The Outstanding tour - Portugal 7 days

Day 1 - Lisboa Expo 98- Parque das Nações (Park of Nations): Expo98 the site of the 1998 World Fair, now called "Park of Nations", is the most recent district/quarter of the city of Lisbon where you can admire some of the most beautiful marvels of modern architecture (Vasco da Gama Bridge, the Orient Train Station, the building towers of St. Gabriel and St. Rafael, Vasco da Gama Shopping Center, among others). Stops for photos and a visit to the Oceanarium (optional) voted by Trip Advisor the best in Europe and the second best worldwide, only behind Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey, California, U.S.A. Alfama: The oldest quarter of Lisbon dates to the time of the Moors' presence in the city (8th to 12th centuries). The panoramic views from the famous "miradouros" of Santa Luzia and Senhora do Monte are a must stop on our tour, where you can contemplate the wonderful sights of the Tagus River and of the city. We will explore the narrow cobblestone alleys and streets where the facades of traditional houses are covered with beautiful tiles, an Arabian heritage in the Iberian Peninsula. Also, it is here that "Fado", the Portuguese national song was born. Two other places of interest are, the Lisbon Cathedral (built in 1148) and the Church of St. Anthony, patron saint of lost causes and weddings, (built on the site of the house where he was born). Visit to the Castle of St. Jorge (optional) conquered by Dom Afonso Henriques (the first king of Portugal) from the Moors in 1147. Baixa Pombalina (Lisbon's Downtown Historic Center): In 1755, Lisbon was the site of the biggest earthquake ever recorded in Europe. At the time, the Marquis of Pombal, took on the mission to reconstruct the city center which was completely ruined and devastated due to this catastrophe. And as such, the first modern European city was born: "Baixa Pombalina" with its urban and geometric architectural plan, it became the model used in the construction of other new cities, especially in the New World (for example Manhattan in New York, Chicago city center, etc.) Here we will visit the famous squares "Praça do Comércio" and "Rossio" (statue of the first Emperor of Brazil, D. Pedro I), Rua Augusta (the most important pedestrian street in Portugal, with its famous Arch of Triumph. Parque Eduardo Sétimo: On our way to "Parque Eduardo VII we will drive through "Avenida da Liberdade", Lisbon's Champs Élysées, one of the most beautiful avenues in the world. Besides the unique green vegetation, it is also famous for its national and international brand name shops, a paradise for glamorous shopping sprees. We will pass by the most imposing monument in Lisbon, a tribute to one of Portugal's biggest national heroes, Marquis de Pombal. As we arrive at the top of "Parque Eduardo VII", we can admire the wonderful view of the city and of the Tagus River. Ponte 25 de Abril and Monumento do Cristo Rei: Inaugurated in 1966, the "25th of April" Bridge has become a major landmark of the city of Lisbon and a welcome site for all visitors. The bridge connects the two margins of the Tagus River and it is one of the most imposing suspended cable bridges in all the world. The Christ the King Monument was inaugurated in 1959 and it's a national sanctuary. It is a place of pilgrimage and welcomes thousands of Christians every year. Also, because of its privileged location, the overview is about two hundred meters above the river's water level, the panoramic scenery is one of the most spectacular overlooking the city of Lisbon. This fact attracts millions of tourists annually. Belem: Belem is the district/quarter of Lisbon that is dedicated to the great Portuguese explorers of the 15th and 16th centuries. Portugal was the first globalizing nation in the world with the arrival of its explorers to all continents. The Portuguese empire became one of the largest in the history of humanity. The majestic monuments that we find here are a reflection of the golden era in the history of Portugal: "Mosteiro dos Jeronimos", Tower of Belem, and the Monument of the Discoveries with the statues of the great Portuguese sailors and explorers, namely Vasco da Gama, Ferdinand Magellan among 33 others. Finally, there is a must visit to the famous "Pasteis de Belem", one of Portugal´s most typical pastries/sweets. Chiado and Bairro Alto: The bohemian quarter of Chiado was devastated by a terrible fire in 1988 and was the object of a careful reconstruction project, led by the Portuguese architect Alvaro de Sisa Vieira. It is without a doubt the busiest district in Lisbon. It is here that the streets “Rua do Carmo" and "Rua Garrett", come alive every day! Also, located in this quarter are some of the most famous and international renown restaurants in Portugal, for example "Restaurant Belcanto" of Chef José Avillez which won the distinction of best restaurant in the world by Conde Nast Traveler in 2016. "Bairro Alto", is named as such because it is in on one of the seven hills of Lisbon. It is an old quarter dated back to the 16th century and has become a local favorite among the "Alfacinhas" (name given to the native people of Lisbon) where they can enjoy Lisbon's nightlife. Its countless bars, restaurants, and "Fado houses", attract people of all ages, social classes and ethnic backgrounds, blending a cosmopolitan ambiance with a touch of medieval charm! Overnight in Lisbon

