Portugal: Off the Beaten Path

Bom dia, Lisboa! Good morning, Lisbon! Once you get settled into your hotel, grab a map and get ready to take a walking tour of the city. Soak in the colorful scenery, architecture and rolling streets of Western Europe’s oldest city. End your tour at Torre de Belem, where you will learn about Portugal’s influence during the Age of Discovery.

In the evening, your guides will take you out to a traditional Portuguese dinner paired with Fado. Fado is classic Portuguese music often compared to the blues. During an intimate dinner, get acquainted with your guides and the rest of your group that you will be experiencing the magic of Portugal with.

Begin your first full day in Portugal with a traditional Portuguese breakfast: coffee with milk and pastel de nata (a delicious egg cream tart). After a tasty breakfast, hop on Tram 28, one of the city’s oldest trolley cars. Enjoy the street art as you rattle your way up cobblestone streets and navigate handle-gripping turns into the Alfama district.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the historical Alfama district of Lisbon, where you will find the Cathedral of Lisbon, countless chapels, charming plazas and remains of the old city wall. Hike up to the Miradouro das Portas do Sol to find breathtaking views of the Tagus River and a sea of red rooftops set atop brilliant white buildings.

In the evening, explore one of Lisbon’s top attractions: the Sao Jorge Castle. Wander through time as you check out this grandiose castle, which still displays the original cannons and much of the original architecture.

Today you will explore the fairy-tale like city of Sintra, about 40 minutes from Lisbon. Filled to the brim with UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sintra is a must see on your tour of Portugal.

Start the day touring Pena Palace. This palace appears almost Disney-like with its bright colors and architecture, and is situated on the mountain to look as if it is floating above the city. Next, your guides will take you to the Quinta de Regalia, where you will be able to see the wealth of the previous owner showcased in the elegant Manueline-style masonry and the surrounding grounds. Visit the Castle of the Moors, where you will see the walkways sprawl along the ridgways above Sinta, giving you incredible views of the city and the rocky Atlantic Coastline. You will spend the rest of your day visiting more UNESCO sites in Sintra such as the Palace of Sinta, Park and Palace of Monserrate and Palácio Nacional e Jardins de Queluz.

Today you will head to northern Portugal. Situated on the Ribera Duero, full of buildings ordained with Azulejos (blue and white ceramic tiles) and historic sites on every corner.

Spend your morning exploring Avenida dos Aliados, a historic district in the heart of Porto. Find cafes, banks and boutiques settled in impressive buildings. Stroll through the streets filled with local artists and vendors as you marvel at Porto’s Town Hall, General Humberto Delgado Square and Liberdade Square.

After a leisurely morning, tour more of Porto’s bucket-list sights. Begin your tour at the São Bento Railway Station, which houses an impressive 20,000 Azulejos portraying the history of Portugal. Next, head to Mercado do Bolhão, an open air market where you will find many tasty treats. Practice your Portuguese as you buy your lunch from the market and eat like a local.

Hit many more of Porto’s highlights on your afternoon tour like museums, palaces, cathedrals and gardens. Finish your long day with a trip to the beach to watch the sunset.

Spend your final day in Portugal along the beautiful Duero River. Begin your day with breakfast along the Cais da Ribeira, where you can take in the chaos and harmony that ensues life along the river. Walk across the Luis I Bridge, a 45-foot architectural symbol of the city that was conceived by the cofounder of the Eiffel company.

Head out onto the river for an afternoon boat cruise, where you will see picturesque views of the city, the surrounding terraced landscapes and the 6 bridges of Porto. As you enjoy these views and snap a few photos, sample some of Porto’s typical meats, cheeses and other small plates.

Enjoy a final group breakfast with your guides before heading to the airport to bid farewell to Portugal.