Your Itinerary
Welcome to Portugal! This vivacious southwestern European country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Spain on the other, and offers an exquisite coastline, unique cities, a wealth of history, and incredible architecture. We begin our small group tour in Porto, a fascinating city that lies along the banks of the Douro River.
Located on the northern coast of Portugal, Porto is its second largest city and well known for its port wine production. From wandering its winding streets to savouring local delicacies in waterfront cafes, we’ll experience an irresistible blend of tradition, culture and modern flair in this truly unforgettable Portuguese adventure.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.30pm.
At 6.30pm, join your fellow travellers and tour leader in the lobby for introductions and a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Our half day guided city tour of Porto begins after breakfast this morning. We’ll admire the façade of the Carmo Church and Clérigos Tower, learning about their distinct architecture and the part they have played in the intriguing history of the city. We’ll also visit the Stock Exchange Palace and marvel at the beautiful neoclassical style building from both inside and out, as well as crossing the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
Next, we’ll take a short cruise along the Douro River and pass under each of Porto’s six bridges. We then pay a visit to a local wine cellar to learn how authentic port is made and enjoy a tasting.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to get acquainted with the city further on your own. A short distance from the town centre of Porto is the exhilarating ‘WOW – The Cultural District’. The panoramic views of the River Douro this district has to offer (along with the wine) is truly stunning. Consider exploring one of its seven museums, numerous shops and twelve restaurants and bars at your own pace.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Special Experience
Explore the stunning vineyards and immaculately manicured gardens of the Vinho Verde Region during a wine tasting and guided tour.
It’s time to awaken our inner wine connoisseur as we make our way to the lush Vinho Verde Region. Get your cameras (and your palette!) ready as we meander past rolling hills and picturesque vineyards to sample the crisp, refreshing wines this beautiful region has to offer.
We then make our way to the charming city of Amarante, where we’ll see the stunning Saint Goncalo’s Monastery. This grand structure, begun in 1543 AD and completed over a century later, towers over the peaceful, flowing waters of the Tâmega, exuding a sense of timeless beauty. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or history enthusiast, there’s plenty to marvel at here, from the intricate stone carvings to the serene riverside setting. Take a moment to savour a delicious lunch at a local café, before we head back to Porto, relaxed and ready for an afternoon of leisurely exploration at your own pace.
Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 4 - Porto – Guimarães - Braga
Rise and shine! It’s time to make our way to the opulent city of Guimarães, often revered as the cradle of Portugal. We’ll wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and admire its marvellous medieval architecture. Our walking tour today will lead us to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a grand residence steeped in regal splendour. With its imposing towers and intricate tapestries, this palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal’s royal past. After we’ve finished at the Palace, wander over to the nearby cafés and settle in for lunch, soaking up the atmosphere of the lively squares around you.
Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities, is our next destination today. Step back in time as we marvel at the striking baroque monuments and the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, perched high above the city on a short panoramic city tour.
End your day at leisure people-watching in the bustling Praça da República, basking in Braga’s charm before excitedly planning your return visit perhaps? Weave through the narrow streets lined with lively cafés and boutique shops, where locals greet you with warm smiles. Hungry? Why not taste some local delights like the famous papas de sarrabulho or mouthwatering bacalhau dishes.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Day 5 - Braga – Ovar - Aveiro – Coimbra
Buckle up for an exhilarating day as we make our way to our first stop this morning – Ovar! Together with our local tourism expert, we’ll discover striking azulejo-clad façades and delve into the history of tile-painting.
Referred to as the Portuguese Venice, next we make our way to Aveiro. Situated on the shores of the Ria de Aveiro, this Portuguese city is known for its many meandering canals. We'll hop aboard iconic moliceiro boats for a laid-back glide on the serene waters, admiring the vibrant Art Nouveau buildings along the banks. After, indulge in local flavours during your free time at lunch. We’ll then embark on a guided walking tour to marvel at Aveiro’s cultural gems.
