Country Roads of Portugal - Classic Group

Country Roads of Portugal - Classic Group

227 Views
11 Days From

$3250

Country Roads of Portugal - Classic Group

11 Days Starting and ending in Lisbon, Portugal

Visiting: Lisbon, Lagos, Évora, Monsaraz, Alentejo, Fátima, Tomar, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Guimarães, Porto, Braga, Óbidos

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

W928ZN19

Specialist Group:

Family/Kids

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3250 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 12-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Country Roads of Portugal - Classic Group" tour and explore the rich tapestry of Portugal's history and culture. Begin your journey in Lisbon, where you'll marvel at the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Discover the coastal charm of Lagos and the medieval allure of Évora, with its Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones. Wander through the picturesque village of Monsaraz and enjoy a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Experience the spiritual ambiance of Fátima and the academic prestige of Coimbra. In Porto, admire the stunning azulejo tiles and savor local cuisine. This tour offers luxurious accommodations, authentic dining experiences, and eco-conscious travel, ensuring a memorable and responsible exploration of Portugal's enchanting landscapes and historic sites. Travel in comfort aboard a spacious, air-conditioned coach, with seamless airport transfers included.

Highlights

  • Lisbon: Explore the Belém Quarter and see the Belém Tower and Monument to the Discoveries.

  • Visit the cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Explore the coastal town of Lagos with its charming fishing port.

  • Évora: Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the Roman Temple and Chapel of Bones.

  • Monsaraz: Wander through castle ruins and enjoy views over the Spanish plains and Lake Alqueva.

  • Fátima: Visit one of the world's holiest sites and see the Chapel of the Apparitions.

  • Coimbra: Explore the Old Town and visit the University with its impressive baroque library.

  • Porto: Enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues and see the exquisite tiled facades.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome to Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon.

Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon

Meals Included: Dinner

On arrival at Lisbon International Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your hotel. Settle in and relax before joining your Travel Director for dinner at a local restaurant. Enjoy the opportunity to mingle with your fellow travelers during a pleasant evening of good food and wine.

Day 2: Lisbon and the Age of the Great Discoveries

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal

Location: Lisbon

Accommodation: Corinthia Hotel, Lisbon.

Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your guided sightseeing with a Local Expert takes you along the avenues of the Lower Town and past tree-shaded squares. See the ancient Belém Tower and marvel at the Monument to the Discoveries. Explore more of the Belém Quarter as you visit the Cloister of Jeronimos Monastery and enjoy a taste of Pastéis de Belém from the patisserie that has been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years. This evening, gain further insight into Portuguese culture with an Optional Experience dinner.

Day 3: The Algarve

Location: Lagos

Accommodation: Ria Park Hotel & Spa, Algarve.

Accommodation Name: Real Marina Hotel & Spa

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the River Tagus and make your way to the sun-drenched southern coast, arriving in Lagos, a charming fishing port nestled along the bay of Meia Praia. After some free time to explore, continue to your resort hotel, beautifully situated near the Ria Formosa National Park. Algarve cuisine is defined by its simplicity, with seafood so fresh it still tastes of the sea. Just a short stroll away, you'll find an array of specialized Portuguese seafood restaurants hugging the coastline, offering a true taste of the region.

Day 4: Everlasting Évora Relaxed Start

Location: Évora

Accommodation: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora.

Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to the medieval walled city of Évora where cathedrals, churches, aqueducts and ancient castle walls all serve to create the feeling that this beautiful city is a living, breathing museum to Portugal's rich past. Join your Local Expert to explore the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Roman Temple and visit the Capela dos Ossos, an extraordinary 16th-century chapel comprising the skulls and bones of 5,000 bones. Visit the cathedral with its attractive mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. With the rest of the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to continue to stroll through Évora’s unique historical center, or the serene city park, following the aqueduct inside the city walls.

Day 5: Monsaraz and Évora Relaxed Start

Location: Monsaraz, Évora

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto, Évora

Meals Included: Lunch

Travel to the striking white village of Monsaraz, situated on an imposing hilltop, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. From the castle ruins, admire the spectacular views across to the dry Spanish plains, contrasting with the blue of one of the largest artificial lakes. Join a local boat captain for a leisurely cruise on the tranquil waters of Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life. Sit down to a delicious lunch at local restaurant Sem Fim, once an olive mill. Enjoy a wide range of tasty tapas dishes showcasing the local cuisine, and soak up the vibrant; cheerful atmosphere. Return to Évora where the evening is at your leisure to explore this beautifully preserved regional capital.

