Experience the best of Portugal on this unforgettable tour that takes you through some of the country’s most beautiful and historic cities. This tour has everything from the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to the stunning palaces of Sintra, the ancient university town of Coimbra, and the picturesque Douro Valley wine region. Explore charming streets, taste delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in this fascinating country’s rich culture and history.
Itinerary Highlights
Cruise on the Douro River
Explore the rich history of Portuguese cities
Go port wine tasting
Learn about local Celtic traditions
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
8
Nights
Price Guide
$POA
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Lisbon
Day 2
Explore Lisbon
This morning’s tour will start at the Castle of St. George above the Moorish quarter of Alfama, which provides one of the finest panoramic views over the city and Tagus estuary. A visit to its ramparts may be followed by a stroll through the labyrinthine streets of Alfama, where you will be surprised with such sights as the 10th-century Moorish defensive walls and views of the Monastery of St. Vincent and the National Pantheon. Next, a 100-year-old tram will take you past the Romanesque Cathedral, built where the Great Mosque once stood for four centuries, through the Baixa quarter, rebuilt after the Great Earthquake of 1755, to the intellectual Chiado quarter. There, a stop may be made at the famous Café Brasileira, a rendezvous for intellectuals at the outset of the 20th century.
You may also stroll along the elegant Garrett shopping street with its ancient churches, also rebuilt in the 18th century. Next, you will visit the riverside quarter of Belém, where the majestic 16th-century Jeronimos Monastery is Portugal’s greatest testament to the Golden Age of the Discoveries. A visit to a 19th-century pastry factory nearby may follow a visit to its stunning decorative cloister and church. From here, continue to the former Palace of Belém to visit the world’s most famous coach museum, which was installed in the former Lusitanian Riding School and houses the elaborate 18th century Papal Embassy Coaches.
Following lunch, stop at the emblematic Belém Tower, built to defend the harbour entrance and considered the city’s most beautiful monument.
The rest of the day may be spent visiting the private art collection of the Armenian oil magnate Calouste Gulbenkian, which was brought to neutral Portugal before World War II for its own safety. This unexpectedly rich collection may be admired in a modern museum purpose-built by what continues to be a very rich foundation.
Day 3
Queluz and Sintra
Today you will visit the rococo royal summer palace at Queluz, situated on the route to Sintra. Here you can see how wealthy 18th-century Portugal adhered to the French fashions of Versailles, especially in the formal gardens.
Next you will arrive at the aristocratic town of Sintra, described by Lord Byron as a “glorious Eden” and a World Heritage Site. It is situated on the northern slope of a verdant granite mountain, where you may visit the oldest royal palace in the country, dating back to the Moorish occupation. Occupied by the monarchy until their exile in 1910, today it contains a fine collection of Hispano-Arabic glazed tiles, other decorations and many Moorish features. There will be time to explore the ancient streets with shops selling the finest handicrafts, port wine and traditional pastries.
Following lunch at leisure, we will continue along the southern slope of the mountain, now part of a nature reserve, to the coast at Guincho, from which we can admire Cape Roca, the westernmost point of the European continent. A short distance further on, one comes to the ancient fishing village of Cascais, now the heart of Lisbon’s most fashionable residential area. A stroll along the bay to see a fortress, the fishermen’s traps and the landing pier, and through the village allows visitors to experience a different and now more cosmopolitan atmosphere. The drive back to Lisbon takes you through the resort town of Estoril, with its beautiful villas and large casino, and along the picturesque coastal and riverside road.
Day 4
Obidos / Alcobaca and Coimbra
This morning, you will meet your private vehicle and English-speaking guide for your transfer to Coimbra via Obidos, Alcobaca and Nazaré.
First stop will be the ancient citadel of Óbidos, a town that was always given to the queens of the country in their wedding dowries since the 13th century. It is most picturesque with whitewashed houses, a well-preserved medieval castle and ramparts, charming chapels, many handicraft shops and flowered streets.
