Portugal Upgraded

Portugal was once the capital of one of the largest empires in the world and it’s here that the sun is bright, the living is easy, and you’ll dream of the food and wine long after leaving this vibrant place. On this trip, explore a handful of UNESCO World Heritage sites, encounter history on visits to Sintra and the Knights Templar, and devour a custard tart as you wander the narrow alleyways in Porto. As you continue on, meet interesting locals from port wine makers to Fado folk singers, and learn what this seemingly small, but scenic country has to offer its travellers.

Day 1 Lisbon
Arrive at any time. Bring your appetite for this evening’s traditional Portuguese dinner in one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Lisbon. Enjoy delicious food while listening to a fado performance by local folk singers.

Day 2 Lisbon
Visit the 19th-century resort town of Sintra, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set your eyes upon a landscape that inspired the English poet Lord Byron. Then, spend the afternoon as you wish to discover more of Lisbon’s lively atmosphere. Maybe decide to be a daredevil and take the Santa Justa lift to the highest point in Portugal.

Day 3 Lisbon/Évora
Be prepared to witness something you may have never seen before as you travel to medieval Évora home to the haunting Chapel of Bones. Yes, that’s right bones. This chapel was built in the 16th-century and the walls are covered with human skeletons, but for a worthy reason. Afterwards, you’ll visit ancient Diana’s Temple which is very well preserved for its age.

Day 4 Évora
Travel into the Montemor-o-Novo countryside to a traditional farm and learn about cork harvesting from an expert. Afterwards, sit down to a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. Once you return to the city centre, explore more on your own, taking some time to walk around. Maybe head to the Clock Museum to take a peek at watches from different eras, or visit the Cathedral of Évora, which is considered the most important local monument.

Day 5 Évora/Coimbra
It’s on to Tomar today to learn about the Crusades era in Portugal. A local expert will take you on a guided walk through the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle, teaching you a bit of the history as you go. Then you'll arrive in the riverfront city of Coimbra in the evening.

Day 6 Coimbra/Porto
Tour the centuries-old University of Coimbra in the morning, entering through the Porta Férra. You’ll stop at the Joanina Library, the Chapel of São Miguel, and the Botanical Garden before catching the train to Porto.

Day 7 Porto
Porto has a lot to offer, but first and foremost let’s have a drink. Hop aboard a boat and cruise down Portugal’s “river of gold”, which also happens to be the ancient trade route for port wine. You’ll learn about this rich tradition at a local wine cellar and finish the tour with a tasting of this delicious vino. For the rest of the day explore Porto’s Ribeira district and admire the architecture and atmosphere of this coastal city.

Day 8 Porto
Depart at any time.