9-Night Cinematic & Historic Portugal

Day 2

Accommodation

Superior Central Luxury Hotel - Lisbon, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm.

Daily Itinerary

Atmospheric Lisbon – Medieval Sintra – Lisbon

After a delicious breakfast, we go to the atelier (studio) of a local tile painter. We’ll be able to create a tile to take home with us. A wonderful experience. Afterward, we head to medieval Sintra. The Sintra National Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sintra is set on the north slopes of the granite Serra, and it was a favored retreat of the kings of Portugal. You’ll have the afternoon free to explore this spectacular town. Then we return to Lisbon for the night. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trivia: Is there someplace distinctly unusual to see in Sintra?
Yes. Go to the Quinta da Regaleira. Built between 1904 – 1910 by an eccentric millionaire, the palace and gardens are filled with religious and occult symbols. The mysterious grounds have secret passages and hidden tunnels. There’s also a Spiral initiation well. Enjoy!

Included Sightseeing

Sintra, Portugal

The cultural landscape of Sintra is the cause for its UNESCO designation. Around 1840, Ferdinand II worked miracles on a ruined monastery. He turned it into a castle, using Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish, and Renaissance styles in its creation. Ferdinand then surrounded his palace with a huge park, planted with rare and exotic trees from around the world. He added fountains, water elements, ponds, cottages, faux ruins, plus small chapels, connecting them with lovely paths. 

As well as building the fantastical palace and grounds, he restored the forests of the Serra, planting thousands of trees alongside the oaks and umbrella pines. This added to the romantic character of the Cultural Landscape of Sintra. The Royal Palace is the main feature of Sintra, located in the town center. One of its most outstanding features is the tiles, considered to be the finest example of Mudejar tile technique on the Iberian Peninsula. The innovative combination of surprising paths and the abundance of plants influenced landscape architecture throughout Europe.    

Overnight Location

Lisbon, Portugal

In beautiful Lisbon, ancient history and customs blend easily with cutting edge art and innovation. Famous for its hospitality, the most popular places to visit are the Jeronimos Museum, the National Ancient Art Museum, Arco da Rua Augusta, and the National Coach Museum. A must is listening to Fado, the folk music of Lisbon’s rustic neighborhoods. Basically, Portuguese blues, Fado (which means fate) began in the 1800’s. The haunting ballads tell tales of lost loves and adventurers.

Day 3

Accommodation

Nurturing Cooking Lodge - Alvados, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Lisbon – Obidos and Nazare – Alvados

After breakfast we head to the stunning village of Obidos. This city is a cinematic wonder of whitewashed homes, enclosed inside 14th century walls. Then we visit Nazare. This fishing village has magnificent beaches, a rich cultural heritage, amazing cliff views, and exceptional seafood. We’ll take our time to explore the village before we head to Alvados. There, we’ll be delighted by a Portuguese cooking lesson and a scrumptious dinner! 

Included Meals: Breakfast; Dinner

Trivia: What’s the story of Obidos?
Perhaps the most interesting tale is that when King Denis married Isabel of Aragon in 1282, Obidos (yes, the entire town) was given to her as a wedding present.

Overnight Location

Alvados, Portugal

Alvados is the ideal place to find serenity and commune with nature. Located on the edge of the Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros, it is paradise. There are many species of orchids, caves, birdwatching, hiking, wildflower excursions, and local cooking extravaganzas. It is a pristine landscape

Day 4

Accommodation

Nurturing Cooking Lodge - Alvados, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Alvados – Picture-Perfect Tomar – Alvados

Today we road-trip out from Alvados to Tomar and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Convent of Christ. Known as the Knights Templar City, Tomar is a step back into the mysteries of the past. We’ll have plenty of free time to explore this lovely city on the banks of the Nabao River. Before we return for the evening to Alvados, we’ll stop at an olive oil producer, learn about the process of making liquid gold, and taste the local olive oil. Back in Alvados, we have the evening free to kick back at our nature-centric hotel, enjoy the accommodations, or explore the hiking trails. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trivia: When was Tomar founded?
Tomar was founded in 1157 by Gualdim Pais. He was the first Grand Master of the Order of the Templars in Portugal. Today, the city is still dominated by his Convento de Cristo. Wandering the heart of the town is easy—it’s all laid out in a narrow grid pattern.

Included Sightseeing

Convent of Christ, Tomar, Portugal

Built over a period of five centuries, the Convent of Christ, which belonged to the Order of the Templars, is an extraordinary example of architecture that combines Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, Mannerist, and Baroque styles. That is an amazing achievement! The heart of the Convent is the 12th century rotunda, called the Oratory of the Templars. It was built by the first Grand Master of the Templars, Gualdim Pais. Based on a polygonal design of 16 bays, including an octagonal choir, this is one of the few examples of Templar architecture still in existence. The cityscape of the town of Tomar is dominated by this complex, and it is the main feature of Tomar’s identity. 

