Douro | Lisbon (Portugal) | Porto (Portugal)
The following are Signature: Portugal's Porto, Douro Valley, & Lisbon tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Welcome to Portugal. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Porto, one of the oldest settlement centres in Europe.You'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city's UNESCO-designated historical centre. In the evening, meet your fellow travellers and National Geographic Expedition Leader for an introduction to your journey and a short presentation from the National Geographic Expedition Expert. Set off on foot across the river into Vila Nova de Gaia for a welcome dinner, accompanied by a curated sampling of local wines.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Start the day with a walk to the Livraria Lello, widely considered to be one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, for an exclusive pre-opening tour with a specialist-bookseller. Peruse the stacks in quiet reverence amid the unique atmosphere of neo-gothic, art deco and art nouveau designs and the majestic central staircase. Next, board electric tuk-tuks for a guided exploration of UNESCO-listed Porto. Visit the awe-inspiring Sao Francisco Church, featuring over 200lbs (90.7kg) of gold leaf, the Romanesque Palacio da Bolsa and stop at the Sao Bento Railway Station to marvel at the dramatic azulejo tile panels. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to explore on your own before regrouping in the evening for a presentation from the expert and an optional dinner out with the group.
Join an expert bookseller for a private, early-access tour of the legendary Livraria Lello before it opens for the day. Discover the stories behind this architectural masterpiece and enjoy the rare opportunity to explore its world-famous interior in a peaceful, intimate setting.
Explore Porto's UNESCO-listed treasures on a privately guided tuk tuk tour, offering a comfortable and stylish way to see the city's most prestigious landmarks. Marvel at the opulent gold leaf of Sao Francisco Church and the Romanesque beauty of the Stock Exchange Palace before visiting the iconic Sao Bento Station.
Porto served as a cornerstone of the Age of Discovery, functioning as a primary maritime center and shipyard for the Portuguese fleet. The city's strategic importance is highlighted by its connection to Prince Henry the Navigator, who utilized Porto's resources to launch his historic voyages of exploration.
Travel to the Douro Valley, soaking in the scenery of rolling hills and dramatic, terraced vineyards. Stop in the charming town of Amarante for a stroll along the Tamega River, crossing the Sao Goncalo Bridge on the way to the historic Confeitaria da Ponte for coffee and a taste of some of the local sweets. Continue to a family-owned vineyard and winery for a tasting paired with a lunch of local specialties, highlighting the robust flavours borne from this unique terroir. In the evening, enjoy a discussion before dinner about the pivotal role of Portuguese wines throughout history.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Experience a taste of Amarante's history at Confeitaria da Ponte, the city's premier destination for regional delicacies since 1930. Located directly across from the historic bridge, this iconic shop is renowned for the quality of its traditional sweets and its stunning riverside terrace, providing a perfect vantage point over the Tamega River.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy a visit to the Sapateiro winery to sample a selection of fine local wines paired with regional cheeses, meats, and fresh breads. This tasting offers a relaxed opportunity to experience the estate's unique character and the traditional flavors of the area.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Set off from the hotel and take a scenic drive along the Douro River, stopping for a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare local dishes using fresh regional ingredients, and enjoy the delicious results as a farm-to-table lunch. Later, board a vessel for one of the most spectacular experiences in the area with a navigation along the emblematic Douro River. Feel the immense scale of the UNESCO-listed landscapes rising dramatically around you, revealing the heart, soul and magic of the valley.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the Douro Valley with a hands-on cooking class focused on authentic regional recipes.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the Douro Valley, where every turn reveals stunning, UNESCO-listed landscapes. Experience the river's timeless beauty on a cruise designed to showcase the most spectacular views in the region.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Bid the Douro Valley farewell and travel south towards Lisbon. The path is rich with history and storytelling, clearly seen in the city of Tomar, the former seat of the Order of the Knights Templar. Enjoy a guided walk and visit the Convent of Christ, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and chief work of the Portuguese Renaissance. Continue in the afternoon to Portugal's bustling capital, steeped in history and charm. In the evening, gather for dinner and a Fado performance, experiencing the deep, melancholic soul of Portugal through its music.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore the historic heart of Tomar on a guided walk that highlights the city's unique Templar heritage and architectural evolution. The experience features a visit to the magnificent Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Manueline design and storied military history.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sit down to a traditional meal and lend your ears to the sound of a performance by Portuguese folk music artists.
