Portugal: Lisbon & Island Life

Experience Lisbon’s historical buildings, colorful streets and stunning panoramic views. Head up to the Sanctuary of Christ the King, an iconic monument that overlooks the city. Soak in stunning vistas from the observation deck at the foot of the landmark before going to Edward VII Park. Located in the city center, this vantage point offers panoramic views of downtown, Tagus River and 25th April Bridge. Then, follow your guide through the upscale neighborhood of Principe Real, known for its heritage mansions. Arrive at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, surrounded by lush gardens adorned with fountains and intricate ironwork. From its elevated position, enjoy splendid views of the ancient Alfama district. Next, visit Saint George’s Castle, superbly sited on a hilltop. Stroll along its ramparts and towers to hidden lookouts. Finally, stop at Miradouro das Portas do Sol for gorgeous views of the National Pantheon and waterfront to conclude your tour. (Duration: half day; Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Meals are not included; Entry fee to Castelo Sao Jorge included; Fitness level: easy)

Experience the vibrant culture of Portugal through music and food on this immersive tour. At the scheduled time, you will be picked up by private vehicle and driven to the restaurant in Lisbon’s Alfama neighborhood. Settle down at your table and take in the charming ambience of the dining area with its columns, arches and an ogival ceiling, reminiscent of a bygone era. Relish traditional Portuguese cuisine as you listen to a live performance of Fado songs accompanied by guitar music. The Fado genre of music traces its origins to the early 19th century and typically comprises mournful tunes and lyrics after, return to your hotel with cherished memories. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 2100 hrs (pick-up at 1945 hrs) Shared activity; Private transfers; Meals included: dinner (choice of one appetizer, one main course and one dessert) & drinks; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Recommended for guests aged 18 and above)

Immerse yourself in the cultural and natural beauty of the Portuguese Riviera on this leisurely tour from Lisbon. Visit Sintra, one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal, where the historic Pena Castle is located. Enjoy visit of Palacio da Pena, perched on a mountain range. The Palace of Pena was classified as a National Monument in 1910 and ranks as the single most important site in the Cultural Landscape of Sintra, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage in 1995. Travel on to Cape Roca to enjoy panoramic views from the westernmost point of continental Europe. Pass by the famous surfing beach of Guincho to reach the idyllic holiday destination of Cascais. Discover the historical center of this erstwhile fishing town and walk down its streets dotted with restaurants and quaint storefronts. The upscale resort town of Estoril, once a favorite destination of European royals, makes for an ideal last stop before you head back. (Duration:8hrs; Starting Time: 900 hrs; Ending Time: 1700 hrs; We recommend to start at 9 am to avoid the crowds in Sintra; Private Activity & Transfers; Admission to Pena Palace Included; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that this activity involves some walking.)

Immerse yourself in the history of the Alentejo region on this fascinating tour. Drive across the scenic countryside, past the olive groves, vineyards and cork oaks that dot the sprawling plains. Travel back in time at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Evora, with its cluster of well-preserved medieval buildings. Walk down the narrow alleyways with your expert guide to the Roman Temple, a splendid example of Roman architecture. Stop by the unique 17th century Chapel of Bones with its collection of human skulls. Head to the ornately designed Cathedral of Evora, one of the oldest in the country. Travel on to the charming medieval village of Monsaraz that sits ensconced within an imposing castle that attests to its medieval past. (Duration: 8hrs; Starting Time: 0900 hrs; Ending Time: 1700 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Admission to Bones Chapel Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Discover the unique natural beauty and history of the golden island of Porto Santo. Drive from your hotel to the Funchal port and hop into a ferry boat. As you sail along the southern coast of Madeira, enjoy beautiful views of the steep coastline, and verdant mountains and hilltop houses with tiled roofs on the approaching island. Disembark on the “golden” sands and climb into a vehicle to drive around the island which is nearly eight million years older than Madeira! You can also visit the prismatic columns of the Facho and Castelo peaks. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the island, including the history behind its emblematic windmills and pirate attacks through the ages. Later, you will make your way to Casa Colombo, a Portuguese history museum which recreates the original house where the explorer Christopher Columbus lived. In the evening, relax on the white sands of the beach, enjoying the sound of waves and the tranquility before you sail back to Funchal. (Duration: 14 hrs; Time: 0730 hrs to 2130 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness level: Moderate; Includes a driver guide and ferry admission. Please carry a bathing suit, windbreaker, sneaker, water and sunscreen.)

Hike through picturesque green landscapes, lagoons and waterfalls to Caldeirão Verde with a private guide. Begin in the Queimadas Forestry Park and follow the walkway of the Caldeirão Verde levada, an impressive aqueduct which was built in the 18th century in the Santana municipality. Pass through steep cliffs and mountains as you descend into the deep valley of the São Jorge brook. Take in spectacular views of the terrain in the interior of the island and walk through tunnels carved out of rock. Emerge out in front of the Caldeirão Verde Lake. Sit for a while and take in the beautiful vistas before you set out on your return trip back to the Park. (Duration: Full Day; Timings: 9:00 to 17:00; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate as it is a 12km hike; Please wear comfortable clothes, hiking boots/sneakers and a windbreaker jacket.)

Discover the outdoor attractions of the Funchal region on this enjoyable tour. Drive out to the fishing village of Camara de Lobos to sample the world famous Madeira wines. Stop by the Henriques and Henriques wine cellars, where you can taste your pick of excellent vino including ones dating back to the 19th century. Travel past the town of Sao Vicente to reach Porto Muniz, that sits by the sea. You could enjoy a traditional lunch with fresh seafood before heading to the natural volcanic pools for a leisurely dip. Afterwards, drive along a picturesque mountain road to reach the plateau of Paul da Serra, situated at an altitude of nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Capture stunning images of the Madeira mountains and the scenic landscape as your expert guide shares details about the region’s history and geography. (Duration: 8hrs; Starting Time: 0900/1000 hrs; Ending Time: 1700/1800 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Wine Tastings Included; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that this activity involves some walking. Do bring along a swimsuit.)