After a stroll through the town, we will leave for Alcobaça, at the confluence of two streams and the seat of a wealthy Cistercian monastic domain until the 19th century. Its enormous Romanesque church and cloisters have many stories to tell, especially that of the Portuguese queen crowned after her death, a 14th-century love story of passion, intrigue and vengeance. There will be time for lunch at leisure.
Next we will head to the fishing village of Nazaré where the fishermen’s wives still wear their traditional clothes showing Celtic traditions. Here, there is an excellent opportunity to have a fish or shellfish lunch in one of the traditional restaurants, followed by fine views of the coast, lighthouse and offshore islands, or a stroll along the wide sandy beach. The seafront pavement is busy with women selling handicrafts, dried mackerel and fruits and nuts.
Day 5
Fatima and Tomar
This morning, you will meet your private vehicle and English-speaking guide for a full-day sightseeing tour of Fatima and Tomar.
The town of Fatima is an important Roman Catholic pilgrimage site, and the surrounding hills are interesting for their limestone caves. Fatima found fame at the beginning of the 20th century following the apparition of the Virgin of the Rosary to three peasant girls in a nearby pasture. A vast basilica now commemorates the event.
Continuing to Tomar, you will visit the Convent of Christ from 1160, the headquarters of the Order of Knights Templar, which subsequently became the Knights of the Order of the Sword. You may also like to wander through the old town along the narrow flower-lined streets, where you will find the tiny Synagogue of Tomar, the oldest Jewish house of worship in Portugal.
Day 6
Aveiro and Santa maria de Feira
This morning you will be transferred to Porto by private vehicle with your English-speaking guide with en route sightseeing in the water city of Aveiro and the fairy-tale castle at Santa Maria da Feira. Aveiro’s history is inextricably linked to the sea, with its trade linked to the salt pans and then cod fishing. An attractive town, the buildings are a mixture of quaint fishermen’s cottages and Art Nouveau townhouses.
Day 7
Porto
Starting at the 12th-century Romanesque Cathedral, with its dark interior, you will descend the hill towards the riverside through the oldest quarter. By the Jesuit Grilos Church, there is a wonderful view of Vila Nova de Gaia on the other bank of the Douro River, where all the port wine lodges are situated. A little further down, you will come to the 19th-century Stock Exchange Palace, the seat of the Oporto Commercial Association. Next, you will visit the heavily gilded 15th-century church of St. Francis, arriving at the Cais da Ribeira, the old medieval wharf that is effectively the city’s centre. Lunch will be taken at leisure.
After lunch, you may take a 50-minute river cruise along the Douro to admire the superb bridges, one built by Gustave Eiffel. Sometimes, it is possible to alight on the other bank (upon request) at the end of the cruise, where a short climb will bring you to Graham’s Wine Lodge, where you may enjoy a tour explaining the whole process of port wine production in the Douro Valley, followed by a tasting.
Day 8
Douro Valley and Vila Real
Set out with your driver and guide for the Douro Valley, or the Alto Douro Wine Region, a World Heritage Site with some 240,000 hectares under cultivation producing equal quantities of Port and table wines. The valley is some 100 km from Porto and over the Marão Hills. The landscape of entirely terraced hills overlooking the River Douro is breathtaking and soon, following the river upstream from the river port of Regua, you visit the Sandeman winery at Quinta do Seixo for a tour, tasting and more excellent views. Continue from here to the river port of Pinhão to see the glazed tiles of the railway station before heading north to the city of Vila Real. Here visit the Casa de Mateus, the mansion is a Baroque masterpiece designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni and is set in equally sumptuous gardens. The house famously features on the label of a well-known rosé wine. Return to Porto.
Day 9
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $POA
When to travel
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Portugal boasts a temperate climate that makes it a popular travel destination year-round. However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season, which runs from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, and you’ll be able to enjoy Portugal’s stunning landscapes and historic cities without having to navigate throngs of tourists. In contrast, the peak season, which falls between June and August, can be quite hot and crowded, so it’s best to plan accordingly if you’re traveling during this time.
In January, the weather in Portugal is generally cool and rainy, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. The northern and central regions of the country tend to be colder than the south, with occasional snowfall in the mountains. It's important to pack warm clothing and rain gear if you're planning a trip to Portugal in January. Despite the cooler temperatures, Portugal still has plenty to offer visitors in terms of culture, food, and history.
