Complete Portugal ROT

ITINERARY:

Day 01 – Arrival in LISBON

Welcome, We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.

Day 02 – LISBON

In the morning, we´ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Lisbon, exploring the Portuguese capital of the seven hills, with its charming alleys, iconic tiles, the feeling of “Saudade,” and the beautiful Atlantic light. We’ll also visit the Belem neighborhood, from where the great Portuguese navigators set sail to cross the oceans in the 15th century. In the afternoon, you can walk and go to the Bairro Alto and its viewpoint; if you’d like to, you could take an optional trip to the towns of Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril. In the evening, we’ll return to the hotel from the lively Restauradores Square, filled with vibrant bars and cafes.

Day 03 – LISBON ➔ LAGOS ➔ CAPE ST. VINCENT ➔ ALBUFEIRA

We’ll depart early for southern Portugal, enjoying beautiful landscapes as we cross the long bridge over the Tagus River. Upon arrival in the Algarve, the southern region of Portugal, we´ll explore the historic city of Lagos, known for its port from where Portuguese ships once sailed to Brazil, and its charming historic center enclosed within ancient walls. There will be time for lunch. In the afternoon, we´ll travel to the westernmost point of continental Europe amidst windswept cliffs to discover Cape St. Vincent. We´ll have the opportunity to photograph the historic Sagres fortress nearby. Later, we´ll spend time in Albufeira, a stunning coastal city where you can relax on its beaches or wander through its lively historic center. Accommodation will be provided in Albufeira or a neighboring city in the Algarve.

Day 04 – ALBUFEIRA ➔ MÉRTOLA ➔ EVORA 

We´ll continue our journey towards the Alentejo region, starting with Mértola, a town-museum on the banks of the Guadiana River. This walled town, an important center from the Muslim era, is dominated by its large castle that invites us to stroll through its streets lined with white houses and corners full of history. Next, we´ll head to Beja, one of the oldest cities in the country famous for its large fortress of Roman and medieval origin. We´ll have time to walk around and enjoy lunch in the historic center, with its narrow streets and picturesque squares. Our journey will continue to Évora, where we´ll visit the Chapel of Bones (admission included), a unique chapel constructed with more than 5,000 skeletons. We´ll then explore this walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its medieval palaces, Gothic religious buildings, and ancient Roman temple.

Day 05 – EVORA ➔ MARVAO ➔ CASTELO DE VIDE ➔ TOMAR ➔ FATIMA

Today we´ll travel amidst the beautiful landscapes of Alentejo. We´ll stop in Marvão, a very picturesque walled town that offers a fantastic panoramic view of the region. After that, we´ll get to know Castelo de Vide with its impressive castle. We´ll also have time to walk through its old Jewish quarter, where we can visit the medieval synagogue (now a museum) or explore the winding streets of the town. After lunch, we´ll continue to Tomar, a city renowned for the Convent of Christ, a former castle-convent that belonged to the Order of the Templars (admission included). Before arriving in Fátima, we´ll stop in Aljustrel, the village where the three young shepherds who witnessed Virgin Mary´s apparitions were born. We´ll have the opportunity to see Lucia´s house. Upon arrival in Fátima, you´ll have free time at the Sanctuary of Fátima, where you can watch the candlelight procession if you wish (not held in winter). Dinner will be included.

Day 06 –  FATIMA ➔ PORTO

We’ll travel to the north of Portugal. Arriving around 11:00 a.m. in Porto, the country’s second-largest city, we’ll begin with a sightseeing tour (included) of the historic center situated on the banks of the Douro River. We’ll also visit one of its old wineries (included). You’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure.

Day 07 – PORTO ➔ BRAGA ➔ GUIMARÃES ➔ BOM JESUS ➔ PINHAO ➔ COIMBRA

Today, we´ll experience the stunning landscapes of northern Portugal. We´ll begin with a stroll through Braga, known as the religious capital of Portugal, with its historic cathedral. Next, we´ll ascend to the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus on the world´s oldest cable car, enjoying beautiful views. Afterward, we recommend you descend via the impressive staircase. Guimarães, Portugal´s first capital, awaits with its magnificent Palace of the Dukes. After lunch amidst picturesque vineyards, we´ll descend into the Douro Valley, passing by Sabrosa, the birthplace of Magellan. In Pinhão, we´ll explore its charming train station adorned with traditional tiles and enjoy a one-hour cruise along the Douro River, showcasing the region´s beauty (from November to March, the cruise is not available, so it will be replaced with a scenic drive with stops at viewpoints along the Douro River). Finally, we´ll continue to Coimbra, arriving at the end of the day. Dinner will be included.

Day 08 – COIMBRA ➔ BATALHA ➔ NAZARE ➔ ÓBIDOS ➔ LISBON

We´ll spend time in Coimbra, the third largest city in Portugal known for its old University and charming, steep streets. Continuing southward, we´ll stop at the Batalha Monastery (entrance fee included), an impressive medieval mausoleum of kings. There will be time for lunch and a stroll in Nazaré, a town of fishermen and a seaside resort. We´ll take the elevator that ascends to the old city (tickets included), offering impressive views of the ocean. As we travel towards Lisbon, we´ll make a stop in Óbidos, one of the most beautiful towns in Portugal, with its picturesque white streets adorned with flowers. We´ll arrive in Lisbon at approximately 07:30 p.m. Our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful and lasting memories. Please, check the time of your flight in case you might need an additional night.