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Day 1
Arrival in Lisbon - Fatima
Begin your adventure with a pick-up at Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon, at 8:30 hrs (we recommend to arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the indicated) to start the journey. Driving through landscapes rich in windmills and fruit trees, we arrive at Obidos, the beautiful city surrounded by medieval walls. Admire the harmony of the architecture, the diversity of the handicrafts and indulge in the famous “ginginha” (bitter cherry liqueur). Afterwards, visit fascinating Alcobaca and admire the first and largest gothic church in Portugal, hosting the tombs of the doomed lovers Pedro and Ines de Castro. Then, stop in Nazare, a typical fishing village and seaside resort immersed in tradition and legend. We continue to Batalha to visit the Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitoria, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in Portugal. Here we find the tomb of Henry the Navigator, the mastermind behind Portugal’s era of maritime discoveries. Today´s adventure ends in mesmerising Fatima, where we have the opportunity to attend the candle-lit procession. Overnight in Fatima.
Hotel (Superior ): Santa Maria 4* (or similar) -
Day 2
Fatima - Porto
Enjoy a tasty breakfast at the hotel before heading towards Coimbra. Visit the University, one of the oldest in the world, with its magnificent baroque library and its unique atmosphere characterized by ancient traditions and customs such as the black student capes and the melancholic Fado music. Stop at Santa Clara Church, where you can find the tomb of Queen Santa Isabel, the protagonist of the “miracle of the roses”. In the city centre, there is a chance to admire Coimbra’s exclusive ceramics. In the afternoon, we continue to Aveiro, a city of charming canals, known as the “Venice of Portugal”, where you will have time to see the graceful “moliceiro” vessels and taste the local sweet delicacy “ovos moles”. Afterwards, drive to Oporto to check in and get ready for a new adventure. Overnight in Oporto area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Sheraton 4* (or similar) -
Day 3
Porto
Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel in Oporto, the second city of Portugal and a UNESCO classified World Heritage site. It is a charming living amphitheatre inviting us to make a morning visit to discover the riverside area, old houses, palaces, and churches that history has made eternal. Before starting a new adventure, indulge in a glass of the world famous Port wine. We continue to Minho, the northwest region of Portugal that offers natural green sceneries and sparkling Vinho Verde (green wine). Start in Guimaraes, the cradle of the Nation and birthplace of the first king of Portugal. Visit the Sacred Hill, crowned by the Castle, as well as the Palace of Dukes of Braganca with its original buildings dating back to the 15th century. Drive to Braga known as the “Portuguese Rome” for its concentration of religious architecture, including the oldest cathedral in the country and the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary, with its famous baroque stairway and gardens. Then, return to Oporto to rest and prepare yourself for more surprises. Overnight in Oporto area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Sheraton 4* (or similar) -
Day 4
Porto
Indulge in a delicious breakfast and spend the rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight in Oporto area hotel on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Sheraton 4* (or similar) -
Day 5
Porto - Urgeirica
Have breakfast at the hotel and prepare yourself for another memorable day in Portugal. Depart to Amarante, a pretty town known for its fascinating natural features and mouthwatering sweets. In addition, the charming city is very proud of its St Goncalo, a famous promoter of love and marriage, celebrated on the first Saturday of June. Stroll the charming streets of Amarante, relax by the river, and explore the bustling market where you can find a diversity of local products. Afterwards, drive to tranquil Vila Real. Luxuriate in the peaceful vibe while visiting Vila Real´s main attractions. Let the gardens of the Mateus estate amaze your eyes with their beautiful facades still depicted on the well-known Portuguese rosé wine bottles. Continue your adventure driving through the vineyards and the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro Valley. Stop in Lamego and sample some of the local delicacies, including the local ham and the famous “Bola de Lamego”, a mouthwatering loaf baked in the oven with smoked ham. Continue through the mountainous hinterland to the centre of the Dao vineyards, arriving in Viseu, a city connected to Portugal’s oldest hero, Viriato, a well-known Lusitanian chief. In the shadow of the Cathedral, narrow streets and doorways with coats of arms carved in granite make up the ancient town of Viseu. We tour the centre, see its busy commercial zone, and leave for Urgeirica to check-in and rest. Overnight in Urgeirica area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Hotel da Urgeirica 4* (or similar) -
