Country Roads of Portugal - Small Group
Tour Overview
Tantalise your senses during this 11-day guided tour through Portugal. In Lisbon, a Local Expert will show you the historic downtown and Bel??m Quarter. From the hilltop perch of Monsaraz, gaze across the Spanish plains to Alqueva Lake — and meet a local boat captain, who will regale you with tales of water adventures during a cruise on its calm waters. In Tomar, see the Templar Castle, and explore its awe-inspiring rotunda with a Local Expert. Indulge in a Farm-to-Table dinner in the Douro Valley that will feature locally sourced ingredients, and taste a port produced on-site. Stroll through Portugal’s second city, Porto, a World Heritage town, and relax in your five-star hotel in the city’s historic district. ...more ...less
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Tomar: Commanding the city’s skyline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar Castle and the Convent of Christ is a testament to Portugal's storied past. Accompanied by a Local Expert, you’ll delve into the history of the Knights Templar, exploring the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the cloisters that echo with the memories of warrior monks. See the intricate Manueline Window, a masterpiece of Gothic artistry and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, as you uncover this extraordinary stronghold.
- Tomar: Immerse yourself in the history of Tomar as your Local Expert guides you through its architectural treasures. Discover the small town’s unique blend of cultural influences, reflected in its streets and landmarks. Visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval synagogues. Step inside this remarkable space to uncover the legacy and learn about its significance as a symbol of the Jewish communities in Portugal.
Top Rated Highlights
- Lisbon: Journey through Lisbon with your Local Expert, from the Lower Town to the Belém Quarter. See the Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries, built to honor explorers who set sail during Portugal’s Golden Age of Discovery.
- Lisbon: Visit the cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery with its beautiful Manueline architecture, reflecting Portugal's trade over the centuries and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lagos: Explore this coastal town nestled on Meia Praia, with your Travel Director.
- Évora: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site guided by your Local Expert and see the famous Roman Temple. While sightseeing, witness the fascinating cathedral and be charmed by its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Évora: With your Travel Director explore the ancient city of Évora and visit the fascinating Capela dos Ossos, meaning the Chapel of Bones, a chapel decorated with human remains.
- Monsaraz: Surrounded by cork oaks and vineyards, wander through the castle ruins to admire the incredible view over the Spanish plains that contrast with the blue of one of Europe's largest artificial lakes.
- Fátima: Join the faithful at one of the world's holiest sites and pay homage at the Chapel of the Apparitions and see the basilica.
- Coimbra: Guided by your Local expert, head through Old Town and pass by the Old Cathedral and the Almedina neighborhood.
- Coimbra: With a Local Expert, visit the University and witness the triumphal arches, painted ceilings, golden flourishes and walls of ancient tomes.
- Guimaraes: Enjoy views from the Visigothic castle ruins and explore a maze of medieval streets in the Old Quarter.
- Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and past exquisite tiled facades.
- Obidos: Lead by your Travel Director, walk through the picturesque narrow streets up to the main square of this ancient walled town.
Make Travel Matter
Évora: During a wine tasting session, appreciate the delicate yet complex nuances of Alentejo wine, and learn how the Relvas family has been managing to keep low water consumption, reforestation of indigenous trees, and providing scholarships to children of the village. This experience advances United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and production. With a 30% reduction in water use and innovative water management systems in place, they have been integrating science technology to ensure genuine production processes in all their activities.
Authentic Dining
Lisbon: Join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers.
Monsaraz: Enjoy a memorable Alentejo Highlight Lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Indulge in dish-after-dish of the tastiest tapas in a vibrant setting.
Pinhao: Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table dinner, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients.
Lisbon: Shared experiences and memories are often the foundation for special bonds and friendships. Toast your travels with wine and good cheer during your dinner at a restaurant in Lisbon, devoted to the enjoyment of regional cooking.
Insight Choice
Tomar: Commanding the city’s skyline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar Castle and the Convent of Christ is a testament to Portugal's storied past. Accompanied by a Local Expert, you’ll delve into the history of the Knights Templar, exploring the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the cloisters that echo with the memories of warrior monks. See the intricate Manueline Window, a masterpiece of Gothic artistry and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, as you uncover this extraordinary stronghold.
