Overview
Itinerary
On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine. (DW) Stay: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Your guided sightseeing tour with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across tree-shaded squares. Pass beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paço. See the ancient Belém Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore more of the Belém Quarter as you learn how to make the iconic patisserie Pastéis de Belém.
This evening, perhaps gain further insight into Portuguese culture over an optional meet-and-greet with a Fado singer followed by dinner and a Fado show. (B)
Cross the River Tagus and head for the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia.
After free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is in the soul of Algarve cuisine, along with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. A short walk away specialised Portuguese seafood restaurants hug the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic. (B) Stay: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve, Real Marina Hotel &Spa
Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 17th century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora's unique historical centre, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls. (B) Stay: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of Europe's largest artificial lake. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
Sit down to a delicious Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital. (B/LW)
This morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit Casa Relvas for a wine tasting. Despite the dry climate of the Alentejo region, they have been producing exceptional wine using innovative techniques to reduce the use of water. Journey to Fátima, Portugal's most renowned place of pilgrimage. See the basilica or perhaps visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917.
Continue to Tomar and visit one of Portugal's historical jewels, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your Local Expert, explore the octagonal Templars' Rotunda in the cloister and glimpse the day-to-day life of a warrior monk in the domestic areas. Outside on the battlements, the Manueline Window is a national masterpiece. You also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, housing a small Jewish museum. (B/DW) Stay: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
In Coimbra, your Local Expert shows you the highlights and insights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Visit Quinta da Pacheca where Maria Pimental, one of the first woman winemakers in the Douro, makes incredible wine. Gain insights into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, a premier wine region with a growing presence of female winemakers. (B/DW) Stay: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Journey to Guimarães to admire the views from the ruined castle and explore the cobbled streets and cosy squares. Continue to Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage town and where Portugal originates to explore with Insight Choice. Choose to join your Local Expert and visit the São Bento Railway Station. Alternatively, enjoy a panoramic drive through the city led by a Local Expert. As evening descends, you are at leisure to enjoy your boutique, five-star hotel in the heart of Porto's historic district. Sample the flavours of the region during a Caves Ferreira Visit and Port Tasting, gaining insight into winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira.
Afterwards, consider joining an Optional Experience to see the narrow façades of Porto's Ribeira district before cruising on a traditional Rabelo boat and dining at a riverside restaurant. (B) Stay: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, take a stroll to admire the Multi-coloured houses and churches covered in beautiful, glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque.
In the evening, enjoy a mouth-watering dinner with exquisite wine at an authentic Porto restaurant. (B/DW)
Journey to the fortified town of Óbidos and walk within its walls, exploring the narrow, medieval streets where houses are covered with flowers. Your travels continue to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. (B) Stay: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
After breakfast, your departure transfer arrives at Lisbon International Airport. (B)
On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine. (DW) Stay: Corinthia, Lisbon, Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
Your guided sightseeing tour with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across tree-shaded squares. Pass beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paço. See the ancient Belém Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore more of the Belém Quarter as you learn how to make the iconic patisserie Pastéis de Belém.
This evening, perhaps gain further insight into Portuguese culture over an optional meet-and-greet with a Fado singer followed by dinner and a Fado show. (B)
Cross the River Tagus and head for the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia.
After free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is in the soul of Algarve cuisine, along with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. A short walk away specialised Portuguese seafood restaurants hug the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic. (B) Stay: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve, Real Marina Hotel &Spa
Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 17th century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora's unique historical centre, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls. (B) Stay: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of Europe's largest artificial lake. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
Sit down to a delicious Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital. (B/LW)
This morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit Casa Relvas for a wine tasting. Despite the dry climate of the Alentejo region, they have been producing exceptional wine using innovative techniques to reduce the use of water. Journey to Fátima, Portugal's most renowned place of pilgrimage. See the basilica or perhaps visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917.
