This 9-day tour of Portugal and Spain takes you on a scenic and cultural journey through historic cities and picturesque landscapes. Starting in Lisbon, explore the city’s rich history, from the Belém district to iconic landmarks like Jerónimos Monastery. After a day at leisure, journey to Óbidos, Nazaré, and Fátima, including a visit to the Sanctuary of Fátima. Discover Portugal’s natural beauty in Serra da Estrela and Coimbra, and immerse yourself in the charm of Aveiro and Guimarães. Cross into Spain to visit Santiago de Compostela before returning to Portugal’s vibrant cities of Braga and Porto. Conclude with a Porto city tour and a Port wine tasting, before your departure.
Visiting
Lisbon, Óbidos, Nazaré, Fátima, Serra da Estrela, Coimbra, Costa Nova, Aveiro, Guimarães, Braga, Valença, Santiago de Compostela, Porto.
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL IN LISBON
Arrive at Lisbon Airport, situated on the northern bank of the Tagus River and just a few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean. After a warm reception, transfer to your hotel (please note that most hotels in Europe allow check-in only after 2:00 PM). The rest of the day is free to relax and explore at your leisure.
DAY 2 – LISBON
Start your day with a panoramic tour of Lisbon, a city renowned for its unique light and captivating charm. According to legend, Lisbon was built on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, showcasing historic buildings, cobbled streets, and breathtaking viewpoints. As Portugal’s capital, the city has witnessed significant historical events, from the Arab occupation and the Age of Discovery to the great 1755 earthquake and the peaceful 1974 revolution. Highlights of the tour include the historic Belém district, the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, the Jerónimos Monastery, and a visit to the iconic Pastéis de Belém Factory for a delicious tasting. The afternoon and evening are free for optional tours or personal exploration.
DAY 3 – LISBON
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Lisbon at your own pace or partake in optional tours to discover more of this fascinating city.
DAY 4 – LISBON > ÓBIDOS > NAZARÉ > FÁTIMA
Depart Lisbon in the morning for Óbidos, often referred to as the “village of queens.” Wander through its narrow streets and picturesque squares, soaking in the charm of this well-preserved medieval citadel. Continue to Nazaré, a coastal town famed for its fishing traditions and giant waves that attract surfers from around the globe. After enjoying a gastronomic lunch and a ride on the funicular, proceed to the Sanctuary of Fátima, a major pilgrimage site inspired by the apparitions of Our Lady to three children in 1917. Check into your hotel, with the option to attend the Candle Procession in the evening.
DAY 5 – FÁTIMA > SERRA DA ESTRELA > SABUGUEIRO > COIMBRA
Travel to Serra da Estrela, mainland Portugal’s highest mountain range, known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional sheep herding. The local sheep support the production of queijo da serra, a famous Portuguese cheese. Stop in the mountain village of Sabugueiro for a delightful gastronomic lunch. Continue to Coimbra, the former capital of Portugal until 1256 and home to the country’s oldest university. Visit the magnificent University Library (subject to availability due to official ceremonies), followed by a panoramic tour that includes the Republics, the Aqueduct of São Sebastião, and the Botanical Garden.
DAY 6 – COIMBRA > AVEIRO > COSTA NOVA > GUIMARÃES > BRAGA
Begin your day with a visit to Costa Nova to photograph the iconic striped “palheiros” (traditional houses). Next, head to Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal,” for its picturesque canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Enjoy a moliceiro boat ride and a tasting of the local sweet, ovos-moles. After some free time for lunch, travel to Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal’s nationality. Stroll through its UNESCO-listed historic center before continuing to Braga for your overnight stay.
DAY 7 – BRAGA > SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA > VALENÇA > PORTO
Explore the Minho and Galicia regions, beginning with a visit to Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest cities. Ascend to the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary via the unique water-powered funicular. Cross into Galicia, Spain, and visit Santiago de Compostela, a revered pilgrimage site and the final stop on the Camino de Santiago. Tour the famous Cathedral, which houses the tomb of Saint James. On the return to Portugal, stop in Valença do Minho, a historic city with one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved fortifications. Continue to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, located on the Douro River.
DAY 8 – PORTO
Discover the highlights of Porto on a morning city tour, including the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Avenida da Boavista, Bairro da Foz, Clérigos Tower, Avenida dos Aliados, and the richly decorated interiors of the Sé Cathedral and São Bento Station. Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia for a tour and tasting at a Port Wine Cellar. Spend the afternoon at leisure or join optional tours.
DAY 9 – DEPARTURE FROM PORTO
Conclude your tour with breakfast at the hotel (rooms are available until 10:00 or 12:00, depending on hotel policy). Enjoy free time before your transfer to the airport for your return journey. Safe travels!