In February, the weather in Portugal starts to improve, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C to 16°C. Although it can still be cool and rainy, there are usually more sunny days than in January. The northern and central regions of the country tend to be cooler than the south, but overall the weather is milder than in the previous month. It's still a good idea to pack warm clothing and rain gear, but you may also want to bring lighter clothing for the warmer days. February is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to avoid the busy tourist season while still enjoying mild weather and beautiful scenery.
In March, the weather in Portugal starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. While there can still be some rainy days, the weather is generally milder and more pleasant than in the previous months. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and there are usually more sunny days along the coast. It's a good idea to pack a mix of warm and light clothing, as the weather can still be variable. March is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery and cultural attractions without the crowds of the peak tourist season.
In April, the weather in Portugal is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. There are usually more sunny days than in the previous months, and the chance of rain decreases as the month goes on. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's a good idea to pack a mix of warm and light clothing, as the weather can still be variable. April is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, lively festivals, and outdoor activities without the crowds of the peak tourist season.
In May, the weather in Portugal is generally warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C. The chance of rain is low, and the days are longer than in the previous months, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's a good idea to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. May is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, beaches, and outdoor attractions before the peak tourist season begins.
In June, the weather in Portugal is generally warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. The chance of rain is low, and the days are long and perfect for outdoor activities. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's a good idea to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. June is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, beaches, and outdoor attractions, as well as the lively festivals that take place throughout the country.
In July, the weather in Portugal is hot and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 29°C. The chance of rain is low, and the days are long and perfect for outdoor activities. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's important to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun. July is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, beaches, and outdoor attractions, as well as the lively festivals and events that take place throughout the country during the summer months.
In August, the weather in Portugal is hot and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 29°C. The chance of rain is low, and the days are long and perfect for outdoor activities. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's important to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun. August is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, beaches, and outdoor attractions, as well as the lively festivals and events that take place throughout the country during the summer months.
In September, the weather in Portugal starts to cool down slightly, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 26°C. The chance of rain increases slightly, but the days are still warm and pleasant for outdoor activities. The southern regions of the country tend to be warmer than the north, and the coastal areas are often the warmest. It's a good idea to pack a mix of light and warm clothing, as the weather can still be variable. September is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather, beaches, and outdoor attractions, without the crowds of the peak tourist season.
In October, the weather in Portugal starts to get cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C. The chance of rain increases, and the days are shorter than in the summer months. The northern and central regions of the country tend to be cooler than the south, but overall the weather is still mild and pleasant. It's a good idea to pack a mix of warm and light clothing, as the weather can still be variable. October is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, as well as the autumn festivals that take place throughout the country.
In November, the weather in Portugal starts to get cooler and rainier, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. The chance of rain increases, and the days are shorter than in the previous months. The northern and central regions of the country tend to be cooler than the south, and there can be occasional frosts in the mountains. It's important to pack warm clothing and rain gear if you're planning a trip to Portugal in November. Despite the cooler temperatures, Portugal still has plenty to offer visitors in terms of culture, food, and history. November is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to avoid the crowds of the peak tourist season and enjoy a more authentic experience.
In December, the weather in Portugal is generally cool and rainy, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C. The northern and central regions of the country tend to be colder than the south, with occasional snowfall in the mountains. It's important to pack warm clothing and rain gear if you're planning a trip to Portugal in December. Despite the cooler temperatures, Portugal still has plenty to offer visitors in terms of culture, food, and history. December is a great time to visit Portugal if you want to experience the festive holiday season and enjoy traditional Christmas markets and celebrations throughout the country.
Add on’s
There are a multitude of add-on holiday options to this Portugal itinerary; for example, some popular options include Madrid and Barcelona in Spain, as well as the Moroccan cities of Marrakech and Casablanca. These destinations offer a diverse range of cultural experiences, from exploring the historical landmarks of Madrid and Barcelona to immersing yourself in the vibrant markets and colourful streets of Marrakesh.
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