Adventures in Portugal: A 10-Day Journey from Albufeira to Madeira.

Portugal is a hidden treasure that offers something for everyone: magnificent coastlines, rich culture, and lively cities steeped in history. Our 10-day adventure from Albufeira to Madeira was packed with memorable experiences, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. Join me as I recount this incredible journey and the standout moments from each destination!

Day 1 - Albufeira

We kicked off our trip in Albufeira, a coastal town famous for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife. First things first: food! Time to try some traditional Portuguese dishes. Our flight got in super early so we had a lot of time to kill before checking into our cozy accommodation. We made our way to the beach without hesitation. The golden sands and azure waters were beautiful, however the weather was not, so we ventured into the old town's charming streets filled with colourful buildings. What was meant to be a beach day ended up being a beach hour, if so much!

Pastel de Nata #1 check

After a long day of exploring the town and getting soaked in the rain, we made our way to our accommodation for a little sesta. TikTok saved us from our hunger as it guided us to a lovely Italian restaurant that served pitchers of Sangria. The perfect end to a perfect first day.

Day 2 - Lagos

The next morning, we took a short bus drive to Lagos, another gem along the Algarve coast. This town is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and secret coves. Our first adventure began at Marina de Lagos where we boarded a speedboat to the Benagil Caves.

The boat tour gave us the opportunity to discover the impressive caves and grottos lining the coast. The views were incredible from the water, offering a unique point of view of the coastal towns.

Days 3 & 4 - Lisbon

On Day 3, we traveled to the vibrant capital city of Lisbon. Check-in at our Airbnb was quick and easy, unlike our bus ride there! Do NOT be late to return to your bus following the short stop at the highway rest stop - they WILL leave you and they WILL want to take your belongings with them even when your partner pleads to at least get your passports. Thankfully a bus driver from a local bus company was kind enough to take us to Lisbon restoring our faith in Portuguese men.

Lisbon is built on seven hills—making for stunning views. We started at Miradouro Sophia De Mello Breyner Andresen which offers one of the best panoramic views of the city.

We spent the next couple of days wandering through historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto. The narrow streets overflowed with charm and creativity, from vibrant street art to quaint local shops. We couldn't resist having our second, third and fourth pasteis de nata, these delectable custard tarts that reward you sweetly after all that walking.

While in Lisbon, taking a ride on the historic Tram 28 became essential! It transported us past many iconic spots and it was an enjoyable way to experience the city without climbing all the hills.

Days 5 & 6 - Porto

Next, we headed to Porto, known for its port wine and stunning architecture. We arrived on Day 5 and were met with a bad weather alert so we got some much needed rest.

On Day 6, we visited Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Its intricate wooden staircase and stunning stained glass are sights you must see! After browsing books, we walked through the city exploring the beauty that Porto has to offer.

That evening, we treated ourselves to a traditional Bifana, a quintessential street food and a staple in Portuguese cuisine. It's typically made with thinly sliced pork, often marinated and cooked in a rich sauce, and served on a soft bread roll. This culinary delight is a must-try while in Porto!

Days 7-10 - Madeira

Finally, we embarked on the last leg of my journey to Madeira, an archipelago cherished for its stunning landscapes and mild climate. After a short flight, we arrived in Funchal, the capital city, and was immediately captivated by its alluring natural beauty.

Over the next few days, we explored the scenic levadas (irrigation channels) that wind through the island. Renting a car is a must when in Madeira as it allows you to get the best out of the island. We went through lush forests and past picturesque waterfalls—absolute paradise for nature lovers!

We couldn’t leave without tasting some local dishes, including bolo do caco, a traditional Madeiran bread that was nothing short of divine and Brisa maracuja (passion fruit) which is only available in Madeira.

One of the highlights of the Madeira leg of our trip was riding an ATV through Machicho. Our road trips took us through the Santana area, to the waterfall of Ponta Do Sol as well as the misty Calheta. We also visited the stunning Porto Moniz natural swimming pools. Surrounded by volcanic rocks and the endless Atlantic Ocean.

A Reflective Journey

Our journey through Portugal was truly magical. Each destination brought its own charm and unique experiences, but I can safely say that Madeira was my favourite part of the trip.

If you are thinking about a trip to this beautiful country, be prepared for rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and breathtaking views. Portugal has something special for every traveler, and I can’t wait for the opportunity to return and explore even more!

Whether lounging on the beaches, hiking through nature, or savouring local dishes, Portugal will leave a lasting impression. Happy travels!

Iconic Lisbon Tram 28