Lisbon, São Miguel & Madeira

Suggestion for the day:

• Visit Sintra: Historically known as being the illustrious home to Portugal’s most storied monarchs, the town of Sintra is not only historically relevant, but aesthetically speaking, it is a true marvel of magnificence and romantic beauty. This dream destination is also known as being filled with heavenly mansions tucked among rolling green hillsides, and fantastical castles that make you feel as if you have stepped into an actual real-life fairytale, including must-see marvels of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra, Palácio da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira, the Castelo dos Mouros, and the Palácio de Monserrate.
  • Pena National Palace
  • Local pastries (travesseiros de Sintra)
  • Ginginha (local licour)
  • Quinta da Regaleira
  • Monserrate Palace
  • Moorish Castle
  • Old-Town 

Welcome to the Azores Islands! 

Suggestion for the day:

It’s time to explore Ponta Delgada, the main city, that beckons not only with its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, but also with its status as the economic heart of the archipelago. Ponta Delgada evokes all the charms of Europe with cobbled streets, sidewalk cafes, and a thriving culinary scene. 

• Simply Stroll Through Ponta Delgada’s Cobblestone Streets: Start your São Miguel discovery with a leisurely stroll along Ponta Delgada's charming city streets. Admire the architecture, from historical buildings to colorful houses. Peek into local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
• Portas da Cidade: Standing proudly at the entrance to Ponta Delgada, the Portas da Cidade (City Gates) serve as a symbolic gateway to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This imposing monument, constructed in 1783, has witnessed centuries of transformations and played a significant role in the island's development. Adorned with three majestic stone arches, the Portas da Cidade showcases a blend of architectural styles, with the central arch standing taller and adorned with intricate Baroque elements. The central arch proudly displays the coat of arms of Portugal, symbolizing the island's connection to the mainland, while the coat of arms of Ponta Delgada signifies the city's unique identity. Originally situated near the harbor, the Portas da Cidade marked the entrance to the walled city of Ponta Delgada. Over time, the city expanded, and the gates were relocated to their current position in Praça Gonçalo Velho Cabral, a central square bustling with activity.
• Matriz Church: Visit the impressive Matriz Church, a beautiful example of Azorean religious architecture right in the city center.
• Pineapple Paradise: Embark on a unique adventure to a nearby pineapple plantation. Learn about the island's pineapple production, witness these fascinating plants, and perhaps even enjoy a refreshing pineapple treat.

The thermal hot spot of the Azores! Furnas Valley is the center of São Miguel's unique geothermal activity. Here you can visit two active volcanic sites to see the boiling caldeiras in action, as well as the gorgeous Terra Nostra Park, multiple hot spring pools for soaking and swimming, and the stunning Furnas Lake that's perfectly sized for an afternoon hike - and, if you time your visit to Furnas Lake just right, you might catch the locals taking their steaming hot Cozido stew out of the ground alongside the caldeiras! From thermal pools to mineral springs, caldeiras to culinary treats, and everything in between: Come explore the majestic and mysterious wonders of Furnas Valley in São Miguel. Here are some highlights of your tour:

• Lagoa das Furnas: This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by the steep peaks of the ancient Furnas mountain and its lush, green rim. Visitors can enjoy several hiking trails around the lake, as well as several beautiful parks and the iconic Neo-Gothic Chapel of Nossa Senhora das Vitórias.
• Cozido das Furnas Lunch: A longstanding tradition among the locals, this beloved popular dish is a Portuguese stew (cozido) cooked in holes known as fumaroles that are dug in the hot volcanic soil in Furnas. The stew is comprised of a carefully layered pot of pork, beef, chicken, sausages, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and kale that is cooked slowly in the ground for around 6 hours.
• Caldeiras das Furnas: In the center of town, Furnas boasts close to 30 bubbling, steaming calderas and fumaroles of different temperatures and biological compositions, the strong smell of sulfur wafting through the air at every turn. Unsurprisingly, the locals have made the best of having these natural steam pots around. Temperatures range from 70ºC (158ºF)  to 100ºC (212ºF) which is perfect for cooking (but dangerous to get too close to!) 
• Gorreana Tea Plantations: Nestled amidst the lush greenery of São Miguel Island in the Azores archipelago, the Gorreana Tea Plantations stand as a testament to the island's rich history and unique terroir. Established in 1883 by António Agostinho da Silva, Gorreana is the oldest tea plantation in Europe still in operation. A visit to Gorreana Tea Plantations is an immersive experience that unveils the secrets behind the production of world-renowned Azorean tea. Visitors can wander through the verdant tea fields, where rows of tea bushes stretch towards the horizon, basking in the gentle caress of the Atlantic breeze. The air is perfumed with the delicate aroma of tea leaves, a symphony of nature's finest fragrances.

Welcome to Madeira Island, the Island of Eternal Spring!

Suggestion for the day:

• Explore the heart of Funchal on foot. Discover Madeira's vibrant capital, a gem nestled between lush hills and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Funchal exudes Portuguese charm, offering a captivating blend of rich history and lively modern spirit.
  • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market)
  • Sé Cathedral
  • Santa Clara Convent
  • Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art)
  • Blandy's Wine Lodge
  • Zona Velha (Old Town)
  • Praça do Município (Municipal Square)
  • Fortaleza de São Tiago (São Tiago Fort)
  • Marina and Waterfront

Suggestions for the day:

• Take the Day to Explore Funchal's Botanical Gardens: Discover the natural wonders of Funchal with a day dedicated to exploring its renowned botanical gardens, featuring the iconic Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
  • Start your day immersed in the exotic beauty of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Lose yourself amidst its lush greenery, unique cultural exhibits, and perhaps even a graceful swan or two.
  • Then, go on an exhilarating Monte Toboggan ride, a one-of-a-kind adventure where wicker baskets whisk you down the streets.
  • Continue your botanical journey at the Funchal Botanical Garden in the city center. Marvel at the diverse plant life while enjoying breathtaking coastal vistas.
  • Throughout the day, savor the tranquility of these gardens. Capture vibrant floral colors, fragrant scents, and the unique essence of Madeira's natural wonders.
• Bid farewell to Madeira with a Typical Night Dinner: Immerse yourself in the island's vibrant culture with a delicious 3-course dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a lively folklore show where you can even try out the traditional dances! Cap off the night with breathtaking views of Funchal's twinkling lights from a scenic viewpoint. Pick-u/drop-off is included in hotels in Funchal's city center. Schedule your typical dinner here.

We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and all the best until next time!