Dazzling Portugal Culture and Coastline Odyssey

Your journey begins as you arrive in Lisbon, where we'll ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. Once settled, you've some leisure time to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, keep an eye on the hotel reception boards for essential details regarding the start of your tour. This downtime allows you to soak in the initial sights and sounds of Lisbon, setting the stage for the adventures to come. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

In the morning, we will embark on a captivating sightseeing tour of Lisbon, the vibrant Portuguese capital renowned for its seven hills. Explore its charming alleys adorned with iconic tiles and experience the unique atmosphere imbued with "saudade" a deep sense of nostalgia. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Belm neighbourhood, famously known as the departure point for the great Portuguese navigators of the 15th century. After soaking in the rich history, the afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might choose to wander through the Bairro Alto district and take in views from its picturesque viewpoint. Additionally, you have the option of an excursion to the enchanting towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. As the day winds down, we'll regroup at Restauradores Square, a lively area filled with energetic bars and cafs, and make our way back to the hotel.

Our journey today takes us southward from Lisbon as we cross the impressive bridge over the Tagus River, offering a chance to admire the scenic landscapes en route to Portugals Algarve region. Our first stop is the historic city of Lagos, famed for its significant maritime history as a launching point for explorers heading to Brazil. Here, you can wander the charming streets nestled within ancient city walls. Well pause for lunch in this captivating setting. In the afternoon, we head to Cape St. Vincent, known for its dramatic cliffs marking the southwesternmost tip of mainland Europe. Nearby, we're presented with an opportunity to photograph the historic Sagres fortress, a significant landmark in Portuguese history. Our day concludes in the stunning coastal city of Albufeira. Here, you're free to unwind on the golden beaches or meander through the vibrant historic centre. Tonight, we'll stay in Albufeira or possibly another nearby town in the Algarve, offering a restful end to an enriching day.

Today, our journey takes us to Faro, a tranquil city in Portugal's Algarve region, where well enjoy a leisurely stroll. Following this, we head towards the scenic Alentejo region. Our first stop is Mrtola, a walled town that serves as an open-air museum. Mrtola was once a significant centre during the Islamic rule, dominated by a large castle. Here, you can wander through its charming streets lined with whitewashed houses and steeped in history. Next, we venture to vora, a city encircled by ancient walls and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Well visit the remarkable Chapel of Bones, a peculiar chapel constructed with over 5,000 skeletons, before exploring vora's medieval palaces, Gothic churches, and the ancient Roman temple. This enriching day concludes in vora, allowing you to absorb its remarkable heritage and fascinating past.

Today, we journey through the captivating landscapes of Alentejo. Our first stop is the enchanting walled town of Marvo, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region. We then make our way to Castelo de Vide, where you'll find an impressive castle. Here, you'll have time to stroll through the historic Jewish quarter, visiting the medieval synagogue now serving as a museum, or exploring the town's charming streets. After enjoying lunch, our travels continue to Tomar, where we visit the remarkable Convent of Christa castle-convent that was once under the Templar knights (admission included). Before reaching Ftima, we'll pause in Aljustrel, birthplace of the three shepherd children who famously witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary. You can visit Lucia's house if you wish. Upon arrival in Ftima, you'll have free time to visit the Sanctuary and may choose to witness the candlelight procession, although this is not held in winter. Dinner is included today.

We will journey to northern Portugal, reaching Porto, the country's second-largest city, by late morning. Upon our arrival, we'll embark on a 50-minute cruise along the Douro River on a traditional Portuguese Rabelo boat, providing a distinctive view of the citys stunning riverside. Afterwards, you will have time to explore the vibrant Ribeira district, renowned for its narrow streets, historic merchant houses, and delightful cafs. Use this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere before we reconvene to head to the hotel.

On this day, we explore the captivating landscapes of northern Portugal. The journey begins in Braga, often referred to as the religious heart of the nation, where we take a leisurely walk through its historic quarters and visit the magnificent cathedral. Our next adventure lies at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus, reached by the world's oldest funicular railway. The scenic ascent offers splendid views, and we suggest a walk back down via the grand staircase for a unique perspective.Our itinerary then takes us to Guimares, acknowledged as Portugal's first capital. Here, you will marvel at the impressive Palace of the Dukes. Following a delightful lunch amidst the rolling vineyards, we descend into the Douro Valley. As we travel through Sabrosa, birthplace of the explorer Magellan, we'll stop to appreciate the charming tile-adorned train station in Pinho. From here, we will embark on a one-hour cruise along the Douro River to fully appreciate the region's breathtaking beauty. Do note that from November to March, the river cruise is replaced by a scenic drive featuring several stunning viewpoints.The day's journey culminates in Coimbra, where we'll arrive in the evening. A delectable dinner awaits you as you settle into this historic city.

Today, we will explore Coimbra, Portugal's third largest city, renowned for its prestigious university and charming steep lanes. As we head south, well visit the Batalha Monastery, a stunning medieval structure that serves as a royal mausoleum (entrance fee included). Afterward, you can enjoy lunch and a leisurely stroll in Nazar, a quaint fishing village and popular seaside destination. A ride on the elevator to the old city offers breathtaking ocean views and is included in your visit. Continuing on, well stop at bidos, a delightful town featuring picturesque streets lined with whitewashed houses and vibrant flowers. By around 7:30 p.m., well arrive back in Lisbon, marking the end of our journey filled with memorable experiences. Be sure to check your flight details as you may require an additional night's stay.