Day 6
Urgeirica - Lisbon
Delight in a tasty breakfast at the hotel. Then, drive through the heart of Portugal to beautiful Bussaco. This city is a breath of fresh air for all nature lovers. With its luxuriant forest hosting a selection of rare trees and plants of exotic beauty as well as a charming and romantic hotel that used to be a royal hunting lodge, Bussaco promises to impress you. After getting in touch with nature, we continue our tour, going to breathtaking Tomar. The development of this lovely place is closely interlinked with the Order of the Templars, which received these lands in 1159 as a reward for the assistance given to Dom Afonso Henriques (the first King of Portugal) in the Christian reconquers of the country. It was Dom Gualdim Pais, the first Grand Master of the Order in Portugal who founded the castle and the remarkable Convent of Christ inside. Enlarged and altered over the centuries and classified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the complex displays the influences of various architectural styles and it is the centrepiece of the city. We continue our journey to Lisbon. Overnight in Lisbon area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Sana Malhoa 4* (or similar) -
Day 7
Lisbon
After a delectable breakfast, leave Lisbon, heading to mesmerising Sintra for a day of unforgettable beauty. Visit the charming Palace of Sintra, walk through this stunning town before going to the westernmost point of mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca to admire the breathtaking views. Afterwards, we drive along the coast passing one of the most famous surfing beaches, the incredible Hell’s Mouth, cosmopolitan Cascais, and the gardens of Estoril Casino. This superb day ends when you return to Lisbon to spend another relaxing night at your selected hotel. Overnight in Lisbon area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Sana Malhoa 4* (or similar) -
Day 8
Lisbon - Evora
Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your selected hotel. Then, we leave Lisbon, crossing the bridge over the river Tagus and driving through a beautiful and bucolic landscape of olive trees, cork oak trees and vineyards. We arrive in marvellous Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will conquer your heart. Go back in time while exploring Evora´s narrow streets and visiting the Roman Temple, the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, St. Francis Church with its “Chapel of Bones” and the University. We stop at the local market to see the richness of the products used in preparing the mouthwatering dishes of Portugal. Throughout the visit, we also get to admire the diversity and authenticity of local handicrafts with cork, ceramic and copper objects. Enjoy a delicious lunch and some free time to explore the city on your own. We suggest you indulge in gourmet standard wine, cheeses and olive oil. In the evening, go to your selected hotel and rest because a new memorable day will follow. Overnight in Evora area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Vila Galé Évora 4* (or similar) -
Day 9
Evora - Lagos
Enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel, preparing for a new surprise. Relax or explore the inspiring streets of Evora on your own, before driving towards Beja to admire the highest tower in a Portuguese medieval castle. We catch a glimpse of the impressive tower dominating the town and continue the journey. Crossing the low mountain range, we reach the outstanding region of Algarve. Admire the vast fields of orange trees and stop in gorgeous Silves. Known for its interesting history and for formerly hosting a famous cork industry, the captivating town is dominated by its red sandstone castle dating back to Moorish times. We continue driving, heading towards Lagos while catching sight of Portugal´s dazzling landscapes. Reach Lagons, check-in, and spend the rest of the day unwinding or exploring the interesting surroundings. Overnight in Lagos area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Marina Club 4* (or similar) -
Day 10
Lagos
Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel before continuing your adventure in Portugal. We drive to Ponta da Piedade to admire the magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs, whose shapes have been sculpted by the erosive action of both the sea and time. Continue to Sagres, a fishing port, for a visit to the fortress that was the mythical “navigation school” forever linked to the presence of Prince Henry the Navigator. Proceed along the cliffs to Cabo de Sao Vicente, the most south-western point in mainland Europe. The city of Lagos, a cosmopolitan town with a marina and fishing port is home to some of the most delicious Algarve dishes, such as the fish and shellfish cooked in a “cataplana” copper pan, as well as tasty sweets such as the famous marzipan, almond and fig cakes. Return to the hotel, where an afternoon at leisure invites you to take a dip in the sea. Overnight in Lagos area hotel on a bed-and breakfast basis.
