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Cultural Treasures of Portugal
Itinerary: Lisboa | Sintra | Mafra | Évora | Estremoz | Elvas | Salvaterra de Magos | Batalha | Alcobaça | Tomar | Coimbra | Foz Côa | Vale do Douro | Guimarães | Braga | Porto
The Cultural Treasures of Portugal itinerary offers a unique 8-day journey through Portugal's UNESCO World Heritage sites, celebrating the country's rich cultural and literary heritage. From the historic landmarks of Lisbon, Sintra, and Mafra, through Évora, Estremoz, and Elvas, to the marvels of the Monastery of Batalha, Alcobaça, and the Convent of Christ in Tomar. Discover the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley, the ancient rock carvings of Foz Côa, and the charm of Coimbra, Guimarães, and Braga. The journey culminates in Porto, featuring visits to its historic center and a scenic cruise along the Douro River, wrapping up this cultural immersion filled with iconic sites, art, wine, and tradition.
PROGRAMME:
Day 1: Lisbon
Morning: Visit the Belém Tower, one of the city’s landmarks, and visit the Cloister and Church of the Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Afternoon: Walking tour through Chiado, a historic and cultural district, followed by a stroll down to Rossio. Explore the Alfama neighborhood, the oldest in Lisbon, known for its narrow and steep streets. Free time at Praça do Comércio to explore the surrounding area.
Evening: Fado show for an immersive experience in Portuguese culture.Dinner and accommodation.
Day 2: Cascais | Sintra | Mafra
Morning: Walking tour in Cascais, exploring the charm of the coastal town, followed by a scenic drive to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
Afternoon: Guided visit to the National Palace of Sintra. Free time to explore Sintra’s historic center. Scenic drive through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park to Mafra. Free visit to the Mafra National Palace, one of Portugal's most imposing buildings.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
Day 3: Évora | Estremoz | Elvas
Morning: Visit Évora’s historic center, including the Cathedral and the Roman Temple of Diana, symbols of the city’s Roman and medieval heritage. Lunch with a performance of Cante Alentejano, a traditional cultural expression of the region.
Afternoon: Visit the Estremoz Castle and the Bairro Figurado Interpretation Center. Continue to Elvas and visit the impressive Fortress of Elvas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
Day 4: Salvaterra de Magos | Batalha | Alcobaça | Nazaré
Morning: Discover the tradition of Royal Falconry in Salvaterra de Magos, an Intangible Cultural Heritage practice involving the training of birds of prey.
Afternoon: Guided tour of the Batalha Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and free time to explore the Alcobaça Monastery. Visit the Nazaré cliffs for panoramic views and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré. Departure to Fátima to visit the Sanctuary.
Evening: Dinner in Fátima and accommodation in the city.
Day 5: Tomar | Coimbra
Morning: Explore the Convent of Christ and the Castle of Tomar, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites with ties to the Knights Templar. Visit the Church of Santa Maria do Olival and the Church of São João Baptista.
Afternoon: Guided tour of the University of Coimbra, highlighting the Joanina Library, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Visit the Old Cathedral and the Santa Cruz Monastery, where the first King of Portugal is buried.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
Day 6: Foz Côa | Douro Valley
Morning: Guided tour of the Côa Museum to explore prehistoric rock art and the stunning landscapes of the Douro Valley, one of the world’s most famous wine regions.
Afternoon: Guided visit to the Douro Museum for an immersive journey through the history and culture of the region. Lunch in Peso da Régua, followed by a visit to Quinta de Santa Eufémia, with wine tasting and a traditional gastronomic experience.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
Day 7: Guimarães | Braga
Morning: Discover Guimarães, exploring its well-preserved historic center. Visit the imposing Guimarães Castle and walk down to Santiago Square and Oliveira Square, two of the city’s most iconic spots.
Afternoon: In Braga, take the Funicular to the Bom Jesus Sanctuary to visit this stunning religious complex and enjoy breathtaking views. Walking tour through Braga’s historic center, with a visit to the Cathedral.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
Day 8: Porto
Morning: Visit Foz do Douro to admire the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Douro River estuary. Walking tour along Ribeira’s waterfront and the historic riverside area. Guided visit to the Palácio da Bolsa, an architectural landmark of the city.
Afternoon: Visit a Port wine cellar, with a tasting of the renowned regional wines. Finish with a Six Bridges Cruise, a unique experience on the Douro River. Free time in Porto’s historic center.
Evening: Dinner and accommodation.
PRICE PER PERSON:
In a double room (2 people, double bed) | 1135 € |
In a twin room (2 people, separate beds) | 1135 € |
In a single room (1 person) | 1415 € |
Deposit: 200 €
Bookings up to 30 days before departure
The prices quoted include:
Tour by coach.
7 meals with a full menu (starters or soup, main course, dessert, coffee, wine and water at mealtimes. Some restaurants offer juices and soft drinks on the menu.
Accompanying guide representing the company.
Local guides for visits and activities.
All entrances and visits mentioned in the programme.
Accommodation in a 4* or 3* hotel with breakfast.
Civil liability and personal accident insurance.
SEATS ON THE BUS:
Seats on the bus are pre-allocated in order of where you get on the bus and date of deposit payment.
RYTHM: Medium
To take part in this route, you should:
Feel comfortable with several days of visits and an itinerary that alternates bus journeys and short walks in the places visited.
Be able to accompany a group at an average walking pace on sometimes uneven ground and with occasional stairs.
Being able to follow a medium-paced programme, which may involve getting up early on several days and only arriving at the hotel at the end of the day for dinner and a rest.
Feel comfortable accompanying a guide and respect all the instructions given.
Tolerate some temperature changes and unstable weather.
ACCOMMODATION:
Planned accommodation at 4* and 3* hotels.
NOT TO BE MISSED:
Visit the Belém Tower and explore the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, two iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Discover the charm of Cascais and admire the stunning views from Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe.
Experience the mystic of Cante Alentejano while enjoying lunch in Évora, and explore the grandiose Fortress of Elvas.
Visit the magnificent Batalha Monastery and marvel at the monumental Palace-Convent of Mafra.
Savor a wine tasting at a Quinta in the Douro Valley and be amazed by the prehistoric rock art at the Côa Museum.
