Portugal Circle: Portugal In Depth 7-day Circular Tour

【Fridays】Lisbon (29 km) → Sintra (13 km) → Estorli (24 km) → Lisbon

This morning we’ll head to Sintra. Known for its fairytale castles and palaces hidden amongst the beautiful gardens to transport you back to medieval time. Sintra was a summertime escape for Portugal’s royal family and a popular location where the nobility build their dream palaces since the 15th century. See the Pena Palace of Sintra, the castle that King Ferdinand II transformed into royal summer residence, featuring a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Moorish, and Manueline architectural styles. Next, explore the enigmatic Regaleira Palace, known as "Palace of the Monteiro Millionaire”, after the nickname of its former millionaire owner António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro who created this mystical palace with the symbols of alchemy, masonry and the Knights Temlar. In the afternoon, move on to Estorli, a resort town long recognized for attracting royalty. It’s one of the most expensive places to live in the country, known for its fine dining restaurants, top-class hotels, and the largest Casino in Europe. Casino Estoril was the inspiration for the first of Ian Fleming’s James Bond books "Casino Royale”.

【Saturdays】Lisbon (86 km) → Obidos (88 km) → Fatima (86 km) → Coimbra

Arriving Obidos in the morning, a picturesque medieval walled town in central Portugal. You will see the well-preserved medieval architecture under the influence of Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. Until the 12th century, Portugal's first King integrated the town into its Kingdom. It’s also nicknamed “the Queen’s Town” as King Dinis offered Obidos as a wedding gift to Queen Isabel in 1282. We’ll discover the Castle of Obidos, one of the 7 wonders of Portugal. Then head to Fatima, learn about the legend of Virgin Mary apparitions to three children in 1917. Fátima is a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and tourists. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, which was built on the spot where the three children claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary, is one of the largest Marian shrines in the world. (Please note: On May 13th and October 13th, the anniversaries of the apparitions, millions of pilgrims flocked to visit and the traffic could be paralysed. We may skip visiting Fatima on these days. Your understanding is greatly appreciated). In the afternoon, we’ll explore Coimbra, Portugal’s ancient University city. It is one of Portugal's oldest cities, formerly the first capital of Portugal. Founded in 1290, Coimbra University is the oldest university in Portugal and one of the oldest in the world. Today, Coimbra is the third largest city in Portugal. Coimbra university is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, noting its architecture, unique culture and traditions, and historical role. We’ll visit the Biblioteca Joanina (Joanine Library), one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, this baroque library is built on the campus of Coimbra University. It houses more than 70,000 volumes, including many priceless, historical documents and first editions from 15th to 19th centuries. One of the notable collection, includes the ancient nautical map created by Ferdinand Magellan, a famous a Portuguese navigator and explorer.

(Optional: If time allows, we can stop by Mealhada, feast on a traditional Portugese suckling pig dinner at a popular local restaurant, right in the suckling pig capital)

【Sundays】Coimbra (22 km) → Aveiro (75 km) → Porto

After breakfast, head to Aveiro. The city lies on the edge of the Ria de Aveiro, a saltwater lagoon that was historically farmed for its seaweed, salt and bountiful fish. It is now famed for its canals, Nouveau architecture and colourfully painted Moliceiros boats. Next, we’ll visit Porto, Portugal’s second largest city, sits in the north of the country on the estuary of the Douro River, renown for its port wine. The Douro River divides the city, linked by Dom Luis I Bridge. The river's south bank are famed Porto wine cellars; while the north bank holds the major historical landmarks of Porto and is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Porto is blessed with a list of the world’s most beautiful sights. From gilded Belle Époque Majestic Café to historic São Bento Railway Station covered with azulejo tiles, the world’s most beautiful church Chapel of Souls and library Livraria Lello with an excellent neo-gothic façade. Another must see attraction, Dom Luís I Bridge, is the landmark of Porto named after Portugal’s King Louis I, opened in 1886. The bridge connects Porto old town to Vila Nova de Gaia. It offers incredible views of the UNESCO listed Porto Old Town, and houses with red roof tiles

【Mondays】Porto (233 km) → Santiago de Compostela

Today we’ll drive north to explore Santiago, the capital city of Galicia, and the final stop of the epic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail. Santiago is reputed to be the place where St.James, one of the twelve Apostles of Christ, is buried. Since the Middle Ages, millions of pilgrims have made their way along the “The Way of St James”, a major pilgrimage route across France and the north of Spain to pay their respects and visit his relics. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is an iconic symbol of the city, being the final destination of St.James Way, it is also a masterpiece of baroque architecture. In 1985, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the old town of Santiago. The Old Town of Santiago de Compostela, together with the outlying Santa Maria de Conxo Monastery, constitutes an extraordinary ensemble of distinguished monuments. The squares and narrow streets of the Old Town contain Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassicist buildings. This town is not only a harmonious and very well preserved historical city, but also a major pilgrimage site and the world's most beautiful urban areas. It’s truly a must-visit at least once in a lifetime.