Overnight Location

Alvados, Portugal

Alvados is the ideal place to find serenity and commune with nature. Located on the edge of the Parque Natural das Serras de Aire e Candeeiros, it is paradise. There are many species of orchids, caves, birdwatching, hiking, wildflower excursions, and local cooking extravaganzas. It is a pristine landscape

Day 5

Accommodation

Atmospheric Heart of City Hotel - Viseu, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:.00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Alvados – Heartfelt Coimbra – Dramatic Viseu

After breakfast, we travel to Viseu; on the way we stop at Coimbra. This was the birthplace of six kings, and it’s the seat of Portugal’s oldest university—Coimbra is held dear in the hearts of all Portuguese. We’ll visit the university and the Joanina Library. We have time to explore the city and enjoy views over the River Mondego as well as Coimbra’s medieval heart. Finished taking in the sights, we go to our destination, Viseu. After we arrive, we’ll learn the secrets of Viseu’s creamy cheese as well as enjoying a cheese tasting. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trivia: Is the national music of Fado popular in Coimbra?
Residents love Fado, but they have their own take on it. Elsewhere in the country, the music is like Portuguese blues—often melancholy. In Coimbra, the music rocks, is loud, rollicking, and romantic. The tunes vary from romantic to drinking songs. And in this town, the audience doesn’t clap, they cough!

Overnight Location

Viseu, Portugal

This wonderful town is the center of the Dao wine-growing region. In the old town, there’s a dramatic 15th century Porta do Soar Cima, the remains of Portugal’s first Cistercian monastery. The Museo do Caramulo has exhibits that range from 16th century Flemish tapestries to Egyptian bronzes from 1580 BC. Paintings include a Picasso, donated by the artist. And, the Museu do Automovel has Rolls Royce’s, Bugatti’s, and a 1938 bullet-proof Mercedes!

Day 6

Accommodation

Country Wine Estate - Douro Valley, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:.00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Dramatic Viseu – Lamego, Pinhao and Peso Da Regua – Breathtaking Douro Valley

On our way to the breathtaking Douro Valley, we stop at the town of Lamego. Located on the shores of the Balsemao River, the town is famous for its astonishing Baroque staircase that climbs the Santo Estevao hill to the Nossa Senhora dos Remedios church. After visiting the church, we head to Pinhao and board a traditional rabelo boat for a river cruise. We take in the cinematic glory of Douro Valley as we make our way to Peso da Regua. That night, a divine dinner awaits at our hotel. 

Included Meals: Breakfast; Dinner

Trivia: When was the Baroque staircase built in Lamego?
Lamego became a pilgrimage town, and in 1761 Nossa Senhora dos Remedios was built. Leading to the church is an amazing Baroque double stairway. It has 686 steps, nine terraces, it’s decorated with tiles and urns, and all lead to the Patio dos Reis. This is a circle of figures beneath the church. The views of the valley are spectacular.

Overnight Location

Douro Valley, Portugal

Wine has been produced in the Douro Valley for 2,000 years. Port wine, famous around the world and regulated here since 1756, is produced in the valley. This ancient tradition has created a cultural landscape of outstanding beauty that reflects economic and social evolution, as well as innovative techniques. Over time, rows of terraces were built. The earliest was before 1860, when narrow stone walls, which could only take one or two rows of vines, were employed.  When new terraces were created in the 19th and 20th centuries, the landscape was changed by much larger, sloping walls to ensure the vines had more sun. Groves of oranges were also walled, and often rows of trees alternated with the vineyards. Water catchments were also built along stone channels. White-washed villages and chapels dot the landscape, located halfway up the hills surrounding the valley. The Douro River and its tributaries run through. Mountains protect the valley from Atlantic winds—the entire 61,000 acres has been beautifully transformed by the terraced vineyards.   

Day 7

Accommodation

Country Wine Estate - Douro Valley, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:.00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Breathtaking Douro Valley

The first demarcated wine region in the world, the Douro Valley landscape is extraordinary. This day is yours to enjoy it by relaxing at the hotel’s pool and grounds or discovering the countryside on one of the walking trails. You’ll also have plenty of time to go wine tasting at a nearby winery. In the evening, we’ll meet for a delicious dinner at the hotel. 

Included Meals: Breakfast; Dinner

Trivia: What wines are grown in the Douro Valley?
The Douro Valley looks like a movie star. There are terraced vineyards that tumble to the Douro River. Port is a favorite, but there are more than 80 wineries. Native grape varieties make for powerful, dry red wines, and varieties of white wines are also are made here. 

Overnight Location

Douro Valley, Portugal

Wine has been produced in the Douro Valley for 2,000 years. Port wine, famous around the world and regulated here since 1756, is produced in the valley. This ancient tradition has created a cultural landscape of outstanding beauty that reflects economic and social evolution, as well as innovative techniques. Over time, rows of terraces were built. The earliest was before 1860, when narrow stone walls, which could only take one or two rows of vines, were employed.  When new terraces were created in the 19th and 20th centuries, the landscape was changed by much larger, sloping walls to ensure the vines had more sun. Groves of oranges were also walled, and often rows of trees alternated with the vineyards. Water catchments were also built along stone channels. White-washed villages and chapels dot the landscape, located halfway up the hills surrounding the valley. The Douro River and its tributaries run through. Mountains protect the valley from Atlantic winds—the entire 61,000 acres has been beautifully transformed by the terraced vineyards.   

