Unveiling Portugal 2023

Tour highlights

A journey through Portugal reveals the legacies of its empires past. Medieval villages, cobbled streets in Porto, Gothic cities, and cinematic rural scenery make up this captivating Iberian nation. Let us explore further to discover world-famous pilgrimage sites, stunning dishes that embody local cuisine, and ancient customs still kept alive today.

Tour itinerary

Day 1 Lisbon (Portugal)
Greetings to you all for a journey of discovery and elation in the captivating city of Lisbon. After assembling at the hotel, we will begin our adventure with an evening of savory dining accompanied by a captivating performance from Fado musicians. We can’t wait to explore this bewitching destination! You’ll be staying at Turim Terreiro do Paço Hotel (or similar). Here’s to an unforgettable experience!
Meals:
– Dinner

Day 2 Lisbon – Sintra – Lisbon
Arriving in Lisbon, we will first visit a tile painting atelier where you’ll be able to make your own unique and memorable souvenir. Our next stop is the beautiful old town of Sintra, home to the stunning Sintra National Palace which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. During our stay here you can take time to explore everything that this picturesque settlement has to offer. Our day ends with us heading back to our hotel – Turim Terreiro do Paço Hotel (or similar) – for an evening rest.
Meals:
– Breakfast

Day 3 Lisbon – Óbidos and Nazaré – Alvados
Today, we’ll begin with the beautiful village of Óbidos and take an orientation tour of its age-old architecture and cobblestone pathways. Afterwards, we’ll spend some time at the lovely Nazaré fishing town to explore at our own pace. Our final destination is Alvados where a Portuguese cooking class along with a delightful dinner will be waiting for us! Are you ready to get your hands dirty? Accommodation: Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel (or similar).
Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

Day 4 Alvados – Tomar – Alvados
This afternoon, we’ll make our way to the World Heritage-listed Convent of Christ in Tomar – known as the Knights Templar City. Everyone will have some time to go and explore all that this historic destination has to offer! Before heading back to Alvados, we’ll pay a visit to an olive oil producer and learn about their production process while sampling some of the local oil. Afterwards, guests at the Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel (or similar) can enjoy its facilities or take a stroll through one of the nearby walking trails.
Meals:
– Breakfast

Day 5 Alvados – Coimbra – Viseu
Beginning our adventure, we’ll head to Coimbra where a visit to the renowned University and remarkable Joanina Library awaits. You can explore the historic grounds taking in the picturesque views of River Mondego before having some free time within its medieval centre. We’ll then make our way to Viseu, where a traditional cheesemaker will reveal everything you need to know about the scrumptious buttery cheese from this region. There’s even an opportunity to indulge in a sample or two – heaven! After that delight, you have your evening free to do as you please. As for accommodation, we’ll be staying at Hotel Palacio dos Melos (or similar).
Meals:
– Breakfast

Day 6 Viseu – Lamego, Pinhão and Peso Da Régua – Douro Valley
Today, our journey takes us to Lamego – a town steeped in history and situated within the Douro Valley. Our visit starts with an included tour of the exquisite Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies from the 18th Century. You’ll then have some time to explore on your own. Later, we set sail aboard a traditional rabelo boat taking in all of the breathtaking views this area has to offer as we cruise towards Peso da Régua. To finish off this remarkable day, you’ll be treated to another delicious dinner at our hotel for the night – Quinta da Pacheca (or similar).
Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

Day 7 Douro Valley
Make sure to take some time today and enjoy all that Douro Valley has to offer. Spend your day at our relaxing hotel, by its stunning pool, or explore further afield on a leisurely hike – whichever you chose, be sure to try one of more of this region’s distinctive wines before we regroup for dinner again at Quinta da Pacheca (or similar).
Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

Day 8 Douro Valley – Amarante and Penafiel – Braga
First thing after brekafast, we’re heading towards Amarante – a beautiful riverside town with its remarkable São Gonçalo Church from 16th century. We’ll take some time to be astonished by the extravagant interiors of the church before taking a stroll around the city. After lunchtime, we’re departing for Penafiel where we will enjoy drinking a glass of regional green wine and get informed about winemaking process. Lastly, our lovely evening awaits us when arrive at Braga and stay at Hotel Vila Galé Collection Braga or similar accommodation.
Meals:
– Breakfast

Day 9 Braga – Guimarães – Braga
We begin our day by journeying to the city of Guimarães, where we will experience a guided walking tour that provides insight into the castle, Palace of Dukes of Braganza and other sites of historical importance. Once finished with our tour, we are then given the opportunity to explore these medieval streets on our own until it is time to return to Braga. It’s recommended for travellers to take the chance to visit Bom Jesus Sanctuary, as it’s an iconic landmark in Portugal. To wrap up our journey here, we shall gather together one last time for dinner accompanied by an authentic folk performance! Accommodation: Hotel Vila Galé Collection Braga (or similar).
Meals:
– Breakfast
– Dinner

Day 10 Braga – Porto
This afternoon we come to the end of what has been a memorable journey – terminating in the city of Porto. To get acquainted with this beautiful place, we will go on an orientation tour, taking in sights such as the Clérigos Tower, Aliados Avenue, the Ribeira district and finally, the cathedral.
Meals:
– Breakfast

What’s included

Accommodation
– 9 nights in hand-picked accommodation

Guide
Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader and Driver

Meals
9 breakfasts
5 dinners

Additional Services
Enjoy a scenic ride along the Douro River in a traditional rabelo boat
Indulge in a tasting of delicious locally produced cheeses near Viseu
Explore the wonderfully atmospheric and history-laden streets of Coimbra

Transport
Premium mini-coach transportation

What’s not included

Flights
International flights are not included

Insurance
Travel insurance is not included

Optional
Other activities and services are not included

Additional Services
Other activities and services are not included