Tour highlights
Discover the wonders of Portugal, from the captivating capital city Lisbon to remote isles. Stroll through Furnas Valley to witness geothermal marvels and bask in the serenity of Sete Cidades’ twin lakes. Immerse yourself in Fado’s melancholic melodies and explore Sintra, a true fairytale town. Journey into tranquil thermal pools, vibrant botanical gardens and lush Natural Parks, or take a daring walk across an adventurous glass sidewalk. For those who want to linger longer, find solace on exotic Madeira Island – ‘The Pearl of the Atlantic’ – or savor a multi-night stay on Azorean island Saint Michael’s.
Tour itinerary
Day 1 Overnight Flight
Unlock the awe-inspiring beauty of Portugal by embarking on a journey through three brilliant destinations; Lisbon, St. Michael in the Azores, and the island of Madeira.
Day 2 Lisbon, Portugal – Tour Begins
Welcome to Lisbon, where culture and modernity meet to create a unique experience! As you explore the winding streets of this colorful city, make sure to sample some of the traditional cuisine – including regional wines and folkloric entertainment – that make it so famous. Then gather with fellow travelers at a welcome dinner tonight, to begin this exciting journey!
Day 3 Lisbon – Belem – Lisbon
Go on an exploration of Lisbon to witness some of its most renowned attractions. Travel to Belem for a taste of the Portuguese Maritime Discoveries at the Monument to the Discoveries and Tower of Belem (UNESCO). Then, immerse yourself in downtown Lisbon’s intricate architecture, stroll through charming streets, and savor lunch at your own pace. For the afternoon, you can take your pick between relaxing back at your hotel or spend more time discovering Portugal’s capital city. To end off the day, savor delicious Portuguese food and wine while listening to local artists perform the traditional Fado (UNESCO).
Day 4 Lisbon – Sintra – Lisbon
Sintra, part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site and the de facto summer residence of Portuguese royalty, is well worth a visit. Explore the National Palace before taking some free time for lunch on your own in this enchanting town. Return to Lisbon and spend the afternoon exploring or take an optional tour of the Portuguese Riviera where you can experience Cascais and Estoril.
Day 5 Lisbon – St. Michael, Azores – Ponta Delgada
A visit the Azores is a must-see! Hop on a plane and take off for St. Michael, the largest of the 9 volcanic islands dotted around this archipelago. Once arriving in Ponta Delgada, be sure not miss out on its town centre. Wander about and you’ll come across Portas da Cidade, or the City Gates – one of many remarkable architectural highlights that make up this delightful island capital. For dinner tonight, why not try something authentic?
Day 6 Terra Nostra Botanical Park – Ponta Delgada
Commence your day exploring a 150-year old ceramic factory run by the same family for generations that will offer insight into the process of crafting traditional Portuguese pottery. Afterwards, opt to either explore Terra Nostra Botanical Park and bask in its natural beauty -OR- take a dip at the park’s thermal water pool.* In Furnas Valley, treat yourself to an authentic lunch, savoring cozido das Furnas cooked underground by volcanic heat. Afterwards, visit Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Natural Park with its verdant scenery and whimsical watermills, before heading to one of Europe’s two tea plantations. Discover all there is to know about their cultivation methods and trading history prior to your return trip back to Ponta Delgada. The evening is yours! Enjoy as you please.
Day 7 Ponta Delgada
Spend a day in Azorean bliss. Take the chance to go on an optional whale watching cruise guided by an experienced biologist, and then refuel over lunch at one of the area’s local restaurants. Come late afternoon, explore a pineapple plantation to gain insight on how this species was introduced by Portuguese navigators. To top off your day, indulge in cocktails and dinner at one of Ponta Delgada’s most popular family-run eateries.
Day 8 Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Ribeira Grande – Ponta Delgada
Embark on a full day tour of Sete Cidades, a majestic volcanic crater with two distinct color lakes. The blue hue reflects the sky and the green hue reflects the ground. Hear the stories and legends associated with the crater before savoring wines from a boutique, family-run winery whose volcanic soil has crafted exquisite vintages. Spend some free time in Ribeira Grande for lunch followed by an exploration at Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Nature Reserve. Encounter dreamy watermills and stunning nature when you visit this one-of-a-kind landscape.