Day 8

Accommodation

Luscious Royal Hotel - Braga, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Breathtaking Douro Valley – Amarante and Penafiel – Braga

In the morning, we head to Braga. On our way, we stop at Amarante, a lovely town by the river with a dramatic arched bridge and the 16th century Sao Goncalo Church—views of the river are outstanding. After exploring the church and this sleepy town of 11,000 people, and having lunch on our own, we go to Penafiel. The region’s green wine is world-renowned. We’ll learn about the winemaking process and savor a tasting. This evening is at our leisure in Braga. 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trivia: Is Amarante worth visiting?
Amarante, halfway between Porto and the Douro Valley, is an ancient settlement in Northern Portugal. It was founded in 360 BC, and called Turdetanos. Over time, it has known the influence of its Roman past, the medieval age, and the Renaissance era. With its population of just 11,000, it is often overlooked by visitors. Beautifully situated on the River Tamega, it is a cultural hub and well worth a stop. 

Overnight Location

Braga, Portugal

Lovely Braga is home to some of Portugal’s most exuberant festivals. Samana Santa is a solemn affair celebrated with processions, while the festival of Sao Joao, in June, is as lively as it can be. Braga has churches, Romanesque Se cloisters, beautiful gardens, and grand 18th century homes.  Go to the historic Café Brasileira, furnished in 19th century fashion, for a steaming cup of coffee and beans. The 16th century Palacio dos Biscainhos is adorned with blue and white azuelejos, colorful glazed tiles, and houses a lovely museum with Roman relics. 

Day 9

Accommodation

Luscious Royal Hotel - Braga, Portugal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00pm
 

Daily Itinerary

Astonishing Braga – Guimaraes – Braga

After a nice breakfast, we’ll take a day trip to Guimaraes. The historic city center is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our walking tour will take us to a magnificent Gothic monastery, a heavily fortified castle, and an elegant 15th century palace. After the tour, there’s plenty of time to explore the maze of medieval cobblestone streets, charming plazas, and small shops. When we return to Braga, the afternoon is free to explore this gem of a town. Consider going to the Bom Jesus Sanctuary, one of Portugal’s most famous attractions. When the evening rolls around, we’ll have a farewell dinner. Included is a traditional folk performance as a lively, and perfect, end to our Portugal adventuring. 
Included Meals: Breakfast; Dinner

Trivia: Was Braga an important city in the past?
Astonishing Braga has always been the envy of other towns. As a matter of fact, because he was jealous of the city’s status, the Archbishop of Santiago really pulled a fast one! In the 12th century, he stole Braga’s sacred relics for himself.

Included Sightseeing

Guimarães, Portugal

The historic center of Guimaraes is an excellent example of the 12th century emergence of Portugal’s national identity. It’s an amazingly well-preserved instance of the seamless growth of a medieval village into a modern town. The architecture shows the authentic building techniques used from the 15th to the 19th century. The area also has two monastic complexes plus an industrial site called the Couros Zone, named after the local traditional leather tanning craft. In all, this property has seen 1,000 years of Portuguese societal and architectural development, representing building techniques from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. 

Overnight Location

Braga, Portugal

Lovely Braga is home to some of Portugal’s most exuberant festivals. Samana Santa is a solemn affair celebrated with processions, while the festival of Sao Joao, in June, is as lively as it can be. Braga has churches, Romanesque Se cloisters, beautiful gardens, and grand 18th century homes.  Go to the historic Café Brasileira, furnished in 19th century fashion, for a steaming cup of coffee and beans. The 16th century Palacio dos Biscainhos is adorned with blue and white azuelejos, colorful glazed tiles, and houses a lovely museum with Roman relics. 

Day 10

Daily Itinerary

Astonishing Braga – Porto

Our final destination is Porto. When there, we’ll have an orientation tour of some of the city’s most beloved landmarks, including the Clerigos Tower, Aliados Avenue, the Ribeira district, and the cathedral. Later this afternoon we’ll say farewell to each other, with fond memories of cinematic and historic Portugal.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trivia: How old is Porto?
Porto was a pre-Roman settlement, named Calle or Portus Calle. The town itself was founded in 417 AD. Over the years it was ruled by many, including the Suevi, the Goths, and the Moors. But the locals vanquished them all, and their ability to create new forms of income kept them strong. 

Please Note: As you'll be arriving late in the day to Porto, please let your Destination Expert know if you would like to extend this most memorable travel experience, and they will make it happen.

Included Sightseeing

Porto, Portugal

The Romans built a port here and called the city “Porto.” The city easily dispatched the Moors and made money selling provisions to Crusaders en route to the Holy Land. Explorers used this as a base in the 15th and 16th centuries. After losing the spice trade to the Dutch, the city thrived due to the ruby red drink they produced—Port. Today Porto is a perfect balance of creativity, business, and traditional trade. Located on the Douro River, the city is one of the oldest in Europe, and its center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Depart From

Depart from Porto Airport, Portugal

Return to Francisco Sá Carneiro Porto Airport at least 3 hours prior to your flight's scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check in for your flight home.