Compare Highlights of Portugal by Exodus Travels vs Adventure in Portugal by Sagres Vacations

Day 1 Start Porto

This trip starts in Porto at our hotel in the Ribeirinha district, close to the historic centre and on the banks of the scenic Douro River. Time permitting, we will familiarise ourselves with the hotel, and there will be a welcome briefing in the evening.

Day 2 Morning guided sightseeing in the Unesco-listed historic centre; port tasting; free time for optional activities and transfer to Douro Valley

Today starts with a guided tour through the historic centre of Porto, a Unesco World Heritage site. As we amble along the ancient streets and medieval lanes, we visit important monuments, including São Bento Station, a neoclassic jewel. In the buzzing, colourful squares and traditional, unique cafes, we discover the authentic heart of the city. We conclude our guided visit in Ribeirinha, the picturesque riverside area, where we enjoy a tour of the historic port wine cellars, ending with a short wine tasting. The afternoon is free for individual sightseeing. City highlights include Porto Cathedral; Saint Francis Church; Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world) and Clérigos Church and Tower. Later, we transfer by private bus to  the Douro Valley (approximately 90 minutes).

Day 3 Optional Douro River cruise; enjoy lunch and wine tasting at a winery with river and vineyard views; transfer to Coimbra

Today we explore the heart of the Douro Valley, the first officially designated wine region in the world, renowned for excellent port wine and pretty landscapes of steeply terraced riverside vineyards. In the morning, you have the option to enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Douro River. Later, we enjoy a delicious lunch with an included wine tasting in an 18th-century estate surrounded by terraced vineyards that climb high above the dramatic confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. In the afternoon, we transfer by private bus to Coimbra (approximately two hours) in the central region of Portugal.

Day 4 Visit Coimbra and its university; then to Batalha and its Unesco monastery.

Known as the City of Students, Coimbra has a history closely linked to the Unesco-listed University of Coimbra, which was founded in 1290 and is the second oldest in Europe. The city is divided into two distinct areas, the baixa (downtown) by the river, where most of the commercial activity is concentrated, and the alta (upper town), home to the oldest and most important buildings, including Sé Velha (Old Cathedral), Sé Nova (New Cathedral) and the university. We visit the most important areas and sites this morning during a guided tour. There will be free time in the afternoon for independent sightseeing before we transfer (approximately one hour) to the peaceful little town of Batalha, the setting of the most important battle in Portugal, the Batalha de Aljubarrota (1385). This battle secured Portuguese independence from Castile, and to honour it, King João I constructed the Mosteiro da Batalha, the finest monastery in Portugal. We visit this Portuguese gothic masterpiece that combines various influences from its lengthy construction, which lasted several reigns. We will have the opportunity to visit the outstanding interior, including the Founders’ Chapel with its fine stained-glass windows, cloisters, the Unfinished Chapels with their Manueline and Flemish gothic features and the Chapter House.

Day 5 Head to Nazaré beach; transfer to Óbidos

Our first stop today is the seaside town of Nazaré, home to some of the largest surfing waves in the world. There will be time for a stroll, lunch and free time to soak up the lovely atmosphere of this coastal village. Then we move to Óbidos, our base for the night. This small, fortified village resembles a medieval film set. It has been carefully preserved by the inhabitants, who take pride in maintaining the architectural image of the village, characterised by narrow winding streets, whitewashed houses and impressive fort walls, perfect to enjoy after day-trippers have left. We stay overnight in Óbidos.

Day 6 Transfer to Lisbon; guided tour of the Belém neighbourhood

Today we head to Lisbon, one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world (transfer 1 hour). This morning we take a guided tour of the Belém neighbourhood, home to the Unesco-listed Monastery of Jeronimos and the bakery serving the original pasteis de Belém (custard tarts). Historically, Belém was the location of Lisbon's shipyards and docks which helped to bring incredible wealth to the country through the trading routes established from the 16th century. The remainder of the afternoon is free for relaxation or further independent sightseeing.

Day 7 Guided sightseeing in Lisbon

Today we continue to explore the second-oldest capital in Europe (after Athens) on a guided tour. Lisbon was once home to the explorers Vasco da Gama, Magellan and Prince Henry the Navigator. Today, it is one of the most sought-after destinations, offering delicious food, ancient monuments, quirky cafes, charming neighbourhoods, and views over the Tejo river. Lisbon is known as the City of Seven Hills, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a few steep climbs and steps during today’s walking tour. We start with an optional ride on the famous Lisbon tram, which takes us to the elegant area of Graça. We then descend on foot through Alfama, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon, with its maze of colourful alleyways, old buildings and breath-taking viewpoints. We conclude our busy guided tour in Rossio, the heart of the city. The rest of the day is free for further independent sightseeing.

Day 8 The trip ends in the morning

Our Highlights of Portugal trip ends after breakfast. However, with so much to see and do in Lisbon, we recommend adding some extra days after the tour to truly appreciate the many attractions this city offers. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Day 1: Bem-Vindos A Portugal!

