Compare Portugal in Depth by Globus vs Portugal in 13 days - Cultural Treasures & Algarve Escape - Superior by Exoticca

Day 1: ARRIVE IN LISBON, PORTUGAL

Welcome to Lisbon! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (Dinner)

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Day 2: LISBON

Lovely Lisbon LISBON Guided sightseeing includes Jeronimos Monastery and cloister and a photo stop at Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS The stunning capital city of Portugal is a treasure trove of historic and architectural masterpieces. Lisbon is home to the 16th-century Monastery of Jerónimos, with its 100-foot façade featuring images of St. Michael the Archangel and Our Lady of Belém. See the 16th-century Belém Tower, which served as a fortress but also as an embarkation point for sailors and was their last sight of land before the start of their journey. Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries pays homage to great Portuguese explorers with a spectacular carved prow of an ancient ship.

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Day 3: LISBON–OBIDOS–NAZARÉ–ALCOBAÇA–FÁTIMA–TOMAR

Sea, Surf & Sanctuaries OBIDOS Take an orientation walk of the medieval town.
NAZARÉ Free time to browse.
ALCOBAÇA Visit the Church of Santa Maria Monastery.
FÁTIMA Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary en route to Tomar. (Breakfast,Dinner)
130 mi / 220 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES The monastery of Alcobaça is a unique masterpiece of Gothic Cistercian art. See the tombs of King Pedro I and his Castillan lover, Ines de Castro, and hear about the heartbreaking tale of these ill- fated lovers. The king never stopped loving Ines even after she was murdered, and during his life he commissioned matching tombs that sit together so that they can look at each other as they rise from their graves.

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Day 4: TOMAR–COIMBRA–PORTO

Academic Honors TOMAR Visit the Convent of Christ.
COIMBRA Visit the University. Scenic drive en route to Porto. (Breakfast)
155 mi / 250km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION The University of Coimbra is distinguished as the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest in the world, it is also one of the best known and internationally celebrated. With a history of more than seven centuries, the students at Coimbra University dress in the traditional black capes with ribbons in varying hues as was the tradition when the school was founded in 1290.

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Day 5: PORTO

Panoramas & Port Wine PORTO Guided sightseeing includes a panoramic drive to the mouth of the Douro River and the cathedral. Visit the Church of São Francisco and the Arabian Hall in the Stock Exchange. Enjoy a [LF] Port wine tasting at the famous Sandeman & Co Port Wine Cellar. Free time this afternoon. (Breakfast)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES You’re invited to the home of the most internationally recognized Porto wines at the magnificent Sandeman Wine Cellars. Here, taste centuries of tradition in a glass of Port wine in the city that bears its name. Saúde!

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Day 6: PORTO–GUIMARAES–PENAFIEL–VISEU

Tapas & Tastings GUIMARAES Orientation walk through the medieval district.
PENAFIEL [LF] Visit the gardens of the Quinta da Aveleda winery and enjoy Portuguese tapas tasting. Take a scenic drive through the port wine vineyards en route to Viseu.
VISEU Dinner with local specialties and wine at Forno da Mimi restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)
149 mi/ 240 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORY & HERITAGE The history of the Quinta da Aveleda estate spans the centuries and generations who have preserved the Portuguese traditions of wine making and proud legacy of the Guedes family. The architectural heritage of this cherished estate is only matched by its wines, produced, and nurtured as the largest Vinho Verde exporter and family-owned winery.

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Day 7: VISEU–BELMONTE–CASTELO DE VIDE–EVORA

Bottles & Corks BELMONTE Visit the Jewish Museum. Enjoy an [LF] olive oil tasting.
CASTELO DE VIDE Walk through the Jewish quarter with free time to browse.
EVORA [LF] Visit a traditional cork factory. (Breakfast,Dinner)
236 mi / 380 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Discover the tradition and taste of authentic Portuguese olive oil in a 20th-century olive-oil-factory-turned-museum in Belmonte. See the machinery which farmers used to transform olives into oil and taste the delicious fruits of their labors. Perhaps take home a gift of wine, olive oil, or jam to commemorate your visit. Later, visit a Cork Factory in Evora to learn about this traditional artisanship of Portugal.

