Discovering Portugal’s Hidden Gems

Tour highlights

• Fall in love with the beautiful mediaeval charm of Evora
• Venture to the fantastic pilgrimage spot of Fatima
• Explore the castle and architectural gems of Sintra
• Eat pasteis de Belem and soak up romantic city views

Embark on an unforgettable journey and explore the best of what Portugal has to offer. Spanning 11 days, this tour is full of amazing sights and experiences. Your starting point will be Lisbon – Portugal’s magnificent capital city – with its iconic sites and world-renowned landmarks. From there, you’ll pass through gorgeous landscapes as you make your way to some of the country’s most cherished towns and villages. Visit Obidos with its medieval walls, Alcobaca boasting the oldest Gothic church in Portugal, and Fatima’s sanctuary offering spiritual upliftment. Take time to savor unique flavors in renowned Oporto before heading to Evora for a look into traditional culture. Finally, relax at the Algarve beaches before ending your trip back in Lisbon feeling rejuvenated by all that you’ve seen and experienced.

Start point
Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
08:30

End point
Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
18:00

Tour itinerary

Day 1 ARRIVAL LISBON – OBIDOS – ALCOBACA – NAZARE – BATALHA – FATIMA (195 km- 3hrs)
Start your adventure with a pickup from Marques de Pombal Square at 8:30 hrs (arrive fifteen minutes prior for best experience). On the journey, take pleasure of Portugal’s beautiful landscapes rich with windmills and fruit trees. Arriving at Obidos, explore the old city walls and its harmonious architecture. Don’t forget to taste their famous “ginghinha” drink! Next visit scenic Alcobaca, home to the country’s first and largest gothic church as well as Pedro and Ins de Castro’s tombs. Afterwards, head over to Nazare- a quaint fishing village steeped deep within tradition and legend. Then witness Batalha’s Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitoria; an incredible Gothic masterpiece housing Henry the Navigator’s tomb- known for his great contribution towards Portugal’s maritime breakthroughs. Today´s adventure ends in mesmerising Fatima, where we have the opportunity to attend the candle-lit procession. Overnight in Fatima.

Day 2 FATIMA – COIMBRA – AVEIRO – OPORTO (225km – 2.45 hrs)
In and around Aveiro

Day 3 OPORTO – GUIMARAES – BRAGA – OPORTO (140km – 2hrs )
Start your journey on the right foot in Oporto, Portugal’s second city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Revel in its old-world charm as you wander around the riverside area dotted with classic houses, magnificent palaces, and storied churches. Then treat yourself to an indulgent glass of Port wine widely renowned around the world before taking off to Minho – a region begging to be explored for its stunning natural scenery and crisp Vinho Verde. Your first stop is Guimaraes, known as The Cradle of the Nation due to it being the birthplace of Portugal’s first King. Don’t miss out on seeing The Sacred Hill crowned by The Castle as well as The Palace of Dukes of Braganca with its original structures stretching back to the 15th century! Then, return to Oporto to rest and prepare yourself for more surprises. Overnight in Oporto area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

Day 4 OPORTO
Indulge in a delicious breakfast and spend the rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight in Oporto area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

Day 5 OPORTO – AMARANTE – VILA REAL – LAMEGO – URGEIRICA (235km – 3hrs )
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and prepare for an amazing experience as you visit Portugal. Make your way to Amarante, known for its natural beauty and delicious treats. The city is also renowned for St Goncalo, whose celebration of love is held on the first Saturday of June every year. Meander through the cobblestone streets, relax near the riverbanks and explore the lively market filled with local wares. Then head to Vila Real for a peaceful day among stunning sights such as those of Mateus estate – featured on rosé wine bottles worldwide – as well as idyllic vineyards that make up part of Douro Valley’s picturesque landscape. Taste the amazing local cuisine of Lamego, from the traditional ham to the renowned “Bola de Lamego”. Follow your journey through the hills, reaching Viriato’s birthplace of Viseu. Explore its picturesque cobbled roads and stone doorways adorned with coats of arms as you take in this historic town. After a tour around its bustling commercial area, make your way to Urgeirica for an overnight stay at a bed-and breakfast.

Day 6 URGEIRICA – BUSSACO – TOMAR – LISBON (310km – 3.5hrs)
Savor a delicious breakfast before departing for Bussaco, located in the core of Portugal. This picturesque town is ideal for nature fanatics, as it boasts an indulgent forest home to an array of rare botanicals. What’s more, it has a romantic and alluring hotel that was formerly used as a royal hunting lodge. After communing with Mother Nature, we will move on to Tomar – a captivating locale linked with the Order of Templars who received these lands from Dom Afonso Henriques (the first King of Portugal) in 1159 in appreciation for their assistance during the Christian reconquest of the country. The renowned castle of Dom Gualdim Pais, the Grand Master of the Order in Portugal, laid the foundations for what is now known to be the Convent of Christ. Having undergone extensive refurbishment and growth throughout centuries, this magnificent complex has been recognised by UNESCO and declared as a World Heritage site due to its diversity in architectural styles. Our journey then continues to Lisbon, where we will spend one night at a hotel with bed-and-breakfast accommodation included.

Day 7 LISBON – SINTRA – CABO DA ROCA – CASCAIS – ESTORIL – LISBON (95km – 2hrs)
Start your day by exploring the stunning town of Sintra to admire its charming Palace. Then, take in the breathtaking scenery from mainland Europe’s westernmost point, Cabo da Roca. Drive along the coast and witness some of Portugal’s best sites – surfers at Hell’s Mouth, Cascais’ cosmopolitan vibes, and Estoril Casino’s gardens. End this unforgettable day back in Lisbon with a night at your pre-selected hotel on a bed & breakfast basis.