8:00 am - Central European Time

Car Rental Pick-up at Franciso Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)

Audi A4  or similar with Automatic Transmission

Check-in at 4* Hotel FeelViana

This property is a 4-minute walk from the beach. Situated in Viana do Castelo, 1.4 km from Shipyards of Viana do Castelo, Hotel FeelViana boasts a seasonal outdoor pool and water sports facilities. The hotel has a sun terrace and spa centre, and guests can enjoy a drink at the bar.

Day 2: Bike Tour

Meals: Breakfast

Half-Day Mountain/Road Bike Guided Tour

For cyclists seeking more adventure, a greater effort and want to gradually improve their own physical level. With some mountain tracks, through places with little traffic and stunning views.

Day 3: Hiking/Trail

Meals: Breakfast

Guided Hiking/Trail (2H)

Trail Running is no other than running or hiking in the great outdoors. For nature lovers, there is nothing better. than to discover our marked routes enjoy an excellent physical exercise and make the most out of the unique geographic features of Viana do Castelo.

Day 4: Sail & Stand Up Paddle

Meals: Breakfast

Sail Tour Experience in Viana do Castelo (1h30m)

Enjoy the freedom you can only feel on a sailboat ride, feel the emotion of this experience aboard a sailboat that will offer you comfort, security and adventure!

Stand Up Paddle River Tour (1h30min)

If you never tried it, the time has come! Enjoy an adventure that will build up your confidence and challenges your body to find a balance and muscular strength.

Also known as SUP, Stand Up Paddle is one of the best ways to practise sports, it is ideal for all ages, whether you have a good or not so good fitness level.

Standing on a board that is both wider and longer than a surf board, you will find your balance with the help of a paddle, and will work your muscles, while enjoying your surroundings and exploring waterways in the sea, lake or river.

Day 5: From Viana Do Castelo To Porto

Meals: Breakfast

Check-out at 4* Hotel FeelViana

Check in at Eurostars Porto Douro

Day 6: Peneda-Gerês National Park

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Hiking - Peneda-Gerês National Park FD Private Tour

The Peneda-Gerês National Park is the only national park in Portugal and a UNESCO Heritage for Biodiversity. This trail – Moderate Plus/Challenging – will take you through the heart of the natural park and some of its best landscapes.

This is a cultural and scenic path, with particular emphasis on the community traditions of mountain grazing. Sometimes you can see the Garranos, small wild horses that run freely in this hills, or barrosã bovine catle led till the mountains where to corrals are.

You will pass through several corrals and their huts or cottages, where the shepherds stay overnight to continue the task of leading the cattle on the following day. Before descending to the starting point, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Gerês – the belvedere of Pedra Bela.

Next, it`s time to get back the energies you spent! You`ll be driven to a rustic restaurant where a proper food experience is waiting for you. You will get delighted with some of the best “petiscos” of the traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Distance: 10 Km | Elevation Gain: 559 Meters / 1834 ft | Hiking Level: Moderate Plus/Challenging.

Day 7: Porto City

Meals: Breakfast

Porto City HD Private Tour

This morning enjoy your day in Porto with a tour of the city, visiting the major attractions including; Cathedral of Porto, São Bento Train Station, Lello’s Library, Historic Center (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Port Wine Cellar Visit with Wine tasting and a six bridge cruise in the Douro River aboard one of the traditional “Barco Rabelo”. The remainder of your day is at your leisure, stroll through the historic district, stop in for lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes on the banks of the Douro River, and enjoy some shopping in “Rua Santa Catarina”, the main shopping district in Porto.

Day 8: From Porto To Douro Valley

Meals: Breakfast

Check out at 4* Eurostars Porto Douro

Check-in at Luxury Wine Hotel Quinta do Vallado

As a whole, Quinta do Vallado offers 13 rooms, 5 in the Manor House and 8 in the New Wing. All rooms and suites are equipped with A/C, TV and Wi-Fi access.The estate has a stunning swimming pool and offers multiple activities such as walks, bicycle rides, boat trips, fishing sessions, picnics, cooking classes and wine tastings.

Day 9: Douro Valley

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Douro Valley Hiking, Sailing and Wine Full Day Private Tour

This morning your private driver will pick you up from your hotel in Peso da Régua and drive you to the meeting point, Valença do Douro. Here you will start your 2 hours guided walking tour.

After the walking tour you will sail from Távora to Pinhão. Lunch will be served aboard.

In Pinhão you will visit one of the Douro's most renowned estates, Quinta do Bomfim, where you will have a truly memorable wine tasting experience.

To end this amazing tour, you will sail from Pinhão to Folgosa where your private driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Peso da Régua.

Hiking Level: Easy | Walking Distance: 3.4 miles

Day 10: Bid "Adeus" To Portugal!

Meals: Breakfast

Check out at Luxury Wine Hotel Quinta do Vallado