Portugal from North to South

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Porto

   As the name suggests, Portugal’s second-largest urban area is a port city, located in the north of the country along the Douro River estuary. A small Celtic hamlet until a Roman invasion in the 4th century, Portus Cale, as it became known, distinguished itself as a major trading port for not just the region but the entire country. The old city center, Ribeira, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. It is an urban landscape with over 2,000 years of remarkably well-preserved history. Traversing the narrow streets, you can’t help but notice that the spirit of local life still remains despite the increasing number of tourists.

   We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Porto's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.

   Find Your Feet on the Street of Flowers

   Embark on a magical first night in Porto along the captivating Rua das Flores. Begin with an intimate dinner at its charming restaurants, savoring authentic Portuguese flavors. Wander along the beautifully lit street, marveling at the historical architecture. Complete the night by discovering hidden gems like local wine bars, where you can unwind with a glass of exquisite Port wine. Rua das Flores sets the stage for an enchanting introduction to Porto's culinary and cultural delights.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Porto

   

   Secret Porto Private Walking Tour

   Porto, with its medieval roots, is a resilient city proud of its rich history and enduring charm. Known as the "Undefeated City," it invites you to explore its narrow alleyways, enchanting staircases, and vibrant historic quarters. On this private tour, discover hidden viewpoints, serene gardens, and the lively riverside contrasting with the city's organic, unplanned beauty. Experience the unique "Tripeiro" spirit and be captivated by Porto's extraordinary magic.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   See Porto From Above

   Gain an elevated perspective of Porto's port cellars, the Douro River, and the cityscape aboard the Teleférico de Gaia—a cable car journeying from Jardim de Morro park by the Dom Luis I bridge to the port warehouses and boat tours. Embrace the convenience of the Funicular dos Guindais, ascending 61 meters up the cliff from Ribeira to Batalha. For panoramic views, climb 240 steps to the summit of Torre dos Clérigos, where 49 bells reside. Explore the Mirador de Vitoria on the Porto side, offering vistas of red roofs and domes, or relish the Jardim de Morro's scenic charm across the river, presenting a captivating panorama along the Douro, Gaia, and Ribeira from beneath its palm trees.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Porto

   

   Go Big on Portuguese History in Braga and Guimaraes

   Why not explore some more of northern Portugal's historical highlights? Guimaraes and Braga are tantalizingly close and can easily and inexpensively be visited on a small group tour. Guimaraes played a very important role in Portuguese history. For many, it is the "Cidade Berco" (the cradle city) as the first Portuguese King Afonso Henriques, was born here. Its medieval center is a maze of streets and cafe-filled plazas framed by 14th-century buildings. Braga, is Portugal's oldest city and a significant religious center. With centuries of serving as an archiepiscopal seat and pilgrimage destination.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 7-8 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

4. Day 4 Traveling to Douro Valley / Arrival in Douro Valley

   You will be departing today. When your tour is over, your driver will drop you off at your hotel in Douro Valley.

   Wine lovers, welcome to your Portuguese paradise! The Douro Valley is one of the main wine regions in Portugal, and wine production here can be traced back more than two thousand years. This lush and fertile valley gets its name from the Douro River which meanders through it and is characterized by its hilly and steep terrain, much of which is covered in terraced vineyards. Without a doubt, the most famous wine produced here is the “port” variety, which was made famous in England. However the regular, non-fortified, wines made from local grape varieties are well worth getting to know.

   Upon your arrival to the Douro Valley, your driver will take you directly to your located accommodation.

   

   Douro Private Tour

   On this private tour, you will be enchanted by the wonderful panoramic views of the Douro region, considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, where the Douro River winds the vineyard foothills. A magnificent boat trip on the Douro River and lunch where you can taste the local gastronomy are included. You will also see one of the most beautiful railway stations in the region, built in the 17th century, that displays the different stages of Port wine production in 24 tile panels. And, of course, you will also get to taste the nectars of the gods in the various olive oil and wine tastings on offer.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

5. Day 5 Traveling to Lisbon by Private Transfer / Arrival in Lisbon

   

   Today, a driver will take you to Lisbon. You'll depart in the morning at your preferred departure time, and the driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Douro Valley. The journey to Lisbon takes about 4 hours. For an additional fee, we can arrange a stop in Coimbra. Coimbra is a riverfront city in central Portugal, home to a preserved medieval old town and the historic University of Coimbra - the oldest academic institution in the Portuguese-speaking world. Built on the grounds of a former palace, the university is visited by many tourists for its monuments and history.

   The capital of Portugal since 1255 when King Alphonse II moved the court from Coimbra, Lisbon is not only regarded as one of the sunniest of the European capitals but one with a rich history on display. The soft white limestone facades of the oldest neighborhood, Alfama, welcome tourists, and locals, calling to them through the medium of Fado music drifting wistfully from the abundance of bars, or the smell of petisco (Portuguese tapas) wafting from a myriad of restaurants. Like its ancient rival Porto, Lisbon rests on mighty rivers originating from the eastern Spanish highlands. Remnants of human settlements in the vicinity of the city date back to the Neolithic period and since that time successful invasions have resulted in occupation by Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The rich tapestry of Lisbon’s history has been woven into the very fabric of the city.