Nestled against a steep hill to meet the river Mondego is the charming city of Coimbra, which is our final stop this evening. Best known for its prestigious university—one of Europe’s oldest—this vibrant locale brims with centuries of history.
Tonight, we’ll settle into Coimbra’s inviting surrounds with a group dinner, savouring regional delicacies while a Fado performance fills the air with soulful melodies.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 6 - Coimbra – Shale Villages - Coimbra
Today’s adventure promises a feast for the eyes, imagination and the heart—prepare to fall in love with Coimbra’s spellbinding allure. We’ll start the day with a guided tour that reveals the secrets of this historical university town, exploring the majestic University grounds then admiring the mesmerising architecture of its centuries-old cathedral.
Special Experience
Discover the Shale Villages, visiting local shops and connecting with the locals before enjoying a traditional lunch.
Once we have become acquainted with Coimbra, we’ll make our way to the Shale Villages. Equally as charming as they are compelling, the Shale Villages are made up of houses and buildings constructed from shale, a fine sedimentary rock made mostly from clay that splits into very thin layers and makes for some spectacular architecture. We stop for lunch in a local restaurant in the Shale village of Candal, where rugged hues and cobblestone lanes create a dreamy atmosphere. We journey on to Lousã, arguably the crown jewel of the Shale villages, brimming with medieval charm, leafy trails and a warm welcome around every corner.
We return to Coimbra for an evening at leisure where you can choose to sip local wine, stroll the cities lanes or perhaps indulge in sweet pastries.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 7 - Coimbra – Nazaré - Óbidos - Lisbon
Get ready to explore Nazaré, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its towering waves that attract fearless surfers from around the globe. On a short orientation tour this morning, we’ll stroll along the waterfront, soaking up local lore and panoramic ocean views, before we settle in for a mouthwatering Portuguese feast that will delight your taste buds.
In the afternoon we’ll continue to the town of Óbidos, where we have the opportunity to taste the local cherry liquor, Ginjinha, an iconic Portuguese liquor made by infusing sour cherries in the traditional local brandy called ‘Aguardente’. It’s a spirited delight you won’t want to miss!
We’ll arrive in Lisbon this evening, a city buzzing with life and character. After we check in, the evening is all yours to discover its vibrant streets. Marvel at the grand Gothic cathedrals alongside striking modern architecture or simply admire terracotta rooftops lining the winding lanes. Soak up the heady mix of tradition and trendiness and sip a refreshing sangria while overlooking the Tagus River. Once you feel Lisbon’s pulse, you’ll know exactly why it’s such an unforgettable must-visit!
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 8 - Lisbon – Sintra – Cascais - Lisbon
After breakfast this morning we make our way to Sintra, a town just outside of Lisbon and home to the incredible National Palace of Sintra. Exploring the Palace, we’ll see the distinct mix of medieval, Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance architecture which has remained relatively untouched since the mid-16th century. The National Palace of Sintra was used by the Portuguese Royal family until the end of the monarchy in 1910 and offers visitors a glimpse back through time.
Cascais is the perfect midday stop on our journey back to Lisbon, offering a delightful blend of seaside charm and scenic squares lined with palm trees. After a short orientation tour, you’ll have free time for lunch and to meander through the quaint lanes of this easy-going coastal town.
When we arrive back in Lisbon, the remainder of the day is yours to wander the romantic streets, visit museums or simply enjoy a relaxed waterfront stroll.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast, we set out on a panoramic tour through Lisbon’s charming historical centre, soaking up centuries of stories enroute. Admire the grandiose Monument of Discoveries before we head to the awe-inspiring Jerónimos Monastery. Prepare to be wowed by ornate stone carvings of mythical sea creatures and swirling vines. Built in honour of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, Jerónimos Monastery is a glorious testament to the city’s rich maritime heritage and Manueline architecture.
