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Summary

Embark on an epic road trip from Lisbon to Porto, exploring fairytale palaces in Sintra, medieval towns like Óbidos, the religious epicenter of Fatima, the colorful coastal town of Costa Nova, historic Coimbra, and the vibrant city of Porto. Conclude your journey with a visit to Braga, the religious heartland of Portugal. This itinerary offers a blend of cultural exploration, historical insights, and scenic beauty, making it perfect for families and travelers seeking a diverse Portuguese experience.

🏰 Day 1: Fairytale Sintra

Explore the fairytale palaces and enchanting gardens of Sintra, a must-visit detour known for its picturesque landscapes and historical monuments.

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🏰 Pena Palace and Park

A colorful summer home for Lisbon’s Royal Family, offering stunning views and beautiful royal gardens. The interiors are adorned with opulent decorations and intricate details, reflecting the grandeur of the royal lifestyle.

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Tips

Book your tickets in advance to explore the interiors and immerse yourself in the regal ambiance.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 21 923 7300
🌐   Website: https://www.parquesdesintra.pt/pt/parques-monumentos/parque-e-palacio-nacional-da-pena/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 2.5 hours
📍   Address: Estrada da Pena, 2710-609 Sintra, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: X (Twitter)

🏰 Quinta da Regaleira’s Initiation Well

A mysterious well with a winding stairwell, often compared to Dante’s Divine Comedy. The well is shrouded in legends and symbolism, adding an air of mystique to the enchanting surroundings.

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Tips

Delve into the labyrinth of tunnels at the bottom to uncover the secrets and hidden passages concealed within the depths of the well.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 21 910 6650
🌐   Website: http://www.regaleira.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1 hour
📍   Address: Quinta da Regaleira, R. Barbosa du Bocage 9, 2710-567 Sintra, Portugal

🏰 Castelo dos Mouros

A 1000-year-old Moorish Castle offering panoramic views over the city and the Atlantic. The ancient defensive walls stand as a testament to the castle's rich history, providing a captivating glimpse into the region's past.

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Tips

Traverse the restored defensive walls for breathtaking views that stretch across the city and extend as far as the glistening waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 21 923 7300
🌐   Website: http://www.parquesdesintra.pt/parques-jardins-e-monumentos/castelo-dos-mouros/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1.5 hours
📍   Address: 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal

Day2: Medieval Óbidos

Discover the charm of Óbidos, a medieval town with narrow streets, a famous cherry brandy, and a unique library hotel.

The Literary Man

The world’s largest library hotel, offering a unique stay in Óbidos.

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Tips

Consider staying the night to fully enjoy the town.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351262959214
🌐   Website: http://www.theliteraryman.pt/
📍   Address: Rua D João dOrnelas, 2510-074 Óbidos, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram

🌟 Day 3: Religious Fatima & Coastal Charm

Experience the religious significance of Fatima and the colorful coastal town of Costa Nova, known for its striped houses and sand dune beaches.

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🕌 Fatima

Fatima is one of Portugal’s religious epicenters, known for mass pilgrimages and the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1917. The church hosts grand processions and masses in their outdoor grotto from May to October, attracting thousands of visitors seeking spiritual experiences and hoping to witness miracles.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "F\u00c1TIMA: Unveiling the Secrets of Portugal's Holy City [4K]", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbIdNShpX7o", "channel": { "name": "POV Tours - Portugal in 4K"}, "published_date": "Apr 13, 2023", "length": "1:08:12" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "FATIMA \u2013 PORTUGAL: Day Trip to the Sanctuary of Our Lady ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1Wt2S3VlhQ", "channel": { "name": "Discovering Destinations"}, "published_date": "May 1, 2020", "length": "7:28" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "F\u00e1tima: Portugal's Holiest City, Where Miracles Occur! [4K]", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-7trPujqfE", "channel": { "name": "POV Tours - Portugal in 4K"}, "published_date": "Apr 17, 2022", "length": "47:04" }</div>

Tips

Visit the church and its grounds to explore the history of the apparitions and the significance of this sacred site.

🏖️ Costa Nova

Costa Nova is a picturesque coastal town famous for its colorful striped houses and stunning sand dune beach. The town offers a delightful promenade where visitors can stroll and admire the unique architecture, while also enjoying the beautiful beach and indulging in delicious gelato.

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Tips

Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, savor some gelato, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming coastal gem.

Day4: Historic Coimbra & Porto Arrival

Visit Coimbra, a city rich in history with Portugal’s Oldest University, before arriving in Porto to explore its vibrant culture and day trip options.

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Portugal’s Oldest University

Home to the Baroque Library, this university is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning architecture.

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Tips

Give yourself at least four hours to explore the city’s highlights.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +351 239 859 900
🌐   Website: https://www.uc.pt/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram YouTube X (Twitter)

Porto

Portugal’s second city, known for its central hub for attractive day trip options and vibrant culture.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "15 Things to Know BEFORE You Go to Porto 4 First Time ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jq9bx7sea6Y", "channel": { "name": "CORR Travel - Revinvent Life Over 50. Travel Solo!"}, "published_date": "Sep 3, 2023", "length": "24:10" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "27 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Porto, Portugal", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZK5TyUqk22M", "channel": { "name": "Camden David"}, "published_date": "Feb 9, 2024", "length": "9:31" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "The Ultimate Guide Porto Portugal - 15 Things to Do in Porto ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwVNLQTv6LQ", "channel": { "name": "Lucas World Travel"}, "published_date": "Jul 29, 2023", "length": "19:12" }</div>

Tips

Consider exploring nearby cities like Aveiro, Costa Nova, Coimbra, or Braga if you have extra time.

🌟 Day 5: Exploring Braga

Dive into the religious heartland of Portugal by visiting Braga, known for its historic religious buildings and the Bom Jesus do Monte complex.

🏰 Bom Jesus do Monte

Bom Jesus do Monte is a sprawling Cathedral Complex situated on a hilltop outside Braga. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding landscape. The complex features a majestic church, adorned with intricate architecture, and a serene park with a children’s playground, row boats, and a charming café. The highlight is the funicular ride that takes visitors up or down the hill, providing a unique perspective of the area.

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Tips

Spend at least 90 minutes exploring the Church and its surrounding property to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural beauty of this iconic site. Don't miss the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll through the park and savor the peaceful ambiance.