A Taste of Portugal
Itinerary
- Itinerary:Porto - Douro Valley - Coimbra - Sintra/Mafra - Lisbon
- Duration:10 days / 9 nights (flexible)
- Price:From £ 725.- per person (excluding flights)
- Rental car:Optional from £300
Days 1-2 – Port, Porto… Portugal!
When you arrive at the airport, you will take either a taxi or the metro to your city hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the centre of Porto. You’ll sleep in a small-scale boutique hotel that’s only about a 10-minute walk from the old town. The dedicated staff of the hotel are passionate about Porto and are committed to ensuring that your stay is nothing short of exceptional. They are more than happy to provide insider tips and recommendations, helping you make the most of your time in the city. Whether it’s the must-see landmarks, hidden gems, or the best spots to indulge in local delicacies, their local knowledge will guide you on a remarkable journey through Porto.
The next day you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through the world of fine wine. The winery has been run by the same family for centuries and the wonderful smell of wood and yeast welcomes you when you enter. Guided by passionate experts, you will delve into the art of wine production, uncovering the secrets and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Learn about the meticulous process of crafting the perfect port, from the careful selection of grapes to the delicate aging in rows upon rows of oak barrels. Once you have learnt all about the production, you’ll step into the adjacent garden with a glass of port in hand and savor very sip as the flavors dance on your palat. Afterwards, walk up the hill to the lookout point to find a panoramic vista that showcases the splendor of Porto.
Days 3-4 – Down in Douro Valley
Today you’ll pick up your rental car. After signing the contract and receiving a full briefing, you can set off on the open road and drive from Porto to Douro Valley, a region renowned for its exceptional wines and mesmerizing vistas. The journey time is approx. 3 and a half hours. Buckle up and prepare for a scenic drive, as you venture into a world where wine and natural beauty converge. As you approach the Douro Valley, you’ll be greeted by a sight that seems straight out of a painting—a landscape adorned with verdant green terraces, cascading down the slopes along the meandering Douro River. Tonight, you’ll stay in a small winery nestled amidst a picturesque backdrop. With a swimming pool at your disposal, you can cool off and unwind. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and allow the beauty of the surroundings to envelop you.
Days 4-6 – Legends of Coimbra
Today you’ll drive from Douro Valley to Coimbra, the journey should take around 4 hours. As you arrive in Coimbra, you’ll be welcomed by music and a pleasant atmosphere. This was once the capital of Portugal, nowadays one of the oldest university cities in Europe. You will stay in a boutique bed & breakfast which is about a 30 minute walk to the centre, allowing you to spend the afternoon strolling through alleys past local shops and restaurants.
The next day it’s time to hit the road through Coimbra to visit the Santa Cruz Church, where the first two kings of Portugal are buried. You can choose to stroll through the park and have lunch on a riverside terrace, before visiting the Royal Cemetery and discovering its beautiful gardens. In the evening we recommend having dinner in Baixa, the lower town, tasting local dishes and enjoying a musical evening full of live fado. The songs are about lost loves so let yourself be carried away by the sounds of the twelve-string Coimbra guitar and the intense emotions of the singers.
Days 6-8 – Fairy tales in Sintra
Today you’ll drive from Coimbra to Sintra/Mafra, the journey should take around 2 hours. Arrive in the Portuguese countryside, where you’ll sleep in the traditional Portuguese town of Mafra which is located 25 minutes outside Sintra. Everywhere you look there are yellow fields of corn and whitewashed houses looming in the distance. You’ll sleep in a traditionally furnished Portuguese cottage, painted white with azure blue or sun yellow frames and a cobble-stoned terrace. As the evening unfolds, make yourself comfortable on the terrace and let your gaze wander over the mesmerizing vistas that stretch before you. If you would prefer to stay in the city centre please let us know and we can do this for you.
The following day you are free to do as you please and while the possibilities are endless, we highly recommend immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of the Palace of Sintra. This architectural masterpiece is a true marvel, boasting a fusion of colours, styles, and towers that create a truly enchanting atmosphere. Step inside the palace and be transported to a world straight out of a fairytale. The halls are adorned with exquisite chandeliers that cast a gentle glow, illuminating the richly decorated frescoes and the walls adorned with intricate porcelain tiles. After visiting the palace, take a scenic walk through the cornfields and sleepy villages or relax on one of the beaches only 15 minutes from your accommodation and take a refreshing dip in the sea.
Days 8-10 – Authentic Lisbon
Today you’ll drive from Sintra/Mafra to Lisbon, the journey should take around half an hour. When you get there, you’ll drop off your hire car and check into your hotel. You’ll stay in a central hotel near to the historic centre that is within walking distance from an array of sights. Winding streets, large squares and old trams adorn the streetscape of this district, but because the centre is quite compact, it is best to discover the sights on foot. Admire the exquisite details of centuries-old buildings, each telling a unique story of the city’s rich heritage. Experience the authenticity of Lisbon’s squares, where local bars create a vibrant ambiance that beckons you to sit back, relax, and savor a delightful drink.
Kickstart your day the following morning with a wholesome breakfast that will energize you for an adventure-packed exploration of the enchanting city of Lisbon, taking in the sights, sounds and tastes of Lisbon. Discover to hidden places where only locals go, walking together through narrow streets discovering lesser visited areas. In the afternoon you can decide what you are going to do. Dive into the seafarers’ past in Belém, on the banks of the Tagus, or head to the Alfama district, with its centuries-old buildings.
