ALL GUIDES / EUROPE / ITALY Planning a trip to Italy can be overwhelming with countless options and endless research. As meticulous planners who've spent over 100 hours crafting and testing this Italy 10 day itinerary, we're here to save you precious planning time . After experiencing these destinations firsthand and ironing out all the logistics, we've created the perfect blend of iconic sights and hidden gems. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover how to experience Italy's most captivating cities while staying within budget. From skip-the-line tickets to local neighborhood accommodations, we'll share our tried-and-tested tips for combining romance with adventure, perfect for couples seeking authentic experiences without breaking the bank. Table of Contents: Italy 10 Day Itinerary Planning Your Dream Italy 10 Day Itinerary Day 1: Venice Day 2: Venice Day 3: Venice to Florence Day 4: Florence Day 5: Cinque Terre Day Trip Day 6: Florence to Rome Day 7: Ancient Rome Day 8: Vatican City Day 9: Hidden Rome Day 10: Departure Budget Breakdown FAQ Section Planning Your Dream Italy 10 Day Itinerary When we planned our trip to Italy , we found early spring (March-April) and late fall (October-November) to be sweet spots for exploring Europe . The weather was perfect for wandering - warm but not scorching - and we loved having more breathing room at popular spots without summer crowds (snag our free 35-page planning guidebook for more tips!). Getting around Italy was a breeze using the country's modern train system. We booked our tickets through Trenitalia's website about a month ahead and saved nearly 40% compared to day-of prices. Pro tip: download tickets to your phone (we saved ours in our offline Google Drive) since station WiFi can be spotty. One of our best decisions for this Italy 10 day itinerary was choosing to stay in local neighborhoods . We loved our apartment in Rome's Trastevere district where we could grab morning cappuccinos with locals, and our cozy spot south of the Arno in Florence gave us amazing rooftop views while saving nearly €100 per night compared to tourist zones. Day 1: Venice We started our epic 10 day Italy itinerary in the floating city of Venice . After checking into our Airbnb on the main island (totally worth the splurge), we wandered the maze-like streets and got our first taste of authentic Italian cuisine. We ditched directions and just wandered. Trust us - getting lost in Venice is magical . The quiet canals, hidden art galleries, and local cafes we discovered were unforgettable. ✨ Hidden gem: End your day at Fondaco dei Tedeschi's free rooftop terrace. Book your 15-minute slot online or try your luck as a walk-in (we have pinned this location in our Italy Google Map ). 💡 Where to stay: We chose to stay on Venice island despite higher prices. While you can save money staying on the mainland (€1.5 tram ride), being in the heart of Venice let us soak in the evening atmosphere after day-trippers left. Our host Doriana's centrally-located Airbnb was perfect. Advertisement Day 2: Venice Pro tip: Book the first time slot at St. Mark's Basilica (€15 with museum) at 9:30 AM. When purchasing these tickets online in advance (highly recommended) you can enter via a separate skip-the-line entrance which is on the left side of the main Basilica doors. We practically had the place to ourselves, with only a handful of other early birds! The morning light streaming through the golden mosaics created an absolutely magical atmosphere. The upstairs museum was a highlight - we spent nearly an hour exploring the intricate artifacts and original horses of St. Mark. The terrace access was worth the climb, offering incredible panoramic views over St. Mark's Square and the Grand Canal. From this vantage point, you can really appreciate Venice's unique layout and watch the city come to life as cafes set up their morning service. 👗 Pack appropriately: You'll need covered shoulders and knees to enter. 🍽️ Food tip: Don't miss cicchetti - Venice's answer to tapas. We loved Enoteca Al Volto for their €2-3 small plates and €5 spritz (we have pinned this location in our Italy Google Map ). Advertisement Day 3: Venice to Florence We took the scenic 2-hour train ride to Florence through Tuscany. Trenitalia's high-speed trains are comfortable and eco-friendly. Download our free 35-Page Trip Planning Guidebook  for all of the helpful tools we use to plan our trips. 💰 Transport costs: • Train: $60-70/person • Car rental: $160-200 for 4 people (mostly manual transmission available) 🏠 We stayed in charming Piazza Santo Spirito , south of the Arno River. Stephano's place had incredible rooftop views and let us live like locals while being walking distance to everything. Started with the iconic Duomo complex - book tickets at least a month ahead for Brunelleschi's Dome climb! The 463-step ascent takes you between the cathedral's two shells, offering unique views of Giorgio Vasari's stunning Last Judgment frescoes and culminating in breathtaking 360-degree views over Florence's terracotta rooftops. We arrived 15 minutes before our scheduled time to avoid any issues with the strict entry policy and have pinned the exact entrance door hidden on the side of the Duomo in our Italy Google Map . 🥪 Food tip: Queue up at All'Antico Vinaio for the best sandwiches in Florence (we have pinned this location in our Italy Google Map ). We would recommend visiting at an odd time (2-4pm) for the shortest lines. 🌅 Perfect ending: Picnic in Giardino delle Rose, then sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo . We continued up to San Miniato Church for even better views. Advertisement Day 4: Florence If you're an art lover like us, you'll adore planning this part of your Italy 10 day itinerary! We kicked off at the Uffizi Gallery to admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, and da Vinci. Pro tip: start with Botticelli's Birth of Venus on the second floor before the crowds arrive. The Accademia Gallery was next (book your time slot in advance), where Michelangelo's David left us speechless - seriously, photos don't do it justice. Get there 15 minutes before your time slot to breeze through security. For our afternoon in Florence , we wandered through the grand Pitti Palace and its peaceful Boboli Gardens . Don't skip the hidden gem that is Museo delle Porcellane (we have pinned this location in our Italy Google Map ). We loved its stunning Tuscan views and unique porcelain collection. 