Help please with where to visit and reasonable accommodation for 3 of us-apartment perhaps? I used to like staying in backpacker type places in order to meet other travellers and that would be more fun for daughter too but maybe not suitable in our 60s!

We rented an apartment form www.visitingPortugal.com and were very pleased with our apartment and our dealings with the owners.

"but maybe not suitable in our 60s" I would certainly hope so!

Where in Portugal are you interested in visiting with only 7 days to spare? Lisbon? Porto? Or somewhere else? Have you every been to Portugal? What are your interests, besides meeting people?

We have never been to Portugal so maybe Lisbon and some small places. I enjoy art galleries/museums, architecture, markets, walking and meeting locals-maybe in less tourist areas. I have not yet read about Porto. Just thought some ideas for a short trip would help a lot. Thanks for replies.

Lisbon is fantastic, and there are lots of places to visit! We spent two weeks in Portugal for NYE in 2010/2011 you can read our trip report and see our pics here

http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...l-20102011.cfm

With 7 days I would pick Lisbon and maybe one other location - Porto would be a nice choice. What time of year are you going? The Algarve is popular beach location.

Take a look at Sintra and Evora, both easy day trips from Lisbon.

Here is the direct link to our photos

http://www.flickr.com/photos/pug_gir...7636734183955/

I think Lisbon would be perfect for your first visit to Portugal. And as noted, Sintra and Evora are easy day trips, but for Evora, I would hire a car and driver. Most hotels can make the arrangements for you.

You can also take the train out to Cascaís for a walk along the beach and lunch. It makes for an interesting afternoon adventure.

http://www.visitportugal.com
http://www.cascais.net/guide/

Also check out www.pousadas.pt..wonderful accom.

We loved Portugal, it's a beautiful country. Here's how we spent 8 days: http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...l-portugal.cfm

I would happily return, there are so many more places I'd like to visit in this country.

From Lisbon you can go to sereval places on one day trip by public transports: Cascais, Estoril, Sintra, Mafra, Setubal/Troia, Sesimbra, Obidos, and Evora.
Coimbra is 2 hours by train. Lot of spots to visit, plus the oldest University and Library of Europe.
For rooms or flats try www.UniPlaces.com