Ultimate Portugal - 11 Days

Duration

11 Days

Difficulty
Balanced
Start

Porto

End

Lisbon

Rating

*****

Operator

Insight Luxury Gold

Discover Portugal's timeless beauty on this 11-Day guided tour of Portugal - Discover Portugal’s timeless beauty and rich heritage on a luxurious journey through its most captivating destinations. Wander Porto’s historic streets with a Local Expert before indulging in a private Port tasting at a storied wine cellar. Drift along the Douro River on a private scenic cruise, admiring the terraced vineyards and golden landscapes of one of the world’s oldest wine regions. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where Portugal’s finest flavours are elevated to perfection. Step back in time in Évora and Coimbra, exploring ancient cathedrals, ornate palaces and one of Europe’s oldest universities. Feel the soul of Portugal during an intimate Fado performance and enjoy exclusive after-hours access to Lisbon’s Medeiros e Almeida Museum. From Porto to Lisbon, experience Portugal’s cultural treasures in unparalleled style.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to Porto

Your tour includes private door to door transfers from your home address to your local departure Airport.

Welcome to Porto

Welcome to Porto, a city of vibrant culture and timeless charm. Upon arrival, settle into your elegant accommodation before joining your Travel Concierge and fellow travellers for a delightful evening. Enjoy a sumptuous welcome dinner, savouring exquisite local flavours as you toast to the journey ahead.

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel
Dinner

Day 2: Porto Sightseeing

Explore the charming Old Town of Porto with a Local Expert, including a visit to the opulent Stock Exchange, or embark on a guided foodie tour, discovering the city’s culinary delights on foot. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure before gathering for a Port tasting, where you’ll savour the rich, complex flavours of Portugal’s iconic wine.

Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip...

Stroll through Porto’s lively streets, tasting local delights such as pastéis de nata, salted cod and traditional Francesinha while discovering the city’s vibrant culinary culture.

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Uncover Porto’s rich history and striking architecture with a Local Expert, wandering through the labyrinthine lanes of the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Admire the intricate azulejo-clad facades, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge and step inside the opulent Stock Exchange Palace, a masterpiece of neoclassical grandeur. 

Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia Hotel
Breakfast

Day 3: Visit the Filigree Museum and Workshop

Visit the Municipal Filigree Museum in Gondomar, the Goldsmith Capital of Portugal, for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet skilled silversmiths, witness intricate artisanship and explore a unique collection of tools and filigree treasures. Later, journey to Braga, where a guided tour reveals the city's rich history and architectural splendour.

Octant Douro
Breakfast Dinner

Day 4: Douro Valley

Journey through the breathtaking Douro Valley, where rolling vineyards and terraced hills create a mesmerising landscape. Begin with a private cruise along the Douro River, soaking in the serene beauty, before visiting a prestigious vineyard to learn about the region’s renowned winemaking. Conclude with a sumptuous lunch, paired with exquisite local wines, in this enchanting setting.

Octant Douro
Breakfast Lunch

Day 5: Douro Valley - Coimbra

Depart the Douro Valley and travel to Coimbra, a city rich in history and culture. Choose to explore its prestigious university or visit the Old Cathedral on a Personalise Your Day experience. In the evening, immerse yourself in Portugal’s soulful tradition with an intimate Fado performance.

Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip...

Step inside one of Europe’s oldest universities, where centuries of learning have shaped Portugal’s intellectual legacy. Admire the opulent Joanine Library, with its gilded interiors and ancient manuscripts and stroll through historic courtyards, steeped in academic tradition and royal heritage.

or

Uncover the timeless allure of Coimbra, Portugal’s historic heart and former royal capital. With your Local Expert, wander through its storied streets and medieval lanes, where echoes of kings and scholars linger. Explore ancient squares, admire ornate azulejo facades and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant academic legacy, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

Octant Lousã
Breakfast Dinner

Day 6: Coimbra - Fatima - Evora - Vila Viçosa

Journey to Fátima, a place of deep spirituality and tranquillity, where a guided tour unveils the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, its magnificent basilicas, and sacred chapel. Stop in Évora, a UNESCO-listed city rich in history and charm to explore its medieval streets, admire the grand cathedral, and visit the haunting Chapel of Bones. Later, arrive in Vila Viçosa, a hidden gem of Alentejo, known for its aristocratic heritage and refined charm, where an elegant stay awaits.