💰 Money Saving Tip: We saved €7 each by booking the PassePartout combined ticket online in advance which is valid for 5 consecutive days and offers one single admission (with priority) to all the museum sites of the Uffizi, Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens (price €40 in 2025) Day 5: Cinque Terre Day Trip An easy day trip from Florence to see the famous five colorful coastal villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera. We took a guided tour which handled all logistics and gave us free time to explore each town. The tour included comfortable transportation through the winding coastal roads, local insights about the history and culture of each village, and plenty of recommendations for the best spots to try local specialties like chocolate pastries from Monterosso and pesto from Vernazza . Having 45-60 minutes in each town let us explore at our own pace while not worrying about train schedules or navigation between villages. If you're limited on time and don't want a relaxing day free of heavy logistics, we highly recommend booking this tour to experience the highlights! Advertisement Day 6: Florence to Rome Another scenic train ride (2 hours, $40-55/person) to Rome . We chose to stay in the charming Trastevere neighborhood - perfect for foodies and nightlife lovers. Download our free 35-Page Trip Planning Guidebook  for all of the helpful tools we use to plan our trips. 🏠 Giorgia's condo was our ideal base, offering quiet nights despite being steps from the action. Hit the must-sees : started at the magnificent Pantheon , then made our way to the iconic Trevi Fountain where we followed tradition and tossed in coins over our shoulders. Continued to the Spanish Steps - perfect for people-watching and gelato breaks. Our evening in Trastevere was magical, starting with handmade pasta at the local favorite Tonnarello (try their signature cacio e pepe!), followed by modern Roman street food at Trapizzino where we sampled their innovative pizza-pocket creations filled with traditional Roman recipes (all of our favorite must-try foodie spots are pinned in our Italy Google Map ). Day 7: Ancient Rome One day 7, we explored Rome's greatest hits. We started early at the majestic Colosseum (book time slots at least 2 weeks ahead for best prices!) where we spent a full 2 hours exploring all three levels. Don't miss the newly opened underground tunnels where gladiators once prepared for battle. From there, we wandered through the sprawling Roman Forum , where ancient temples and government buildings tell the story of the Empire's glory days. Finally, we climbed Palatine Hill for breathtaking views over the archaeological park. The 24-hour combo pass ( €18 in 2025) was perfect for our plan, letting us take our time at each site without feeling rushed. Here's an insider tip: save on the audio guides at these historic sites and download Rick Steve’s free walking guide here 🍕 Dinner at Pizza Florida - they charge by weight so you can try lots of flavors! Advertisement Day 8: Vatican City On day 8, we crossed into the world's smallest country to explore Vatican City's treasures. The majestic St. Peter's Basilica left us in awe with its massive dome and intricate marble work. Inside the Vatican Museums , we wandered through countless rooms of priceless art and ancient artifacts. The highlight was definitely the Sistine Chapel - Michelangelo's masterpiece ceiling had us mesmerized. Pro tip: Book tickets 1-2 weeks ahead and arrive early (by 8:30 AM) to beat the crowds. If you're up for more adventures in the afternoon, hop on bus 118 (€1.5 one way) to discover Rome's underground secrets in the ancient catacombs (€8 guided tour). These fascinating burial tunnels stretch for miles beneath the city, telling stories of early Christians. You can then explored the Appian Way , Europe's oldest and most important highway, where ancient Romans' footsteps still echo through time. An e-bike tour is perfect for covering the expansive grounds - you'd easily zip between sites while enjoying the fresh air and stunning countryside views. Don't miss the remarkably preserved tomb of Cecilia Metella! Day 9: Hidden Rome Found solitude at Villa Borghese , Rome's largest public park spanning 200 acres of manicured gardens, hidden fountains, and tree-lined paths. Rent a rowboat (€3 per person for 20 minutes) on the park's serene lake, then explore the Galleria Borghese's stunning art collection (book 2 weeks ahead!). The Passeggiata del Pincio viewpoint offered breathtaking panoramas of St. Peter's Basilica and the city skyline. Afternoon : We ventured into the whimsical Coppedè District , Rome's architectural wonderland that most tourists never discover (we have pinned this location in our Italy Google Map ). This small quarter features a mesmerizing mix of Art Nouveau, Medieval, Baroque, Ancient Greek, and Gothic styles. Don't miss the centerpiece Fontana delle Rane (Fountain of Frogs) and the stunning Villino delle Fate (Fairy House) with its intricate mythological decorations. Advertisement Day 10: Departure Said goodbye to two weeks of pizza, pasta, and gelato. Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport offers great flight deals to the US. If your return flight is from Venice or Florence , trains make connections easy. Budget Breakdown: 🏠 Hotels: $130-200 USD / Night 🛌 Hostels: $20-100 USD / Night 🍽️ Price per meal: $10-30 USD 🚊 Trains: $40-70 USD 🚎 Transport: $2-10 USD 📲 eSIM: 3GB / $7 USD Budget Tip: Sign up for our favorite beginner travel credit card here ! The sign-on bonus can get you a free flight to Italy, plus it has no foreign transactions fees! 