In a land where history dances with modernity, where cobblestone streets whisper tales of ancient empires, and where the sea breeze carries the essence of adventure, lies a city that captivates the soul: Lisbon. Prepare to embark on a journey of three nights and four days, where time seems to slow down, and every moment is filled with the vibrancy and charm of this coastal gem.
From the enchanting alleys of Alfama to the majestic palaces of Sintra and the coastal allure of Cascais, let the drama unfold as you immerse yourself in the very essence of Lisbon. Join us as we unveil a narrative itinerary that will transport you to a realm of captivating beauty, where history whispers in every whispering wind, and the spirit of exploration ignites your soul. Welcome to Lisbon, where dreams and reality intertwine in a symphony of wonder.
I'm taking for granted that your visit to Portugal is part of a larger itinerary that includes Spain. So perhaps you'll be coming from either Madrid or Seville. If you're in Seville, it's best to take a night bus to Lisbon which will take you around 6.5 hours to reach Lisbon. After settling into your accommodation and some obvious rest for about 2 hours, begin your exploration of the city's soul by wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets of Alfama, the oldest district. Lose yourself in its enchanting maze, lined with colorful buildings adorned with delicate tiles, and listen to the haunting melodies of Fado music drifting from traditional taverns. Take a tram ride on Tram 28, a vintage yellow tram that winds its way through the picturesque neighborhoods, granting you glimpses of historic landmarks like São Jorge Castle and Lisbon Cathedral. In the evening, treat your taste buds to the flavours of Portuguese cuisine at a traditional tasca (tavern) and savour the famous pasteis de nata, delicious custard tarts that Lisbon is renowned for.
Embark on a day trip to Sintra, a fairytale-like town nestled amidst lush green hills just a short train ride away from Lisbon. Explore the magnificent Pena Palace, perched on a hilltop and adorned with vibrant colors and intricate details. Wander through the whimsical gardens, where every turn reveals hidden paths and romantic viewpoints. Visit the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its gothic mansion and enchanting underground tunnels and wells. End your day in Sintra with a visit to the charming town center, where you can indulge in local delicacies and browse through artisanal shops.
Escape the city's hustle and bustle and head to Cascais, a charming coastal town just a short train ride away from Lisbon. Immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere as you stroll along the scenic promenade, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you. Explore the historic center, filled with quaint shops, cafes, and the impressive Citadel of Cascais.
If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Praia do Guincho beach, known for its pristine beauty and excellent surfing conditions. In the evening, savor a delightful seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, accompanied by the breathtaking sunset over the ocean.
On your final day in Lisbon, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Avenida da Liberdade, a grand boulevard lined with designer boutiques and elegant gardens. Visit the vibrant neighborhood of Bairro Alto, known for its lively nightlife and eclectic mix of trendy bars and traditional fado houses. Explore the historic district of Baixa, with its grand squares, elegant buildings, and bustling pedestrian streets filled with shops and cafes. Don't forget to visit Rossio Square, a lively gathering place where you can watch the world go by. Before bidding farewell to Lisbon, savour one last Portuguese delicacy, the bifana (pork sandwich), at a local tasca.
Travel particulars:
Stay: A decent Airbnb around the city centre will cost you around INR 15000 to INR 18,000 for 3 nights.
Transport: Public transport in Lisbon is efficient and affordable. In Lisbon, you have two options to obtain a reduced fare for public transportation: the Viva Viagem Card and the Lisboa Card. The Viva Viagem Card is a plastic card that allows you to load a specific amount of funds onto it. This card can be used for purchasing individual tickets or 1-day passes. If you opt for a 1-day unlimited ride ticket using the Viva Viagem Card, it will cost you 6.40 Euros per day. However, if you also plan to utilise suburban trains to travel to Sintra and Cascais, the 1-day ticket price will be 10.60 Euros per day.
Site visits: The Lisboa Card comes in handy for both transport and visiting tourist attractions. This tourist attraction discount pass provides admission to many popular sites in Lisbon (38 attractions) for one flat price, allowing you to visit multiple locations during a given time frame. For a 72 hour access card, you will have to pay 46 Euros, about INR 4,200. Not too bad.
Food: If you're willing to allocate a slightly higher budget while still being mindful of your expenses, it is recommended to plan around €40 per day for food in Lisbon. This estimate includes approximately €5 for breakfast, €15 for lunch, and €20 for a more upscale dinner. If you wish to indulge in a few drinks, it is advisable to set aside an additional €10. You'll find numerous bars where you can enjoy a beer for €2–3 or a mixed drink for €4–5. So for 4 days, realistically speaking, you will spend around 12,500 INR on food.
Therefore, total necessary expenses:
Stay - INR 18,000
Food - INR 12,500
All-access Lisboa Card - INR 4,200
Bus from Seville to Lisbon - INR 17,000
Flight from Lisbon to Barcelona- INR 7,700
Total: INR 44,100
Let's embark on this captivating journey through Lisbon, where history, culture, and culinary delights intertwine, leaving you with cherished memories to treasure for a lifetime.
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Enjoy your magical journey through Lisbon, filled with captivating sights, cultural delights, and unforgettable experiences.
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