Day 6: On to Fátima and Tomar Relaxed Start

Location: Alentejo, Fátima, Tomar

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel dos Templários, Tomar

Meals Included: Dinner

This morning, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit Casa Relvas for a wine tasting. Despite the dry climate of the Alentejo region, they have been producing exceptional wine using innovative techniques to reduce the use of water. Journey to Fátima, Portugal's most renowned place of pilgrimage. See the basilica or perhaps visit the Chapel of the Apparitions, which commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherds in 1917. Continue to Tomar and visit one of Portugal’s historical jewels, the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your Local Expert, explore the octagonal Templars' Rotunda in the cloister and glimpse the day-to-day life of a warrior monk in the domestic areas. Outside on the battlements, the Manueline Window is a national masterpiece. You also visit the Synagogue of Tomar, one of the best preserved medieval synagogues in Portugal, housing a small Jewish museum.

Day 7: Coimbra and the Douro Valley Relaxed Start

Coimbra, Portugal

Location: Coimbra, Douro Valley

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa, Douro Valley

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In Coimbra, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the Old Town, including the University of Coimbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit its impressive baroque university library, one of the finest in the world. Your journey continues past verdant hills and lush vineyards, along the tranquil waters of the Douro River. Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table lunch, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients, with a port wine tasting.

Day 8: Guimarães and Porto

Paul Allen Porto, Portugal

Location: Guimarães, Porto

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Porto Batalha

Meals Included: Breakfast

The mountain ranges of Northern Portugal accompany your morning journey to Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. Here, you can take in views from the Visigoth castle before wandering the cobbled streets and charming squares that exude medieval character. Continue to Porto, a city steeped in history whose central district is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Accompanied by your Local Expert, visit the São Bento Railway Station, renowned for the hand-painted azulejo tilework depicting scenes of Portugal’s past, and stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, a masterpiece of engineering that offers spectacular views of the Douro River.  For a different perspective, consider joining an Optional Experience to explore the pastel-hued houses of the Ribeira district, cruise aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, and savor traditional flavors at a riverside restaurant.

Day 9: Porto, Grande Dame on the Douro Relaxed Start

Paul Allen Porto, Portugal

Location: Porto, Braga

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: NH Collection Porto Batalha

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

With a full day free to enjoy at your own pace, why not take a stroll to admire the multi-colored houses and churches covered in beautiful glazed tiles. Perhaps choose to visit Braga, the capital of baroque. This evening, toast to your travels during dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 10: Ancient Óbidos and Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal

Location: Óbidos, Lisbon

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Corinthia, Lisbon

Meals Included: Dinner

Discover the charm of the fortified town of Óbidos. Step inside the medieval town's ancient walls to wander through cobblestone streets, then continue to Lisbon. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner, raising a glass to the unforgettable moments shared on your tour.

Day 11: Depart Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal

Location: Lisbon

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, transfer to Lisbon International Airport.

What's Included

  • Complimentary Airport Transfers

    Complimentary airport transfers are available at scheduled times, ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish.

  • Luxurious Coach Travel

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency.

  • Baggage Handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Insight Flourish

    From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

  • Well-being Measures

    Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

  • Hand Sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection.

  • Optional Experiences

    Any optional experiences or excursions that are not listed in the tour itinerary.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and other personal items or services.

  • Meals Not Specified

    Any meals not listed as included in the tour itinerary.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Monsaraz: Join a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. Relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life.

Travel Director

  • "I love taking guests to Monsaraz because It's one of the many villages lost in time. It's not easy for guests to find on their own and they feel like they're visiting a secret paradise."

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Complimentary airport transfers are available at scheduled times, ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish.

Accommodation

Stay at the luxurious Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa in Algarve, the M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto in Évora, the Hotel dos Templários in Tomar, the Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa in Douro Valley, and the NH Collection Porto Batalha in Porto, each offering unique and comfortable experiences.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides transportation in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Complimentary airport transfers are also available at scheduled times.

