Portugal: Cultural Gems & Azores Nature

• True Portuguese Soul in Lisbon Half-Day (Included): Join me for a unique journey through Lisbon's soul! We'll begin at the grand Praça do Comércio, diving into Portugal's history with a touch of secret stories. Then, we delve into Alfama, my neighborhood. This 2,000-year-old labyrinth comes alive with sizzling barbecues, playful children, and Moorish-Jewish architecture. Feel the village vibe, the heart of Fado music, with traditional taverns everywhere. Savor a taste of our famous Ginjinha liqueur for an energy boost before conquering the hills. Stunning viewpoints like Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia will leave you breathless. We'll continue to Mouraria, stopping at the Castel neighborhood to recharge with Lisbon's best custard tart (awarded in 2019!). Next, soak in the panoramic beauty of Chão do Loureiro before exploring Mouraria's streets, brimming with Fado's roots, trendy restaurants, and vibrant bars. I'll reveal my secret spots, ensuring you experience Lisbon like a local.

• Sintra Deluxe Full-Day Tour (Included): This adventure whisks you to Sintra, a UNESCO gem. Explore Pena Palace, a dazzling testament to Romanticism. Immerse yourself in Sintra's fairytale charm, captivating kings and poets for centuries. Breathe in the expansive views at Cabo da Roca, mainland Europe's westernmost tip. Our coastal journey concludes with charming Cascais and Estoril. Pena Palace Admission Included! (lunch €18 optional).

• Fátima, Óbidos, Nazaré, & Batalha Full-Day Tour (Included): Immerse yourself in Portugal's rich history on a captivating West Coast tour! Journey through time as you explore the charming, walled town of Óbidos, its streets lined with whitewashed houses. Marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Alcobaça and Batalha Monasteries, the latter a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Savor a delicious lunch in the picturesque town of Nazaré (optional, 18€). Your exploration concludes at the awe-inspiring Shrine of Fátima, a significant center of Catholic faith and pilgrimage.

Arrival in Porto and transfer to your hotel (included). To make the most of your stay and have a great start to your trip, consider adding early hotel check-in.

• Suggestion for the day: Walk around downtown Porto and get to know the city's unique highlights! These are some that you can't miss:
  • D. Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a walk across the bridge for a unique perspective, or hop on a tram for a thrilling ride.
  • Ribeira District: Explore the heart of Porto's historic center. Wander through the charming Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
  • Livraria Lello: A haven for bookworms, this historic bookstore boasts a beautiful neo-gothic facade and a grand staircase said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Be prepared for queues, though!
  • Torre dos Clérigos: Climb the 225 steps of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Don't miss the adjacent Igreja do Clerigos church, known for its baroque architecture.
  • Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto): This imposing Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in Porto. Climb the bell tower for stunning city views and admire the intricate architecture.
  • São Francisco Church: Immerse yourself in the extravagant Baroque style at São Francisco Church. Be sure to marvel at the opulent gilded woodwork and the azulejo tilework within.
  • Majestic Café: Step back in time at the Majestic Café, a Belle Époque gem known for its art nouveau interior and delicious Portuguese pastries.
  • Traditional Francesinha for lunch or dinner: Dive into the iconic Francesinha, a symphony of flavors you won't find anywhere else. This legendary sandwich stacks layers of savory goodness: tender steak, cured meats, and melty cheese, all wrapped in crispy bread. A secret-recipe beer sauce adds a delicious kick, making it a truly unique experience. Francesinha isn't just food, it's a Porto tradition. Embrace the local pride and embark on your own delicious adventure in Porto!

• A Day in Douro (Included): Immerse yourself in the magic of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where mountains cradle the mighty Douro River. This glorious region overflows with tradition, faith, and culture, offering experiences that defy description. Explore its rich tapestry with us, visiting the iconic Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies in Lamego. No Douro Valley experience is complete without a taste of Portugal's most celebrated libation: Port wine. Join us for a guided tour, a delectable lunch paired with exquisite wines, a scenic cruise in Pinhão, and memories that will last a lifetime. Daily departures at 9:00 am ensure you won't miss a beat.
   

• Tomar & Coimbra Full-Day Tour (Included): Embark on a royal adventure through Portugal's heart, uncovering the medieval marvels of Tomar and Coimbra. In Tomar, a UNESCO gem, explore the majestic Convent of Christ, a legacy of the Knights Templar. Continue to Coimbra, a vibrant city steeped in history, and delve into the prestigious halls of Portugal's oldest university, the Biblioteca Joanina. Your expert guide will unveil hidden stories and ensure a luxurious experience with private transportation in a Mercedes. This captivating journey promises an unforgettable glimpse into Portugal's glorious past.

As you arrive in the incredible São Miguel Island, the largest on the Azores archipelago, you'll be transfered to your hotel in Ponta Delgada (transfers included). We recommend adding early hotel check-in for a more comfortable arrival.

• Suggestions for the day:
  • Explore downtown Ponta Delgada and the picturesque cobblestone streets!
    • Portas da Cidades
    • Portas do Mar
    • Matriz Church
    • Louvre Michaelense (they are famous for having the best chocolate cake in the island called "O Segredo"- a must try!)
    • Farmers' Market (Mercado da Graça)
    • Downtown Museums (Museu Carlos Machado, Núcleo de Arte Sacra & Núcleo de Santo André)
    • Have lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants. From fresh fish to meat and vegetarian options, you will find several options in downtown Ponta Delgada
    • Or schedule a guided walking tour with a local guide here!
  • Whale-watching excursion: Navigate the waters where majestic whales and playful dolphins thrive on this half-day adventure. Witness these marine marvels in their natural habitat, departing from the south coast of the island. Strategically positioned lookout points ensure you don't miss a moment! This unforgettable experience combines the thrill of discovery with scientific knowledge, creating a fun and enriching adventure for the whole family. Click here to book this experience.

• West (Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo) Full-Day Tour Included: This westward adventure unveils São Miguel's diverse beauty. Immerse yourself in the volcanic wonder of Sete Cidades, marveling at its colorful lakes and dramatic viewpoints. Relax in steaming thermal pools (optional) at Caldeira Velha, a lush paradise. Savor a delicious Azorean lunch and discover the unique pineapple growing process at a local plantation. The day concludes with breathtaking views of Fogo Lake, a pristine gem nestled in the western hills (lunch, transportation & some entrance fees included).

• East (Furnas) Full-Day Tour Included: This tour delves into São Miguel's eastern magic. Journey along the scenic south coast to Senhora da Paz chapel, offering breathtaking views of Vila Franca do Campo and its islet. Descend into Furnas, a captivating town nestled in a volcanic crater. Witness the island's geothermal wonders, savor a local "cozido" stew cooked underground (optional thermal pool soak!), and soak in panoramic vistas of the lake and town. Continue east, marveling at the cascading Ribeira dos Caldeirões waterfall before returning to Ponta Delgada along the dramatic Northeast coast. Lunch and transportation are included. 

Thank you for choosing us! Wishing you a safe journey back home, and we look forward to the opportunity to travel with you again in the future.