Lisbon Region Itinerary | 5 to 7 days | Culture and Gastronomy | 315 kms
Montijo – Lisbon – Sintra – Cascais – Setúbal – Tróia – Comporta – Sesimbra – Montijo
Exploring the Lisbon region provides a unique experience, blending the city’s rich history with the enchanting landscapes of the surroundings. It is important to adapt the itinerary according to your interests and local schedule.
Day 1, 2 & 3 | 35 kms
Montijo, Lisbon
People who don’t need to commute to and from work, even when the distance is short, avoid the time spent in traffic and the accumulated stress at peak times. They can use this time to work more productively and spend more time on leisure activities, family and friends.
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a charming and historic city, situated on the banks of the Tagus River. It has a rich history dating back to antiquity. It was influenced by various cultures, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Moors and finally the Portuguese. The city was significantly affected by the earthquake of 1755. After the tragedy, Lisbon was rebuilt under the guidance of the Marquis of Pombal, resulting in the Pombaline architecture that is still visible today. Lisbon is a multifaceted city that combines tradition with modernity, offering visitors a unique experience. Whether it’s exploring the narrow streets of Alfama, enjoying the view from the Senhora do Monte Viewpoint or relaxing by the river in Belém, there’s always something special about Lisbon.
Day 1: Historic Center
Alfama and Castle of São Jorge: Start the day by exploring the narrow streets of Alfama. Climb up to St. George’s Castle for panoramic views of the city.
Baixa and Chiado: Discover Baixa, with its majestic Praça do Comércio, and then explore the elegant Chiado district. Visit the Bertrand Bookstore, one of the oldest bookstores in the world.
Bairro Alto: At night, immerse yourself in the nightlife of Bairro Alto. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants and then explore the lively bars and clubs. Overnight: Lisboa Camping & Bungalows (Monsanto Forest Park)
Day 2: Bethlehem
Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower: Explore the Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture. Next, visit the Belém Tower, Portugal’s maritime symbol.
Pastéis de Belém and Padrão dos Descobrimentos: Savor the famous custard tarts at the Old Confectionery of Belém. Then, visit the Monument to the Discoveries to pay homage to the Portuguese explorers.
Riverside Dinner: Enjoy a relaxing dinner by the river in Belém, overlooking the illuminated 25th of April Bridge. Overnight: Lisboa Camping & Bungalows (Monsanto Forest Park)
Day 3: Parque das Nações and surroundings
Lisbon Oceanarium: Explore the Lisbon Oceanarium in Parque das Nações. Stroll through the modern area and admire the contemporary architecture.
Cable Car and Vasco da Gama: Enjoy a cable car ride through Parque das Nações for panoramic views. Then you shop at the Vasco da Gama Shopping Centre.
Dinner by the River: Choose to dine at one of the riverside restaurants in Parque das Nações.
Overnight: Lisboa Camping & Bungalows (Monsanto Forest Park)
Day 4 | 40 kms
Lisbon, Sintra
Sintra is a charming town located in the hills of the Sintra Mountains, about 30 minutes from Lisbon. This historic city is known for its lush palaces, castles, gardens, and magical atmosphere.
Full Day: Sintra
Sintra National Palace: Start the day by visiting the National Palace of Sintra, located in the center of the city. This palace offers a fascinating insight into medieval architecture and contains richly decorated rooms.
Quinta da Regaleira: Explore the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, known for its lush gardens, caves, and the famous Initiation Well. A unique experience full of symbolism.
Pena National Palace: Climb the hill to visit the Pena National Palace, one of Sintra’s most recognizable icons. Its colorful architecture and mix of styles make it truly unique.
Moorish Castle: It continues to the Moorish Castle, located at the top of the mountain. This ancient castle offers stunning views of the valley and the ocean.
Lunch in Sintra: Enjoy lunch in one of the cosy restaurants in Sintra. Many offer traditional Portuguese dishes.
Historic Center: Stroll through the historic center of Sintra, where you will find charming streets, handicraft shops and cafes. Discover the unique atmosphere of this city.
Monserrate Palace: If time permits, visit the Monserrate Palace, surrounded by beautiful gardens. This palace is known for its romantic architecture and oriental influences.
Sintra Pillows: Be sure to try the famous travesseiros of Sintra at “Piriquita”, a traditional pastry shop. They are delicious sweets filled with egg custard.
Convent of the Capuchos: For a quieter experience, visit the Convent of the Capuchos, a Franciscan convent integrated into nature.
