Itinerary

Day 1

Depart Lisbon in the morning heading north to Óbidos, an enchanting walled city whose narrow cobblestone streets reflect its medieval heritage. In Alcobaça visit Portugal's largest church, the 12th century Monastery of Santa Maria. Within the church are the tombs of King Pedro and his beloved Inês de Castro who, due to court intrigue, was murdered by Pedro's father. Hear their story and Pedro's macabre revenge when he ascended the throne of Portugal. Further on is the fishing port of Nazaré, a picturesque town with a popular beach. Then to Batalha to see the 14th century abbey, a masterpiece of Portuguese "Manueline" architecture. Continue to Fátima, one of the world's great shrine destinations where thousands of pilgrims come to the site where the Virgin appeared to 3 shepherd children in 1917. Arrive in Leiria, whose old town is full of charm.
Overnight in Leiria
Dinner included

Day 2

There is a splendid example of Roman occupation in the ruins of Conímbriga, the largest Roman site in Portugal. Evidence of comfortable living is outlined in the baths, shops and exquisite mosaic tile floors of former villas. Nearby is Coimbra, home of one of the world's oldest universities (1290 AD). The Forest of Buçaco, long a monastic retreat, was actually walled in by the Carmelites in 1628 to keep the world out. Part natural vegetation, part arboretum and now open to all, the forest is popular with walkers who come to enjoy its quiet trails. On to Aveiro, a city of canals and houses whose facades are decorated with azulejos, the popular glazed tiles.
Overnight in Porto
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 3

Porto (sometimes spelled Oporto) has been designated World Heritage status by UNESCO. A morning tour of the city will introduce you to Portugal’s “second city”. Situated on the Douro River, Porto gave its name to the famous Port wine and to the country. Vineyards grow for mile upon mile along the Douro’s steep slopes. Afternoon free.
Overnight in Porto
Breakfast & Dinner included
Special note: We have 7 night cruises on the Douro River from Porto on ships of less than 100 guests. For more information, please click here

Day 4

Depart Porto for the Minho, the northwest province of Portugal. The Minho is home to two of Portugal's most historic cities: Guimaraes, the first capital (1139) and Braga, the country's main religious center. Stop at Colina Sagrada and the Castle and Palace of Duques of Bragança. Near Braga, see the sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Braga with its monumental baroque staircase cascading down a hill. Continue to Barcelos, town of the legendary rooster, now a symbol of Portugal. There are as many interpretations of the legend as there are roosters!
Overnight in Porto
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 5

Depart Porto for Amarante, a pretty riverside town through a landscape speckled with granite houses with wooden or wrought-iron balconies. Visit the Gardens of the Casa de Mateus. The beautiful baroque Casa has been made famous as the label on Mateus Wine. Then we enter the Port Wine region of the Douro Valley. Stop in Lamego, home of the Nossa Senhora dos Remedios, one of Portugal's most important shrines. In the mountainous hinterland lies Viseu, city of warriors, artists and the center of the Dao wine growing region.
Overnight in Urgeiriça
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 6

Drive into the heart of Portugal today. Serra da Estrela (Star Mountains) are the highest mountains in mainland Portugal. This is a world of shepherds and their flocks. The area is famous for its cheese, snow and harsh, irregular landscape. Visit Castelo Branco, with its lovely gardens and staircases of the kings where you will notice that the Spanish kings are half-size. Then to the pretty spa town of Castelo de Vide, famous for its maze-like Jewish quarter of whitewashed houses and cobbled alleys. Continue to the walled city of Estremoz.
Overnight in Estremoz
Breakfast & Dinner Included

Day 7

Visit Estremoz, known for its famous marble quarries. Portugal is the world's second largest exporter of marble and these quarries date from Roman times. On to Évora, a living museum of tradition, history, handicrafts and gastronomy . Enjoy a walking tour of this enchanting walled city, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and one of Portugal's treasures. Return to Lisbon in the afternoon.
Breakfast included.

Per person prices:

2008 prices: $1485 per person, sharing a twin or double. $1815 single occupancy.
Pre-tour and post-tour hotel in Lisbon available, please ask for a quote.

Tour includes:

• 6 nights accommodation in 3 and 4 star hotels with private bath
• Breakfast and dinner daily
• Luggage porterage
• Transportation between cities
• Bilingual guide (English and Portuguese)
• Entrance fees for monuments/castles/attractions included in itinerary

Tour does not include:

• Airfare
• Meals other than breakfast and dinner
• Gratuities

For reservation and information click here to submit a request

You may call us at 800-652-9151 if you reside in the United States. From other countries call 1-209-667-2405