Lisbon, Porto, and The Douro River

Lisbon, Porto, and The Douro River

Discover Portugal’s 2 largest cities, as well as the beautiful rolling landscape and gastronomic delights of the Douro Valley on this fascinating holiday by rail. Start in the colourful capital Lisbon, steeped in history it is a city that is easy to fall in love with. 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 to 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 wine estate and some well-earned tastings of the wine that makes the region world famous before enjoying the scenic train journey back to Porto and your journeys end.

What's Included:

• Rail travel as per itinerary
• 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Lisbon
• 3 nights’ accommodation with breakfast in Porto
• 1 night’s accommodation with dinner and breakfast in the Douro Valley
• Lisbon Card including:
• Free entry to over 20 museums and attractions
• Unlimited public transportation
• Specials offers in numerous restaurants and shops
• Day trip to Sintra and Cascais
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Porto
• Douro river cruise from Porto to Pinhão including lunch
• Tour of a Douro wine estate including tastings and lunch
• Local train from Pinhão to Porto

Day 1: Your Journey Begins in Lisbon

Welcome to Lisbon! 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 colourful, century-old wooden trams and iron funiculars that travel up and down the charming, narrow streets. (Overnight in Lisbon)

Day 2: Lisbon

Use your Lisbon Card to save both time and money while discovering the best attractions and experiences the city has to offer. Featuring free entry to more than 20 museums and attractions and unlimited public transport, it 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 impressive medieval Belem Tower. From here it is just a short stroll to the iconic Pasteis de Belem bakery for some delicious, traditional tarts, then perhaps pay a visit to the world heritage listed Jeronimos Monastery nearby. (Overnight in Lisbon) B

Day 3: Sintra, Cabo Da Roca, Cascais and Estoril Day Trip

Join a very 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 it is considered 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 be sure to wander the historic Barrio Alto neighborhood for a great selection of local bars and restaurants for dinner, as well as some fantastic views of the city to match. (Overnight Lisbon) B

Day 4: Porto

Travel by highspeed train to Porto and enjoy the wonderful scenery as the line follows the coastline. Famous for its delicious wine and cuisine, historic city centre, 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) B

Day 5: Porto

Use your included hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to create your own itinerary and explore the city! Popular stops include Villa Nova de Gaia, Se Catedral, Clerigos Church, Teleferico, and traditional wine cellars. In the evening perhaps feast of a Francesinha? the sauce-soaked meat sandwich is a local favorite! (Overnight in Porto) B

Day 6: The Douro River

Make your way down to the river this morning and enjoy breakfast onboard as your boat sets sail up-stream along the picturesque Douro river. Sit back and enjoy the fantastic views as the river winds around beautifully steeped hills. Lunch is served on board to the sound of nearby crickets, and the boat navigates its way through several impressive dams before arriving in Pinho£o, from where you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the Douro Valley. Dinner is included this evening. (Overnight Alijo) B/L/D

Day 7: The Douro River

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then visit a nearby Quintas. Here, explore the spectacular gardens and vineyards before tasting some of the wines this land produces. You will be served a delicious lunch cooked the traditional way in iron pots and be treated to some wonderful local music. Following lunch, you are transferred to Pinho£o station for your scenic train ride back to Porto but be sure to explore the small station before you leave as it is recognized as being Portugal's most beautiful! (Overnight in Porto) B/L

Day 8: Porto

Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. B