Continue to Tomar and visit one of Portugal's historical jewels, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your Local Expert, explore the octagonal Templars' Rotunda in the cloister and glimpse the day-to-day life of a warrior monk in the domestic areas. Outside on the battlements, the Manueline Window is a national masterpiece. You also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, housing a small Jewish museum. (B/DW) Stay: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
In Coimbra, your Local Expert shows you the highlights and insights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Visit Quinta da Pacheca where Maria Pimental, one of the first woman winemakers in the Douro, makes incredible wine. Gain insights into the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley, a premier wine region with a growing presence of female winemakers. (B/DW) Stay: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Journey to Guimarães to admire the views from the ruined castle and explore the cobbled streets and cosy squares. Continue to Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage town and where Portugal originates to explore with Insight Choice. Choose to join your Local Expert and visit the São Bento Railway Station. Alternatively, enjoy a panoramic drive through the city led by a Local Expert. As evening descends, you are at leisure to enjoy your boutique, five-star hotel in the heart of Porto's historic district. Sample the flavours of the region during a Caves Ferreira Visit and Port Tasting, gaining insight into winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira.
Afterwards, consider joining an Optional Experience to see the narrow façades of Porto's Ribeira district before cruising on a traditional Rabelo boat and dining at a riverside restaurant. (B) Stay: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, NH Collection Porto Batalha
With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, take a stroll to admire the Multi-coloured houses and churches covered in beautiful, glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque.
In the evening, enjoy a mouth-watering dinner with exquisite wine at an authentic Porto restaurant. (B/DW)
Journey to the fortified town of Óbidos and walk within its walls, exploring the narrow, medieval streets where houses are covered with flowers. Your travels continue to the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. (B) Stay: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon
After breakfast, your departure transfer arrives at Lisbon International Airport. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site guided by your Local Expert and see the famous Roman Temple. While sightseeing, witness the fascinating cathedral and be charmed by its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Coimbra: Guided by your Local expert, head through Old Town and pass by the Old Cathedral and the Almedina neighbourhood.
- Coimbra: With a Local Expert, visit the University and witness the triumphal arches, painted ceilings, golden flourishes and walls of ancient tomes.
- Guimaraes: Enjoy views from the Visigothic castle ruins and explore a maze of medieval streets in the Old Quarter.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
- Lisbon: Explore with your Local Expert, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.
- Monsaraz: Surrounded by cork oaks and vineyards, wander through the castle ruins to admire the incredible view over the Spanish plains that contrast with the blue of one of Europe's largest artificial lakes.
- Tomar: Dominating the town is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ. During your visit with a Local Expert, see the Manueline Window and follow the story of the mysterious Knights Templar.
- Tomar: Learn about the history of the town through its architectural influences as you take a tour guided by a Local Expert.
- Tomar: Guided by your Local Expert, visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal.
- Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions and see the basilica.
- Monsaraz: Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
- Douro Valley: Savour local flavours over a Farm-to-Table meal at Quinta da Pacheca. Learn about the esteemed winemaker Maria Pimental, who holds the distinct honour of being among the first woman winemakers in the Douro. Well-known for her work as a professor at Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Maria was influenced by her grandfather, who established wineries and served as president of the Port Wine Institute until 1976. When her grandfather passed in 2000, Maria returned to her home to help her family with the harvest. She then began working at Quinta da Pacheca as its winemaker, a position she holds proudly to this day.
- Porto: Delve into the history of Port wine and immerse yourself in the story of winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira at Ferreira Cellars. Embark on a guided tour starting at the House of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, where hundreds of vats and casks age the wine. Then, explore the Vintage Museum and garden before tasting White, Ruby and Tawny Port wine. You'll be captivated by the tale of “Ferreirinha,'' who helped the Douro region to develop, modernise and thrive.
- Lisbon: Portugal offers endless opportunities for the curious traveller. Delve into the culinary world over a Pastéis de Belém cooking class with a professional chef. In this hands-on class, learn how to make the famous and delicious Portuguese pastry and gain insights into the secret behind its crunchy puff pastry. Conclude your class by tasting your creation, paired with coffee, tea or juice.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
- Porto: Visit the São Bento Railway Station and walk on the Dom Luís I Bridge, spanning the Douro River and connecting the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Évora: During a wine tasting session, appreciate the delicate yet complex nuances of Alentejo wine, and learn how the Relvas family has been managing to keep low water consumption, reforestation of indigenous trees, and providing scholarships to children of the village. This experience advances United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and production. With a 30% reduction in water use and innovative water management systems in place, they have been integrating science technology to ensure genuine production processes in all their activities.