Day 2 - Sintra/Cabo da Roca/Cascais/Costa do Estoril Palace of Queluz (optional visit): A visit to the Palace of Queluz, known as the Versailles of Portugal. The palace consists of three styles of architecture, Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Classic. There are splendid French gardens decorated with fountains designed by English artists, statues of Italian artists and a magnificent canal (lake/pool) decorated with 18th century tiles. It was the official residence of King João VI. Sintra: Sintra is without a doubt one of the most extraordinary places in Portugal. Its microclimate transforms this small town situated on the slopes of the mountain range "Serra de Sintra" and next to the Atlantic into a major attraction for visitors who go there to admire its famous castles and palaces or simply taste the traditional food, pastries and sweets. And let's not forget the souvenir shops selling typical local items. We will stop in the historic center where you will have time to try the famous "travesseiros" and "queijadas" at the Piriquita Pastry Shop and explore the narrow streets of the most romantic town in Portugal. Visit to one of these palaces: National Palace of Sintra, Pena Palace, "Quinta da Regaleira", Palace of Monserrate. (optional visit) Lunch: If you would like to have lunch, your guide can recommend restaurants in or around Sintra. Cabo da Roca: Cabo da Roca is the westernmost point in continental Europe. We will stop for photos and admire the natural beauty of this unique site. Boca do Inferno (Devil's Mouth): A must stop to photograph this magnificent rocky crater in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Cascais: This old Roman town of fishermen became a well-known beach resort in the 20th century. Cascais is a favorite among the people of Lisbon who come here to enjoy the sun and the sea, the bars and restaurants. The town is also known internationally for its big nautical events (America's Cup, Red Bull, FlugTagg). Cascais attracts many tourists from all over the world, whether to visit or live. It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in all of Europe. Leisure time to explore the streets of Cascais. Costa do Estoril (The Coast of Estoril): Estoril is internationally known for its casino which inspired Ian Fleming to write “Casino Royal", the first in a series of books about the character James Bond and made famous by Hollywood with movies starring Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Daniel Craig among others. A stop for photos. The trip to Lisbon is made along the coast of Estoril with a fascinating and unforgettable ocean view. Overnight in Lisbon

Day 3 - Fatima/Coimbra/Porto Fatima: The famous Marian Sanctuary of Fatima is without a doubt one of the largest pilgrimage centers in the world. Millions of people come here annually to pay homage to the three shepherd children who witnessed the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the fields of "Cova da Iria". Free time to attend Mass (optional), visit the Chapel of the Apparitions where you can see the statue of the Virgen Mary. We will also visit the Basilica where we can find the tombs of Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco (the last two were canonized by Pope Francis in May 2017, thus becoming the youngest saints of the Catholic Church). As we continue, we will visit the modern church of the Blessed Trinity of Fatima, which seats 8,633 people and has an area of 40,000 m2. The church was designed and projected by the Greek architect, Alexandros Tombazis. You can shop for religious items for you, your family and friends. Lunch: If you would like to have lunch, your guide will recommend one of the many restaurants in or around Coimbra where you can tastes the famous “leitão à Bairrada”, suckling piglet cooked over fire, or other dishes of your choice. Coimbra: The city of Coimbra recognized internationally for its prominent university (one of the oldest in Europe), was the capital of Portugal until 1255. The city of Knowledge, as it is known, breathes culture everywhere, from the banks of the Mondego River to the hills where the university is located. Here we will visit the "Joanina" Library, considered by the British newspaper "The Telegraph" ", the most amazing library in the world. Its construction was ordered by King João V. This baroque style library of indescribable beauty and wealth was the result of the cultural vision of the richest monarch in Europe at that time. His royal safes were overflowing with gold from "Minas Gerais" in Portugal's colony of Brazil. Free time to walk around the center of town and visit the Santa Cruz Church where we can find the tombs of the first king of Portugal, King Afonso I and of his son King Sancho I. You will also enjoy tasting the local sweets and pastries "Pasteis de Santa Clara, "Pasteis de Tentugal" and the " Arrufadas de Coimbra". Porto Overnight in Porto

