We’ll leave our mountain hideaway and aim for Coimbra, one of the oldest university towns in the world, perched above the Mondego River.

In Coimbra we’ll wander the historic hilltop: the University of Coimbra (the Harvard of Portugal) courtyards, the baroque Joanina Library (pure art), the Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), and a stroll through narrow lanes where fado echoes from tiny cafés. Quick coffee, quick photos, big smiles.

Next, we roll to Aveiro, the charming canal town nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal.” We’ll hop on a colorful moliceiro boat to glide past Art Nouveau façades and the salt pans, then sweeten the day with ovos moles, the local pastry specialty. Before heading out, we’ll slip out to Costa Nova for a peek at the candy-striped beach houses. Postcard material, guaranteed.

From there it’s a smooth coastal hop to Porto. We’ll check in, freshen up, and head into town for our first taste of Portugal’s northern soul: ribeira views, azulejo-covered churches, and maybe a francesinha or fresh seafood for dinner.

OVERNIGHT: Holiday Inn Express Porto Boavista by IHG or similar

MEALS: Breakfast