A tranquil escape to Alentejo
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Alentejo, Portugal’s serene countryside where time slows down. This 10-day self-drive relaxing getaway offers you the chance to unwind in one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions, renowned for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and charming whitewashed villages.
Highlights include; a guided walking tour of Lisbon, exploring the fairytale city of Sintra, taking a traditional cooking class with a local Portuguese family, relaxing in the coastal area of Comporta, horseback riding on the beach followed by a picnic lunch, and much more. This retreat into the heart of Portugal’s countryside, will let you reconnect with nature, indulge in the region's culinary delights, and immerse yourself in a slower, more mindful way of living.
Services
Included:
- Nine nights accommodation in four or five-star hotels
- Daily breakfast, two lunches & one dinner
- Seven days car rental
- Airport transfers on arrival & departure days
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- Ability to expand the duration of your trip, add more travelers & customize your itinerary during the planning stages
Excluded:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Petrol & parking fees
- Tips & gratuities
Optional:
- Additional excursions; speak to your local expert if there's an experience that you'd really love to include in your trip
Itinerary at a Glance
lisbon
Welcome to Portugal
lisbon
A walking tour of Lisbon & an evening of Fado
lisbon - Sintra - lisbon
Sintra’s cites & a visit to coastal Cascais
lisbon - Evora
Visit the historic Evora
Evora - Cartuxa - Evora
Cooking class & wine tasting
Evora
A free day to explore Alentejo
Evora - Comporta
Journey to the coast
Comporta
A free day in Comporta
Comporta
Horseback riding & beach picnic
Comporta
Farewell, Portugal
Detailed Itinerary
lisbon
Day 1: Welcome to Portugal
Our driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall of Lisbon’s airport, carrying a nameplate ready to transfer you to your hotel in the capital.
Take the rest of the day to relax after your long journey.
lisbon
Day 2: A walking tour of Lisbon & an evening of Fado
This morning, take a half day private guided walking tour of Lisbon.
The tour will start at Baixa District, Lisbon’s city center. You'll then head to Alfama, one of Lisbon’s hills. Here, you’ll visit the Cathedral of Lisbon, a 12th century building. Continue up the hill to St. George’s Castle and enjoy one the best views over the city. Later, the tour will continue towards Chiado, Lisbon’s commercial district, rich in history.
In the evening, go on a Fado walking tour. Fado is Lisbon’s version of the blues. You will be guided by a local enthusiast who will take you on a stroll through one of Lisbon’s hills, telling you about this ancient tradition. This short tour will end at a local Fado Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a typical Portuguese dinner while listening to Fado live performances.
lisbon - Sintra - lisbon
Day 3: Sintra’s cites & a visit to coastal Cascais
On a half-day walking tour, you’ll discover the town of Sintra, located outside Lisbon, and considered one of the most intriguing places in Portugal.
In the fabulous town center, you can visit the National Palace of Sintra. Going up the mountain, you’ll reach the Moorish Castle. Then, visit one of the most emblematic palaces in Portugal: the Pena Palace. On your way down, you’ll pass by Quinta da Regaleira estate palace, which also deserves a visit.
Afterwards, explore your next stop: Cascais! Once a small fishing village, the town of Cascais managed to maintain its seafaring traditions combined with an aristocratic and royal presence. Before you explore, you can make time for a delicious fish and seafood lunch at one of the restaurants by the sea.
lisbon - Evora
Day 4: Visit the historic Evora
This morning, your rental car will be delivered to your hotel. Begin your self-drive adventure through Portugal by heading to the city of Évora in the Alentejo region.
In the afternoon, your guide will meet you at your hotel to take you on a private walking tour of Évora. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Evora has been well-preserved through the centuries retaining its authentic charm.
We will start the tour by walking along its historical center, which is the best way to experience the atmosphere of this town. Visit the Church of St. Francis and its famous Chapel of Bones. Continuing towards the Giraldo Square, the former headquarters of the inquisition in Portugal. Then, explore the old Roman Temple of Diana followed by a visit of the Cathedral of Évora.
At the end of the tour, you’ll have a free evening to enjoy this magnificent city at your own pace.
Evora - Cartuxa - Evora
Day 5: Cooking class & wine tasting
Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience at a local resident’s home. Cook and learn about Portuguese cuisine and traditions. You will cook in a traditional and charming kitchen in the yard of a Portuguese family house, just outside the walls of the lovely city of Évora.
Today, you'll also enjoy a guided wine tasting at Adega da Cartuxa. Cartuxa wine tourism is based at Quinta de Valbom. The old cellars at Quinta de Valbom are used to age the wines produced by the Eugénio de Almeida Foundation. After visiting the property, you will be able to taste the wines produced here.
Evora
Day 6: A free day to explore Alentejo
Today, you’ll have a free day to explore Alentejo at your own pace. The surrounding towns of Vila Viçosa and Estremoz are worth a visit; this region has so much to explore.
Evora - Comporta
Day 7: Journey to the coast
After a pleasant stay in the interior of Alentejo, continue your self-drive adventure to the coast of Comporta on the Tróia Peninsula.
In the afternoon, experience Comporta and some of its major attractions in a kayak. You will be provided with the kayaking equipment. Paddle through the serene lakes, reservoirs, rivers, along rice fields and explore the Vala Real, or Royal Canal.
Comporta
Day 8: A free day in Comporta
Today you’ll have a free day at leisure, to enjoy Tróia/ Comporta at your own pace. Either spend the day relaxing at your hotel or venture to the beach for some sunshine on the sand.
Comporta
Day 9: Horseback riding & beach picnic
Today, you’ll get the chance to enjoy a unique activity: horseback riding on the beach, riding the world famous Portuguese Lusitano horses. Gallop along endless beaches, canter through forests, trot along ancient trails and gaze at beautiful landscapes.
In the afternoon you have free time to enjoy the beach. In the evening, our 4x4 jeeps will take you to one of the most impressive and unknown beaches in the region. You’ll be given a picnic basket with delicious treats and drinks of your choice.
Comporta
Day 10: Farewell, Portugal
After an amazing stay in Portugal, it will be time to return home. After checking out from your hotel, you’ll drive to Lisbon’s airport, drop off your rental car, and get ready for your onward flight.
