Itinerary
Day 1 ARRIVAL
Private transfer from Porto Airport to Hotel in Porto
Overnight in Porto
Day 2 PORTO
Experience a full day of discovery in Oporto, the proud recipient of ‘Best European Destination 2012’ as voted by the people of Europe. This destination is well-known by its nickname “Cidade Invicta” (unvanquished city) and thusly, the unique character has granted Oporto World Heritage status. Alongside the river Douro rests a city abounding with treasures and charisma that is simply immeasurable – Port of unparalleled beauty.
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)
Make your way to Minho and explore the charming cities of Braga and Guimarães on a small group tour. Here, you can take a step back in time and wander through its historic streets, take in monuments such as the revered castle or palace, or savor refreshments at one of the gorgeous Portuguese squares.
Braga, once the capital of Galicia and a Roman city, experienced a variety of rulers before being reconquered by Christians in the mid-11th century. As Bishop Pedro brought back the archdiocese to Braga, it became the major religious reference point for centuries with its Se (cathedral) being Portugal’s oldest. This led to the saying “older than the Braga Se” which implies something is extremely old. Meanwhile Guimarães is an enchanting city in Portugal where its medieval and sixteenth-century central area has been classified as World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its association with D. Afonso Henriques who founded the kingdom of Portugal. Spend your night here at Porto!
Day 4 DOURO VALLEY
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Douro Valley and get to know its culture of wine production. Alongside a private driver-guide, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most famous Wine estates and sample some exquisite Port Wines. Admire the majestic vineyards all around you, bursting with ripe grapes, before settling down for a lunch at a local restaurant. The Douro Region is full of tradition – come explore it!Overnight in Douro Valley
Day 5 COIMBRA
Start your journey to the beautiful city of Coimbra where you will be guided by a local expert. This city has a long and fascinating history that dates back to when Dom Henrique and Dona Teresa were residing there. Moreover, it was in this region that the first king of Portugal, Dom Afonso Henriques was born. Furthermore, Coimbra is known for being the setting where Dom Pedro I (1357-67) fell madly in love with Dona Inês. Unfortunately, their romance resulted in her execution because it threatened Portugal’s independence from Castile. Consequently, this story still resonates strongly throughout the city today; one of many stories associated with its heritage as it once served as Portugal’s capital during the Middle Ages.
The city of Coimbra underwent a transformation into a place of knowledge when Dom João III (1521-57) decided to make the University’s move there permanent. Alongside, numerous colleges were also established as an alternative form of teaching. During the 17th century, the Jesuits made their mark by constructing Sé Nova (New Cathedral). In the following century, royal work initiated by Dom João V (1706-50) was responsible for enriching some monuments in Coimbra, such as the University. Notable alterations to its educational system were introduced by Dom José I’s (1750-75) under guidance from his minister Marquês de Pombal.
Overnight in Coimbra
Day 6 TOMAR & OBIDOS
Meet your driver and transfer from Coimbra to Lisbon.
As your journey progresses, an en-route stop at Tomar and Obidos is in store. Of the central Portuguese cities, Tomar is truly special with its quaint historical center and lovely riverside park boasting an array of birds like swans, herons, and ducks. Most remarkable though is the Convento de Cristo which earned it a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. The 850 year old foundation traces back to the legendary Knights Templar who were major players in Portugal from 12th-16th centuries – their wealth played a huge role in helping propel the Age of Discoveries.
Boasting a long and fascinating history, Óbidos is a medieval town located near Lisbon and overlooking Portugal’s Atlantic coastline. Strategically important since pre-Roman times, it was once gifted to Queen Isabel by King Dinis in 13th century. Delighted with her present, she proceeded to turn this small Portuguese settlement into an artistic masterpiece, commissioning numerous exquisite churches throughout its boundaries. Today, Óbidos stands as one of Portugal’s most picturesque and well preserved sites.
Overnight in Lisbon
Day 7 LISBON
Make a half-day exploration of the stunning city of Lisbon and its iconic monuments. Start with a visit to Belém, where you can find the Padrão dos Descobrimentos and the Jerónimos Monastery which is included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, plus the renowned Belém Tower. Afterwards, be sure to stop at the National Coach Museum – observing some of finest historical carriages in the world! Make your way to Alfama’s cobblestone streets and then marvel at Praça do Comércio, Rossio, and Marquês de Pombal for incredible views.
Overnight in Lisbon
Day 8 SINTRA & CASCAIS
A trip to the “Portuguese Riviera” isn’t complete without a visit to one of the most majestic attractions in the country – the Pena Palace. Situated atop Serra de Sintra, your experienced guide will bring you through its many breathtakingly adorned chambers, regaling you with interesting tales about Portugal’s past along the way. Before heading back to Lisbon, take some time off to wander around the bustling streets of Sintra and explore regional shops for unique souvenirs. Afterwards, make stops at Cascais and Estoril – traditional fishing villages renowned for their natural beauty.
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
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