Alentejo Marmòris Hotel & Spa
Breakfast

Day 7: Vila Viçosa - Algarve (Albufeira)

Journey through Portugal’s scenic countryside and indulge in an exquisite Michelin-starred lunch, where world-class chefs elevate Portugal’s finest ingredients to perfection. Continue to Albufeira, the jewel of the Algarve, where golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and a luxurious stay await in this sun-kissed coastal retreat.

The Westin Salgados Beach Resort, Algarve
Breakfast Lunch

Day 8: Algarve - Lagos

Discover the historic town of Lagos, where a guided visit to the old slave market reveals a poignant chapter of Portugal’s past. As evening falls, indulge in a traditional dinner, savouring the region’s rich culinary heritage in an unforgettable setting.

The Westin Salgados Beach Resort, Algarve
Breakfast Dinner

Day 9: Algarve - Setubal - Lisbon

Travel through the breathtaking Arrábida region, to meet the Atlantic coast. Continue to Lisbon and uncover its rich heritage with a Local Expert. Personalise your day with a visit to the prestigious Coach Museum, displaying exquisite royal carriages, or the Maritime Museum, where Portugal’s seafaring legacy comes to life.

Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip...

Step into a world of regal splendour at the Lisbon Coach Museum, home to one of the most extraordinary collections of royal carriages in the world. Marvel at exquisitely preserved horse-drawn vehicles, each a masterpiece of artistry, power and prestige. Set within a striking modern building, this unrivalled collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of Portugal’s aristocratic past.

or

Step inside the historic wing of the Jerónimos Monastery to explore Portugal’s maritime heritage. Established by King Luís I, the museum showcases exquisite ship models, royal barges and rare navigation instruments, tracing the nation’s epic seafaring history from the Age of Discovery to modern exploration.

ME Lisbon by Meliá, Lisbon
Breakfast

Day 10: Lisbon Sightseeing

Discover the enchanting town of Sintra, where regal palaces and lush gardens create a storybook setting. Continue to Cascais, a coastal retreat of golden beaches and aristocratic charm. Return to Lisbon for an after-hours visit to Medeiros e Almeida Museum before gathering for a refined celebration dinner, savouring exquisite cuisine and fine Portuguese wines.

ME Lisbon by Meliá, Lisbon
Breakfast Dinner

Day 11: Depart Lisbon

Bid farewell to Portugal as you depart with cherished memories, with private transfers taking you to the airport for your onward journey.

On arrival back to your UK home airport our driver will meet you and escort you to your waiting vehicle for a private door to door transfer back to your home address.

Breakfast

Includes

  • 10 nights in handpicked 5 star hotels in great locations
  • ‘Business Class’ style coaches with extended legroom and bathroom facilities (w/c)
  • 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
  • Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary 

Excludes

  • Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
  • Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
  • Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour

Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level

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Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?

A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.

For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.

The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice. 

Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.

YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.

CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.

What does the tour cost include?

The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Can i book flights through you?

Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.

When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements. 

You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.  

Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.   

How many guests will be on this tour?

  1. Our small-group Luxury Gold journeys have an average of 18 guests, allowing you to enjoy a personal experience on your tour.

Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?

Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.

If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.

For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.

For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.

How much is the solo/single supplement?

Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?

With group sizes of a maximum of either 24 or 40 guests across all our tours, there’s always more space in our best-in-class coaches to stretch out and relax, no matter your destination.

Travel in premium style on our fleet include Mercedes and Volvo as our brand partners of choice.  And, in Europe, Britain and on select North American tours we take extra space to the next level with our exclusive ‘Business Class’ style custom coaches - our best-in-class coaches that have been custom designed with 13 fewer seats, offering up to 55% more personal space.

Our coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets 

Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?

Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.  

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.

Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.

We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

  • Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
  • Loss or damage to your property and baggage
  • Loss of cash, credit cards etc
  • Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive. 

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel. 

Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

What does a guaranteed departure mean?

A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure. 

In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.

What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.

Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:

Europe trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.

Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.

Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc. 

United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. 

UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.   

USA trips incl transiting travellers: 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.

ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website. 

Canada trips:

Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.   

eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.

Rest of the World trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them. 

What if I have mobility issues?

Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

What if I have food allergies?

Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). 

In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.  

GBP £5,079.00 / Adult
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