  • What unique dining experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique dining experiences such as a Welcome Dinner in Lisbon, an Alentejo Highlight Lunch at Sem Fim in Monsaraz, and a Farm-to-Table dinner in Pinhao.

  • What is the significance of the visit to Évora during the tour?

    In Évora, you will explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Local Expert, see the famous Roman Temple, and visit the Capela dos Ossos, a chapel decorated with human remains. The visit also includes a wine tasting session that highlights sustainable practices in wine production.

  • What are some of the highlights of the visit to Porto?

    In Porto, you will enjoy a panoramic drive through historic avenues, visit the São Bento Railway Station known for its azulejo tilework, and stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge for spectacular views of the Douro River.

  • What kind of accommodation can be expected on this tour?

    The tour includes stays at luxurious hotels such as the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa in Algarve, the M'Ar de Ar Aqueduto in Évora, the Hotel dos Templários in Tomar, the Douro Palace Hotel Resort & Spa in Douro Valley, and the NH Collection Porto Batalha in Porto.

  • What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience included in the tour?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience includes a visit to Casa Relvas for a wine tasting, where you will learn about innovative techniques used to reduce water usage in wine production, supporting sustainable practices.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily

02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Monday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$3775 $3596 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$179 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
$4395 $4186 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$209 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025
$4395 $4186 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$209 (USD)

Friday - Monday

May 30, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
$4495 $4281 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$214 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jun 20, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025
$4495 $4281 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$214 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jul 04, 2025 - Jul 14, 2025
$4575 $4358 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$217 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 11, 2025
$4350 $4143 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$207 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Aug 15, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025
$4350 $4143 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$207 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 08, 2025
$4525 $4310 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$215 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025
$4525 $4310 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$215 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 27, 2025
$4495 $4281 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$214 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$4495 $4281 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$214 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 10, 2025
$4450 $4239 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$211 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Nov 14, 2025 - Nov 24, 2025
$3795 $3615 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$180 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Dec 12, 2025 - Dec 22, 2025
$3795 $3615 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$180 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Dec 19, 2025 - Dec 29, 2025
$3895 $3710 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$185 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Dec 26, 2025 - Jan 05, 2026
$4175 $3977 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$198 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jan 09, 2026 - Jan 19, 2026
$3795 $3615 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$180 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Feb 06, 2026 - Feb 16, 2026
$3795 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Feb 20, 2026 - Mar 02, 2026
$4195 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 06, 2026 - Mar 16, 2026
$4195 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 13, 2026 - Mar 23, 2026
$4195 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 20, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
$4195 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 27, 2026 - Apr 06, 2026
$4195 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
$4500 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 20, 2026
$4500 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Apr 24, 2026 - May 04, 2026
$4590 (USD)

Friday - Monday

May 01, 2026 - May 11, 2026
$4620 (USD)

Friday - Monday

May 08, 2026 - May 18, 2026
$4620 (USD)

Friday - Monday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026
$4620 (USD)

Friday - Monday

May 29, 2026 - Jun 08, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jun 05, 2026 - Jun 15, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jun 12, 2026 - Jun 22, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jun 19, 2026 - Jun 29, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jul 03, 2026 - Jul 13, 2026
$4740 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jul 31, 2026 - Aug 10, 2026
$4830 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Aug 14, 2026 - Aug 24, 2026
$4830 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Aug 28, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026
$4794 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 14, 2026
$4830 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Sep 11, 2026 - Sep 21, 2026
$4830 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 28, 2026
$4710 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 05, 2026
$4674 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$4674 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 16, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 23, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
$4650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Oct 30, 2026 - Nov 09, 2026
$4590 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 23, 2026
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Nov 27, 2026 - Dec 07, 2026
$3925 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Dec 11, 2026 - Dec 21, 2026
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Dec 18, 2026 - Dec 28, 2026
$3395 (USD)

Wednesday - Saturday

Dec 23, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027
$3650 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jan 08, 2027 - Jan 18, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Jan 22, 2027 - Feb 01, 2027
$3925 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Feb 05, 2027 - Feb 15, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Feb 19, 2027 - Mar 01, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 05, 2027 - Mar 15, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 12, 2027 - Mar 22, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 19, 2027 - Mar 29, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Mar 26, 2027 - Apr 05, 2027
$3250 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Similar Tours