Itinerary Highlights - Page 1The overall itinerary was superbly thought out. We experienced the perfect mix of urban cities, smaller towns and rural locations. We were treated to a variety of Portuguese landscape and experienced different aspects of Portuguese culture and history.
I also appreciated that the itinerary was planned with few one-night stops, and both these places did make sense logistically. Overall, the Rick Steves Tour organizers really know what they're doing! |
LisbonLike a lot of large cities, Lisbon feels like a city made up of neighborhoods. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but I was impressed by its beauty and variety. A Lisbon native, our guide Cristina gave us a wonderful walking tour (my favorite parts were the Alfama neighborhood and the view from São Jorge Castle). We also got to experience a taste of fado -
trust me, you don't have to understand a word of Portuguese, but you'll know exactly what they're singing about! The culinary highlight was piping hot Pastel de Belém, which I believe is the best sweet pastry I've had in my life. (If you go to Lisbon, make the effort to get to Belém if for no reason but to try these! To miss them would be like going to New Orleans and not having a fresh beignet from Cafe du Monde.) |