A quick guide to the Town of Óbidos, Portugal

Whenever someone visits us here in Portugal, we can’t help but take them to Óbidos. It’s one of those places we just have to share. Óbidos sits right outside of Caldas da Rainha, about an hour from Lisbon, and it is easily one of Portugal’s most beautiful destinations. The medieval walls, the winding cobblestone streets, …

Top things to do in the amazing Algarve, Portugal

When travelers think of Portugal, three destinations often come to mind: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. However, unlike Lisbon and Porto, the Algarve isn’t a single city– It’s an entire region brimming with diverse experiences. Whether you are seeing golden beaches, thrilling water sports, charming villages, historic sites, or world-class cuisine, the Algarve has something …

The grand baroque facade of Mafra Palace under a deep blue summer sky in Portugal, with two visitors crossing the cobblestone square

Day trip to Mafra Palace: is it worth visiting?

When you hear about palaces in Portugal, most think of Sintra and Pena Palace. It is the famous castle on the hill that (some say) inspired Disney’s castle. But if you want an alternative that is easier to get to, has fewer crowds, and is grander than Pena, we recommend Mafra Palace. This incredible 18th-century …

The Perfect 2-Week Itinerary for Portugal

For the past few years, Portugal has ranked pretty high for tourism and vacations, especially among Americans (and Brits, although they have been visiting Portugal for years). Portugal has a great deal to offer in terms of affordability, beauty, fantastic food, and the people are incredibly nice. Most people coming from North or South America …

A day in the Alfama District: Lisbon’s historic neighborhood

The first time my wife and I visited Lisbon, our tutuk driver took us into Alfama. She asked if we had tried ginjinha yet. We had only been in the country about 24 hours and didn’t even know what ginjinha was. If you’re planning your time in Lisbon and want to make sure each neighborhood …

Águeda, Portugal: The colorful city of Umbrellas

Águeda is not one of those well known towns that are visited by thousands of tourists every year. It sits quietly to the east of Aveiro, a quick drive or 30 minute train ride into the town where its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional architecture make it just as enchanting as other Portuguese towns. But …

Discovering Naples, Italy: What to see in the city

Picture this: You’re standing on a bustling street, the aroma of wood-fired pizza wafting through the air, the sound of animated Italian conversations filling your ears, and the sight of Mount Vesuvius looming in the distance. Welcome to Naples, Italy, a city that will captivate your senses and steal your heart faster than you can …

A One Day itinerary for the enchanting Sorrento, Italy

For anyone visiting Italy for the first time, Sorrento, Italy is such a charming town. Located in southern Italy, it sits on the edge of the Bay of Naples next to the island of Capri. Boasting beautiful views, a relaxed atmosphere, and limoncello everywhere, it is not a town to be missed. Getting there There …