Next, we’ll venture downtown for a lively walking tour, culminating at Rossio Square, the heart of this vibrant city. This will be an ideal spot to indulge in a leisurely lunch at your own pace. Whether you spend the rest of your day scouting out Portuguese souvenirs, people-watching by the grand fountains or sipping an espresso at a nearby café, Rossio Square has something to offer for everyone!
Special Experience
Get ready for an iconic double treat — a private tram ride through the winding streets of Lisbon while sampling the famous Portuguese Tarts.
Today we’re checking two quintessential Portuguese experiences off our bucket lists! We’ll hop aboard Lisbon’s iconic yellow tram, winding our way through both popular tourist quarters and tucked-away local districts. Retaining much of their 1930s character — think wood-panelled interiors and gleaming brass details —these historic trams are brimming with old-world charm. As we glide through the city’s interlacing neighbourhoods, we’ll savour the renowned Pastel de nata, Portugal’s beloved custard tart. What a perfect way to wrap up our day!
This evening we’ll join our new friends for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant where we reminisce on our favourite memories and experiences of Portugal together.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
After breakfast today we have the day at leisure to relax and rejuvenate.
Can’t get enough of Lisbon? The day is all yours to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you’re discovering hidden gems or simply sitting back and relaxing, it’s a perfect way to end our journey through Portugal!
Day 12 - Lisbon - Horta, Faial Island
After breakfast and the morning at leisure, we will be transferred to Lisbon Airport for our flight to Horta, Faial Island. With its dramatic volcanic scenery and sweeping Atlantic views, it’s the perfect place to begin our unforgettable journey through the Azores.
Sejam bem-vindos… or, welcome to the Azores! Set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, the Azores are a breathtaking chain of nine islands known for their volcanic landscapes, emerald crater lakes, dramatic coastlines and charming seaside villages. Rich in natural beauty and adventure, the islands offer everything from geothermal hot springs to local vineyards and warm Azorean hospitality.
Situated along a beautiful natural harbour on Faial Island, the lovely town of Horta is known as one of the Atlantic’s most famous yachting stopovers. With colourful marina murals, lively cafes and sweeping ocean views, Horta blends maritime history with laid-back island charm and is the perfect gateway to exploring the Azores.
At 6.45pm, join your fellow travellers and tour leader in the lobby for introductions and a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Day 13 - Faial Island Day Trip
Located in the central group of the Azores, Faial is a striking island, with sharp contrasts between moody, volcanic landscapes and lush greenery, all with sweeping Atlantic views as the backdrop.
One of its most dramatic landmarks is the Capelinhos Volcano, where a 1957-58 eruption dramatically extended the island and created a stark, moonlike landscape of ash and lava. We’ll have the opportunity to explore this unique site through the underground Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre. We’ll have an immersive look into the powerful geological story of the Azores, before walking among the ash fields and admiring the stark silhouette of the lighthouse, which is now partially buried.
Next, we continue up the mountain to visit the Caldeira. Stopping in Capelo Forest Park, we’ll indulge in a delicious, picnic lunch, completely surrounded by nature.
After admiring the lush landscapes, we’ll make our way back to Horta, Stopping at Peter Café Sport, beloved by sailors and decorated with yacht flags from every corner of the globe. Here, we’ll enjoy a gin tasting of their renowned house gin, a tradition that has become part of Faial’s cultural identity. While here, you may like to visit the Scrimshaw Museum to see the rare collection of the Azorean tradition of engraving whale teeth and bones.
Tonight is free to further explore Horta at your leisure.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Day 14 - Horta – Madalena, Pico Island
After breakfast it’s time to say farewell to Faial Island as we take a ferry trip to Pico Island, just across the water. One of the most dramatic and beautiful islands in the Azores, Pico Island is home to Portugal’s tallest mountain, Mount Pico, framed by a rugged volcanic landscape and black lava fields.
Upon arrival on Pico Island, we’ll start our day with a scenic drive through the heart of the island, crossing the island at the foot of the towering Mount Pico. Our first stop is for a photo opportunity at Lagoa do Capitão, famous for the reflections of Mount Pico in its beautiful waters on a calm day… keep your fingers crossed!
