The best of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve trip

Welcome to Lisbon! Upon arrival, a private transfer will bring you from the airport to your hotel, marking the beginning of your tailor-made Portugal travel experience. 

Stretch your legs with a walk through the historic center to admire azulejos, tram rides, and miradouros, or relax at your hotel and sample Portuguese cuisine.

Explore Lisbon's Old Town on this Portugal tour, offering a tailor-made experience that connects you to authentic local life. Walk narrow, tiled streets, discover hidden squares, climb to famous viewpoints for sweeping city views, visit monuments, and taste Lisbon's traditional cuisine in cozy, family-run eateries.

Then visit the Belém quarter to see Age of Discoveries landmarks like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower and sample the iconic pastel de Belém at its original pastry shop.

Explore the elegant seaside towns of Cascais and Estoril, two of the best places to visit in Portugal, on a tailor-made trip. Stroll along marina promenades, sample fresh seafood, and soak in Belle Époque charm.

Then head into Sintra, a UNESCO-listed village tucked into lush hills, to tour palaces, quintas, and romantic gardens. Pause at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, for dramatic Atlantic views and memorable photos.

Leave Lisbon for Óbidos, the medieval walled village known as the Village of the Queens. Spend at least two hours wandering narrow streets, walking the castle walls, and sampling local ginginha served in a chocolate cup.

Continue north and choose stops to suit your tailor-made itinerary: Nazaré for fresh grilled fish and world-famous giant waves; Batalha to admire the 14th-century monastery, a UNESCO Gothic masterpiece; Aveiro to glide past canals and taste ovos moles. Finish the day in Porto.

Explore Porto, Portugal's second largest city, where riverside Ribeira streets meet the Douro. Discover baroque carvings and monuments by celebrated architects, past and present, for an authentic, tailor-made Portugal tour experience.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the cellars of Casa Ferreirinha in the Douro and taste Barca Velha and renowned Port wines at Caves Ferreira, recent recipient of the Best of Wine Tourism Award.

Spend the morning in Guimarães, 45 minutes from Porto. Wander the UNESCO medieval center, discover the cradle of the Portuguese nation and the birthplace of its first king, and enjoy tailored local experiences that bring history to life on your Portugal itinerary.

In the afternoon, drive into the Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards cling to steep riverbanks. Visit Quintas between Pinhão and Régua for guided vineyard tours and Port wine tastings, plus scenic views that define Portugal's wine country.

Begin with a serene Rabelo boat ride upstream on the Douro River, enjoying vineyard-covered slopes and tasting opportunities for regional wines.

Continue south to Coimbra to discover its ancient University, one of Portugal's oldest and a UNESCO World Heritage site; explore the Joanina Library and lively student traditions. End the day in Tomar, visiting the Convent of Christ and wandering cobbled streets.

In Tomar, visit the Convento de Cristo, a Templar masterpiece and UNESCO site, then wander the atmospheric historic center. On this tailor-made Portugal trip, you can choose an optional stop in Évora, an Alentejo gem rich in monuments.

In Évora, see the Roman Temple, the evocative Chapel of Bones, and the Cathedral, then savor hearty Alentejo cuisine. Continue south to the Algarve for sunlit beaches and personalized activities that match your travel style.

Relax in Tavira, often called the Algarve's most charming town. If you're planning a trip to Portugal, this laid-back spot is a great place to slow down. Wander the picturesque historic center, visit over 20 churches, enjoy riverside cafés, and choose tailor-made activities to suit your pace.

Later, explore nearby beaches and the hilltop village of Cacela Velha with views across Ria Formosa Natural Park. Discover Castro Marim's fortified history and stroll the border town of Vila Real de Santo António.

Drive from Tavira to Lagos on this Portugal tour and soak up dramatic cliffs and golden sands at Praia da Marinha, ideal for hiking and unforgettable coastal photos.

Pause at lively Albufeira for beach life, explore the picturesque towns of Carvoeiro, Ferragudo, and Alvor, cool off in the natural pools of Alte, and step back in time at Silves with its red castle. Tailor this day to your pace with guided walks, boat cave tours, or relaxed seaside meals.

Spend your final hours in the Algarve soaking up the sun on secluded beaches, swimming in crystal waters, exploring sea caves, or hiking in Natural Parks with a local guide.

If you're wondering about the best time to visit Portugal, this region shines from late spring to early autumn, ideal for outdoor adventures. Taste fresh seafood in fishing villages or try paddleboarding for a memorable active moment on this tailor-made stop.

When ready, head back to Lisbon to conclude your Portugal trip, leaving time for a last stroll through historic neighborhoods, a final meal, or an extra night to extend your journey.

This best of Portugal tour concludes today. Enjoy a final Lisbon breakfast, taste pastéis de nata, stroll through a favorite neighborhood, or pick up last-minute souvenirs as you savor your memories.

A private transfer will take you to Lisbon's airport in comfort. Our team is on hand to finalize any tailor-made arrangements and plan your next adventure. We hope this Portugal trip inspired you to return soon.