Sintra-Cascais Natural Park: Explore some of the trails in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Overnight: Orbitur Winch
Day 5 | 30 kms
Sintra, Cascais, Estoril
Cascais is an elegant coastal town located approximately 30 minutes from Lisbon. Known for its stunning beaches, marina, charming architecture, and laid-back atmosphere, Cascais is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Full day: Cascais, Estoril
Cascais Beaches: Enjoy the white sand beaches, such as Praia da Rainha and Praia da Conceição. These beaches offer calm waters and are ideal for relaxing in the sun.
Hell’s Mouth: Visit the Hell’s Mouth, an impressive rock formation where ocean waves crash hard against the cliffs. It’s an amazing spot to take pictures.
Historic Center: Stroll through the historic center of Cascais, where you’ll find cobblestone streets, charming squares, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants.
Cascais Marina: Explore the elegant Cascais marina, full of yachts and boats. It’s a great place to stroll, shop, and enjoy a meal by the sea.
Paula Rego House of Stories: Visit the Paula Rego House of Stories, a museum dedicated to the renowned Portuguese artist Paula Rego. In addition to the exhibitions, the building itself is an interesting piece of architecture.
Marechal Carmona Park: Relax in Marechal Carmona Park, a green oasis in the heart of Cascais. This park has manicured gardens and is a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum: Explore the Condes de Castro Guimarães Museum, a seaside palace that houses an eclectic collection of art, rare books and historical objects.
Santa Marta Lighthouse: Climb up to the Santa Marta Lighthouse for panoramic views of Cascais and the ocean. It’s a place to enjoy the sunset.
Cascais Citadel: Discover the Cascais Citadel, a historic fortress that is now home to shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
abo da Roca (Near Cascais): Take a short trip to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. The views of the ocean are spectacular.
Overnight: Orbitur Winch
Day 6 | 175 kms
Cascais, Tróia, Comporta, Setúbal
Tróia and Comporta are destinations in the Setúbal region, known for their magnificent beaches, unspoiled nature and tranquil atmosphere. You can get to Tróia by ferry from Setúbal. To Comporta, access can be made by road from Setúbal or by ferry from Tróia.
Troy
Beaches of Troia: Tróia is famous for its golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Tróia-Mar Beach and Atlantic Beach are popular for sunbathing and water sports.
Roman Ruins of Troy: Explore the Roman ruins of Troy, which bear witness to the rich history of the region. The amphitheater and the baths are highlights.
Dolphin Watching: Take a boat trip for dolphin watching. The region is known for the presence of bottlenose dolphins.
Sado Estuary Nature Reserve: Enjoy the biodiversity in the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of migratory birds and unique species.
Bike Tours: Explore Tróia by bike, taking advantage of the bike paths that offer stunning views of the natural landscape.
Floodgate
Carrasqueira Stilt Pier: Visit the Carrasqueira Stilt Pier, a unique wooden structure built on stilts in the water. It’s a picturesque place to wander around.
Comporta Rice Paddies: Explore the vast rice paddies of Comporta, which give the region a unique landscape.
Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve: Discover the Santo André and Sancha Lagoons Nature Reserve, a natural habitat for migratory birds.
Local Gastronomy: Try the local cuisine in one of Comporta’s typical restaurants, enjoying dishes based on fresh fish and rice.
Nautical Activities: If you’re interested, take part in nautical activities, such as kayaking or surfing lessons, available on some beaches.
Overnight: Outão Ecopark.
Day 7 | 35 kms
Setúbal, Montijo
Full day: Setúbal
Beaches: Setúbal offers lovely beaches, such as Figueirinha Beach and Galapos Beach. These beaches are known for their natural beauty and are great for relaxing.
Arrábida Natural Park: Explore the Arrábida Natural Park, a protected area with stunning scenery, impressive rock formations, and hiking trails. The Arrábida Viewpoint offers panoramic views.
Convent of Jesus: Visit the Convent of Jesus, a remarkable example of Manueline architecture, which houses the Museum of Setúbal.
St. Philip’s Castle: Climb up to St. Philip’s Castle, perched high on a hill, for panoramic views of the city and coast.
Livramento Market: Explore Mercado do Livramento, a traditional market offering a variety of fresh produce, including fish, fruits, vegetables and local delicacies.
Tour of the Historic Center: Stroll through the historic center of Setúbal, discovering picturesque streets, charming squares, and historic buildings.
Gastronomy: Enjoy the delicious local cuisine, especially fresh fish and seafood dishes. Fried cuttlefish (fried calamari) is a typical delicacy of the region.
Return to Montijo: end of the adventure!