We’ll continue towards the historic whaling town of Lajes do Pico, where we’ll have the chance to explore the Whalers Museum, housed in the boathouses that once sheltered the traditional whaling boats.
Further along the coastline, our journey takes us to the peaceful village of São Roque and the Whaling Industry Museum to experience the industrial side of the island’s whaling history.
Later, we’ll return to Madalena, for our final stop of the day at the Wine Museum, where we’ll have an introduction to the fascinating wine traditions of the island. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Madalena, and you may wish to enjoy some of the amazing seafood at a local restaurant.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 15 - Pico Island Day Trip
Today is all about exploring the rugged beauty of Pico Island, starting with panoramic views along the coast. We’ll see some of Pico Islands iconic natural swimming areas that have been formed by ancient lava flows where black rock meets the deep blue Atlantic.
Next we enjoy scenic stops around Cabrito and Areia Larga, before visiting the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyard landscape. Here generations of locals have transformed the hardened black lava fields into a thriving vineyard culture, unlike anywhere else in the world. Stretching along the coastline beneath the towering presence of Mount Pico, thousands of small stone-walled plots protect the vines from the Atlantic winds and salt spray. We’ll stop for a photo at the picturesque Criação Velha Vineyards and windmills, to experience this unique landscape up close.
While we’re in this wine region, we can’t miss the opportunity to taste the local drop! We’ll head to another local winery where we’ll learn about local wine production and enjoy a tasting.
Returning to Madalena, we’ll take a walking tour of the picturesque historic town centre. As we stroll through the streets, we’ll discover traditional architecture and scenic coastal viewpoints, all while gaining insight into the local culture and maritime heritage of this historic town.
Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening discovering all that Madalena has to offer at your own pace.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Day 16 - Madalena – Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island
This morning we’ll transfer to Pico Airport for our onwards flight to São Miguel Island and the archipelago’s capital, Ponta Delgada. The largest island in the Azorean archipelago, São Miguel Island is home to crater lakes, steaming geothermal springs, rolling green pastures and charming seaside villages, rich in Portuguese culture and tradition.
After our arrival, we’ll begin to explore the pretty capital on foot, admiring the whitewashed architecture and black basalt, giving monochrome vibes, but we’ll discover this is a town full of colourful character! Rich in history, Ponta Delgada blends elegant Portuguese architecture with a relaxed island atmosphere.
Take some free time for lunch, before we continue our exploration in the historic Matriz district, surrounded by some of the city’s most important architectural and cultural landmarks. The beautiful São Sebastião Mother Church stands proudly at the heart of the city and nearby, the iconic Portas da Cidade (the city gates) form one of the most recognisable symbols of the Azores, opening to lively squares and waterfront promenades. We’ll pass the Ponta Delgada City Hall on our way to São Francisco Square.
Later, we’ll check in to our hotel and have the rest of the afternoon and evening to further explore this idyllic city at our own pace.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Day 17 - São Miguel Island Day Trip
Today is a treat for our taste buds as we get set to uncover the delights of São Miguel Island on a full day tour. Departing the hotel, our adventure begins with a scenic drive towards the dramatic volcanic heights of Lagoa do Fogo, one of São Miguel Island’s most pristine crater lakes. Make sure your cameras are ready, as this is one you won’t want to miss!
Continuing along the island’s scenic northern coast, we’ll reach the historic Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s oldest surviving tea plantation, offering a rare and beautiful glimpse into the centuries-old tea production in a subtropical Atlantic setting.. We’ll have a chance to walk through the plantation, learn traditional tea-processing methods, and naturally, enjoy tastings of both the black and green tea varieties.
Moving on, we’ll stop in Ribeira Grande, a charming seaside town, where there will be some free time for lunch.
If liquors are more your thing, we’ll also visit a local producer of artisanal liqueurs that celebrate the island’s rich natural ingredients and heritage. Crafted using time-honoured methods, the range includes distinctive fruit and cream-based liqueurs, from tropical passionfruit to creamy milk and spice infusions. Saúde!
