Country Roads of Portugal - Small Group
Country Roads of Portugal - Small Group
$4825
Country Roads of Portugal - Small Group
11 Days Starting and ending in Lisbon, Portugal
Visiting: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Fátima, Coimbra, Porto
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE928ZN20
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Tantalize your senses during this 11-day guided tour through Portugal. In Lisbon, a Local Expert will show you the historic downtown and the finest square in the city, Terreiro do Paco. From the hilltop perch of Monsaraz, see across the Spanish plains to Alqueva Lake — and meet a local boat captain, who will regale you with tales of water adventures during a cruise on its calm waters. In Tomar, see the Templar Castle, and explore its awe-inspiring rotunda with a Local Expert. Indulge in a farm-to-table dinner in the Douro Valley that will feature locally sourced ingredients, and taste a port produced onsite. Stroll Portugal’s second city, Porto, a World Heritage town, and relax in your five-star hotel in the city’s picturesque historic district.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Tomar: Commanding the city’s skyline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar Castle and the Convent of Christ is a testament to Portugal's storied past. Accompanied by a Local Expert, you’ll delve into the history of the Knights Templar, exploring the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the cloisters that echo with the memories of warrior monks. See the intricate Manueline Window, a masterpiece of Gothic artistry and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, as you uncover this extraordinary stronghold.
- Tomar: Immerse yourself in the history of Tomar as your Local Expert guides you through its architectural treasures. Discover the small town’s unique blend of cultural influences, reflected in its streets and landmarks. Visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval synagogues. Step inside this remarkable space to uncover the legacy and learn about its significance as a symbol of the Jewish communities in Portugal.
Top Rated Highlights
- 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.
- Lisbon: Visit the cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery with its beautiful Manueline architecture, reflecting Portugal's trade over the centuries and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lagos: Explore this coastal town nestled on Meia Praia, with your Travel Director.
- 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.
- Évora: With your Travel Director explore the ancient city of Évora and visit the fascinating Capela dos Ossos, meaning the Chapel of Bones, a chapel decorated with human remains.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coimbra: Guided by your Local expert, head through Old Town and pass by the Old Cathedral and the Almedina neighborhood.
- 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.
- Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
Make Travel Matter
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.
Authentic Dining
Lisbon: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers.
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.
Pinhao: Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table dinner, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients.
Lisbon: Shared experiences and memories are often the foundation for special bonds and friendships. Toast your travels with wine and good cheer during your dinner at a restaurant in Lisbon, devoted to the enjoyment of regional cooking.
Insight Choice
Tomar: Commanding the city’s skyline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar Castle and the Convent of Christ is a testament to Portugal's storied past. Accompanied by a Local Expert, you’ll delve into the history of the Knights Templar, exploring the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the cloisters that echo with the memories of warrior monks. See the intricate Manueline Window, a masterpiece of Gothic artistry and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, as you uncover this extraordinary stronghold.
Tomar: Immerse yourself in the history of Tomar as your Local Expert guides you through its architectural treasures. Discover the small town’s unique blend of cultural influences, reflected in its streets and landmarks. Visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval synagogues. Step inside this remarkable space to uncover the legacy and learn about its significance as a symbol of the Jewish communities in Portugal.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon., Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine.
Day 2: Lisbon And The Age Of The Great Discoveries
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon., Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your guided sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the spacious avenues of the Lower Town and across the 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 enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years, and visit the Cloister of Jeronimos Monastery. This evening, gain further insight into Portuguese culture with an Optional Experience dinner.
Day 3: The Algarve
Location: Lagos
Accommodation: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve., Real Marina Hotel &Spa.
Accommodation Name: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the River Tagus and head towards the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia. After some free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel, set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is at the heart of Algarve cuisine, with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. Just a short walk away, specialized Portuguese seafood restaurants line the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic.
Day 4: Everlasting Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 16th-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 center, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls.
Day 5: Monsaraz And Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Lunch
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 one of the largest artificial lakes. 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 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.
Day 6: On To Fátima And Tomar Relaxed Start
Location: Fátima
Accommodation: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar.
Accommodation Name: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
Meals Included: Dinner
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.
Day 7: Coimbra And The Douro Valley Relaxed Start
Location: Coimbra
Accommodation: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley.
Accommodation Name: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In Coimbra, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit its 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. Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table lunch, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients, with a port wine tasting.
Day 8: Guimarães And Porto
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores., NH Collection Porto Batalha.
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to Guimarães to admire the views from the ruined castle and explore the cobbled streets and cozy squares. Next, continue on to Porto, Portugal’s second city, a UNESCO World Heritage town and where Portugal originates. Join your Local Expert and visit the São Bento Railway Station, with a walk along the architecturally impressive Dom Luís I Bridge. In the evening you are at leisure to enjoy your boutique, five-star hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, in the heart of Porto’s historic district. The décor is a mix of classic and contemporary and each room is individually decorated with original artwork. Alternatively, why not join an Optional Experience to see the pastel-painted houses in Porto's Ribeira district before cruising on a traditional Rabelo boat and finishing off the evening with a Portuguese dinner in the comfort of your riverside restaurant?
Day 9: Porto, Grande Dame On The Douro Relaxed Start
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores., NH Collection Porto Batalha.
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores
Meals Included: Breakfast
With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, why not take a stroll to admire the multi-colored houses and churches covered in beautiful glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque.
Day 10: Ancient Óbidos And Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: TURIM Marquês, Lisbon
Meals Included: Dinner
Discover the charm of the fortified town of Óbidos. Step inside the medieval town's ancient walls to wander through cobblestone streets, then continue to Lisbon. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner, raising a glass to the unforgettable moments shared on your tour.
Day 11: Depart Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation Name: on
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Lisbon International Airport.
What's Included
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Personal radio headsets
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
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Hotel and restaurant tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Baggage handling
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfer services
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare are not included and must be arranged by travelers.
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Meals not specified
Any meals not specifically listed as included in the itinerary are the responsibility of the traveler.
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Optional excursions
Optional excursions and activities not listed in the itinerary are available at an additional cost.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended for all travelers.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service are not included.
Dining Summary
1 Dinner with Wine (DW)10 Breakfast (B)2 Lunch (L)2 Dinner (D)
Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
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.
Travel Director
"I love taking guests to Monsaraz because It's one of the many villages lost in time. It's not easy for guests to find on their own and they feel like they're visiting a secret paradise."
Well-being
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva with a local boat captain, a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas focusing on sustainable practices, and a visit to the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal.
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How does the tour support sustainable tourism?
The tour supports sustainable tourism through experiences like the wine tasting at Casa Relvas, where innovative techniques are used to reduce water consumption, and efforts are made towards reforestation and providing scholarships to local children, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12.
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What dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You can expect a variety of dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Lisbon, an Alentejo Highlight Lunch at a former olive mill in Monsaraz, a Farm-to-Table dinner in Pinhao, and a Celebration Dinner in Porto featuring regional cooking.
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What are some of the historical sites visited during the tour?
The tour visits several historical sites including the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar, the Roman Temple and Capela dos Ossos in Évora, and the University of Coimbra with its impressive baroque library.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides accommodation in luxurious hotels such as the Corinthia Hotel Lisbon, Ria Park Hotel & Spa in the Algarve, and Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores, offering a blend of classic and contemporary styles.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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