Discover Lisbon, Portugal and the beautiful rolling landscape and gastronomic delights of the Douro Valley on this fascinating vacation by rail.
The colorful capital Lisbon, Portugal is steeped in history and is easy to fall in love with and an excellent play to start.
Enjoy a trip to the World Heritage site of Sintra, and the coastline that is Portugal’s Riviera, then take the highspeed train north to vibrant Porto for two nights. Then, take the water for a full-day cruise along the winding and dramatic Douro river to Pinhão. Spend a night in the picturesque Douro valley, and enjoy a tour of the wine estate and some well-earned wine tastings that make the region world-famous before enjoying the scenic train journey back to Porto and the end of your trip.
DAY 1 Your journey begins in Lisbon, Portugal
Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal! On arrival, head to your hotel for check-in, then get out to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Aside from being packed with history, character, and culture, the city also boasts colorful, century-old wooden trams and iron funiculars that travel up and down the charming, narrow streets. (Overnight in Lisbon, Portugal)
DAY 2 Lisbon, Portugal
Use your Lisbon Card to save time and money while discovering the city’s best attractions and experiences. Featuring free entry to more than 20 museums and attractions and unlimited public transport, the Lisbon Card is the perfect way to get to know Lisbon. The Praca do Comercio is the unmissable heart of the city, and from here, why not head to the Pradao dos Descobrimentos and the impressive medieval Belem Tower? From here, it is just a short stroll to the iconic Pastéis de Belem bakery for some delicious, traditional tarts. Perhaps pay a visit to the world heritage-listed Jerónimos Monastery nearby. (Overnight in Lisbon, Portugal)
DAY 3 Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril day trip
Join a small group tour today to Sintra – a village of UNESCO World Heritage. The former summer residence of the Portuguese Kings is home to the Pena Palace. Dating from the 16th century, Pena Palace is one of the world’s most beautiful castles. Following lunch, you will slowly return to Lisbon via the coast and following stops at Cabo da Roca – the most westerly point of Europe, the pretty fisherman village of Cascais, and the beaches of Estoril. In the evening, wander the historic Barrio Alto neighborhood for a great selection of local bars and restaurants for dinner and some fantastic city views to match. (Overnight Lisbon, Portugal)
DAY 4 Porto
Today we leave Lisbon, Portugal and travel by high-speed train to Porto and enjoy the fantastic scenery as the line follows the coastline. Famous for its delicious wine and cuisine, historic city center, and friendly locals, this is one destination that does not disappoint. Once settled, head out and start making use of your 2-day sightseeing pass. (Overnight in Porto)
DAY 5 Porto
Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to create your itinerary and explore the city! Popular stops include Villa Nova de Gaia, Sé Catedral, Clérigos Church, Teleférico, and traditional wine cellars. In the evening, perhaps feast of a Francesinha? The sauce-soaked meat sandwich is a local favorite! (Overnight in Porto)
DAY 6 The Douro River
Make your way to the river this morning and enjoy breakfast onboard as your boat sets sail upstream along the picturesque Douro river. Sit back and enjoy the fantastic views as the river winds around beautifully steep hills. Eat lunch onboard as the boat navigates through several impressive dams before arriving in Pinhão. Next, transfer to your hotel in the heart of the Douro Valley. Enjoy your included dinner. (Overnight Alijó)
DAY 7 The Douro Valley
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then visit a nearby Quintas. Explore the spectacular gardens and vineyards before tasting some of the wines this land produces. Eat a delicious lunch in iron pots and listen to beautiful local music. Following lunch, you are transferred to Pinhão station for your scenic train ride back to Porto. Be sure to explore the small station before you leave. Many people recognize the small station to be the most beautiful in Portugal! (Overnight in Porto)
DAY 8 Your journey ends in Porto
Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue your travels elsewhere.
If you have any questions, or are ready to start discussing a vacation to Lisbon, Portugal, reach out to me today.