Day 8 LISBON – EVORA (135km – 1.5hrs)
Begin the morning by selecting a delicious breakfast from your hotel’s offerings. Then, head out of Lisbon and travel over the Tagus River via bridge, admiring a picturesque area featuring olive and cork oak trees, in addition to vineyards. Make your way to lovely Evora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and be taken back in time with its cobblestone streets. Enjoy viewing the Roman Temple, Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, St. Francis Church including its famous “Chapel of Bones”, as well as the University. Pause at the local market to discover all of the ingredients used in preparing classic Portuguese dishes. On our visit, we get to behold the breadth and originality of local craftsmanship with cork, clay and copper pieces. Afterwards, tuck into a delightful lunch then spend leisure time wandering about the city. A gourmet-level wine, cheese and olive oil tasting is highly recommended! In the evening go to your lodging for some rest as we look forward to an unforgettable day ahead. Evora area hotel accommodations are on a bed-and-breakfast basis for the night.

Day 9 EVORA – BEJA – SILVES – LAGOS (245km – 3hrs)
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a new journey. Journey to Evora and marvel at the towering medieval castle, then onward to Beja to witness its highest tower. Pass through the mountain range and arrive into Algarve’s glorious orange fields. Step foot onto charming Silves, noted for its captivating past and cork industry, where you can admire its red sandstone castle from the days of Moorish rule. The scenic drive continues as you take pleasure from Portugal’s remarkable landscapes en route to Lagos. On arrival, check-into your accommodation before relaxing for rest of the day or exploring local surroundings. Enjoy an overnight stay here on a bed-and-breakfast basis.

Day 10 LAGOS – PONTA DA PIEDADE – SAGRES – LAGOS (70km 1.5 hrs)
Start off your morning with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Afterwards, take to the road and head towards Ponta da Piedade where you can witness breathtaking sights of the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs that have been worn down by both time and nature. Next, swing by Sagres – historically home to Prince Henry the Navigator – for a visit to its ancient fortress. As you drive along the cliffs, make sure to stop at Cabo de São Vicente; Europe’s most southwestern point. Once you arrive in Lagos, step into this vibrant city harbouring a beautiful marina plus some of Portugal’s finest dishes like cataplana fish cooked in copper pans as well as sweet treats such as marzipan cake or almond fig cakes. End off the day with an afternoon of leisure before retiring to your Lagos area hotel overnight on bed-and-breakfast basis.

Day 11 LAGOS – SETUBAL – SERRA DA ARRABIDA – DEPARTURE LISBON (320 km – 3.5 hrs)
Before your departure from Algarve, sit down for a delicious breakfast. The journey home to Lisbon will guide you through the port city of Setubal. Here, lying on the north bank of the Sado estuary, lies a major industrial hub. Next, you shall pass over the Arrabida Mountain Range and experience its stunning vistas – complete with unique vegetation and far-reaching views of Troia Peninsula. Lastly, we’ll have you cross Tagus River bridge and drop you at your desired location; all while enjoying a complimentary morning meal!

What’s included

Accommodation
10 nights’ hotel accommodation
Day 1 Fatima:
Day 1 Fatima:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Santa Maria or Lux Fatima or similar 4*
Day 2-4 Oporto:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Sheraton or Hotel Vila Galé Porto or similar 4*
Day 5 Urgeiriça:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel da Urgeiriça or similar 4*
Day 6-7 Lisbon:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Sana Malhoa or Olissipo Marques de Sá or similar4*
Day 8 Evora:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Vila Galé Évora or M’Ar de Ar Muralhas or Olive or similar 4*
Day 9-10 Lagos:
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Marina Club or Vila Galé Lagos or similar 4*

Guide
Operated with English, Spanish, French and Portuguese – speaking licensed guide on a shared basis.

Meals
10 Breakfasts

Additional Services
Day 2-4 Oporto:
Day 5 Urgeiriça:
Day 6-7 Lisbon:
Day 8 Evora:
Day 9-10 Lagos:
MEALS:
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Batalha Monastery, Coimbra University, Palacio da Bolsa in Oporto, Sao Francisco Church in Oporto, Gardens of Palacio Mateus, Convent of Christ in Tomar, Palace of Pena in Sintra, Capel of Bones in Evora, Sao Francisco Church in Evora, Evora Cathedral, Sao Vicente Fortress in Sagres

Transport
Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus during the activities

What’s not included

Flights
International flights are not included

Insurance
All types of travel or personal insurance are not included

Optional
Other activities and services are not included

Additional Services
Arrival airport transfer/departure airport transfer
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks, laundry, drinks and meals not stated explicitly in the programme, including drinks during meals
Tips and porterage
City tax not included, payable on the spot
Entrance fees not mentioned in the included items
Any charges not mentioned in the included items
International flights
All types of travel or personal insurance.

Know before you go

Pick-up at Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon, at 8:30 hrs. We recommend to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the indicated time.
Drop-off at Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon at 18:00 hrs.
No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice.
For the arrival transfer from the airport, clients will be met at the exit of the arrivals hall by an English speaking driver. The driver will be holding a board with clients’ name. In the event that they are unable to locate the driver, they should contact at once the emergency number before leaving the airport or making any alternative arrangements.
For the departure transfers clients will be collected by the driver from the hotel reception area. Clients shall be ready in the reception 10 minutes prior to pick up. In the event that the driver has not arrived at the scheduled time, please contact the emergency number before making any alternative arrangements. Transfer takes 2hours and 30 minutes prior to clients’ flight departure time.
We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems, security reasons or Corona restrictions.