👉 Grab our favorite eSIM here (we used this throughout our entire Italy trip) and use code NBV8668 for $3 off! FAQ Section Q: What's the most cost-effective way to travel between cities? A: High-speed trains offer the best combination of price and convenience, with regular services between major cities. Book in advance with TrenItalia for better rates. Q: Should we stay in city centers or outskirts? A: While city centers can be pricier, staying in local neighborhoods often provides better value and authentic experiences. Consider locations with good walking access to main attractions to save on transportation. Q: What are some budget-friendly food options? A: Try local specialties like Venetian cicchetti, and pizza-by-the-slice in Rome . Local markets and off-the-tourist-path eateries offer the best value. We have pinned all of our favorites to our Italy Google Map ! Q: How can we avoid tourist crowds? A: Book major attractions like St. Mark's Basilica, Duomo, and the Vatican Museums in advance, and visit during early morning hours. Explore lesser-known areas and get purposefully lost in cities like Venice . From getting lost in Venice's enchanting canals to savoring authentic cuisine in Rome's Trastevere, this 10-day Italian adventure combines iconic landmarks with hidden gems. We've crafted this itinerary to help couples maximize their time and budget while experiencing the true essence of Italy . By staying in local neighborhoods, booking smart, and following our insider tips, you'll create memories that last a lifetime. Ready to start planning your Italian getaway? Download our free 35-Page Trip Planning Guidebook for all of the helpful tools we use to plan our trips. For daily travel inspiration and up-to-date advice, follow our adventures on Instagram @ Noms.Brews.Views where we share real-time stories and tips from our travels across Europe. Buon viaggio! 🇮🇹✨ More Like This: Venice, Italy: Top Things to See, Eat, and Drink Cinque Terre, Italy: Day Trip from Florence Rome, Italy: 8 Hidden Gems ALL GUIDES  / EUROPE  / ITALY Any questions on planning your trip to Italy? Let us know in the comments below, we respond to every single one 👇

ALL GUIDES / EUROPE / PORTUGAL Planning a trip to Lisbon can be overwhelming, but don't worry - we've done all the hard work for you! After spending countless hours researching, exploring, and fine-tuning this 3 days in Lisbon itinerary, we're excited to share our tested and proven guide. As meticulous planners who've personally walked every street and tried every recommendation, we'll help you maximize your time in Portugal's captivating capital. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the perfect blend of must-see attractions, hidden gems, and authentic local experiences, all while keeping your budget in check. Table of Contents: 3 days in Lisbon itinerary Day 1: Exploring Historic Alfama & City Center Morning: São Jorge Castle & Views Afternoon: Alfama District Adventures Evening: Sunset & Local Vibes Day 2: Enchanting Sintra Day Trip Day 3: Discovering Beautiful Belém Where to Stay: Budget-Friendly Romantic Options Getting Around: Transportation Tips Budget Breakdown Frequently Asked Questions Day 1: Exploring Historic Alfama & City Center On our first day of our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary, we started our morning exploring the historic heart of Portugal's capital city. Morning: São Jorge Castle & Views We kicked off at São Jorge Castle (pinned in our Portugal Google Map ), an 11th-century Moorish fortress with incredible city views . Pro tip: Included in your admission price is a guided tour giving a fascinating historical context, which happens three times daily at 10:30am, 1pm, and 4pm . The Ulysses Tower offered our favorite panoramic shots of the city. Want minimal crowds? Get there right when it opens at 9am. Advertisement Afternoon: Alfama District Adventures After the castle, we wandered down to Miradouro de Santa Luzia, our favorite viewpoint in Alfama. This stunning terrace features traditional blue tiles (azulejos) and gorgeous views. For lunch, we had two amazing options in the area ( both pinned in our map ): 🍽️ Pateo 13 (€€): Incredible grilled seafood and meats 🍽️ Nova Pombalina (€): Budget-friendly pork sandwiches (bifana) that locals love Next up was Sé de Lisboa (€5/person), Lisbon's oldest cathedral dating back to the 12th century . The entry ticket includes access to the upper balcony and Treasury Museum - definitely worth checking out! For our afternoon sugar fix, we stopped at Confeitaria Nacional for their famous pastries: 🥐 Croissant brioche: Perfect French-Portuguese fusion 🥮 Pastel de feijão: Sweet bean tarts (trust us!) 🍫 Salame de chocolate: Perfect with espresso Evening: Sunset & Local Vibes A local secret we discovered? The hidden back entrance to Elevador de Santa Justa (check our Portugal pinned google map for exact location). This saved us from the typical hour-long wait! For dinner, we hit up Time Out Market , a foodie paradise with tons of local options. Quick tip: avoid peak hours (7-9pm) unless you love crowds. We found 6pm perfect for sampling multiple dishes without the chaos. Advertisement To cap off our first day exploring Europe's most underrated city, we hopped on Tram 28E (€1,85 per journey and you can pay on the tram, get on at R. Vitor Cordon / R. Serpa Pinto heading towards Martim Moniz and get off at Graca) to Miradouro da Graça . Sitting on the right side of the tram gave us the best views during the 22-minute ride. We ended our night at 8a Graça micro-brewery , sipping local craft beers while watching the sun set over the city . The perfect way to wrap up day one of our Lisbon adventure! Advertisement Day 2: Enchanting Sintra Day Trip On our day trip to Sintra from Lisbon, we discovered one of Portugal's most enchanting destinations . Here's exactly how we planned our perfect day exploring this fairytale city Getting there was a breeze - we caught the 7:30am train from Lisboa Rossio station to make the most of our day (we have pinned this location in our Portugal Google Map ). The journey took about 40 minutes and cost €4.90 round-trip per person. Pro tip: buy your return ticket right away to save time later! Our first stop was the stunning Pena Palace , a magical castle perched on a hilltop with its iconic pastel colors. We arrived right when it opened to avoid the crowds. While tickets were €20 per person, booking in advance online saved us from the notoriously long ticket lines. Next up was Castelo dos Mouros, just a 5-minute walk down the road. At €12 per person, this ancient fortress offered different vibes from Pena Palace. The ticket lines here were shorter, but we still recommend booking ahead to maximize your time exploring Europe's most stunning castles. Advertisement Our favorite discovery was Quinta da Regaleira (€15 entry), a