Be immersed in Lisbon's vibrant culture and history on a tour of the city's vibrant neighbourhoods and iconic monuments. Visit Jeronimos Monastery, built with the profits of the spice trade and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunch is at a community restaurant which promotes the integration of refugees and immigrants through training-celebrating empowerment and diversity within Lisbon's diverse communities. Continue to Sao Roque Church, whose chapels are extraordinary masterpieces then visit the Carmo Convent Archaeological Museum, a haunting reminder of the 1755 earthquake. The evening is free for dinner on your own.
Discover the historic streets of Lisbon on a guided walk that traces the city's maritime legacy and its pivotal role during the Age of Discovery. The journey includes a visit to the iconic Conserveira de Lisboa, a traditional shop that has preserved the city's storied canning heritage since 1930.
Built with the riches of the spice trade, the Jeronimos Monastery is a pinnacle of Portuguese artistry and a landmark of global history. It holds the distinction of being among the first European sites recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional universal value.
This venue promotes the integration of refugees and immigrants through training and employability. They value people's knowledge, experience and culture and these are the elements we use to facilitate inclusion and create more diverse, vibrant communities.
Visit the Church of Sao Roque to witness one of the world's most opulent displays of Baroque art and gold-leaf craftsmanship.
Explore the evocative ruins of the Carmo Archaeological Museum, a roofless Gothic convent preserved as a striking memorial to the 1755 earthquake.
Head west to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe and an iconic landmark. Stand on the dramatic cliffs and marvel at the spectacular, windswept views of the expansive Atlantic - a powerful connection to the ocean that defined Portugal's history. Continue to Sintra, a 19th-century resort town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guided tour immerses you in the region's Romanticism, including visits to the colourful Pena Palace and the intriguing, eclectic architecture of Quinta da Regaleira. Back in Lisbon, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner, celebrating your exploration of Portugal's historic and diverse past and present.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Photo stop where "a terra se acaba e o mar comeca..." which means "Where the land ends and the sea begins". It's the westernmost point of continental Portugal, as well as of continental Europe. Enjoy a panoramic view over the Serra de Sintra. Historical records indicate that there was a fort on Cabo da Roca in the 17th century that played an important part in guarding the entrance to Lisbon's harbour, forming a defensive line along the coast, especially during the Peninsular Wars.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Situated in the hills of Sintra, Pena Palace and its surrounding park are one of the greatest expressions of 19th-century romanticism in Portugal. With clear Manueline influence and Moorish architectural styles, the palace is built in a such a way as to be visible from any point in the park. Tour the Palace and park and learn about the Palace's origins and influences throughout Portuguese history.
Explore the mystical estate of Quinta da Regaleira on a guided walk through its enigmatic gardens, hidden tunnels, and the iconic "Initiation Well."
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Portugal's Porto, Douro Valley, & Lisbon tour:
Douro, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal
Praça D. Filipa de Lencastre 62
Porto, Portugal-4050-259
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Portugal's Porto, Douro Valley, & Lisbon tour:
Max 22.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, PortoSignature Moment: Livraria Lello Private Visit, PortoYour Foodie Moment: Cooking Class, Lamego. Arrival and Departure Transfers. Port Wine Tasting. Porto Tuk Tuk Tour. Expedition Leader-Led Walk of the Sao Goncalo Bridge. Pastry and Coffee at Confeitaria da Ponte. Regua to Pinhao Boat Cruise. Guided Tour of Tomar. Fado Night with Traditional Portuguese Meal. Expert Lisbon City Tour. Jeronimos Monastery Visit. Maritime Museum Visit. Sao Roque Church Visit. Carmo Archaeological Museum Visit. Cabo da Roca Viewpoint. Guided tour of Pena Palace. Guided tour of Quinta da Regaleira. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Explore the colourful Pena Palace and the eclectic Quinta da Regaleira in the UNESCO-listed hills of Sintra, Join a cooking class at a traditional quinta learning to prepare local dishes in the heart of the Douro Valley, Visit the historic Port Wine Caves for a cellar tour dinner and sampling of locally produced wines, Dine at Mezze, a social enterprise promoting the integration and employability of refugees and immigrants, Experience the melancholic soul of Portugal with a Fado performance and dinner in Lisbon.
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (7 nts).
7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, tuk tuk, river boat, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a National Geographic Signature tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.