Highlights of Portugal

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 Walking Group Tour

   Embark on a journey through Porto's enchanting alleys, immersing yourself in the local culture and gaining a true insider's perspective. Are you ready to transform your visit into an authentic local experience?
   

   
   

   Uncover hidden viewpoints, embrace the unique "Tripeiro" spirit, pause in serene gardens, and descend to the riverside, where the tranquil river contrasts with the lively, colorful chaos of a historical center that organically evolved, unconstrained by urban planning. Come, be captivated by the magic of this extraordinary place!

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : Up to 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Try(pe) The Local Specialties

   Tripas a Moda do Porto originated in the 14th century, according to legend, when the renowned Henry the Navigator sought assistance from the people of Porto for supplies for caravels heading to conquer Ceuta. The generous locals donated all their meat, retaining only the offal, giving rise to one of the city's most famous dishes. Typically comprising veal tripe, white beans, smoked ham, pork sausage, pork or calf knuckles, carrots, onions, spices like paprika and cumin, and various cuts of pork and chicken, it has endured through the centuries. Another beloved treat in Porto is Francesinha, a sandwich filled with four or five types of meat, smothered in cheese, and drenched in a secret, often beer-based gravy.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Porto

   

   Douro Premium Small Group Tour

   On this tour, you will be enchanted by the wonderful panoramic views offered by 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 in a restaurant where you can taste the local gastronomy are included. You will also be able to stroll along the N222 road, considered the most beautiful road in the world by the Michelin guide. You will also get to taste the nectars of the gods in the various wine tastings on offer. Not only the Port Wine that made the region famous but also DoC (Denomination of Controlled Origin) wines that have won many prizes nationally and internationally.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 10 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

4. Day 4 Your Third Full Day in Porto

   

   Fado Dinner Show & Night Lights Private Tour

   On this private tour, you will experience Porto at night with a pick-up from your accommodations, a panoramic ride taking you to dinner and Fado show (some food and drinks included), and finally, a ride with your driver/guide through the city at night to be dropped off back at your accommodations? The views will usually be passing by the areas of Porto, Matosinhos, and Vila Nova de Gaia.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 5 hours

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

   

   Tuk tuk Private Tour Porto Monastery and Cellars

   Would you like to learn about the religious history of Porto and combine with the traditional Porto wine? Join this tour!

   
   

   This tour will drive you at the top of Serra du Pilar to visit the monastery, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage in December 1996 Serra do Pilar Monastery, ex-libris de Gaia, has preserved its church and cloister, in a circular plan, single copy in Portugal. The church is a replica of the church of Santa Maria Redonda, in Rome, and is covered by a hemispherical dome.

   After your visit to teh Monastery you will be introduced to Port wines, and share with a great brand, a memorable moment. You can visit the cellars, taste the different Port wineslunch in the winery restaurant, and do your shopping.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

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

5. Day 5 Traveling to Lisbon by Train / Arrival in Lisbon

   

   Today you will travel to the Portuguese capital Lisbon. We will arrange for a driver to transfer you from your hotel to Porto Campanha Train Sation. From there you will take the train to Lisbon. Your package includes 1st class tickets with seat reservations. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours, depending on the stops.
   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 which also offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Lisbon by Private Transfer with a Stop in Aveiro and Obidos

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   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.

   When you arrive at Lisbon's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your 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

   

   Take a Sunset Cruise

   The Tagus River holds the distinction of being the longest river in both Portugal and Spain. Embracing your partner while cruising on the water as the sun sets is undeniably the most romantic experience. This journey provides a unique perspective on Lisbon's renowned landmarks, such as the vibrant Praça do Comércio square, the dome of the National Pantheon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Belem Tower.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

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

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Lisbon

   

   Lisbon Tuk Tuk Private Tour

   Discover Lisbon with a Tuk Tuk!

   
   

   This itinerary presents the ideal way to discover the key landmarks in central Lisbon, beginning with the historic old city that has been inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors, pass through the sophisticated Chiado district, Lisbon's shopping and cultural center, home to the Rua Garrett shopping avenue, renowned for its upscale boutiques and restaurants and conclude the tour with a visit to the lively and historically significant Bairro Alto neighborhood.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 Hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Ride in a Funicular

   The lifts or elevators in Lisbon, also known as funiculars, assist both locals and tourists in ascending the steep and lengthy inclines that define the unique topography of the Portuguese capital. Lisbon boasts three notable funiculars: Elevador do Lavra, the oldest; Elevador da Gloria, the most frequented; and Elevador da Bica.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Lisbon