lesser-known gem that completely blew us away. Picture this: renaissance architecture, mysterious underground tunnels, and gorgeous gardens without the massive crowds you'll find at other spots. The hidden grottoes and winding pathways felt like something straight out of a storybook! Before catching our train back to Lisbon, we wandered through Sintra's charming historic center. The streets are decorated with beautiful blue Portuguese azulejos tiles that add so much character. We couldn't resist stopping at Casa Piriquita for some traditional Portuguese pastries - the perfect sweet ending to our Sintra adventure! If you're planning 3 days in Lisbon, we absolutely recommend dedicating one full day to exploring Sintra . The mix of incredible architecture, rich history, and fairytale vibes makes it an unforgettable addition to any Portugal itinerary. Just remember to start early and book your main attractions in advance to make the most of your time! Advertisement Day 3: Discovering Beautiful Belém Here's our perfect day exploring Belém , a must-visit district during your 3 days in Lisbon itinerary! We started our morning by hopping on tram 15E from Praca do Comercio to Lg. Princesa (we have pinned this location in our Portugal Google Map ). Pro tip: if you plan to visit all three attractions outlined below, it is more economical to grab a 24-hour Lisboa Card which includes free transportation for the day. Our first stop was Careca , a hidden gem pastry shop that's been serving incredible croissants since 1954. We couldn't resist trying their signature croissants and Duchesse pastries with our morning espresso. Next up was the stunning Torre de Belém , a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Tagus River. This medieval tower offers amazing views of the city and waterfront. Book your €15 tickets in advance to skip the lines! A 10-minute waterfront stroll led us to Padrão dos Descobrimentos , a impressive monument celebrating Portugal's seafaring legacy. Here you can climb the tower to a platform for some epic photo ops. For lunch, we discovered the local favorite Pão Pão Queijo Queijo . Their shawarma baguettes are absolutely incredible, and the €10 meal deal with fries and a drink was perfect for sharing. Advertisement The highlight of our afternoon was visiting the famous Pastéis de Belém (we have pinned this location in our Portugal Google Map ). These custard tarts are the best in Europe , made from a secret recipe dating back to 1837. Justin's top tip: skip the indoor seating line and grab them to go, then sprinkle with cinnamon and powdered sugar. We couldn't leave Belém without exploring Jerónimos Monastery, another UNESCO site. This Gothic masterpiece took our breath away with its stunning architecture and rich history. To end our day, we made an amazing discovery at LX Factory , a creative hub housed in old factory buildings under the Ponte 25 Abril Bridge. This industrial-turned-artsy district was perfect for dinner and drinks. We capped off our night with authentic fado music at A Tasca do Chico (free! just go early to grab a seat), where we enjoyed traditional Portuguese tapas while listening to incredible local performers. Planning a trip to Portugal? This day in Belém was one of our favorites while exploring the city of Lisbon! Advertisement Where to Stay: Budget-Friendly Romantic Options During our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary, we discovered some incredible neighborhoods perfect for couples visiting Portugal's vibrant capital city. Here are our top picks based on first-hand experience exploring Europe's most charming city: Best neighborhoods for couples: 🛌 Baixa-Chiado (this area encompasses many of the pinned locations in our Portugal Google Map ): We loved staying in this central area for its perfect blend of romantic vibes and convenience. The elegant architecture, cozy restaurants, and easy access to public transport made it ideal for our city adventures . Plus, the evening atmosphere with street musicians and twinkling lights created the perfect romantic ambiance. 🛌 Príncipe Real : This trendy yet peaceful neighborhood is a great if you are looking for a quieter home base. We found gorgeous gardens, fantastic boutiques, and some of the city's best cafes. The area felt authentically Portuguese while still being tourist-friendly. 🛌 Alfama : This historic district stole our hearts with its narrow cobblestone streets and stunning viewpoints. While accommodation here tends to be slightly pricier, you may find the romantic atmosphere worth every euro. Just keep in mind that the hills can be steep! Advertisement Tips for booking affordable accommodation: 📆 Book 3-4 months ahead: We saved about 30% on our stay by planning early. Many boutique hotels offer early bird discounts, especially during shoulder season (March-May and September-November). 🏡 Consider guesthouses: We found amazing local-run guesthouses that offered more character and better value than chain hotels. Our favorite was this one which has a balcony with stunning views of the water! 🚶‍♂️ Location strategy: We discovered that staying just 5-10 minutes' walk from major attractions saved us significantly on accommodation while still keeping everything accessible. Look for places near metro stations and within close proximity to locations pinned in our Portugal Google Map for easy city exploration. Getting Around: Transportation Tips During our 3 days in Lisbon itinerary, we found the city's public transport system incredibly convenient and budget-friendly. The best value we discovered was the 24-hour unlimited ticket for €7, which gave us complete access to Lisbon's extensive network of metros, buses, trams, and those charming funiculars that helped us tackle the city's famous hills. We purchased our tickets at Rossio Metro Station (we have pinned this location in our Portugal Google Map ), though any metro station in Portugal's capital will have them available. The process was straightforward - just remember to plan ahead since the 24-hour countdown starts with your first validation. Speaking of validation, this is super important! We watched several tourists get fined for forgetting this crucial step. One of our favorite discoveries while exploring Europe's most walkable city was that these tickets even covered the historic Tram 