Two Weeks in Portugal

When I went: Early June 2016

How long I stayed: 14 days

Why I chose Portugal: Beautiful beaches, affordable prices, great weather, clean and safe cities, and lots of wine.

Itinerary: Toronto – London - Faro – Lagos – Lisbon – Porto - Toronto

Lagos

Accommodations: Algarve Surf Hostel

Must Visit: Praia Do Amado

Must Do: Beaches, surf, walk to the light house, boat ride through grottos

Must Pack: Sunscreen

How long I stayed: 5 nights

How to get there: Shuttle Direct bus from airport to hostel.

We started our adventure by flying from London to Faro. From there we caught a shuttle to our hostel located in Lagos. We stayed in a double private room at the Algarve Surf Hostel. This was our first experience staying at a hostel and we really enjoyed it! I would highly recommend this hostel, the staff and guests were immediately our best friends. We met so many new people, and the rooms were cleaned every day.

While in Lagos we lounged at the pristine beaches, partied at the bars in old town, went hiking along the coast and took surfing lessons.

Lisbon

Accommodations: Airbnb with private roof top terrace

Must Visit: Sintra

Must Do: Gawk at the amazing architecture, ride the tram, day trip to Sintra and Belém

Must Pack: Good walking shoes

How long I stayed: 3 nights

How to get there: Bus. The bus station was a short walk from our hostel in Lagos. Must pay cash. Assigned seating.

Between the architecture and the cobblestone streets I was in love with this city. We spent our first night relaxing on our roof top patio then walked to a highly recommended restaurant for lobster and great wine. I only wish we could have stayed longer to explore more of the city

Sintra

We took a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon where we walked about 13 miles over the course of the day (no big deal). It felt like being in a fairy tale amongst all of the castles and palaces.

Belém

We also took a short trip to Belém on the HOTTEST tram ride ever. But, it was well worth it for the pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém. They really did taste the best.

Porto

Accomodations: Airbnb

Must Visit: Bridge to Gaia and port cellars

Must Do: Walk the bridge to Gaia, Nos Primavera Sound, port wineries

Must Pack: sweater

How long I stayed: 5 nights

Transportation: Train

Our first full day in Porto we walked the bridge to Gaia to the port cellars. The views of Porto from across the river were beautiful. We had a wonderful time tasting the port wine at various cellars.

We also attended a three day music festival during our stay called NOS Primavera Sound.