   Visit Sintra

   Sintra, a historic town perfect for a day excursion from Lisbon, is situated amid the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra. The town's slightly cooler climate attracted Portuguese royalty to establish residences in its vicinity. Sintra boasts a variety of distinctive palaces, castles, and grand residences. Choose between a private or small-group day trip, depending on your budget. The small-group option sacrifices some time in Sintra to incorporate a visit to the coastal town of Cascais.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   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. Finally, you'll go to the Pena Palace and after that visit, it will be time to head back to Lisbon.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Sintra Full Day Private tour with Guide/Driver & Entrance to Pena Palace (Non Refundable)

   Why not experience a private day trip to Sintra, a picturesque village set in a lush Natural Park once favored by Portuguese royalty? Start with a guided tour of the iconic Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders. Stroll through Sintra’s historic center, where you can savor traditional pastries like "Queijadas" and "Travesseiros." In the afternoon, visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and enjoy a scenic coastal drive back to Lisbon, passing Guincho Beach, Cascais, and Estoril.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

8. Day 8 Traveling to Evora by Private Transfer / Arrival in Evora

   

   Today, our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Lisbon and transport you directly to the beautiful UNESCO-listed town of Évora, with an approximate journey duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes. 

   Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town has a rich history as it has been in the hands of many cultures along the centuries. During the Middle Ages it was one of the most dynamic cities in the Kingdom of Portugal. You will find roman remains like the Temple of Diana and walls, a Visigoth tower and the gothic Church of Saint Francis among some of the remarkable buildings in the town.

   Our driver will take you directly to your accommodation.

   

   Evora Half Day Private Tour

   Evora is a city renowned for its museums, boasts a collection of monuments spanning various periods of Portuguese history. Would you like to know more about this wonderful Portuguese city? Join this tour!

   
   

   During the 16th century, it held the distinction of being the second most significant city in the kingdom and is presently the capital of the Alentejo region. With its ancient roots, Evora gained true significance and beauty during the Roman era, notably marked by the Roman Temple, a prominent symbol of the city. Wandering through its streets reveals a charming display of traditional crafts and sweets.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : up to 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

9. Day 9 Traveling to Lagos by Private Transfer / Arrival in Lagos

   

   Today, you will travel by private transfer from Evora to Lagos. A driver will pick you up from your accommodations in Evora at your preferred departure time and take you directly to the picturesque coastal town of Lagos. The journey will take about 3 hours.

   Upon your arrival to Lagos a driver will greet you and take you to your hotel.

   

   First Steps In The Area

   Algarve region is located three hours drive from Lisbon. On the first day we suggest to just relax and enjoy the hotel facilities and the seaside. In the evening you can taste the local gastronomy in one of the many restaurants.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Your First Full Day in Lagos

    

    Lagos Private Walking Tour

    Have a few hours to spare in Lagos? Take a private tour through the city's historic streets, starting on the 25th of April Street with its post-earthquake architecture and 17th-century buildings. Visit landmarks like the old slave market, military hospital, Henry Navigator Statue, and Saint Mary Church. Finish the tour by exploring the Castle of the Governors, Sao Gonçalo Arch, Lagos Walls, and the narrow streets of the old Moorish town.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

11. Day 11 Your Second Full Day in Lagos

    

    Dolphin Watching on a Catamaran - Group Tour

    On this Lagos-based tour, you will get the chance to see dolphins swimming in their natural habitat while on board a purpose-built catamaran (from November to March, the catamaran may be changed to a RIB). The dolphin is now a protected species inside Portuguese territorial waters, with the population significantly increasing in recent years. Encounters are mostly with common dolphins and, occasionally, bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, blue sharks, moonfish, turtles, and many other species. There is no guarantee that you will see dolphins, but you should see some forms of sea life. There is no refund if dolphins are not encountered.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

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

    

    Benagil Caves Group Speedboat Tour

    Hop onboard a specifically designed speedboat for your unique adventure to Benagil. The trip will start at the Lagos marina, and you can observe the coastline until reaching the destination. Once in Benagil, you can enter the famous “Gruta do Algar de Benagil”, the region's main attraction, and then visit all the other caves and discover the beaches along the way. The captain on board will explain everything observed so you can learn more about the Algarve coast. The total time of the tour is approximately 2 hours – 30 minutes on the way, 1 hour to know the entire coast of Benagil and enter the caves, and 30 minutes to return to the lakes.
    

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 2 hours

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

12. Day 12 Departure Day

    

    Today, our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Lagos and transport you directly to the airport of the nearby capital of the Algarve, Faro. The journey will take approximately 1 hour.