Welcome to your meticulously crafted 30-day adventure in Portugal, brought to you by Tina Désormiers & Fabien Hébert. Portugal is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, from the sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve to the vine-covered hills of the Douro Valley. Throughout this journey, you will immerse yourself in Portugal's vibrant traditions, savor its culinary delights, and marvel at its architectural wonders. Let us guide you through an unforgettable experience in one of Europe's most enchanting destinations.
Week 1: Lisbon and Surroundings
- Days 1-2: Lisbon - Begin your adventure in Portugal's hilly, coastal capital city. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, and taste the famous pastéis de Belém. Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Tagus River.
- Day 3: Sintra - Take a day trip to Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its 19th-century Romanticist architecture, historic estates, and stunning landscapes. Don't miss the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle.
- Day 4: Cascais and Estoril - Head to the coastal towns of Cascais and Estoril, famous for their beaches, luxury estates, and the Casino Estoril. Enjoy a leisurely day soaking up the sun and exploring the charming streets.
- Day 5-6: Óbidos and Nazaré - Visit the medieval town of Óbidos, then proceed to Nazaré, a seaside town renowned for its giant waves and surf scene. Enjoy fresh seafood and witness traditional fishing methods still in use today.
- Day 7: Ericeira - Conclude your first week in Ericeira, a picturesque fishing village turned surfing mecca. Relax on the beaches or try your hand at surfing with a half-day lesson.
Week 2: Northern Portugal
- Days 8-9: Porto - Travel to Porto, known for its stately bridges and port wine production. Tour the Ribeira district, visit the Livraria Lello, and take a port wine tasting tour in Vila Nova de Gaia.
- Day 10: Braga - Explore Braga, one of Portugal's oldest cities, known for its baroque churches, including the Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary.
- Day 11: Guimarães - Visit Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, with well-preserved medieval buildings like the Guimarães Castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
- Days 12-13: Douro Valley - Spend two days in the Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards. Enjoy scenic river cruises, visit wineries for tastings, and hike through beautiful landscapes.
- Day 14: Aveiro - Visit Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," for its network of canals and colorful moliceiros boats. Try the local delicacy ovos moles.
Week 3: Central and Southern Portugal
- Days 15-16: Coimbra - Travel to Coimbra, a city known for its ancient university and beautiful Joanina Library. Explore the old cathedral and enjoy the vibrant student life.
- Day 17: Tomar - Visit Tomar, home to the Convento de Cristo, a former Templar stronghold. Discover the historic center and the Pegões Aqueduct.
- Day 18: Évora - Head to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its well-preserved Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones. Explore the medieval walls and charming streets.
- Days 19-21: Algarve - Spend three days in the Algarve region, famous for its stunning beaches, sea caves, and golf courses. Visit Lagos, Faro, and the Benagil Sea Cave. Enjoy water sports and fresh seafood.
Week 4: Madeira and Azores
- Days 22-24: Madeira - Fly to Madeira Island, known for its lush landscapes and rugged coastline. Explore Funchal's gardens, enjoy a levada walk, and taste Madeira wine.
- Days 25-27: São Miguel, Azores - Continue to São Miguel in the Azores. Visit the Sete Cidades Lake, bathe in hot springs at Furnas Valley, and explore Ponta Delgada's historic center.
- Days 28-29: Terceira Island - Travel to Terceira Island for its UNESCO World Heritage city of Angra do Heroísmo, beautiful landscapes, and volcanic caves.
- Day 30: Return to Lisbon - Fly back to Lisbon for your departure. Enjoy a farewell dinner in one of Lisbon's renowned restaurants, reflecting on your unforgettable journey through Portugal.
This itinerary is just a starting point to inspire your Portuguese adventure. At Tina Désormiers & Fabien Hébert, we specialize in customizing travel experiences that cater to your personal interests and preferences. Whether you're looking to delve deeper into Portugal's rich cultural heritage, embark on culinary explorations, or simply relax by some of Europe's most beautiful beaches, we're here to make your dream vacation a reality.
Please contact us for pricing details, further planning assistance, and booking services. Let us take care of all arrangements so you can look forward to an unforgettable experience in Portugal.