28E, which winds through the most picturesque parts of Lisbon. We found this particularly valuable since individual tram tickets can add up quickly when you're sightseeing. Advertisement Budget Breakdown (2025 pricing) Lodging Budget hotel/Airbnb: €100-120/night (€300-360 total) Transportation Airport transfer (Tram to Rossio Square): €3.7 per person Metro/Bus tickets: €4.90 (Sintra day trip) + €5.55 (Belem day trip) + €1.85 (tram 28) Activities Lisbon Explorations: €20 per person Sintra Palaces: €47 per person Belem Attractions: €0-33.95 (with 24-hour Lisboa Card). These attraction are equally beautiful from the outside! If you plan to do all 3 attractions in Belem , it is more affordable to get the Lisboa Card. Food & Drink Breakfast: €5-8 per person (local cafes and pastelerias) Lunch: €10-15 per person (local restaurants, Time Out Market) Dinner: €15-25 per person (traditional Portuguese restaurants) Total estimated budget for 2 people over 3 days: €646-890 , aligning with the suggested budget of €108-150 per person per day for budget-conscious couples. Advertisement Frequently Asked Questions Q: What's the minimum budget for 3 days in Lisbon as a couple? A: Budget-conscious couples can enjoy Lisbon for €200-300 per day for two, including accommodation, meals, and activities. Q: Is it worth getting the Lisboa Card? A: Whether or not the Lisboa Card pays for itself depends on the attractions you plan to spend your time doing and how much you plan on using public transportation. Below is a breakdown of whether or not the Lisboa Card is worth the money in 2025: 🎟️  48-Hour Lisboa Card: For the above itinerary, this card is more economical if you plan to do more than 3 major attractions (ex. São Jorge Castle, Torre de Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, & Padrão dos Descobrimentos) 🎟️  72-Hour Lisboa Card: If instead of doing a day trip to Sintra , you plan to explore more attractions in & around Lisbon, the 72-Hour Lisboa Card is more economical after planning to do 4 or more major attractions. Q: What are the most romantic free activities in Lisbon? A: Sunset viewpoints (miradouros), walking the historic districts, and exploring gardens like Jardim da Estrela. Q: How walkable is Lisbon for couples? A: Very walkable between main areas, though hills can be challenging. Strategic use of public transport helps manage the terrain. Lisbon captivated us with its perfect blend of history, culture, and romance. From wandering the charming streets of Alfama to exploring the fairytale castles of Sintra and discovering the maritime heritage of Belém , our 3-day adventure in Portugal's capital was unforgettable. Whether you're climbing to scenic miradouros, savoring pastéis de nata, or riding the historic trams, Lisbon offers countless experiences for couples seeking both adventure and romance on a budget. Ready to plan your own Portuguese adventure? Download our free 35-page Planning Guide and check out our curated Portugal Google Map with all the locations mentioned in this post. For daily travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments from our adventures around Europe, follow us @ Noms.Brews.Views on Instagram! We can't wait to see you create your own memories in this incredible city. More Like This: 14 Amazing Things to Do in Lisbon: Your Ultimate Guide to Portugal's Vibrant Capital Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon Portugal (Itinerary + Map) Belem Day Trip from Lisbon Portugal (Itinerary + Map) ALL GUIDES  / EUROPE  / PORTUGAL Any questions on planning your trip to Portugal? Let us know in the comments below, we respond to every single one 👇

ALL GUIDES  / EUROPE  / PORTUGAL Sintra is a romantic village located on the outskirts of Lisbon , Portugal. Take a stroll down the charming streets, wonder through the whimsical palaces, or even hike one of the majestic, wooded trails that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site . Getting to Sintra is a quick and easy journey from Lisbon, making it the perfect day-trip from Portugal's capital city. In this guide, we will walk you through our entire day trip to Sintra Portugal from Lisbon. We have also provided both a Sintra Portugal map drawing and our Pinned Google Maps to help make trip planning easier! Table of Contents: Sintra Portugal Itinerary & Map 7:30 AM: Take the Train from Lisbon to Sintra 8:30 AM: Arrive at Café Saudade 9:15 AM: Single-Trip 434 Bus to Pena Palace 9:45 AM: Arrive at Pena Palace 12:00 PM: Walk to Castelo dos Mouros 12:15 PM: Explore the Moorish Castle 1:30 PM: Descend to the Town of Sintra 2:15 PM: Quinta da Regaleira 3:30 PM: Explore Historical Sintra With Additional Time 5:00 PM: Journey Back to Lisbon Frequently Asked Questions Portugal: Pinned Google Maps 7:30 AM: Take the Train from Lisbon to Sintra Getting to Sintra from Lisbon is a quick, easy journey. Take the (above ground) train from Lisboa Rossio to Sintra for a duration of roughly 40 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the train station at the kiosks and in-person. Be sure to buy a round-trip ticket as this train will also be your transportation back to Lisbon. In order to make the most of your day in Sintra, we recommend catching a train around 7:30 am . 🎟️ Tickets: Round-trip tickets cost roughly €4.60 / Person (2022 pricing) 8:30 AM: Arrive at Café Saudade Located a two minute walk from the Sintra train station is the famous Café Saudade. Arriving here right when it opens (8:30am; Closed Mondays and Tuesdays) will allow you to grab a quick breakfast and avoid the lines. Try one of their giant scones, a traditional Portugese pastry called Pastel de Nata (custard tart), a Queijada (filled with almond-and-egg yolk cream), or a Travesseiro (puff pastry). 🍽️ Try: the famous Sintra pastries, Queijada and Travesseiro Advertisement 9:15 AM: Single-Trip 434 Bus to Pena Palace A few minutes walk down the street will lead you to Sintra Estação which is the bus stop for the 434 bus to Pena Palace (3rd stop). From this point, the ticket you choose to buy is based off your personal preference , although we recommend a single-trip ticket (€3.9 / person in 2022) if you are following our itinerary. You can purchase your tickets with cash on the bus or across the street from Sintra Estacão in the main ticket office. 