Day 9 Ponta Delgada – Funchal, Madeira
Once you arrive on the beautiful island of Madeira, known as the ‘Pearl of the Atlantic’, you will be guided on a walking tour to take you through Funchal’s old town. Along your journey, admire some of its most iconic attractions and be captivated by the amazing Madeira Botanical Gardens. An array of more than 2,000 species of exotic plants grace the terraced landscape that awaits your exploration.
Day 10 Funchal
Dive into the Lavradores market, a bustling center of fruits, flowers and a fish market. Here, you can take part in the local culture! Afterwards, spend some time at a Madeira wine lodge for an educational tasting of Madeira’s renowned vintages. Then make your way to Santa Maria Street with its imaginative murals and bright doors – perfect to while away lunchtime at one of the many cafes. The remainder of your free afternoon is ideal for sightseeing or just lazing around your hotel’s garden and pool before gathering in the evening for a traditional espetada dinner while being entertained by folk dancers and music played live.
Day 11 Funchal – Câmara de Lobos – Porto Moniz – Funchal
Start your exploration of Madeira with a drive along curvy mountain roads, admiring the lush vineyards and spectacular cliffs. Make sure to visit Câmara de Lobos, an idyllic village that enchanted Sir Winston Churchill and prompted him to paint it. You can also venture to Cabo Girão – the world’s second-highest cliff – where standing on Europe’s highest glass skywalk will take your breath away. At BAM, explore the fascinating history of Madeira’s renowned banana! Finally, head to Porto Moniz for some time off*, swimming in its natural volcanic rock pools (weather permitting), before returning back to Funchal.
Day 12 Funchal – Free Day
Take this day to explore and discover Madeira. You could join a full-day tour or adventure independently. Follow winding levadas, where you will learn about their unique irrigation system then visit a Quinta for lunch with breathtaking Atlantic views. Finally, be sure to explore Santana’s traditional A-frame houses – an homage to its agricultural roots.
Day 13 Funchal – Lisbon
Say your goodbyes to Portugal with a delicious meal at a local eatery. Afterward, hop aboard and fly back to the lively metropolis of Lisbon.
Day 14 Lisbon – Tour Ends
At the close of your journey, bring home a piece of Portugal in your heart.
What’s included
Accommodation
Day 1 to 3: Lumen Hotel
Day 4 to 7: Azoris Royal Garden Hotel, Ponta Delgada
Day 8 to 11: Pestana Casino Park Hotel
Day 12: Lumen Hotel
Guide
Local guides
Meals
12 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 6 dinners
Additional Services
2 Choice on Tour Options
Must-See Inclusions:
Discover stunning St. Michael, the largest of the Azorean islands.
Explore the island of Madeira, known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic.”
Tour Lisbon & Sintra and uncover their old world charms.
Cultural Experiences:
Gaze upon the pristine twin lakes of Sete Cidades.
Visit Funchal’s Lavradores market, a fruit and exotic flower paradise.
Experience a night of Fado (UNESCO) and learn about this traditional art form.
Culinary Inclusions:
Experience a truly unique cozido das Furnas lunch in Furnas Valley.
Enjoy a traditional dinner in Madeira, known as an espetada, and local folkloric entertainment.
Taste Madeira wine and learn why this wine had such an important role in the history of the Island.
Transport
What’s not included
Flights
Flights are not included.
Insurance
Insurance is not included.
Optional
Cascais, Estoril and a Famous Spy
Day 4 | Estoril
$110.00 pp
Whale Watching Adventure and lunch
Day 7 | Sao Miguel, Azores
$130.00 pp
Levada Walk & Santana’s Traditional Houses with Lunch
Day 12 | Madeira Island
$80.00 pp
Additional Services
Other activities and services are not included.
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