Hotel (Superior ): Marina Club 4* (or similar) - Day 11 Lagos - Lisbon - Return Indulge in a tasty breakfast before bidding farewell to Algarve. The return trip to Lisbon takes you through the city of Setubal, a major port and industrial centre on the north bank of the Sado estuary. Then comes a scenic route over the Arrabida Mountain Range. Catch a glimpse of the Natural Park, admiring the amazing scenery, unique vegetation and the sweeping views of the Troia Peninsula. Crossing the Tagus River bridge, we arrive in Lisbon and drop you off at the indicated location. Breakfast included
Included
Operated with English Spanish French and Portuguese-speaking licensed guide on a shared basis.
10 nights’ hotel accommodation
10 Breakfasts
Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus during the activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Batalha Monastery Coimbra University Palacio da Bolsa in Oporto Sao Francisco Church in Oporto Gardens of Palacio Mateus Convent of Christ in Tomar Palace of Pena in Sintra Capel of Bones in Evora Sao Francisco Church in Evora Evora Cathedral Sao Vicente Fortress in Sagres
Exclusions
Arrival airport transfer/departure airport transfer
Items of a personal nature such as alcoholic drinks laundry drinks and meals not stated explicitly in the programme including drinks during meals
Tips and porterage
City tax not included payable on the spot
Entrance fees not mentioned in the included items
Any charges not mentioned in the included items
International flights
All types of travel or personal insurance.
TRAVELING IN PORTUGAL
Firmly oriented toward the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a country of light, contrasts, and a gentle way of life. With nearly 2,000 kilometers of coastline, it is best discovered by following the Atlantic roads, where marine landscapes, golden cliffs, and fishing villages unfold one after another. Traveling in Portugal means taking time—time to stop in Porto, a proud and authentic city shaped by the Douro River and the wine that bears its name; time to listen to fado echoing through the ancient stones of Coimbra; and time to wander through Lisbon, the city of seven hills, vibrant yet tinged with nostalgia.
In Belém, one savors warm pastéis de nata fresh from the oven, while Portuguese gastronomy also reveals itself in exceptional dining experiences such as Belcanto. Further south, the road leads to the Algarve, famous not only for its beaches but also for its historic towns such as Lagos, Tavira, Faro, and Vila Real de Santo António. Inland Portugal is equally captivating: the Alentejo and the Central regions charm visitors with their whitewashed villages, peaceful landscapes, and slow pace of life. Further north, the Douro Valley amazes with its terraced vineyards and uniquely charming hotels. And for those wishing to extend their escape, Madeira and the Azores offer a completely different, wild and spectacular face of Portugal.
Capital: Lisbon
Area: 92,212 km²
Official language: Portuguese
Currency: Euro (1 CAD ≈ €0.68 – May 2023)
International dialing code: +351
Time difference: +5 hours compared to Montreal
Electrical outlets: Type F – 230V
DID YOU KNOW…
Lisbon has not always been the capital of Portugal. Over the course of its history, the country has had five capitals: Guimarães, Coimbra, Lisbon, Rio de Janeiro, and Angra do Heroísmo, before Lisbon definitively resumed this role. The most surprising episode remains that of Rio de Janeiro, which became the capital of Portugal between 1808 and 1821, when the royal family fled Napoleon’s troops and took refuge there with the entire court.
LISBON
Lisbon enchants visitors with the softness of its light, the majesty of the Tagus River, and its proximity to the Atlantic. The city invites travelers to slow down and enjoy its viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramas over ochre rooftops and azulejo-covered façades. Each neighborhood has its own soul: Alfama with its history-filled alleys, Baixa with its classical elegance, Chiado with its cultural vibrancy, Belém with its iconic monuments, and Cais do Sodré with its contemporary atmosphere.
The city’s must-see landmarks tell the story of its glorious past: São Jorge Castle, the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the Monument to the Discoveries. A ride aboard the iconic Tram 28 connects several emblematic neighborhoods, while the Lisbon Oceanarium and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum complete the visit. For a seaside escape, Carcavelos Beach lies just a few kilometers away.
PORTO
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto is a city of character—both raw and elegant. Nestled at the mouth of the Douro River, it captivates visitors with its UNESCO-listed historic districts, narrow streets, and colorful houses overlooking the river. Porto exudes a unique atmosphere, balancing nostalgia and vitality.
