Journey through Portugal: Lisbon & Porto experience

lisbon

Day 1: Touchdown in Lisbon

Welcome to Portugal! Arrive at Lisbon Portela Airport and transfer to your accommodation, where you'll have time to settle in and relax after your journey. Then, take a leisurely walk through the historic Alfama district, losing yourself in the capital's vibrant and colorful streets.

To end the day on a high note, pop by Chapitô à Mesa, a restaurant located inside a circus school (yes, you read that right!) There you'll witness the best views of the city of Lisbon, as well as breathtaking sunsets.

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Day 2: The historic delights of Lisbon

Today, you'll wake up to a fantastic program of sightseeing in and around the capital. First, you'll take a guided walking tour through the city to explore its highlights, such as the hilltop Bairro Alto (Upper District), the character-packed Alfama neighborhood, the Cathedral of Lisbon, and the historic St George’s Castle (locally known as Castelo de São Jorge).

On the outskirts of the city center, some other essential sights to add to your itinerary include the breathtaking Jerónimos Monastery and the nearby Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortification and former point of embarkation for Portuguese explorers.

Optionally, spend the evening dining at a traditional restaurant, where you'll get to enjoy a live fado performance.

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Day 3: Take a day trip to Sintra & Cascais

Today, you’ll embark on an excursion to visit Sintra and Cascais - two popular and unmissable destinations on any visit to Portugal.

First, tour Sintra's fairy tale-like Pena Palace and take a short wander through the historic town center, filled with charm and life. Alternatively, those looking to get off the beaten track can choose to tour the Peninha Sanctuary: from its prime location atop a mountain, you'll be able to contemplate views across Sintra, Cascais, Lisbon, and all the way to the Arrábida Nature Park! These will be yours to soak up and savor, without the typical tourist crowds hindering your view.

Afterwards you'll head to Cascais, a cosmopolitan hub on the Atlantic coast. Stroll through the picturesque town and enjoy some local seafood. Make sure to pick up a souvenir or two, and relax for a while on golden sands before returning to Lisbon for the night.

lisbon - Porto

Day 4: A culturally-packed journey to Porto

This morning, pack your bags and check out of your hotel, departing Lisbon as you journey on to Porto.

Along the way, stop to explore the historic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, then visit the Joanina Library, a true Baroque masterpiece. If you're looking to relax, take a stroll along the picturesque Mondego River, watching life unfold both on its shores and waters.

Optionally, instead of visiting Coimbra, you could make a stopover at Tomar, known for its fascinating history as the former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar. You'll love losing yourself in its age-old streets, soaking up its abundant art and culture, before continuing your transfer to Porto.

Porto

Day 5: The many delights of Porto

Today, you'll wake up to a fascinating itinerary around Porto! Embark on a guided half-day city tour, exploring the UNESCO-listed center before spending the afternoon enjoying a must-try experience: a guided tour and tasting session at an exquisite Port wine cellar on the riverbanks. As you tantalize your taste buds, you'll find that the region's entire history unfolds itself here in all its glory.

Optionally, as the day draws to a close, choose to sit down for dinner at a local wine estate, overlooking the city of Porto - for a romantic and enriching night out, this experience is almost mandatory!

Porto

Day 6: Wine & cruising in the Douro Valley

Spend the day immersed in the magic of the Douro Valley - a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Transfer to the Quinta do Crasto Wine Estate to take a private tour, savor a wine tasting, and enjoy lunch - a great opportunity to satisfy your taste buds as well as learn all about the local wine production process.

After lunch, embark on a rabelo boat for an hour-long cruise. A truly unique and fascinating experience awaits aboard this typical wooden vessel, used to carry Port wine to the warehouses in Porto and Gaia. Then, you'll return to Porto to relax for an overnight stay.

Porto

Day 7: Explore charming cities beyond Porto

Today, you'll have a choice of day excursions to enjoy, based around your preferences. You could opt to take a day trip to Aveiro, also known as the Portuguese Venice. There you'll enjoy a moliceiro boat ride along the Ria de Aveiro (Aveiro Lagoon), taste local sweets, and be guided through the colorful city on a walking tour with a local expert.

Alternatively, plan a day trip to the region of Minho, where you'll take a full-day tour of Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, and Braga - three destinations overflowing with beauty and charm. Make sure to arrive into Viana do Castelo for 10am or 5pm, to pop by the Confeitaria Natário and sample their famous bolas de Berlim donuts - these are only cooked twice daily!

Porto - lisbon

Day 8: Return to Lisbon

Today you'll depart Porto for Lisbon, making several stops along the way to discover more lesser-known sides to Portugal.

First you'll stop at the seaside town of Nazaré, known for its big waves and beautiful beaches. Then you'll explore the medieval walled town of Óbidos and its charming streets, where you can retrace history amidst a beautifully-preserved setting.

Finally, reach Lisbon and check into your accommodation for one last night. You'll have the evening to enjoy at your own pace, relaxing in your room or making the most of the capital's pulsating nightlife.

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Day 9: Goodbye, Portugal!

After a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, spend any remaining time exploring local shops or cafes, getting your final fill of Lisbon before transferring to the airport for your departure flight home. Safe travels and visit again soon!