Day 4 - Porto Porto – Panoramic Tour: Porto is one of the most beautiful European cities. We will start our visit with a panoramic view of the sea at the beach in Matosinhos, traveling along the coast until we reach the "Foz", on the mouth of the Douro River, passing through the old medieval city district of Miragaia and arriving at the Tower of Clerigos. Tower of Clerigos-Lello Bookstore - Carmo Church: Here we can photograph the symbol of this city: The Tower of Clerigos. Built in 1754, the Tower is 75 meters high and at the time it was the tallest building in the city of Porto. Next, we will visit the Lello Bookstore where writer JK Rowling found the inspiration for her best-selling book "Harry Potter". It's without a doubt one of the most outstanding bookstores in the world. Lello's beauty is a great attraction for a vast number of tourists. We will stop for photographs at Carmo Church (Igreja do Carmo) noted for its marvelous exterior facades decorated with blue and white tiles. Aliados-Mercado do Bolhão-Santa Catarina-Café Majestic: "Avenida dos Aliados" is the famous and largest avenue in Porto where we see dazzling architectural examples of granite buildings decorated with domes and sculptures that are the envy of other big European capitals. This is the center of the city where Porto's imposing City Hall, built at the beginning of the 20th century, is located. Next, we will visit the city's major marketplace "Mercado do Bolhao" known for the extravagant way that the vendors have of selling by crying out their daily fresh products: flowers, vegetables, fish, etc. From here we head on to "Rua de Santa Catarina", the shopping district of the city. This street is aligned with magnificent shops whose windows are more than appealing to the eye of the visitor. It is also here that we will find the famous “Majestic Cafe”, a meeting place for Porto's high society, intellectuals and bohemian artists. The Majestic is considered the most beautiful cafe in Portugal and one of the most enchanting in the world, entrenched with the glamour of the "Belle Époque” time period. São Bento Train Station and Cathedral: The train station of São Bento (St. Benedict) is internationally renowned for its interior ceramic tiles that depict important events in the history of Portugal. Another stop on our tour is the Cathedral of Porto which began construction in the 12th century. It is one the city's oldest monuments built in the Romanesque style, high above the city, is a perfect place to see the fantastic views of the Douro River and its bridges. Gaia: Here we can find the wine cellars of the famous Port wine. You have the option of a wine tasting visit to one of the cellars of the first demarcated wine regions in the world: The Port Wine Region. “Rabelo" Boat Tour: " Rabelo" was the name given to the boats that carried the wine barrels from the vineyards of the upper Douro valley to the wine cellars in Gaia. If you choose, you can have the option of going on a pleasant 50- minute tour on one of these boats and ride along the Douro River to see the six bridges that cross it as well as enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the city of Porto. Overnight in Porto

Day 5 - Douro Valley Amarante: We will begin one of the most beautiful tours in Portugal with a visit to Amarante, a small town where the splendor of its history will capture the imagination. The Tamega River, a tributary of the Douro River, runs through the town and gives it a special attraction. You can admire Amarante's medieval European landscapes where the crystal waters of its river mirror the lush vegetation of the two margins crossed by a large arched granite medieval bridge. We will visit the Church of Saint Gonçalo, built in the 16th century, where the Saint lived and is buried. Peso da Regua: Here, we arrive at the vineyards of the upper Douro Valley. This is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. Peso da Regua is the world's capital of winery. It was from here that the "Rabelos", name given to the boats that transported the Port wine barrels from the vineyards, sailed to the docks of Gaia, to mature the wine in the cellars, before being sold worldwide. Nowadays it is a major stop for Douro River cruises that visit the upper Douro Valley, and it is also a UNESCO world heritage site. Pinhao: In the heart of the upper Douro Valley and after crossing dazzling landscapes of hillsides embellished with terraced vineyards where the Douro River flows with abundant beauty, we reach the charming town of Pinhao, bathed by the waters of this river. Located in this region, we can find many vineyards and wine estates which produce the famous Douro wines. We will also stop and visit the local railway station which is famous for its decorative ceramic tiles depicting the wine making process, production and transportation. We will have lunch here (optional) in one of the many typical local restaurants. Winery visit and Wine Tasting (optional): If you so wish, we can visit one of the local wineries (recommended) where you can observe all of the preparation and wine making process of Port wine, and you will also have the opportunity to taste the different varieties of Port (White, Ruby, Tawny and Vintage). Overnight in Porto

