The Grandeur of Central Portugal from Porto to Lisbon

Guimarães’ historic Old Town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and we’ll wander the romantic squares and winding lanes. Afterwards, we’ll visit the impressive Ducal Palace and then learn about the production of Vinho Verde at Casa de Sezim, just outside the town. Don’t worry we get to try some, too. We’ll continue to the ‘Portuguese Rome’ to stroll through Braga’s buzzing plazas, past elegant baroque architecture and narrow streets. Then, ride the funicular to the gorgeous hillside church and sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. The order of visits today may be in reverse.

Excursions & visits:

Guided excursion to Guimarães and Braga (all day)

In picturesque city of Amarante, sitting proudly on the bend of the River Tâmega, we’ll stop for some free time. We’ll continue to nearby Vila Real and Mateus Palace. Built in the 18th century, this enchanting palace is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Portugal, which we’ll explore on a guided tour. Maybe find a quiet nook in the splendid gardens to take in their beauty. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to Peso da Régua.

Excursions & visits:

Excursion to Amarante and guided visit of Mateus Palace and gardens (morning)

Located on the shores of the Balsemão River in the Upper Douro Valley, Lamego is a town bursting with baroque style. We’ll wander the narrow lanes and explore the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios which sits majestically at the top of a hill. After working up an appetite, we’ll sample some delicious local cured ham (Presunto). We’ll continue to a local quinta, for a tour and wine tasting and then Vila do Pinhão, to admire the beautiful tiles that decorate its local railway station.

Excursions & visits:

Guided excursion in Lamego (all day)

We continue to Coimbra, rising from the River Mondego - its historical buildings cling to the hillside. They include those of its renowned university, which we’ll visit and take a look at the chapel and baroque library. The city is also famed for its Fado singers accompanied by Portuguese guitars and we’ll sip port and listen to their haunting melodies at the Fado ao Centro.

Excursions & visits:

Excursion to Coimbra with guided tour, including university, and Fado performance (all day)

We’ll wind our way through well-trodden paths to discover a magical cluster of schist villages, built to blend in with the natural landscape, hidden between mountain slopes and dense forest. The smell of wooden-oven bread and fresh goat’s cheese lingers, as we enjoy a taste of some local specialities and watch the work of local craftsmen. In the afternoon you may like to wander to the local Roman ruins (entrance not included).

Excursions & visits:

Guided excursion to the schist villages with tasting of local specialities (all day)

Today is a full day of exploration. We’ll discover the gothic splendour of the UNESCO-listed Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, feeling like royalty as we stroll under the impressive cloisters. Our spiritual journey continues as we make our way to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. It was here back in 1917 that three young shepherds saw the apparition of the Virgin Mary and there’ll be a chance to visit Aljustrel, the location of the home of the shepherds.

Excursions & visits:

Excursion to Batalha Monastery of Santa Maria da Vitória, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima and Aljustrel (all day)

Be transported back to the legends of battling knights, kings and castles today, as we explore Tomar, known as the city of the Knights Templar. We’ll visit the UNESCO-listed Convent of Christ and its magnificent 12th-century rotunda.

Excursions & visits:

Guided excursion in Tomar (all day)

Lisbon’s seven hills overlooking the Tejo River and the Atlantic, give the city a distinct charm - the cobbled streets, ornate buildings, white-domed buildings and the rumbling of trams and funiculars are present at every turn. We’ll be driven around the city, stopping at iconic landmarks including Belém Tower, before sitting down to try some delicious Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts) accompanied by Ginjinha (cherry liqueur). We’ll continue to the pretty seaside town of Cascais, for a two-night conclusion to our holiday.

Excursions & visits:

Guided city tour of Lisbon, with tasting of Pasteis de Nata and Ginjinha (all day)

Today is completely free to explore Cascais at your own pace. Perhaps head to the beaches and quiet coves or wander in the pretty Old Town. Or you can easily take the train along the coast, through Estoril and back to Lisbon for more sightseeing.

We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.