Best of Portugal

Days 1-2  Lisbon        
Arrive in the romantic Portuguese capital with time to explore before meeting your fellow travellers for a drive past some iconic sights. Day 2 delves into Lisbon's centuries-old seafaring heritage, see the shimmering white Monument to the Discoveries, the iconic suspension bridge spanning the Tagus, and Belém Tower. On a sightseeing tour of the UNESCO-listed Hieronymite Monastery, an exquisite testament to 16th-century Manueline architecture and art. This evening, perhaps enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner amidst the heart-wrenching, haunting sounds of the fado.

Day 3  Lisbon to Algarve        
Cross the Tagus this morning and drive south towards the Serra da Arrábida Mountains and to the golden pastures of the Alentejo. The hearty aroma of Portuguese chicken fills the air at a traditional lunch at a stud ranch, where Lusitano horses were once reared in the 18th century. Our journey continues further south, bound for the sun-kissed shores of the Algarve.

Day 4  Algarve      
The dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches of the Sagres Peninsula provide a stunning backdrop for our morning coastal drive. Admire spectacular views across Baleeira Beach, before continuing along the coast to Cape St. Vincent. Finish off the day with a visit to the resort town of Lagos.

Day 5  Algarve to Évora
Head north to the ancient Alentejo city of Évora. Visit the elaborate cathedral, Roman temple and the Chapel of Bones. Spend the rest of your day delving into the medieval history of this enchanting city. Kick back with a bica and bolo in Praça do Giraldo or perhaps to the medieval village of Monsaraz. This evening dinner is at your hotel in Évora.

Day 6  Évora to Viseu
Today’s first stop is in the quaint hilltop town of Castelo de Vide with its charming white façades, narrow alleys, and fascinating Jewish Quarter. Travel north towards the Serra de Estrela mountains and arrive in Viseu, set high on a plateau near the famous Dão vineyards. Explore the city's rich art and architectural history, and see the 12th-century Sé, standing imposingly on a hill overlooking much of the city.

Day 7  Viseu to Porto
Travel through the Douro Valley, where Port wine is produced. Explore the magnificent gardens at the Baroque-style Palácio de Mateus. Continuing via Guimarães for views of its impressive 10th-century castle, before arriving in the riverside town of Porto.

Day 8  Porto        
Join a local specialist today for a sightseeing tour in Porto, taking you past baroque churches and along the winding cobblestone lanes. See the remarkable bridges that span the river and the Gothic Church of St. Francis and learn of the centuries-old tradition of local port production at a tasting in a port cellar.  

Day 9  Porto to Fátima
Visit one of Europe's oldest universities, then stroll through the ancient streets and squares of Coimbra, before journeying to the Templar city of Tomar. Later arrive in the pilgrimage centre of Fátima, visited by millions of Catholic pilgrims, where three young shepherds famously saw apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Day 10  Fátima to Lisbon  
Stop by the imposing monastery of Batalha en route to to Lisbon. The UNESCO World Heritage site and the best example of late Gothic architecture in Portugal. Visit the fishing village of Nazaré and the medieval walled city of Óbidos before enjoying a final dinner in a family ran vineyard.

Day 11  Lisbon
Transfer to the airport for your departing flight.