Day 6 - Guimaraes and Braga Minho: Minho is in the northernmost region of Portugal. It is the place and point where Portugal was born as a nation. Minho has a very rich history and culture and it is one of the most beautiful regions of the country. It is painted with fields of emerald green which are cut through by mountains and valleys and crossed by rivers that find their way on to the Atlantic Ocean. Minho is also known for its rich and abundant cuisine, because of the enormous variety of traditional dishes. This is the region where the renowned "Vinho Verde", a Portuguese wine, originated from. Guimaraes and Braga are the two large capitals of Minho. Guimaraes: The historic city of Guimaraes was the first capital of Portugal. It is also called the "cradle" of the Portuguese nationality. It was here that in 1143, the first king of Portugal, Afonso I, started conquering the lands from the Moors and organized and formed the second oldest country in Europe. We will visit the medieval castle, the most important one in Portugal. Next, we will visit the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, (optional), the royal family that governed Portugal from 1640 to 1910. Leisure time to discover the historical center of this wonderful city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will walk through the medieval streets and squares discovering the charm of its buildings carved in granite, the shops selling typical regional products and its cafes and restaurants serving local gastronomic specialties. Braga: Braga, known as the city of bishops because of its strong religious roots, was once the headquarters of the most important dioceses in the Iberia Peninsula. Nowadays it is one of the wealthiest Portuguese cities with a solid base of local industries and a commercial center that rivals the two largest cities in Portugal, Lisbon and Porto. In Braga, we will visit a 12th century cathedral and walk through the busy commercial streets: "Rua do Soto" and "Avenida Central". Next, get ready for an unforgettable experience! It's time to climb to "Bom Jesus de Braga" in the oldest cable railway car in the world moved by water. It was inaugurated on March 25th, 1882 and it's a masterpiece of Portuguese engineering. Once at the top we can admire the Baroque style sanctuary "Bom Jesus” and contemplate in the valley below the ancestral city of Braga. Overnight in Porto

Day 7 - Aveiro/Alcobaça/Nazare/Obidos/Lisboa Aveiro: Aveiro is known as the Venice of Portugal. A tour in a "moliceiro", the traditional boat of this region, is a must. We will cruise through the innumerable water channels that run through the city and through the "Ria" (a saltwater river) where the industry of salt exists since the Roman Era. Leisure time to walk around the historic center, dominated by "Art Noveau" style buildings, local stores and pastry shops where you can buy the famed “Fleur de Sel", the king of salts. You can also taste the famous "Doce de Ovos Moles" of Aveiro, the traditional egg sweets of the region. Mosteiro de Alcobaça (Monastery of Alcobaca): The Monastery of Alcobaça is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built during the reign of the first king of Portugal, Afonso I and given to the Order of the Cistercians Monks. We will visit the largest church in Portugal where we can find the fabulous gothic tombs of King Pedro and his queen Ines de Castro, both of whom portrayed one of the most beautiful and tragic love stories of medieval times. Nazare: In the 20th century, the old fishing village of Nazare became one of the most sought-after beach resorts by Portuguese tourists to spend their summer. The wonderful white sandy beaches of enormous length captivate all those who come through here, whether to enjoy a weekend or simply to have a great delicious meal by the sea. But Nazare became known worldwide because of its giant waves in "Praia Norte". The world record was establishd here for surfing a giant 29- meter (100 feet tall) wave by Garret McNamara, an American from the state of Hawaii. Stop for photos. Obidos: The town of Obidos is an ancient Roman city that continued flourishing even after the fall of the empire due to the huge commercial activity of products done by sea. During the Middle Ages, a wall was built around it after being conquered by the first king of Portugal, Afonso I. Obidos is the best example of a medieval town in Portugal. As we walk through this walled town, we go back in time and find narrow cobblestone alleys, houses with secular facades painted in white, a lively shopping area, and a number of churches that were built throughout the centuries. Here, we can imagine travelling back to the time of kings and queens. We get the sensation of the battles fought here for every piece of land. We won't leave without tasting the famous "Ginga de Obidos", a local sweet liquor served on a small chocolate cup. Return to Lisbon. End of itinerary