Back to Portugal
#1
Original Poster

Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 968
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Back to Portugal
This will be my 3rd trip to Portugal. I have been to Cascais, Lisbon, Porto, a fast day trip around the Duoro and the Algarve. This time I would like to explore Sintra again (it rained the day I was there. And then have a beach holiday near some walking trails and a historical town. Am I asking too much? Would love some suggestions.
#5
Joined: Apr 2022
Posts: 203
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Since you have asked for suggestions, my strongest one would be that you state when you will be going to Portugal. I realize that your reference to beaches suggests late spring, or summer, but in principle, readers who see your post two months from now won't know whether it's still worth their time to compose responses.
I'll add that as to whether you are asking too much, I would say definitely not -- you have proposed Sintra, beaches, an historic town, and hiking trails; you can definitely take in all that, and more, in a typical two-week visit, and maybe even one week. For example, Lagos is an historic town with beaches near-by, and a relatively short trip from Lisbon. One night in Sintra, probably another in Lisbon, and four in and around Lagos, and within six nights you will have achieved three of your four goals. And within that same Delaware-sized province of the Algarve, you will probably find hiking trails in the Serra do Caldeiro. [Note that though I have been to Portugal, I have not seen the Algarve -- I mentioned those sites not necessarily to vouch for them -- though I'm sure they're fine -- but only to illustrate that you are not asking for too much!]
I'll add that as to whether you are asking too much, I would say definitely not -- you have proposed Sintra, beaches, an historic town, and hiking trails; you can definitely take in all that, and more, in a typical two-week visit, and maybe even one week. For example, Lagos is an historic town with beaches near-by, and a relatively short trip from Lisbon. One night in Sintra, probably another in Lisbon, and four in and around Lagos, and within six nights you will have achieved three of your four goals. And within that same Delaware-sized province of the Algarve, you will probably find hiking trails in the Serra do Caldeiro. [Note that though I have been to Portugal, I have not seen the Algarve -- I mentioned those sites not necessarily to vouch for them -- though I'm sure they're fine -- but only to illustrate that you are not asking for too much!]
Last edited by Faedus; Jan 5th, 2025 at 02:10 PM.
#7

Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 567
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My choice would be Ericeira. Very close to Lisbon (I agree, Lisbon is been there , done that with too many crowds) Excellent hiking abounds on the cliffs overlooking numerous beaches/coves directly from the old town. An old fishing village, not a lot of tourists. “Surfing capital of Europe”. Tons of cafes, restaurants, and shops and the whole town is cobbled stone streets, with the houses dressed in blue and white. A 10+
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#8

Joined: Jun 2005
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We loved Evora and when our plans changed, we went to Marvao-- beautiful views. Castelo de Vide - lovely town. Thomar Boutique Hotel. We did not have good weather, but these villages and mountains would be wonderful in good weather! Trip report-https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/wonderful-portugal-1713270/ Look at days 5 and 6 in particular.
#10

Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 3,299
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Check out Along the Costa Vicentina - Rota Vicentina and especially the Fisherman's Trail.
The Costa Vicentina (westcoast of Portugal, south of Lisbon) is wild and unspoilt. The beaches of golden sand are fabulous, surrounded by steep cliffs.
There are a lot of small, typical villages such as Vila Nova de Milfontes (which is where we stayed), Zambujeira do Mar, Porto Covo, ... and far less touristy than the Agarve.
The Costa Vicentina (westcoast of Portugal, south of Lisbon) is wild and unspoilt. The beaches of golden sand are fabulous, surrounded by steep cliffs.
There are a lot of small, typical villages such as Vila Nova de Milfontes (which is where we stayed), Zambujeira do Mar, Porto Covo, ... and far less touristy than the Agarve.
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