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Day 8: EVORA–ALGARVE

Gothic Grandeur EVORA Guided walking tour includes the Gothic cathedral, the Sao Francisco Church, and the Ossuary Chapel. Free time for lunch.
ALGARVE Free time late afternoon and evening (Breakfast)
162 mi / 260 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Walk back in time to the Roman era of Evora – a city with roots firmly planted in the 16th century in the home of Portuguese kings. See the white houses, architectural tiles, and embellished balconies with a stroll through the Gothic sites of the cathedral, church, and chapel.

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Day 9: ALGARVE. COASTAL EXCURSION

Cliffs & Coastlines ALGARVE Join an excursion to the Promontory of Sagres, Cape St. Vincent, and Lagos. (Breakfast)
81 mi / 130 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Take in the breathtaking views of the sweeping southern coastline of Portugal in Algarve. Stand on the Promontory of Sagres and Cape St. Vincent to gaze at the glorious beaches, postcard-perfect fishing ports, and towering cliffs along the sea.

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Day 10: ALGARVE–AZEITÃO–LISBON

Peninsula Miles & Painted Tiles ALGARVE Depart with a scenic drive along the Serra da Arrábida with views of the Tróia Peninsula.
AZEITÃO Visit a traditional tile workshop.
LISBON Enjoy a farewell dinner at your hotel. (Breakfast,Dinner)
180 mi / 290 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARTISTRY Enter a world of authentically handmade Portuguese tiles at the São Simão Arte workshop and gallery in Azeitão. It is here that distinguished antique collector Antonio Soares Franco creates his ceramic masterpieces by hand in the style of his ancestors.

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Day 11: LISBON

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

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Day 1: US - Night on board

Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of Portugal? Arrive at your departure airport, ready to catch a flight to Lisbon.* Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Lisbon

Touch down in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, known for its dramatic coastline and pastel-colored buildings. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure. Why not explore the oldest parts of the city to admire the ornate architecture or simply enjoy the views of the River Tagus from one of the many riverside cafes and bars. Overnight stay in Lisbon.

Day 3: Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a tour of Lisbon for an eye-opening overview of this incredible city. Begin with a fascinating walking tour of Alfama, one of the oldest areas in the city, perched upon the hillside with spectacular views across the sprawling cityscape. End your morning tour at the church of the Monastery of Jeronimos, home to the tomb of Vasco da Gama and the famous poet Camões. Stop for a moment to contemplate the incredible Belem Tower before heading to the Pasteis de Belem for a mouth-watering pastry tasting session. Be sure to try a delicious Portuguese Tart, perhaps the most famous pastry in the country. In the afternoon, explore the city center on a walking tour around the Praça do Comércio Square and Rossio Square before enjoying some free time to discover the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Lisbon. *Optional Dinner & Fado Show: Head to the historic neighbourhood of Alfama to indulge in an evening of traditional Portuguese cuisine accompanied by the melancholic sounds of Fado music. Soak up the warm atmosphere and listen to the soft melodies of the Portuguese guitar as you experience the authentic musical heritage of Lisbon for yourself! Why not upgrade your trip with our Portugal Highlights package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

Day 4: Lisbon - Sintra - Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off on an excursion to Sintra, an unforgettable town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with 19th-century Romanticist architecture, fairytale castles and exquisite gardens. Here you'll visit the Quinta da Regaleira Gardens and Palace considered the most enigmatic of all the estates in Sintra. The palace is a fusion of ornate and colorful architectural styles but the main attraction is the extensive gardens, filled with symbolism and intriguing constructions. After the tour, enjoy free time in Sintra to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon head to Cape Roca, the most westerly point of the European continent. Here you can soak up the views of the Atlantic Ocean and explore the village of Cascais, once the chosen beach destination of the aristocracy. Return to Lisbon and enjoy the remainder of the day exploring the delights of this cosmopolitan city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Lisbon.

Day 5: Lisbon - Obidos - Nazare - Fatima

Breakfast at the hotel. Head to Obidos today, one of the best-known villages in Portugal thanks to its magical cobblestone streets and charming architecture, enclosed within medieval city walls. Next, visit Nazare, a surfers paradise, home to some of the largest waves in the world and the most popular beach destination on the Silver Coast. Finish the day in the historic and fascinating city of Fatima, one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Catholics. Sacred sights here include the Capelinha das Aparições, where the Virgin Mary is believed to have appeared to local children in 1917, the Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Rosário, with its golden angels, and the modern church of Igreja da Santíssima Trindade. Spend the evening at your leisure, discovering the sights and sounds of this beautiful city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Fatima.

