Sku: 191788SINTRA

Experience the best of Portugal and France in 27 days with an Active Adventure tour! Our package includes a stay in a hotel, expert guide, meals, transport around the cities of Lisbon and 26 other destinations in Europe – all starting in Lisbon and culminating in Paris. Best of Portugal & France provides you with everything you need to make your journey unforgettable.

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Places you’ll see

  • Lisbon
  • Sintra
  • Coimbra
  • Peso da Regua
  • Pinhao
  • Barca de Alva
  • Madrid
  • Marseille
  • Arles
  • Avignon
  • Tournon-sur-Rhone
  • Lyon
  • Tournus
  • Paris
  • Le Havre
  • Honfleur
  • Rouen

 


 

Tour highlights

Explore some of Europe’s most iconic rivers on a single journey. Start in Lisbon and cruise down the Douro before crossing into Spain for a memorable stay in Madrid. Then take flight to France to sample delicious delicacies along the Rhone and Saone, before admiring works of art as you sail through the Seine.

Start point
Lisbon, Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal

End point
Disembark ship, Paris, France

 


 

Tour itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Lisbon
Greetings and a hearty welcome to Portugal! After you’ve touched down in Lisbon, we’ll be sure to transport you to your hotel so that you can make yourself at home.

Day 2 Lisbon
Start your tour of the stunning city of Lisbon by taking a ride on the traditional tramcars. A must-see is the Jeronimos Monastery, one of Portugal’s most revered landmarks and impeccably preserved World Heritage site. Constructed in 1502, this treasure stands testament to King Manuel I’s reign and celebrates Vasco da Gama’s journey to India. Afterwards, why not get acquainted with your fellow travellers over a sumptuous welcome dinner?

Day 3 Lisbon, Sintra
The breathtaking sight of Serra de Sintra will take your breath away. Its majestic mountains, towering and proud, make it an unforgettable destination. Be sure to visit King Ferdinand II’s stunning Park and Palace of Pena before taking a break to explore the area at your own pace. Enjoy lunch at leisure, then feel the gentle sea breeze on your journey back to Lisbon along the coast. To top off your stay here, why not try one of the local restaurants for dinner?

Day 4 Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, Embark Ship
Embark on a journey to the city of Coimbra, renowned for its medieval university. After strolling around and enjoying some free time for lunch, explore the historic port of Porto from aboard your river ship. Later in the day, be dazzled by an illuminations cruise through this charming city.

Day 5 Porto
Now is the time to indulge in whatever activity makes you happy.

Day 6 Porto, Guimarães, Entre-Os-Rios
Experience a unique insight into the development of ancient villages in Guimaraes. Then take a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Douro Valley to Entre-Os-Rios where you can sample some local delights at Quinta da Avelada, renowned for its superb cheese and wine pairings.

Day 7 Régua
This morning why not take some time to explore the beauty of Regua? After your journey, you have the chance to discover more about this gorgeous region by visiting the Douro Museum. This establishment offers an amazing look into the culture and winemaking history of Douro Valley.

Day 8 Regua, Pinhao
It’s all up to you what sights you decide to take in today. Then, when you’ve finished exploring, it’ll be time to relax back on board and sail towards Pinhao.

Day 9 Pinhão
Visiting Palacio de Mateus is a must for any trip to the city of Vila Real. Built in the 18th century, this grand palace was designed by Portuguese architect Nicolau Nasoni and has become famous through its presence on Mateus rose wine labels.

Day 10 Barca d’Alva
Exploring the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo, one cannot miss the impressive castle ruins. To top it off, your grand finale will be a Captain’s Farewell Dinner that will make you dream of Spain as you savor your last night aboard.

Day 11 Barca d’Alva, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, Madrid
After disembarking from the boat at Barca d’Alva, why not take a journey to the age-old city of Salamanca? Here you can explore the University of Salamanca and marvel at the House of Shells. When your day is done you can retire to your hotel room situated conveniently within Madrid.

Day 12 Madrid
Exploring the vibrant city of Madrid is a must-do before settling in for dinner at an authentic Spanish eatery.

Day 13 Madrid, Marseille, Arles, Embark Ship
Say adios to Spain and take to the skies bound for Marseille in France. After landing, you will be taken on to Arles, where your journey along the rivers of Rhone, Saone and Seine begins.

Day 14 Arles, Avignon
Embark on a guided journey of Arles this morning and be amazed by the picturesque golden-hued structures that stirred Vincent Van Gogh’s creativity. Making your way to Avignon, the impressive château, Palace of the Popes will astound you with its grandeur and immense significance as one of Europe’s most renowned gothic structures from the Middle Ages. You can explore both locations today.

Day 15 Tournon
Choose how you’d like to spend your day.

Day 16 Vienne, Lyon
Your day begins with an activity, but now the time has come to return to your vessel as it sets off for Lyon. Upon arrival, spend time exploring this beautiful city on a guided tour of its highlights.

Day 17 Lyon, Collonges
Make the most of your day by beginning with a morning activity that you enjoy and end it with an unforgettable evening experience.

Day 18 Tournus
As dawn breaks, you have a plethora of exciting options at your fingertips.

Day 19 Chalon-sur-Saône, Beaune
Steeped in history, Beaune is a remarkable town encircled by walls from the Middle Ages. Its setting of rolling hills covered with vineyards make it an ideal destination for anyone interested in sampling some of Burgundy’s best wines.

Day 20 Chalon-sur-Saône, Disembark Ship, Paris
When you disembark from your boat, make your way to Le Creusot Montceau in anticipation of taking a train to the glimmering city of Paris.

Day 21 Paris
Spend the morning on your chosen activity.

Day 22 La Roche-Guyon
The choice is yours when it comes to today’s touring.

Day 23 Le Havre, Honfleur
Set sail and make landfall in Le Havre, where the picturesque port town of Honfleur awaits.

Day 24 Caudebec-en-Caux
You are welcomed to Caudebec-en-Caux, a quaint fishing village, where buildings of all colours line its picturesque harbour.

Day 25 Rouen
After exploring Rouen, why not try your hand at an activity of your choice?

Day 26 Vernon, Giverny
Once you touch down in Vernon, there will be a world of exciting sights awaiting your exploration.

Day 27 Disembark Ship, Depart Paris
Once you have finished your morning meal, it’s time to bid farewell to the crew and disembark from the vessel. The next step is boarding a transport that will take you direct to the airport.

 


 

What’s included

Accommodation
21 nights on a luxury river ship and five nights’ luxury land accommodation
Three Nights, Lisbon, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz
Seven Nights, the MS AmaVida
Two Nights, Madrid, Gran Melia Fenix
14 Nights, an Aria River Ship
Seven Nights, an Aria River Ship

Guide
Expert tour and cruise directors

Meals
Luxury dining – a total of 69 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
Tuck in to lunch at the vineyard Quinta da Roeda, before a port wine tasting

Additional Services
Experiences in 28 destinations
Visit Palácio da Bolsa for a cocktail reception and Fado performance
Dine at L’Abbaye de Collonges, founded by acclaimed French chef Paul Bocuse
Experience the glitz and elegance of an iconic Parisian Cabaret show at the Lido

Transport
Transfers, porterage, port charges and gratuities

What’s included

Flights
International flights are not included

Insurance
Insurance is not included

Optional
Other services and activities are not included

Additional Services
Other services and activities are not included

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Voucher Info:
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Local Operator Information:
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
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