💡 Please Note : The ticket office will encourage you to buy a round-trip ticket by warning you that the walk back down the hill is along-side a narrow road. However, there is a safe 15-minute walking path that brings you back to the town of Sintra via Castelo dos Mouros that we will outline below. 9:45 AM: Arrive at Pena Palace Pena Palace is a magical, fairy-tale castle placed atop a hill and decorated with pastel colors. Get here right when it opens to avoid the crowds and have a chance to explore the grounds without flocks of tourists. Ticket kiosks are available at the entrance of the castle, however, there will be a long line at all hours. We recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time to skip the lines and head straight through the castle gates. Upon entry, a short 10-minute up-hill walk will lead you to the castle. A shuttle service is also offered for a small fee. 🎟️ Tickets : €14 / Adult (2022 pricing) ⏰ Hours : 9:30am - 6pm Advertisement Pena Palace is the most popular palace in Sintra and for a good reason. The ornately decorated exterior, winding corridors, and numerous watchtowers make you feel as though you are living the life of royalty. Do not miss the narrow path that takes you around the castles exterior . This provides excellent views of the forested terrain and surrounding Sintra castles. Exploring the castle's exterior is a magical experience, however, there is much more to explore within these intricately designed walls. Interior tours of the castle are included in your entry ticket and require a time-slot. We recommend booking a time-slot of 10:30am or 11:00am in order to allow yourself sufficient time to explore the castle's exterior prior to massive crowds and tour groups arriving for the day. With additional time at Pena Palace, you may consider walking the 20 minute path to the High Cross (Cruz Alta) which is a scenic spot perched on a high hill and surrounded by magnificent gardens. The view from High Cross allows for a majestic vantage point of the Pena Palace. Advertisement 12:00 PM: Walk to Castelo dos Mouros Walk back down through the Pena gardens to the main road (Estrada da Pena) that you were dropped off at by the 434 bus. From here, it is a five minute walk up the road to the Castelo dos Mouros ticket booths. Similar to Pena Palace, we recommend purchasing your Castelo dos Mouros tickets in advance to maximize your time in Sintra. However, the ticket lines at Castelo dos Mouros are far less busy should you chose to buy your tickets in the moment. 🎟️ Tickets : €6 / Adult (2022 pricing) Advertisement 12:15 PM: Explore the Moorish Castle Castelo dos Mouros is a medieval fortress, located at the peak of the Sintra Hills that was erected in the 10th century. This was one of our favorite castles to explore because it combined marvelous castle walls with overgrown greenery and garden mazes. ⏰ Hours : 9:30am - 6:30pm 🎟️ J&L Tip : The Moorish Castle provided incredible views, similar to Pena Palace without the crowds! It also provided a breathtaking view of Pena Palace from afar. Wind through the trails of Castelo dos Mouros, climb to new heights with magnificent panoramic views, and descend into abundant forestry. While Castelo dos Mouros does not have the glamorous interior of Pena Palace, we found the medieval architecture and green landscape to be the ideal playground for epic views. Advertisement 1:30 PM: Descend to the Town of Sintra From Castelo dos Mouros, it is a 1,4 km walk (roughly one mile) via a paved/cobblestone path to the Sintra city center. Look for the below sign , located near a small tower and a building exhibit with videos showcasing the history of the Moorish Castle. The path takes you through the gorgeous gardens of Castelo dos Mouros, winds you down switchbacks as you descent Sintra Hill for about a half of a mile. Once you emerge from the forest, it is roughly an additional three quarters of a mile to walk along the street to Quinta da Regaleira. We have outlined the entire path via this map as Google Maps does not recognize the trail. 📲 J&L Tip : This path is pinned on our Portugal Google Map to help you navigate throughout your travels Advertisement 2:15 PM: Quinta da Regaleira Each of the three castles visited in this Sintra day-trip itinerary are unique. Quinta da Regaleira is a renaissance-style manor located near the town of Sintra with sprawling gardens, labyrinths, underground grottoes, and fairy-tale towers. As one of the lesser-known castles of Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira's expansive gardens will allow you to escape the crowds of Sintra, even in peak afternoon hours. ⏰ Hours : 10am - 5:30pm 🎟️ Tickets : €6 / Adult (2022 pricing) The beauty of Quinta da Regaleira is that there are surprises around every corner. Get lost in the gardens and you will stumble upon hidden gems, each more beautiful than the last. One of our favorites was the Initiation Well , which allows you to descend underground into the mossy well and leads to an underground tunnel with mazes and trickling waterfalls. 💡 J&L Tip : If you are one who enjoys gardens, put Quinta da Regaleira high on your list! Advertisement 3:30 PM: Explore Historical Sintra Located a short, five-minute walk from Quinta da Regaleira is the historical downtown Sintra. The downtown in decorated with the blue ceramic tiles called Portuguese Azulejos that bring life to the streets and buildings. Wander the streets, do some shopping for souvenirs, or simply sample more Portuguese pastries at Casa Piriquita or Queijadas da Sapa . 🍻 Ready for Happy Hour? Stop at Villa Craft Beer & Bread for a tasty selection of draft beers and wood-oven bruschetta to pair! Looking to combine a trip to Sintra with the nearby fishing village of Cascais? Book your tour from Lisbon here! Additional Time With additional time, you may consider adding Sintra National Palace to your itinerary. Sintra National Palace houses an impressive Azulejos collection, as well as, a more formal interior castle tour compared to the other Sintra palaces. With only one day in Sintra, we chose to prioritize Pena Palace, Castelos dos Mouros, and Quinta da Regaleira due to their hilltop views, nature, and unique architecture. However, you may chose differently depending on your interests. 