Tomar: Immerse yourself in the history of Tomar as your Local Expert guides you through its architectural treasures. Discover the small town’s unique blend of cultural influences, reflected in its streets and landmarks. Visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal’s best-preserved medieval synagogues. Step inside this remarkable space to uncover the legacy and learn about its significance as a symbol of the Jewish communities in Portugal.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon., Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine.
Day 2: Lisbon and the Age of the Great Discoveries
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon., Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your guided sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the avenues of the Lower Town and past tree-shaded squares. See the ancient Belém Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore more of the Belém Quarter as you visit the Cloister of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years. This evening, gain further insight into Portuguese culture with an Optional Experience dinner.
Day 3: The Algarve
Location: Lagos
Accommodation: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve., Real Marina Hotel &Spa.
Accommodation Name: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the River Tagus and head towards the sun-drenched southern coast to reach Lagos, a fishing port nestled in the bay of Meia Praia. After some free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel, set within a magnificent 360-acre estate. Simplicity is at the heart of Algarve cuisine, with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. Just a short walk away, specialized Portuguese seafood restaurants line the coastline, overlooking the Atlantic.
Day 4: Everlasting Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 16th-century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora’s unique historical center, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls.
Day 5: Monsaraz and Évora Relaxed Start
Location: Monsaraz, Évora
Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.
Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora
Meals Included: Lunch
Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of one of the largest artificial lakes. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life. Sit down to a delicious lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine, and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital.
Day 6: On to Fátima and Tomar Relaxed Start
Location: Alentejo, Fátima, Tomar
Accommodation: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar.
Accommodation Name: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a visit to Casa Relvas for a wine tasting, featuring uniquely Portuguese grape varietals like Touriga Nacional. Despite the dry climate of the Alentejo region, this family-run estate produces exceptional wine through innovative water-saving techniques. Continue your journey to Fátima, Portugal's most renowned pilgrimage site. Here, you may visit the basilica or the Chapel of the Apparitions, commemorating the Virgin Mary's appearance to three young shepherds in 1917. Journey across central Portugal’s rolling hills to explore Tomar with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Convento do Cristo with a Local Expert, where you’ll admire the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the Manueline Window, and learn about the daily life of a warrior monk. Alternatively, join a guided city tour and visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best-preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, as your Local Expert reveals the town’s rich architectural and cultural history.
Day 7: Coimbra and the Douro Valley Relaxed Start
Location: Coimbra, Douro Valley
Accommodation: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley.
Accommodation Name: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In Coimbra, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit its impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table lunch, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients, with a port wine tasting.
Day 8: Guimarães and Porto
Location: Guimarães, Porto
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores., NH Collection Porto Batalha.
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores
Meals Included: Breakfast
The mountain ranges of Northern Portugal accompany your morning journey to Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. Here, you can take in views from the Visigoth castle before wandering the cobbled streets and charming squares that exude medieval character. Continue to Porto, a city steeped in history whose central district is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Accompanied by your Local Expert, visit the São Bento Railway Station, renowned for the hand-painted azulejo tilework depicting scenes of Portugal’s past, and stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, a masterpiece of engineering that offers spectacular views of the Douro River. For a different perspective, consider joining an Optional Experience to explore the pastel-hued houses of the Ribeira district, cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, and savor traditional flavors at a riverside restaurant.
Day 9: Porto, Grande Dame on the Douro Relaxed Start
Location: Porto, Braga
Accommodation: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores., NH Collection Porto Batalha.
Accommodation Name: Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores
Meals Included: Breakfast
With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, why not take a stroll to admire the multi-colored houses and churches covered in beautiful glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque.
Day 10: Ancient Óbidos and Lisbon
Location: Óbidos, Lisbon
Accommodation: Dom Pedro Lisboa, Lisbon.
