The Enchanting Land of Portugal

Tour itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVAL
Private transfer from Porto Airport to Hotel in Porto
Overnight in Porto

Day 2 PORTO
Take a journey into the vibrant city of Oporto, recognized as Best European Destination 2012 by its citizens. It goes by another name, “Cidade Invicta”, which translates to unvanquished city and has merited it the status of World Heritage site. Along the banks of the River Douro lies this majestic city with its contrasting elements and preserved monuments that are simply breathtaking. Porto a port of immeasurable beauty awaits you!
After a walking tour of the heart of the town, enjoy a tasty lunch.
The tour will end with a relaxing cruise of the Six Bridges.
Overnight in Porto

Day 3 MEDIEVAL GEMS: BRAGA & GUIMARÃES (OPTIONAL)

( Optional) Today join a small group excursion to Minho and visit the cities of Braga and Guimarães, where you feel like returning to medieval times, to walk through the old streets, visit monuments like the famous castle or palace, or have a drink in one of the most beautiful Portuguese squares

The allure of cities such as Braga and Guimarães has beckoned people to Portugal for centuries. Initially a Roman city, Braga was conquered by the Sueves before the Visigoths and Muslims moved in. It was not until the mid-11th century that Christians reconquered it, restoring archdiocese to Bishop Pedro. During Muslim rule, the bishops had relocated to Lugo (Spain). Not surprisingly, Braga Se is one of Portugal’s oldest religious places. This has led to its famous saying “older than the Braga Se”, which refers to something exceptionally ancient. Another fascinating Portuguese city is Guimarães; its downtown consists of medieval and sixteenth-century architecture and has been classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. In addition, this destination is known for being where D. Afonso Henriques founded the kingdom of Portugal in 1128!

Day 4 DOURO VALLEY
Embark on a unique journey through the Douro region, where culture and wine production have been intertwined for centuries. Accompanied by your private driver-guide, explore the majestic vineyards laden with grapes. Take pleasure in visiting one of the most renowned Wine estates and savoring its exquisite Port Wines. Delight in a traditional lunch at a local restaurant and revel in an experience like no other!
Overnight in Douro Valley

Day 5 COIMBRA
Head to Coimbra, a spectacular city renowned for its beauty in this region. You will join an experienced guide for a tour. Previously the house of Count Dom Henrique and Dona Teresa, the parents of Portugal’s first ruler Dom Afonso Henriques who came into power in 1131, Coimbra has had a long history with the monarchy. In 1357-67, King Dom Pedro I and Lady Dona Inês shared a forbidden love which was quickly extinguished by his father King Dom Afonso IV who feared their romance would result in submission under Castilian rule. To this day, their passionate story adds to Coimbra’s rich historic legacy that enthralls poets and writers alike. During the Middle Ages, Coimbra was the capital of Portugal. However, it wasn’t until the Renaissance that the city truly flourished into a place of knowledge. Dom João III (1521-57) mandated that the University be moved to Coimbra in a permanent capacity, as well as constructing several colleges for alternative forms of teaching and education. In the 17th century, Sé Nova (New Cathedral) was built by Jesuits who had come to repurpose Coimbra. Additionally, Dom João V (1706-50) commissioned some impressive royal works enhancing certain monuments in Coimbra including the University itself. Lastly, Dom José I (1750-77) also implemented changes to his city influenced by Marquês de Pombal focusing mostly on education.
Overnight in Coimbra

Day 6 TOMAR & OBIDOS
Meet your driver and transfer from Coimbra to Lisbon.
On your journey, make sure to include stops in Tomar and Obidos. Tomar itself is a charming little town with plenty of historical significance. Its exquisite center will captivate the eye, and the riverside park boasts incredible bird life. In particular, Unesco World Heritage-listed Convento de Cristo stands out as an awe-inspiring sight. Founded 850 years ago, its stunning blend of Gothic and Manueline architectures reflect the power that Knights Templar held in Portugal between 12th – 16th centuries — during which time their contributions to the Age of Discoveries were immense.
Tucked away within Portugal is a historic town called Óbidos. Situated close to Lisbon and near to both hills and beaches, it has been of strategic importance for centuries. Its history dates back prior to when Rome first stepped foot on Iberian soil, but it was Queen Isabel who transformed this area into an iconic destination. A treasured gift from her husband King Dinis in 1282, she devotedly built many churches which still stand today, making Óbidos one of Portugal’s most remarkable tourist attractions.
Overnight in Lisbon

Day 7 LISBON
Experience the splendour of Lisbon on a half-day tour. Start with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Belém Tower, Padrão dos Descobrimentos and Jerónimos Monastery with its very own church. Afterwards, you could go to the National Coach Museum which contains an outstanding collection of historical horse carriages. End your trip by exploring Alfama’s cobbled streets and alleys and then move onto wandering around its main squares: Praça do Comércio, Rossio and Marquês de Pombal for some mesmerising panoramic views.
Overnight in Lisbon

Day 8 SINTRA & CASCAIS
Take a journey to one of the most renowned destinations in Portugal, Pena Palace. Situated atop the Serra de Sintra, your guide will lead you through its grand corridors and tell stories of Portugal’s storied history. Afterward, spend some leisurely time wandering about the quaint streets of Sintra’s historic centre – dotted with unique shops! On your way back to Lisbon, explore Cascais and Estoril – two coastal towns well-renowned as the “Portuguese Riviera”.
Overnight in Lisbon

Day 9 LISBON
Enjoy a day at leisure in Lisbon or add an optional experience to your journeys.
Overnight in Lisbon

Day 10 DEPARTURE
Transfer to the airport or train station.

What’s included

Accommodation
3 Nights In Porto at HF Ipanema, Eurostars das Artes or similar
1 Night in Douro at Lamego Hotel & Life, Quinta De Casaldronho or similar
1 Night in Coimbra at Vila Gale, Sapientia Boutique or similar
4 Nights In Lisbon at Turim Libertade, Turim Marques or similar

Meals
Daily breakfast

Additional Services
FD Small Group guided visit or Porto + 6 Bridges Cruise
Full day private visit of Douro Valley + wine estate visit + wine tasting and lunch. Drop off in Douro
Shared Guided visit of Coimbra.
HD Small Group Tour of Lisbon
HD Shared Tour of Estoril, Sintra, Cascais

Transport
Arrival & Departure Transfer
Transfer from the Douro to Coimbra
Transfer from Coimbra to Lisbon with an en-route stop in Tomar and Obidos

What’s not included

Flights
Flight are not included

Additional Services
Medieval Gems: Braga & Guimarães