Highlights of Portugal

This trip starts in Porto at our hotel in the Ribeirinha district, close to the city's historical centre and on the banks of the scenic Douro River. Time permitting, we will familiarise ourselves with the hotel, and there will be an evening briefing.

Today we explore the heart of the famous Douro Valley, the world’s first officially designated wine region renowned not only for the excellent port wine but also for the postcard-pretty landscapes made of steeply terraced vineyards carved into the landscape along the river. We start with a short transfer from our hotel to Peso da Regua (20 mins), followed by a short but very scenic train ride to Pinhao. Later, we enjoy a delicious lunch with local wine in an eighteenth-century estate surrounded by terraced vineyards that climb high above the dramatic confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. In the afternoon, we have a couple of hours free to enjoy some of the best views of the Douro Valley - you can opt to relax or take a guided tour of the wine estate or enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Douro River. We conclude the day with a transfer by private bus into the central region of Portugal (approx. 2hrs drive) to Coimbra.

This morning we visit the mighty Monastery of Batalha, a masterpiece of Portuguese Gothic that combines various influences from its lengthy period of construction, which lasted several reigns. We will have the opportunity to visit the outstanding interior including the Founders’ Chapel with its fine stained-glass windows, the cloisters, the Unfinished Chapels with their Manueline and Flemish Gothic features and the Chapter House. Our next stop is the charming seaside town of Nazaré, where waves are famed for being among the largest in the world. There will be time for a stroll, lunch and some free time to soak up the lovely atmosphere of this coastal village. Next we move on to Obidos, our base for the next two nights. This small fortified village resembles a medieval film set. It has been carefully preserved by its inhabitants who take pride in maintaining the architectural image of the village, characterised by narrow winding streets and white-washed houses and impressive fort walls, perfect to enjoy after day-trippers have left.

Overnight in Obidos.

This morning we transfer to Lisbon (approx. 1hr journey), Europe's second-oldest capital after Athens, and once home to the world's greatest explorers like Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Lisbon today is one of the most sought-after destinations offering everything you would expect from a trendy capital: delicious food, ancient monuments, quirky cafés, charming neighbourhoods, and a stunning riverside view over the Tejo river. Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a few steep climbs and steps during today’s walking tour. We start by visiting the famous neighbourhood of Belem, with its UNESCO Monastery of Jeronimos and the iconic bakery serving the original Pateis de Belem (custard tarts). Next, we transfer to the elegant area of Graça, and descend on foot through Alfama, one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods boasting a maze of colourful alleyways, old buildings and breath-taking viewpoints. We conclude our busy guided tour in the heart of the city, Rossio. The remainder of the afternoon is free for relaxation or further independent sightseeing. With so much to see and do in Lisbon, we recommend adding some extra days at the end of the tour in order to truly appreciate the many attractions this city offers.