Best of Portugal with Douro Valley

Arrival 
Welcome to Lisbon - the fabulous capital of Portugal! Upon arrival, you are met by your private driver, who transfers you to the hotel for the check-in.

The rest of the day is free so you can start exploring the magnificent city center on your own, dine in one of the local restaurants or take a good rest in your comfortable room.

Exploring the Highlights of Lisbon & Fado Show
After breakfast you meet your guide and enjoy a panoramic walking sightseeing tour of Lisbon.

During the tour you see the most famous attractions, including Restauradores Square with the Obelisk commemorating the Restoration of Portugal’s independence from Spain in 1640.

You take a funicular up to the Bairro Alto and admire the view of the Mouraria district and the Sao Jorge Castle, the charming neighbourhood of Chiado abundant in old cafés, shops and theaters.

Then you proceed to Baixa including Rossio Square, where you learn how the city was destroyed in 1755 by a massive earthquake, and then totally rebuilt to become the city of today.

Continue to Alfama Lisbon’s oldest district to admire Se Cathedral - the city’s oldest church and Commerce Square.

After the tour, you return to your hotel and have some time to rest before going to the Fado Show with dinner by private car. 

Trip to Sintra & Visit to the Belem Quarter
Following breakfast you meet your driver-guide and start your journey on an exciting day-trip to one of Portugal's most beautiful destinations - UNESCO-listed Cultural Landscape of Sintra, that is famous for its fairy-tale castles and beautiful scenery. Upon arrival, you visit the Pena Palace (from the outside) with a round trip shuttle bus (up to the Pena Palace). Here you have some free time to admire the beauty of the Palace and take some amazing photos.

Then you have some free time for lunch (not included) before your driver-guide takes you back to Lisbon. Upon arrival, you visit the Belem Quarter, where you admire the Jerónimos Monastery (from the outside). You also make photo stops at the ancient Belem Tower and Monument to the Discoverers.

After the tour you are transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Departure
Today you meet your private driver and get to the train station.

Arrival & Port Wine Tasting
Welcome to Porto - the most romantic coastal city of Portugal!

Upon arrival, your guide meets you at the train station in Porto. You are transferred to your hotel to drop off your luggage, and together with your guide you start a welcome walking tour from Palacio da Bolsa to Luis I Bridge. As a highlight of your introduction to Porto, you walk to a winery for port wine tasting.

After the introductory walk, you return to your centrally located hotel for check-in. The rest of the evening is free.

Exploring the Highlights of Porto
After breakfast you meet your guide who takes you on an exhilarating walking tour of Porto's main landmarks. Located along the Douro river estuary in northern Portugal, Porto encompasses one of the oldest European town centers which is in fact registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The first stop of your tour is the iconic Lello Bookshop, the oldest bookshop in Portugal. During the tour you also admire the most iconic city monuments, including the railway station of Sao Bento, the Porto Cathedral and San Francisco Church. After the tour you return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free.

Braga & Guimaraes Old Town Sightseeing Tours
After breakfast your guide-driver take you to Minho - the greenest region of Portugal, famous for its amazing landscapes, wonderful cultural heritage, and authentic handicrafts, which make Minho a region with a very unique personality full of traditions.

Upon arrival in the capital of the region - the ancient city of Braga, you visit its 11th century Braga Cathedral (entrance tickets are included) and admire the impressive Sanctuary of Bom Jesus.

You then take a trip to the cradle of Portugal - the medieval city of Guimaraes, where you explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town and visit its famous Palace of the Dukes (entrance tickets are included). After the tour you are transferred to your hotel in Porto. The rest of the day is free.

Departure
In the morning following breakfast you check out from your hotel and depart from Lisbon. 

Arrival in the Douro Valley

Welcome to the enchanting Douro Valley, where rolling vineyards and the tranquil river create a serene backdrop for your stay. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, a haven nestled in nature, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the soul of this breathtaking region. As you settle in, take a deep breath and relax, letting the charm and peaceful atmosphere of the Douro Valley wash over you, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Douro Valley Discovery with Lunch & Wine Tasting 

Begin your day with a scenic drive to the charming City of Amarante, renowned for its picturesque streets and rich history. Visit the stunning São Gonçalo Church, a beautifully preserved historical site, and admire its remarkable architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Explore the iconic Amarante Bridge, a symbol of the city that spans the Tâmega River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Next, continue your journey to Régua, the heart of the Douro Valley, known for its spectacular terraced vineyards and river views. From Régua, head to Quinta do Seixo, a renowned wine estate by Sandeman. Here, enjoy a delightful wine tasting session, paired with a traditional lunch where you can savor regional flavors and the finest wines.

After lunch, take a relaxing drive to Pinhão, a small town nestled in the valley, where you’ll visit the Pinhão Railway Station, known for its stunning azulejos (Portuguese tiles) that depict the region’s scenic beauty and rich heritage. This location is a perfect conclusion to your journey through one of Portugal's most breathtaking wine regions.After this, you will be transferred back to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on your memorable day in the Douro Valley.

Douro River Cruise in a Traditional Rabelo Boat 

On this day, embark on a scenic Douro River Cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, a classic vessel once used to transport port wine along the river. As you sail through the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and experience the tranquility of the waters. Relive the history of the Rabelo boats, which were once moved by the force of the sails, and feel like a true sailor as you become an integral part of the boat in this unique and intimate setting with the option to stop for a swim in the river if conditions allow.

Please note:

*If your hotel is located far from Pinhão, a transfer will need to be included.

**If you are staying at Octant please chose relevant experience from Octant Hotel

Departure with Coimbra Tour 

Today you meet your private driver and get to Coimbra, where you meet the local guide to discover the medieval capital for more than 100 years and is the oldest university city in Portugal.

Monumental, inspiring and surprisingly charming, the city faces the Mondego River, crowned by the University and its stunning baroque library.

After the tour, you have some free time and together with you drive move toward Lisbon Airport