In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Ponta Delgada, where the rest of the day is your own to further explore or relax as you wish.
Your travel time today is approximately 2 hours.
Day 18 - Ponta Delgada – Sete Cidades – Ponta Delgada
Special Experience
Unleash your inner adventurous side as we spend a full day exploring the spectacular Sete Cidades region in 4x4 vehicles.
Famous for its twin crater lakes framed by dramatic green slopes, there is no better (or more exciting) way to discover the landscapes of the Sete Cidades region than in a 4x4 vehicle with expert guides. Kicking off our adventure, we’ll stop at some breathtaking viewpoints, including sweeping panoramas over the iconic Green and Blue Lakes.
Descending into the heart of the volcanic caldeira, we pass through the village of Sete Cidades, nestled beside the serene lake waters. We’ll explore the crater floor and then enjoy some free time for lunch in this peaceful, storybook setting.
Our journey continues off the beaten track to elevated viewpoints such as the Vista do Rei and Pico da Cruz, depending on the weather, revealing new perspectives of the crater landscape and the rugged Atlantic coastline beyond. This combination of mountain trails, forest paths and coastal vistas offers a constantly changing and immersive experience of São Miguel’s natural wonders.
We’ll end our day at a pineapple plantation where we’ll learn about the unique slow-growth method of the famous Azores pineapples and enjoy a tasting of the fruit and liquor made with this tropical fruit.
Upon arrival back at our hotel, the evening is at leisure.
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Day 19 - Ponta Delgada – Furnas Valley – Ponta Delgada
Our explorations today take us along the southern coastline towards the charming seaside town of Vila Franca do Campo. This town was once the island’s first capital, and it’s most important, until the devastating earthquake of 1522. We’ll have some time to stroll through the historic streets, and perhaps sample the famous local delicacy, ‘queijadas da Vila’, a traditional sweet pastry beloved across the Azores.
We continue to the lush and volcanic Furnas Valley, a spectacular geothermal landscape formed within an active volcanic complex. The valley is home to the peaceful village of Furnas, the stunning crater lake of Lagoa das Furnas and an extraordinary collection of bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, where steaming mineral water rises from the earth amid a dramatic display of hissing vapours and (somewhat stinky) sulphurous aromas.
Special Experience
Enjoy a traditional Cozido lunch – a famous stew with mixed meats and vegetables, slow cooked underground with volcanic heat.
Along the lakeshore, we’ll stop at a local restaurant to witness the traditional cooking of the famous ‘cozido das caldeiras’. Using the natural volcanic heat to cook a rich stew, it is a unique technique that has been used by the locals for centuries. After learning all about the process, we’ll enjoy this delicious dish for lunch.
Afterwards, we’ll continue on to the beautifully landscaped Terra Nostra Gardens, one of the most enchanting botanic gardens in all of Europe. Blending exotic planting with the island’s unique volcanic environment, the gardens are home to an amazing array of trees, plants and flowers from all around the world. One of the highlights is the iconic geothermal pool, and we’ll have time to bathe in these warm, iron-rich waters.
Eventually, we’ll return to our hotel and enjoy the night at leisure.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today is free for you to enjoy however you’d like. You may like to spend the day wandering through the streets of Ponta Delgada, on the lookout for some unique souvenirs to bring home with you. The more adventurous among us may even like to walk some of the coastal or volcanic trails!
This evening we’ll join our new friends for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant where we reminisce on our favourite memories and experiences of the Azores together.
Optional Excursion
Whale Watching Tour. Located on the edge of three tectonic plates in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and benefitting from the gulf stream, the Azores are a permanent home or place of passage for more than a third of whale and dolphin species in the world. On this optional tour, you’ll spend the morning searching for, and hopefully observing, these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 3hrs – From Euro 70pp.
Day 21 - Finish Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our fellow travellers and to the treasures of the Azores.
