Hello. We are going to Portugal in July for just 8 days. I'm thinking about splitting our nights between Lisbon and Porto and taking day trips from there. The Douro Valley looks incredible, but I wonder if it's worth it for just a day trip without a car. I've also heard it gets pretty hot there in July. Would it be better to spend a day somewhere else?

I guess I'm wondering what are the must-sees in Portugal with our limited time? We are not planning on going south of Lisbon.

Yes, it does get warm in July and hot in August, but it's even warm in October.

There are a lot of "must sees" in Portugal, but you'll only have time to touch a few bases in 8 days. If you're staying a few days in Lisbon, then you can visit Sintra and Cascais, and still have some time to explore Lisbon.

From Porto, you can take the train to Braga for the day, as well as head for the Douro River Valley, taking the train upriver and cruising back down to Porto, or do it in reverse. Check out www.rentdouro.com.

See http://www.cp.pt for your rail tickets.

Thank you for the suggestions, Robert! Would you suggest not missing the Douro Valley, then?

I would at least spend the day, it's beautiful. And of course you should have lunch at D.O.C. (http://ruipaula.com/web/).

Wow, that looks fancy.

Fancy, and slightly expensive, but worth it!!! The chef is one of the best!