13-Day Portugal Tour: Lisbon, Sintra, Évora & Porto
Navigating Portugal's rich history and diverse landscapes, from capital to vineyards and northern charm.
Duration: 13 days
Region: Algarve
From 6450 EUR per person
Overview
This 13-day private tour for two offers a comprehensive exploration of Portugal's diverse regions, from the historic streets of Lisbon to the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley. Pace yourselves as you transition between major cities like Porto and cultural gems such as Sintra and Évora. Each day is structured to provide a balance of guided exploration and personal time, ensuring a thorough yet comfortable experience of Portugal's landscapes, history, and culinary traditions. This itinerary is designed for those seeking an in-depth, curated journey across the country.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Lisbon Arrival & Riverside Exploration
Upon arriving in Lisbon, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. The rest of the day is for settling in and beginning to experience Lisbon's riverfront environment. No specific activities are scheduled, allowing for personal enjoyment and rest.
- Private transfer from Lisbon Airport to your hotel
- Check into your lodging in Portugal's capital
- Walk along Praça do Comércio, next to the Tagus River
- Dine at a local restaurant, pre-arranged for your convenience
Day 2 — Exploring Lisbon's Key Historic Areas
Today, explore Lisbon's diverse areas, from major avenues to narrow historic lanes. The focus is on understanding the city's important landmarks and its long history and culture.
- Walk through Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, with its narrow streets
- Experience city views from Miradouro das Portas do Sol
- Discover Rossio Square and the shopping district of Chiado
- Visit the National Tile Museum to see Portuguese ceramic art
Day 3 — Belém's Maritime History & Modern Lisbon
Visit Belém, a district known for Portugal's historical maritime voyages. The afternoon allows for exploring Lisbon's more contemporary aspects.
- Explore Belém, significant for Portugal's Age of Discoveries
- View the Jerónimos Monastery exterior, a UNESCO site
- Observe Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries by the Tagus River
- Try Pastéis de Belém at its original bakery
Day 4 — Sintra's Palaces & Atlantic Coastal Drive
Take a day trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its 19th-century architecture. This is followed by a drive along the Atlantic coast.
- Tour the Palácio da Pena, a colorful castle on a hilltop
- Walk through Sintra village, known for shops and pastries
- Visit Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe's westernmost point
- Drive the coastal road, passing through Cascais
Day 5 — Évora's Historical Sites & Alentejo Tastes
Travel to the Alentejo region to visit Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Roman and Moorish history. Experience local Alentejo foods and drinks.
- Walk Évora's historic center, including the Roman Temple
- Explore the Chapel of Bones, a unique historical site
- Discover Évora Cathedral, featuring Romanesque and Gothic design
- Participate in an Alentejo wine tasting at a local estate
Day 6 — Journey North to Coimbra, then Porto
Start your journey north, stopping in Coimbra, home to one of Europe's oldest universities. Continue on to Porto, where you will stay for the next few days.
- Visit the University of Coimbra, including the Joanina Library
- Have a traditional Portuguese lunch in Coimbra
- Experience a Fado de Coimbra musical performance
- Arrive and check into your accommodation in Porto
Day 7 — Porto's Ribeira District & Landmarks
Discover Porto, a city known for its historic Ribeira district, diverse architecture, and lively atmosphere.
- Explore the Ribeira district, a UNESCO site by the Douro River
- View the azulejo tiles at São Bento Railway Station
- Climb Clérigos Tower for expansive views of Porto
- Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge connecting Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia
Day 8 — Douro Valley Wine & River Experience
Travel into the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and as the origin of Port wine. Learn about winemaking and enjoy the area's natural beauty.
- Visit a traditional quinta to understand winemaking
- Participate in a Port wine tasting, sampling regional varieties
- Take a 1-hour private boat trip on the Douro River
- Observe views from scenic spots like São Leonardo de Galafura
Day 9 — Guimarães & Braga: Portugal's History
Today, visit two historically important Portuguese cities: Guimarães, considered the nation's birthplace, and Braga, known for its religious heritage.
- Explore Guimarães' historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza
- Discover Braga's religious history and its main cathedral
- Ascend to Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary in Braga, known for its Baroque staircase
Day 10 — Southward to the Algarve Coast
Embark on a drive south to the Algarve region, known for its beaches and coastlines. The transfer includes stops along the route.
- Journey south from Porto, observing the changing landscapes
- Stop for lunch in a charming countryside town
- Arrive and check into your accommodation in the Algarve
- Settle into the coastal environment, preparing for exploration
Day 11 — Algarve's Cliffs & Sea Caves
Explore the Algarve's natural coastal environment, recognized for its cliffs, beaches, and sea caves.
- Discover Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, with rock formations and waters
- Take a small group boat tour along the Algarve coast to Benagil Cave
- Relax on an Algarve beach, enjoying the sea air
- Have a fresh seafood lunch at a local coastal restaurant
Day 12 — Algarve's Towns & Local Practices
Explore more of the Algarve, visiting local towns and engaging with local culture beyond typical tourist areas.
- Walk through the traditional whitewashed village of Carvoeiro
- Visit Silves, an historic town with its castle and Moorish past
- Discover the Monchique Mountains, known for landscapes and springs
- Enjoy a final evening in the Algarve, reflecting on your trip
Day 13 — Departure from Faro Airport
Have breakfast before your private transfer to Faro International Airport for your flight, concluding your trip through Portugal.
- Enjoy breakfast at your Algarve accommodation
- Observe the final views of the Algarve region
- Private transfer to Faro International Airport
- Depart with memories of your Portuguese journey