(Please note: During the last two weeks of July, there’s often traffic disruption due to the celebration events of the Feast of St James. Certain tour activities would be affected, and we would stay overnight in a hotel outside of the congested city areas. Your understanding is appreciated.)

【Tuesdays】Satiago (188 km) → Braga (25 km) → Guimaraes (119 km) → Duoro Valley

This morning we’ll return to Portugal and head to Braga, the religious centre of the country, known as the “Rome of Portugal”. Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and was founded over 2000 years ago by Romans. We’ll visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, a notable Catholic pilgrimage site with a monumental Baroque zig-zagging staircase that leads up to the hilltop church. An easy way to reach the sanctuary is to take the world's oldest water-powered funicular tram from the base of the hill and head straight to the top. And descend on foot via it’s famous zigzag staircase while admiring the breathtaking views of Braga and the mountains on your way down. Next, move on to Guimaraes. Guimarães is called the “cradle city” as this is the birthplace where the first king of Portugal, Afonso Henriques, was born, and it was the first capital when Portugal was founded in the 12th century (1139 A.D.) The historic center of Guimarães, the whole old town walled area, is also a UNESCO-listed site since 2006, as an authentic example of the evolution of a medieval settlement into a modern town. It was named the European Capital of Culture in 2012. You’ll stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and explore the historical sites includes the medieval castle, old bridges, fountains, church and palace etc. In the afternoon, drive towards Duoro Valley, a world famous wine region surrounding the River Douro. It is famed for its terraced vineyards, stunning natural scenery, charming villages and history. The Douro Valley is the only place in the world where Port Wine can be made. We’ll stay overnight near Duoro Valley.

【Wednesdays】Duoro Valley (327 km) → Marvao (122 km) → Evora

This morning we’ll discover Duoro Valley, enjoy the scenic landscapes and visit the town of Pinhão in the heart of the beautiful valley. Stop by the Pinhão Train Station to see the iconic azulejo tile work decoration. And cruise along the Douro River and marvel at views of the Douro Valley with its unique the terraced vineyards, visit a winery and follow by a tasting of Portugal’s world-renowned wines!. Our morning will end with a visit to Douro museum to learn about Douro Marvao port wine producing history. In the afternoon, explore a peaceful hilltop town Marvao. Marvao is a natural strategic defence point thanks to its geographical location near the borders with Spain. It was conquered by the Moors until regained by the first king of Portugal, King Afonso I’s army in the 21st century. The Marvao Castle, a strategic detention fortification that was build on one of the peaks of the Serra de São Mamede mountains. Within the solid granite walls, a beautiful set of Alentejo architecture is revealed. Stroll around the narrow streets of the old town, you can easily discover Gothic arches, Manueline windows, wrought-iron balconies etc, Next, we’ll head to hotel in Evora or city near by.

【Thursdays】Evora (165 km) → Cabo da Roca (40 km) → Lisbon

This morning we’ll explore the UNESCO-listed city center of Évora, a medieval town built in the 3rd century. See remnants from Roman through Renaissance time and Moorish influences. Immerse yourself in the art, cultural and architectural heritage of Portugal. Stroll around The Roman Temple of Évora and Giraldo Square, feel the medieval town frozen in time. Visit sights includes: the Chapel of Bones, The Roman Temple of Évora, The Cathedral of Évora, Stroll around The Roman Temple of Évora and Giraldo Square, feel like seeing a medieval town frozen in time, Next, we’ll stop at Cabo da Roca (Cape Roca), the westernmost point of Europe continent. Enjoy a panoramic view over Serra de Sintra & the coast. You can also buy a handwritten certificate with your name as a souvenir. Then continue to visit Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and see: Belém Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, Jerónimos Monastery. It’s one of the most prominent examples of Portuguese Manueline style architecture. Then free time at Marquis of Pombal Square & Rossio Square. While in Lisbon, must-try the Iconic Portuguese egg tarts in the century-old bakery nearby.