🎟️ Sintra National Palace Tickets : €10 / Adult (2022 pricing) ⏰ Hours : 9:30am - 6:30pm Advertisement The final palace worth mentioning is the Park and Palace of Monserrate . This palace, similar to Quinta da Regaleira, is one you will be able to explore without the crowds. The extravagant gardens and a royally ornate interior makes this palace absolutely stunning. You can get to the Palace of Monserrate via a 15 minute ride on the 435 bus (walking is not recommended). If you chose to purchase a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket for €11.5 / Person, this will allow you to ride both the 434 (to Pena Palace) and 435 buses throughout the day. 🎟️ Palace of Monserrate Tickets : €8 / Adult (2022 pricing) ⏰ Hours : 9am - 6:30pm 5:00 PM: Journey Back to Lisbon Getting back to Lisbon is just as simple as getting to Sintra. Hop on the train at Sintra train station heading toward Lisboa - Rossio. If you bought a round-trip ticket back in Lisbon, simply scan your ticket and hop on the train. This train departs to Lisbon every 30 minutes (last train at 10pm) . Roughly 40 minutes later you will be back in Lisbon with plenty of time to grab a bite to eat for dinner. 💡 J&L Tip : Use Rome2Rio to map your route in real time and determine the train departure time that best suits your travel needs. Advertisement Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the best way to get around Sintra? A: The best way to get around Sintra is a mixture of walking and public transportation. While Uber and taxis do exist in Sintra, it is not recommended with the narrow, steep, and winding roads. Getting around via the Scot URB bus system is the easiest, quickest, and most affordable method of transportation. Alternatively, you can also hire a Tuk Tuk if you prefer an open-air experience. Q: What are the Scot URB Bus Ticket Options? (2022 pricing) 434 Single Trip Ticket: ​€3.9 / Adult (recommended for our above itinerary) 434 Round Trip Ticket: €7 / Adult (recommended for minimal walking) Hop-on-Hop-off All Day Ticket: €11.5 / Adult (recommended if you plan to visit the Palace of Monserrate or are arriving to Sintra via Cascais) Q: Can you do a day trip to Sintra from Lisbon? A: Sintra is a very common day trip from Lisbon. Leaving early and avoiding long lines by purchasing your entry tickets in advance will allow you to make the most of your trip to Sintra from Lisbon . As with most incredible destinations, Sintra certainly deserves more than 24 hours to explore. It is not realistic to visit all five Sintra palaces in just one day. However, choosing your favorites and planning out an itinerary will allow you to visit anywhere from 2 to 4 of the Sintra palaces in a day trip from Lisbon. Advertisement Q: How much does Sintra cost? (2022 pricing) A: Below outlines our per-person expenses in Sintra for the above itinerary: Round trip train to Sintra from Lisbon : ​€4.6 / Adult Breakfast Pastries & coffee : €5 / Adult 434 Single Trip Ticke t: €3.9 / Adult Pena Palace Entry: €14 / Adult Castelo dos Mouros Entry: €6 / Adult Quinta da Regaleira Entry : €6 / Adult Lunch and Happy Hour : €8 / Adult For more adventures and travel tips, follow us on Instagram @ Noms.Brews.Views  📸 Ready to plan your perfect Sintra visit? Sign up for our monthly "Brewsletter" and receive our free Trip Planning Checklist ! It's packed with insider tips to make your experience unforgettable. More Like This: Lisbon, Portugal: Top Things to See, Eat, and Drink Belem Day Trip from Lisbon Portugal (Itinerary + Map) Portugal Travel - Pinned Google Maps ALL GUIDES  / EUROPE  / PORTUGAL Any questions on planning your trip  to Portugal? Let us know in the comments below, we respond to every single one 👇

Journey through Italy's most iconic destinations as we share insider tips for discovering hidden gems in Rome's ancient streets, Florence's artistic treasures, Cinque Terre's dramatic coastal trails, and Venice's atmospheric canals while avoiding tourist traps and finding authentic local experiences. Journey through Italy's most iconic destinations as we share insider tips for discovering hidden gems in Rome's ancient streets, Florence's artistic treasures, Cinque Terre's dramatic coastal trails, and Venice's atmospheric canals while avoiding tourist traps and finding authentic local experiences. Europe | Italy Planning Tips 📆 Best Time To Visit The best time to visit Italy is during spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild and crowds are moderate. Summer brings intense heat and peak tourist crowds, especially in major cities, while winter offers lower prices and festive atmosphere despite cooler temperatures. 💰 Average Daily Budget A couple can expect to spend around €200-250/day (2025) , including mid-range hotel accommodation, meals, train travel between cities, and museum entries. Costs can vary significantly between cities, with Venice typically being the most expensive. 🍽️ Must-Try Foods Sample regional specialties like authentic Roman pasta (carbonara, cacio e pepe), Florentine bistecca alla fiorentina, Venetian cicchetti (appetizers), and Ligurian pesto . Don't miss gelato, pizza, fresh seafood in Cinque Terre, and local varieties of cheese and cured meats. 🍻 Local Drinks Italy's wine culture varies by region - try Chianti in Tuscany, Prosecco in Veneto, and local wines from Cinque Terre. Don't miss the traditional aperitivo culture with drinks like Aperol Spritz , and authentic Italian espresso at local cafes. 📸 Must-See Views In Rome , visit the Colosseum , Vatican Museums, and Roman Forum . Florence offers the Uffizi Gallery and Duo mo, while Venice captivates with St. Mark's Basilica and canal tours. In Cinque Terre , hike between the five colorful villages and enjoy stunning coastal views. Explore our Detailed Guides 10 Days in Italy: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Itinerary for Adventurous Couples Rome, Italy: Top Things to See, Eat, and Drink Rome, Italy: 10 Must Try Foods 1 2 3 1 ... 1 2 3 ... 3 Popular Planning Resources: New Arrival France Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Puerto Rico Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Portugal Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Scotland Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Italy Travel Guide: Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Michigan Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Hawaii Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Canada Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Colorado Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Spain Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart

Discover the imperial grandeur of Vienna through our adventurous lens as we guide couples through hidden palace gardens, secret Art Nouveau cafes, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and local wine taverns while sharing budget-friendly tips for experiencing Austria's elegant capital like a local. Discover the imperial grandeur of Vienna through our adventurous lens as we guide couples through hidden palace gardens, secret Art Nouveau cafes, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, and local wine taverns while sharing budget-friendly tips for experiencing Austria's elegant capital like a local. Europe | Austria Planning Tips 📆 Best Time To Visit The best time to visit Vienna is during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and tourist crowds are moderate. Summer months (June-August) bring warm weather but also peak tourist season with higher prices, while winter offers magical Christmas markets but colder temperatures. 💰 Average Daily Budget We paid around €80-100/day (2018), including a private bedroom in shared home airbnb, meals, public transportation, and cultural attractions like museums and concerts. Expect to pay closer to €150-220/day for traditional hotel accommodation choices. 🍽️ Must-Try Foods Don't miss Vienna's iconic dishes like Wiener Schnitzel (breaded veal cutlet), Sachertorte (chocolate cake), and Apfelstrudel (apple strudel). Try traditional dishes like Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), and Wiener Würstel (Viennese sausages). 🍻 Local Drinks Vienna is famous for its coffee house culture - try a Melange or Einspänner . The city also offers excellent Austrian wines, particularly from nearby wine regions, and local beers. Don't miss the traditional Heuriger (wine taverns) for new wine tastings. 📸 Must-See Views Explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace , admire the architecture of St. Stephen's Cathedral , and visit the historic Belvedere Palace . Take in culture at the Museum Quarter , enjoy classical music at the State Opera House , and stroll through the charming streets of the Innere Stadt (Old Town). Explore our Detailed Guides Vienna, Austria: Must Try Street Food and Cafés Top 9 Things To Do in Vienna Austria (One Day Itinerary) Vienna, Austria: Top Things to See, Eat, and Drink 1 1 ... 1 ... 1 Popular Planning Resources: New Arrival France Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Puerto Rico Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Portugal Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Scotland Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Italy Travel Guide: Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Michigan Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Hawaii Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Canada Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Colorado Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Spain Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart

Embark on a captivating journey through Spain's most iconic cities as we share insider tips for exploring Granada's Moorish palaces, Cordoba's historic courtyards, Seville's vibrant plazas, Barcelona's architectural wonders, and Madrid's dynamic culture through off-the-beaten-path adventures and local experiences. Embark on a captivating journey through Spain's most iconic cities as we share insider tips for exploring Granada's Moorish palaces, Cordoba's historic courtyards, Seville's vibrant plazas, Barcelona's architectural wonders, and Madrid's dynamic culture through off-the-beaten-path adventures and local experiences. Europe | Spain Planning Tips 📆 Best Time To Visit The best time to visit Spain is during spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are moderate. Summer brings intense heat and peak tourist crowds, especially in major cities, while winter offers lower prices and festive atmosphere with mild temperatures. 💰 Average Daily Budget A couple can expect to spend around €150-180/day (2025) , including mid-range hotel accommodation, meals, public transportation, and attraction entries. This includes train travel between cities and museum admissions. Costs can vary between cities, with Barcelona generally being the most expensive. 🍽️ Must-Try Foods Sample regional specialties like paella in Barcelona , jamón ibérico , gazpacho in Andalusia, and tapas everywhere. Don't miss churros con chocolate in Madrid , pescaíto frito in Seville , and traditional dishes like tortilla española and patatas bravas . In Córdoba , try salmorejo and rabo de toro . 🍻 Local Drinks Spain's wine culture includes excellent local wines like Rioja and cava from Catalonia. Try tinto de verano (summer wine drink), and don't miss sherry varieties in Andalusia. Sample local vermouth in Barcelona and Madrid , and enjoy sangria at traditional bodegas. 📸 Must-See Views In Madrid , visit the Prado Museum and Royal Palace . Barcelona offers Gaudí's masterpieces including Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Plus, don't miss a day trip to Montserrat . In Seville , explore the Real Alcázar and Plaza de España . Don't miss Córdoba's Mezquita and Granada's magnificent Alhambra palace complex. Explore our Detailed Guides Top 12 Must-Do Things in Seville, Spain: A Complete Guide Planning a Trip to Seville Spain: Hotels, Logistics, and Top Attractions Ultimate Guide to Granada, Spain: Top 10 Things to Do, Eat & See 1 2 3 4 1 ... 1 2 3 4 ... 4 Popular Planning Resources: New Arrival France Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Puerto Rico Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Portugal Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart New Arrival Scotland Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Italy Travel Guide: Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Michigan Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Hawaii Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Canada Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Colorado Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart Spain Travel - Pinned Google Maps Add to Cart