- Lisbon: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers.
- Porto: Shared experiences and memories are often the foundation for special bonds and friendships. Toast your travels with wine and good cheer during your Celebration Dinner at a restaurant in Porto, devoted to the enjoyment of regional cooking.
- Monsaraz: Enjoy a memorable Alentejo Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Indulge in dish-after-dish of the tastiest tapas in a vibrant setting.
- Dining Summary: 4 Dinners with Wine (DW), 10 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site guided by your Local Expert and see the famous Roman Temple. While sightseeing, witness the fascinating cathedral and be charmed by its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Coimbra: Guided by your Local expert, head through Old Town and pass by the Old Cathedral and the Almedina neighbourhood.
- Coimbra: With a Local Expert, visit the University and witness the triumphal arches, painted ceilings, golden flourishes and walls of ancient tomes.
- Guimaraes: Enjoy views from the Visigothic castle ruins and explore a maze of medieval streets in the Old Quarter.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
- Lisbon: Explore with your Local Expert, from the Lower Town, beneath the hilltop Bairro Alto to the Terreiro do Paco. Visit the Belém Quarter to see the modern Monument to the Discoveries and the medieval Belém Tower.
- Monsaraz: Surrounded by cork oaks and vineyards, wander through the castle ruins to admire the incredible view over the Spanish plains that contrast with the blue of one of Europe's largest artificial lakes.
- Tomar: Dominating the town is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Templar Castle and the Convent of Christ. During your visit with a Local Expert, see the Manueline Window and follow the story of the mysterious Knights Templar.
- Tomar: Learn about the history of the town through its architectural influences as you take a tour guided by a Local Expert.
- Tomar: Guided by your Local Expert, visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal.
- Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions and see the basilica.
- Monsaraz: Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
- Douro Valley: Savour local flavours over a Farm-to-Table meal at Quinta da Pacheca. Learn about the esteemed winemaker Maria Pimental, who holds the distinct honour of being among the first woman winemakers in the Douro. Well-known for her work as a professor at Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Maria was influenced by her grandfather, who established wineries and served as president of the Port Wine Institute until 1976. When her grandfather passed in 2000, Maria returned to her home to help her family with the harvest. She then began working at Quinta da Pacheca as its winemaker, a position she holds proudly to this day.
- Porto: Delve into the history of Port wine and immerse yourself in the story of winegrower Antónia Adelaide Ferreira at Ferreira Cellars. Embark on a guided tour starting at the House of Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, where hundreds of vats and casks age the wine. Then, explore the Vintage Museum and garden before tasting White, Ruby and Tawny Port wine. You'll be captivated by the tale of “Ferreirinha,'' who helped the Douro region to develop, modernise and thrive.
- Lisbon: Portugal offers endless opportunities for the curious traveller. Delve into the culinary world over a Pastéis de Belém cooking class with a professional chef. In this hands-on class, learn how to make the famous and delicious Portuguese pastry and gain insights into the secret behind its crunchy puff pastry. Conclude your class by tasting your creation, paired with coffee, tea or juice.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
- Porto: Visit the São Bento Railway Station and walk on the Dom Luís I Bridge, spanning the Douro River and connecting the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Évora: During a wine tasting session, appreciate the delicate yet complex nuances of Alentejo wine, and learn how the Relvas family has been managing to keep low water consumption, reforestation of indigenous trees, and providing scholarships to children of the village. This experience advances United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and production. With a 30% reduction in water use and innovative water management systems in place, they have been integrating science technology to ensure genuine production processes in all their activities.
- Lisbon: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travellers.
- Porto: Shared experiences and memories are often the foundation for special bonds and friendships. Toast your travels with wine and good cheer during your Celebration Dinner at a restaurant in Porto, devoted to the enjoyment of regional cooking.
- Monsaraz: Enjoy a memorable Alentejo Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Indulge in dish-after-dish of the tastiest tapas in a vibrant setting.
- Dining Summary: 4 Dinners with Wine (DW), 10 Breakfasts (B), 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Brochure
Insight Vacations Worldwide (2024-25)
Brochure
Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26)
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Insight Vacations. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Insight Vacations. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
