panoramic views of the city.

If you are even a slight book lover, walk into Livraria Bertrand, in the Chiado neighborhood of Lisbon. It is the oldest operating bookstore in the world! Purchase a book and you get an authentic stamp – such a cool souvenir!

In Lisbon, your taste buds will be delighted. Green Burger is a must-visit for delicious vegetarian burgers (they also have other non-veggie options). I discovered many unique burger places in Lisbon, each with trendy colored buns. For a diverse range of foods, head to Time Out Market, a trendy food hall with locations worldwide.

During your first trip to Portugal, indulge in the classic pastel de natal, an iconic custard tart. You’ll find many places to try these. If you’re craving a donut, make sure to visit Scoop ’n Dough, where you’ll find the best vegan donut I’ve ever had. For another fun classic, try ginjinha, a shot of alcohol with a cherry flavor, sometimes served in a small chocolate cup.

A little outside the main downtown area of Lisbon is The Tower of St. Vincent (Belem Tower) and Jeronimos Monastery. You need separate tickets for both. Due to their close location it makes sense to visit them at the same time since you can walk from one to the other. You do not require a ticket for the Santa Maria church adjacent to the monastery which houses the tomb of Vasco da Gama.

Cascais is a city along the shore outside of Lisbon. It is a cool little town along the water with good restaurants and bars if you have extra time.

Sintra

A day trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must on your first trip to Portugal. Unfortunately, getting to the park and navigating within it is a little difficult as the area is not accessible to private vehicles. If driving, you have to park in a lot outside and take a tuk-tuk or public bus to enter the park. You can walk in, but it is a very long and steep walk. You can also take the train from Lisbon and then take a public bus inside. Alternatively, you can book a day tour, however this option is more expensive.

A must-see site there is the National Palace of Pena. It is a dreamy and whimsical castle on the top of a hill in the Sintra mountains. Make sure to get tickets in advance as they sell out. Also, it takes awhile to get to the Palace after entering the park, so plan accordingly with your ticket time slot. The ticket includes the park around the palace which has some pretty nature paths leading to a chalet, high cross, and valley of the lakes. A separate ticket, but near the same area and walkable, is the Moorish Castle. Also, a separate ticket, is the Sintra National Palace, in the historic town center of Sintra; which is at a lower elevation compared to the previous sites.

While in the town of Sintra make sure to try the pastry they are famous for: Travesseiros de Sintra.

Porto

The second biggest city in Portugal, Porto, was another treat. Shocker, we also did a free walking tour here. To soak in the cityscape, go to the Garden of the Moors, a cool lookout point, especially at sunset. Walk across the Ponte Luis Bridge over the Rio Douro to get there. Nearby are port wine tours and tastings at places such as Museu da Casa Sandeman. Port wine is a must try in Porto, although it is very sweet.

If you are ready to buy another book, or just see the most beautiful bookstore in the world, you are in the right city. The bookstore is called Livraria Lello. You need a ticket to enter and there is a line to get in. Some say it inspired parts of the Harry Potter books since J.K. Rowling lived around the corner from it for a couple years.

Another stunning interior can be found in a fast-food chain. In the historic downtown of Porto, there’s the ‘most beautiful McDonald’s in the world’.

While visiting Porto, I also recommend exploring Torre dos Clerigos, Porto Cathedral, and Bishop’s Palace. Don’t miss the Mercado do Bolhao food market for a taste of local cuisine. For breathtaking city views, head to the rooftop bar at Hotel Dom Henrique Downtown.

With an extra day or two, drive about 90 minutes from Porto to the countryside, and explore the Douro Valley wine region. It is located along the Douro River and has breathtaking terraced vineyards producing port wine.

To wrap things up, on your first trip to Portugal drink port wine, read books, and explore the beautiful landscape! And don’t forget, stay whimsical & keep wandering! xoxo, Amy