   Upon your arrival to Lisbon your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   First Steps in the City

   Upon your arrival in Lisbon, the optimal way to acquaint yourself with the city is by strolling to Praça do Comércio and exploring the elegantly reconstructed Baixa neighborhood, which emerged after the earthquake. For a direct route to the Bairro Alto and Chiado, the most bohemian districts with lively nightlife and top-notch restaurants, take a ride on the Santa Justa elevator, an iron structure dating back to 1902.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Lisbon

   

   Lisbon Roots – Food & Cultural Walk Group Tour

   This tour takes you off the beaten track to get a unique glimpse into the fascinating history of ancient Lisbon. You will walk through two very ancient neighborhoods: Mouraria and Downtown. Along the stroll, you will experience the authentic and local vibe; simultaneously, you will taste what the locals taste and the places they enjoy daily. You will be taken from the historical Lisbon of the 12th century until now. In a stroll by the off-beaten-path, you will find out why Mouraria is such a unique place - the birthplace of the Fado music and the most multicultural neighborhood in Lisbon. 6 stops are included for you to be introduced to very local areas and to taste the icons and staples of Portuguese food culture and its influences.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Take a Time Out at Mercado da Ribeira

   Mercado da Ribeira, housing Lisbon's Time Out Market, serves as the city's primary food market. Within this bustling marketplace, traditional stalls showcase fresh local produce and fish, operating from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, the food hall, introduced to visitors in 2014, presents a diverse array of culinary options, spanning sandwiches and hamburgers to sushi and ice cream. Operating daily, the food hall welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. until midnight.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Lisbon

   

   Sintra & Cascais Small Group Tour

   On this tour, you will head towards Sintra Mountain and start the day by visiting the fantastic Sintra village. You will have some free time to explore the town. Next, it is time to cross the mystic mountain of Sintra towards the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see the quaint Colares village and learn more about local wines dating back to the 13th century. You will also stop at a midpoint in the wild Cabo da Roca. After a lunch break, you'll enjoy beautiful roads toward Cascais, a former fishing village. Then, you'll go to the Pena Palace. Then, it will be time to head back to Lisbon.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Sintra Full Day Private tour with Guide/Driver & Entrance to Pena Palace

   Have you experienced a destination that combines a castle, breathtaking nature, and rich history? If not, embark on this tour, and you won't be disappointed!

   
   

   The Sintra Private Day Trip offers a delightful blend of exploration, nature, and cultural immersion. Located in a Natural Park, Sintra is a captivating village once favored as a summer retreat by the Portuguese royal family. Begin your day with a guided tour of Sintra's iconic Pena Palace, a remarkable and eclectic masterpiece. Pena Palace is a a romanticist castle, standing on the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains above the town of Sintra. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Traveling to Algarve Resorts by Train / Arrival in Algarve Resorts

   Today you will travel to the Algarve region. We will arrange for a driver to transfer you from your hotel to Lisbon Oriente Train station. From there you will take a train to Faro. Your package includes 1st class tickets with seat reservations. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours, depending on how many stops the train makes.
   If you'd prefer to make a day of it and see some countryside up close, rather than from the train, we can arrange for a private transfer also offers the convenience of door-to-door service. By car the driving time (without stops) is around 3 hours.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Algarve by Private Transfer with a Stop in Evora

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region hugging the Atlantic, has been Portugal’s top tourist locale for centuries. Ancient Romans used to come here to bathe in the thermal waters of Caldas de Monchique, to heal “weariness from the body and soul”. In modern days, people from all over the world still come to the Algarve to do the same, enjoying the area’s many resorts, beautiful beaches, stunning views, and amazing weather. With over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, it’s no surprise that the Algarve’s beaches are one of its most popular attractions.

   When you arrive at Faro train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

   

   First Steps in the Area

   The Algarve region is located three hours' drive from Lisbon. On the first day, we suggest just relaxing and enjoying the hotel facilities and the beaches. In the evening, you can taste the local gastronomy in one of the many restaurants.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Algarve Resorts

   

   Half-Day 4WD Jeep Small Group Mountain Tour

   On this tour, you will see the most amazing inland places of the western Algarve. See the way of living in rural Algarve, where locals still make honey and medronho, by the traditional way, traveling through unknown routes, including off-road. You'll head up to the highest peak in the Algarve (Foia), where you’ll enjoy the breathtaking 360º view on a clear day. On the way back, you'll see one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   For Your Sweet Tooth

   Dom Rodrigo is a type of dessert that has been made in Algarve since the 18th century. It is prepared with a combination of egg yolks, sugar, ground almonds, cinnamon, and fios de ovos - a traditional confectionary product consisting of thin egg threads. Queijo de Figo ("fig cheese" because of its round shape, reminding one of a wheel of cheese) is a simple raw cake that can be found at a variety of markets across the Algarve. It is prepared with dry figs and almonds that are drizzled with brandy or sweet syrup.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Your Second Full Day in Algarve Resorts

    

    Lagos, St Vincent’s Cape and Sagres Full Day Private Tour

    This tour will take you back to the Portuguese Age of Discovery, starting in the historic city of Lagos. Explore landmarks like Europe's first slave market, the baroque St Anthony’s Church, and the stunning Ponta da Piedade. Visit St Vincent’s Cape, known as the end of the world, and Sagres, a town rich in history. End the tour at Sagres Fortress, believed to be Prince Henry's nautical school, featuring a remarkable 43m (141 feet) diameter wind rose.
    

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 8 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

11. Day 11 Departure Day

    The driver will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the airport for your departing flight. The duration of the drive is about 15 minutes.