Coastal drive, Portugal

1. Remember to buy a port wine while walking around the historical part of Porto. There are a lot of shops; we visited the shop Garrafeira Vieira.
2. We didn’t visit the most popular place in Porto Lello & Irmão Bookstore because of huuuuuge queue at the entrance. However, if you go for a walk on the other bank of the river, do not forget to drop by Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau.
3. Aveiro is famous for its canals, called “Portugal Venice”.
4. Mata do Bussaco is a fantastic and mysterious park with one of the most famous historic hotels in the world.

1. Unfortunately, we didn’t visit Coimbra University, BUT I know its library is worth visiting. There are a lot of ancient books like Magellan’s Notes, and it also has a great interior.
2. Rumour has it that JK Rowling writing the first part of “Harry Potter”, was inspired by university students wearing black cloaks since ancient times.
3. The Mira de Aire Cave’s depth is impressive and completely incomprehensible how the first speleologists explored it. Worth a visit.
4. Nazaré is famous for its biggest waves on Earth, and it’s considered the Mecca of surfers worldwide. The reason is the massive canyon located under the sea that creates the pipe that lifts the water. But giants waves are available only from October to February; check it out at https://nazarewaves.com.

1. Peniche has a lot of spots to have a perfect morning hike with a bunch of cliffs, stairs and caves.
2. I remember Obidos with its cosy narrow streets and bright facades. Of course, remember to drink cherry liqueur in a chocolate glass.
3. Buddha Eden Garden of Peace became an unexpected discovery along the way. A truly unique and very peaceful place in nature where you can admire contemporary art.
4. I can’t stop speaking about our perfect Airbnb in Sintra, which is ideal for many reasons (Besides the owner freed us his parking space).

1. Quinta da Regaleira is my favourite place among all palaces surrounding Sintra. The whole castle and gardens around are permeated with an atmosphere of mystery.
2. The National Palace of Pena looks cartoonish; however, it’s a perfect place for a calm stroll along the territory.
3. We, unfortunately, didn’t visit the Sintra National Palace because there were many plans for one day, but it’s located just in the centre of Sintra.
4. It was best to finish the day by hiking to Castelo dos Mouros. The place for the castle was chosen ideally for that time, and it’s worth visiting since it is within walking distance from the Pena Palace, which was convenient.
5. Instead of catching a taxi, you might choose to follow the hidden shady trail leading from Pena Palace to Castelo dos Mouros.
6. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy pastel de nata in the exceptional place, Fábrica da Nata.

1. Park and Palace of Monserrate is the most underrated place in Sintra. The house has a fascinating and long history. It was sold and given to different families and owners, and each brought something new to this place.
2. Cabo da Roca is a cult place. Be sure to send a postcard or letter from the westernmost point of the Eurasian continent.
3. Praia do Guincho is considered a vacation spot for Lisbon residents, as it is located quite close — an ideal place for relaxation and surf lessons.
4. Boca do Inferno is one of the most visited places, with picturesque views and stunning raging waves. It might be crowded on the weekend.

1. We have a perfect Airbnb night in the Sesimbra region. It’s famous for its scenic roads and natural parks. Remember to follow our map to see the best view of the whole road trip.
2. The ferry from Setubal is very comfortable and accommodates a lot of cars.
3. Unfortunately, Lagos seemed to us too southern and not very memorable (although I know the city’s fans). However, getting to surf schools and beautiful beaches from here is convenient.

1. In addition to the beautiful view from above, Praia de Monte Clérigo attracts unusual rocky cliffs. Some amateurs collect mussels there and cook them there.
2. Farol do Cabo de São Vicente was quite windy and cool in winter. However, the place is scenery with the perfect view. And if you want to be an extreme sportsman, you could manage a hike downstairs.
3. Salema Beach is a calm and pleasant place.
4. Ponta da Piedade is the gem of Lagos. Watching how the waves hit the rocky massif and the water leaves through numerous arches is a pleasure.

1. If you love Formula 1 or just racing, we recommend starting the day at the open-air Kartódromo Internacional do Algarve. Definitely 5 stars!
2. Praia da Marinha is a fabulous beach with white sand and blue water. The double arch at the end of the beach looks amazing, which is why this beach is depicted as a symbol of the region.
3. We could not appreciate Faro because we arrived in the evening and walked a little along the shopping streets. It seemed like a lovely southern town.

After the flight, we spent a few days in Lisbon and here are some places for which we have a soft spot in our hearts.

1. We started our day at the top of Belem Tower, the lace air miracle of Lisbon.
2. Jeronimos Monastery is my favourite place to take amazing sunny photos of the garden surrounded by carved columns.
3. We visited Castelo de S. Jorge and caught the best sunset city view. Several families of amazingly noisy peacocks also live in the park’s trees and do not leave anyone indifferent.
4. Modern art fans will be pleased with Museu Coleção Berardo, filled with many exhibits, including Malevich, Rodchenko, Magritte and others.
5. What a pleasure to end the day with a walk in Jardim da Estrela and find such a long-awaited coolness.
6. Quiosque Ribeira das Naus is a place of attraction for tourists and locals that cannot be passed without taking a glass of a cocktail and not seeing the sunset.
7. Here are some of our restaurant recommendations. Breakfast: Break Sé Coffee: Baobá Café Bica Lunch: Time Out Market