Accommodation Name: TURIM Marquês, Lisbon
Meals Included: Dinner
Discover the charm of the fortified town of Óbidos. Step inside the medieval town's ancient walls to wander through cobblestone streets, then continue to Lisbon. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner, raising a glass to the unforgettable moments shared on your tour.
Day 11: Depart Lisbon
Location: Lisbon
Accommodation Name: on
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to Lisbon International Airport.
What's Included
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Guided Sightseeing
Enjoy guided sightseeing with a Local Expert in various locations including Lisbon, Évora, Coimbra, and Porto.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Tomar Castle, Jerónimos Monastery, and the University of Coimbra.
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Local Expert Tours
Explore historical and cultural sites with the guidance of Local Experts in cities like Tomar, Évora, and Coimbra.
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Wine Tasting Experience
Participate in a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas, focusing on sustainable wine production.
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Lake Alqueva Cruise
Enjoy a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva with a local boat captain.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Receive personal radio headsets to ensure you don't miss any commentary during visits to famous highlights.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Luggage Handling
Your bags will be carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi on the coach and in hotels where available.
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Airport Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights that match the itinerary start and end dates.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare are not included and must be arranged by travelers.
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Meals not specified
Any meals not specifically listed as included in the itinerary are the responsibility of the traveler.
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Optional excursions
Optional excursions and activities not listed in the itinerary are available at an additional cost.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended for all travelers.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through Portugal's stunning landscapes.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Ria Park Hotel & Spa in Algarve, M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto in Évora, Hotel dos Templários in Tomar, Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa in Douro Valley, and Pousada do Porto Rua Das Flores in Porto.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Monsaraz: Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.
Travel Director
- "I love taking guests to Monsaraz because It's one of the many villages lost in time. It's not easy for guests to find on their own and they feel like they're visiting a secret paradise."
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Summary
- Visit the Cloister of the Jeronimos Monastery • Capela dos Ossos in Évora • Chapel of the Apparitions in Fátima • Coimbra University library • Templar Castle • Convent of Christ and Synagogue in Tomar.
- City tours of Lisbon, Tomar, Évora, Coimbra and Porto all with Local Experts.
- Welcome Dinner in Lisbon • Farm-to-Table dining in Douro Valley • Dinner in Porto • Taste Pastéis de Belém in Lisbon • Highlight Lunch in Monsarraz.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas in Évora, a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva with a local boat captain, and a visit to the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in Tomar. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore the University of Coimbra's impressive baroque library and enjoy a Farm-to-Table lunch in the Douro Valley. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of the sites visited in Tomar?
In Tomar, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tomar Castle and the Convent of Christ, which are significant for their historical connection to the Knights Templar. The tour includes exploring the octagonal Templars' Rotunda and the cloisters, as well as viewing the Manueline Window, a masterpiece of Gothic artistry. You will also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of Portugal's best-preserved medieval synagogues, which serves as a symbol of the Jewish communities in Portugal. ...more ...less
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What dining experiences are offered during the tour?
The tour offers several authentic dining experiences, including a Welcome Dinner in Lisbon, an Alentejo Highlight Lunch at Sem Fim in Monsaraz, and a Farm-to-Table dinner in Pinhao. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a dinner in Lisbon devoted to regional cooking, and a delightful dinner on the final evening of the tour. ...more ...less
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How does the tour contribute to sustainable tourism?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Casa Relvas in Évora, where you will learn about sustainable wine production practices. The Relvas family has implemented innovative water management systems to reduce water consumption by 30% and has engaged in reforestation efforts and providing scholarships to local children, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. ...more ...less
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What are some of the top-rated highlights of the tour?
Top-rated highlights of the tour include a guided journey through Lisbon's Belém Quarter, exploring the coastal town of Lagos, visiting the Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones in Évora, and enjoying views from the Visigothic castle ruins in Guimarães. You will also experience a panoramic drive through Porto and a walk through the picturesque streets of Óbidos. ...more ...less
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Country Roads of Portugal - Small Group
11 Days Starting and ending in Lisbon, Portugal
Visiting: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Monsaraz, Alentejo, Fátima, Tomar, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Guimarães, Porto, Braga, Óbidos ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE928ZN20
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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