Day 6: Fatima - Coimbra - Porto

Breakfast at the hotel. Bid farewell to Fatima today as you set for Tomar to visit the famous Convent of Christ complex, once a stronghold of the Templars in the 12th-century. Uncover the history of the Templars in Portugal, including the beautiful medieval chapel and the ornate cloister, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Explore this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site before continuing to the city of Coimbra, once the capital of Portugal and today a student city, home to the oldest university in the country. As the day draws to a close, travel to Porto, in northern Portugal on the banks of the Douro River. With its stunning Old Town, Porto is one of the highlights of any trip to Portugal. Spend the evening at your leisure, exploring the city's atmospheric streets. Overnight stay in Porto. *Optional Fado and folklore Show with Traditional Dinner: A fantastic gastronomic show that will highlight the remarkable traditions of the Douro and northern Portuguese culture. This lively evening will combine Folklore songs, traditional dances and an all-inclusive dinner paired with some of the best wines in Portugal. Sing and dance the night away, a true authentic experience to remember.

Day 7: Porto

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the day with a panoramic tour of Porto to see the main attractions of the city such as the exterior of Clérigos Tower, Aliados Avenue, the impressive Sao Bento train station and the iconic bridge of Luis I. In the afternoon, soak up the delights of Porto at your own pace, admiring the famous tiled facades or sampling the authentic local port in a cosy cafe. Alternatively, we recommend an unforgettable boat tour on the River Douro.* Overnight stay in Porto. *Optional River Douro Boat Tour: In the afternoon, set off on an unforgettable boat tour on the Douro River to enjoy spectacular views of the city. After cruising on the river, visit a local port wine cellar and enjoy a tasting session of this typical Portuguese drink. Please note: Entrance to the Bolsa Palace (10 euros per person) and Church of Saint Francis (8 euros per person) is optional and is not included. Why not upgrade your trip with our Portugal Highlights package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

Day 8: Porto - Aveiro - Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave Porto this morning, headed for the charming coastal city of Aveiro where you can enjoy some free time to explore its picturesque canals and colorful architecture. In the afternoon, return to the capital of Lisbon and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to soak up the ambience of this lively city or do some last-minute shopping. Overnight stay in Lisbon.

Day 9: Lisbon - Lagos (Algarve)

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, leave Lisbon and head towards the Atlantic coast as you take the train from Lisbon to Algarve. Arrive in Lagos, a major city in Portugal's popular Algarve region. It was once an important centre for trade and played a pivotal role in the discovery of the New World. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the fortified old town or strolling along the sandy coves of nearby Praia do Camilo. Overnight stay in Lagos.

Day 10: Lagos (Algarve)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, get to know the rugged landscape of the Algarve coast on a boat tour to the Ponta da Piedade Caves! Step aboard and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the coast of Lagos and Ponta da Piedade to discover the unique rock formations and hidden grottos up close. Learn all about the formation of these incredible caves and take the opportunity to snap photographs of the weird and wonderful rock formations that dot the coastline of the Algarve. Return to Lagos and, back on dry land, enjoy the remainder of the day to relax or explore at your leisure. Head to the beach, indulge in authentic Portuguese cuisine or go sightseeing at your own pace. Overnight stay in Lagos.

Day 11: Lagos (Algarve)

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day at your leisure, sunning yourself on one of Lagos' many praias or exploring the historic streets of this historic city. We recommend an optional Cave Tour excursion or an exciting Dolphin Seafari excursion.* Overnight stay in Lagos. * Optional Cave Tour Excursion: Set off on a 2-hour boat excursion to discover the most stunning sea caves and rock formations along the coast of the Algarve, including the remarkable Benagil Caves. * Optional Dolphin Seafari Excursion: Enjoy a 2-hour sea-fari excursion to spot dolphins off the coast of the Algarve. The mild climate and clear waters of the Atlantic are the perfect habitats for playful pods of dolphins. Keep a keen eye out as you enjoy an unforgettable boat ride.

Day 12: Lagos (Algarve)

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy another day at your leisure in charming Lagos. Sample the delicious local cuisine, known for its seafood and explore the sandy coves and rugged coastline of the Algarve. Overnight stay in Lagos.

Day 13: Lagos (Algarve) - Lisbon

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, catch the train back to Lisbon. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to soak up the ambience of this lively city or do some last-minute shopping. Overnight stay in Lisbon.

Day 14: Lisbon - US

Breakfast at the hotel.* At the indicated time transfer to Lisbon airport for your return flight back to the US.* Arrive in the US and end your trip. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.