The cathedral, the Church and Tower of the Clérigos, the famous port wine cellars, Bolhão Market, and the spectacular Livraria Lello are among the city’s highlights. Porto is also renowned for its contemporary architecture, notably the Casa da Música, a symbol of its cultural renewal.
BARCELOS
Located between Viana do Castelo and Braga, Barcelos is inseparable from its famous rooster, which has become one of Portugal’s most iconic symbols. The town is renowned for its craftsmanship and for its large Thursday market, a vibrant explosion of colors and traditions. Strolling through Barcelos means discovering an authentic, lively town deeply connected to its popular heritage.
DOURO VALLEY
The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most spectacular regions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers sweeping landscapes of terraced vineyards sculpted by the river. As travelers follow its winding roads and viewpoints, they discover small villages, traditional quintas, and breathtaking natural scenery, all the way to Miranda do Douro, where the river enters Portugal.
VILA REAL
Located inland, Vila Real is an elegant town surrounded by mountains. It preserves beautiful patrician residences adorned with coats of arms and wrought-iron balconies. Set at the confluence of two rivers, it is an excellent base for exploring the region, including the famous Casa de Mateus and the surrounding green landscapes.
COIMBRA
A former capital of the kingdom, Coimbra is the intellectual and cultural heart of Portugal. Its prestigious university—one of the oldest in Europe—overlooks the city and reflects centuries of academic tradition. Coimbra charms visitors with its timeless atmosphere, historic streets, fado serenades, and remarkable monuments. Nearby, the Roman city of Conimbriga offers an additional glimpse into the region’s ancient past.
ALGARVE
The Algarve is far more than a beach destination. Beyond its golden sands and limestone cliffs lies a region rich in traditions, nature, and authentic villages. Each town has its own personality—lively or tranquil, festive or sea-oriented. Sagres, Lagos, Albufeira, Tavira, and Faro each reveal a different facet of this sun-drenched region, ideal for both a first trip to Portugal and a longer stay.
MADEIRA
Nicknamed the “Garden of the Atlantic,” Madeira is an island of striking beauty. Steep mountains, lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and colorful villages create an exceptional natural setting. Discovered in the 15th century, the island has preserved its authenticity. Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Porto Moniz, and the Fanal Forest are among the must-see highlights of a journey to Madeira.
CUISINE
Portuguese gastronomy is generous, authentic, and deeply rooted in tradition. The country is famous for its codfish, prepared in countless ways, as well as for its slow-cooked dishes, seafood, and indulgent desserts. Each region has its own specialties, reflecting its history and terroir. From simple dishes to more refined recipes, Portuguese cuisine is a true invitation to share and enjoy.
BEVERAGES
Portugal is a land of iconic wines and spirits. Port wine, vinho verde, ginja, Madeira’s poncha, and medronho are all integral to local culture. Each beverage tells the story of a region, a craft, and a tradition passed down through generations.
SAFETY, HEALTH, AND ETIQUETTE
Portugal is a safe and welcoming country, appreciated for the warmth and kindness of its people. As everywhere, basic precautions are recommended, particularly regarding petty theft and driving. The healthcare system is reliable, and vaccinations recommended by Canadian authorities allow travelers to explore the country with peace of mind. Portuguese etiquette is based on simplicity, respect, and friendliness, and tipping is left to the traveler’s discretion.
Name: Best of Portugal
Brand: tripcentral tours
Quality: Tourist Class
Tour Type: Escorted
Start City: Lisbon
End City: Lisbon
Vacation Overview:
Adventure into a memorable tour around picturesque Portugal and spend eleven days discovering its most important cities and authentic villages, natural beauty, and rich history. Begin the journey in Lisbon, drive through spectacular landscapes, and visit Portugal´s magnificent towns and villages. Admire Obidos, surrounded by medieval walls, Alcobaca with the first and largest gothic church in Portugal, and the inspiring Sanctuary of Fatima. Explore stunning Oporto, Portugal´s second city, famous for its meaningful history and tasty wine. Let lively Lisbon impress your eyes and visit the magnificent cities and world-famous landmarks that surround it. Discover Evora with its ancient traditions and finish the tour with a relaxing day in Algarve, followed by an unforgettable drive back to Lisbon.
