Portuguese Riches Self-Drive Tour – Portugal

Arrival at Oporto airport.   Welcome at Oporto airport by your driver. Private transfer to your hotel in Oporto.   Take a nice walk though the old city of Oporto, the Clérigos tower (from outside) emblem of the city, the train station São Bento famous for its magnificent azulejos, the Sé cathedral.   Continue your way until the Ribeira, passing though a maze of small winding and colourful streets, the photogenic square of the same name which opens onto the quays and offers a great view of the Douro River and its iron bridges.   Dinner with Fado performance in the centre of Oporto. Tasting menu (starter, main course, dessert and coffee/tea) with choice of drink (red wine, white wine, mineral water). Night in a charming B&B in the heart of Porto. Included: private transport, dinner, drinks, show, room & breakfast

Feel free to visit us on the nearby riverbank. Vila Nova de Gaia awaits you for a visit to one or more wineries. If there is a lot to do on the Port side, its neighbour is not to be outdone and offers many activities. From its quays you will enjoy the most beautiful views of Oporto. Don't miss its rabelos, traditional boats that were once used to transport the barrels of Port wine to the city. Visit Cockburn's Winery :   One of the largest of the sixty or so Port wineries in Vila Nova de Gaia. Learn all about the different Port wines, from the grape to our taste buds. Classic tasting of 3 house Port wines.   Guided tour in French or English with the winery's own guide. approx. 2 hours.     In the heart of Vila Nova de Gaia, discover the new WOW (World of Wine) area, due to open in 2020. There are 6 museums focusing on wine, of course, but also on the history of chocolate and cork production. The area also has 9 restaurants, a concentration of the best local specialities. The space is both modern and friendly, with panoramic views over the city of Porto. Choice of admission to one of the permanent museums included   Night in a charming B&B in the heart of Porto. Included: wine tasting, entrance fees mentioned in the program, room & breakfast

Meet your driver at the entrance to your accommodation. You will be driven to the rental agency. Vehicule with manual gearbox rental. Automatic transmission available. Pick-up at the rental agency counter at Porto airport.   Visit of Amarante. The Romanesque town with its photogenic bridge over the Tamego River. Take the time to enjoy the historic center of this small city om the edge of the Douro Valley.   Then you can continue your journey to the heart of the Port wine estate, Sabrosa, with its rich stately homes and the birthplace of a certain Fernão de Magalhães better known as Magellan.   A short distance from Vila Real is the Casa de Mateus : This is a sumptuous 18th century Baroque palace whose main attraction lies in its gardens and its vast lake, which mirrors the image of the building with its dazzling white facade designed by the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni. The estate is also known for its century-old wine production.   Approximately 1 hour of visit.   Take advantage of your day in the Douro Valley to visit some of the region's most popular viewpoints from east to west: Sao Salvador do Mundo in Sao João da Pesqueira, Casal de Loivos (pinhão) or Sao Leonard da Galafura (Peso da Regua).   Night in a quinta in Carrazedo. Included: private transport, car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, entrance fees mentioned in the program, local guide, room & breakfast

Start your journey heading to the famous Casal de Loivos Mirador which offers a breathtaking view of the valley. Then you will drive all the way down to Pinhão in a green maze of terraced vineyards typical of the Douro Valley. Once you will be in this small isolated village, in the heart of the wineyards, you can choose to visit one of the Quintas or simply have a look on on the railway station, famous for its 19th century azulejos panels retracing the history of wine, and have some Wine and Tapas in the shop nearby. Meeting on the quays of Pinhao: Mini cruise on the Douro River departing from Pinhão aboard the Rabelo, a small wooden boat typical of the region which otherwise transported the wine in barrels to the Vila Nova de Gaia Cellars to age. This will offer you a different perspective and allow you to soak up its landscapes where vineyards predominate. The tour will include:   Departure of the cruise on the Rabelo boat Upstream navigation to the mouth of the Tua River Journey back to Pinhão Quay Glass of Port or Muscat wine served on board Duration of the cruise: about 2 hours, with the option for morning or afternoon tour.   The Quinta de la Rosa is located in the village of Pinhão, in the heart of the Douro wine region. Visit the winery to learn all about the region's wine culture.   Tasting of 4 Quinta wines (2 DOC and 2 Port). Tour lasts approx. 1 hour in English   Night in a quinta in Carrazedo. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, cruise, excursion (shared), , wine tasting, room & breakfast

Discover the historical centre of Lamego and the sanctuary Nossa Senhora dos Remédios with its impressive baroque double banister staircase. Take advantage of this visit to explore the surrounding area: Ucanha and the sparkling wine region as well as Salzedas and São Joao de Tarouca and its Cistercian monasteries.   Discover the studious city of Coimbra. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious cities in Portugal. Its historic centre is full of architectural treasures such as its Romanesque cathedral or "sé velha" designed by Master Robert, a French architect, which was opened to worship in 1184, or the church of Santa Cruz, a treasure of Manueline art.   The main monument you should definitly visit in Coimbra is the university and more specifically its library. A university town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.   Visit one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Built in 1308, the University of Coimbra consists of several buildings including the Royal Palace of Schools which is the historical and literary heart of the university and is composed of various rooms, then the São Miguel Chapel. The discovery ends with the Joanina Library (subject to availability), this early 18th century Baroque treasure, built on the ruins of an old medieval prison, contains thousands of books dedicated to Knowledge on three floors, with works of inestimable value due to their antiquity and exclusivity.   Entries included Note: For obvious conservation reasons, the university limits the number of daily entries in the library. The visit is therefore by tour with a specific visiting time (subject to availability at the time of booking).   Night in a guesthouse in Coimbra. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, entrance fees mentioned in the program, room & breakfast

Visit of Fatima and its sanctuary Jacinta, Lucia and Francisco, young shepherds, were witnesses during the year 1917 to several apparitions of Our Lady asking them to pray for peace in the world. Thus was born the cult of Our Lady of Fatima, where a few years later one of the most important contemporary sanctuaries in the Catholic world was built and where millions of pilgrims gather every year to share their faith with key dates, every 13th from May to October, days of devotion where great pilgrimages take place.   It is time to discover the surprising village of Óbidos. A simple stroll through the typical streets of the city is enough to immerse yourself in its centuries of history. Given as a dowry to Queen Isabel in 1282, the town, surrounded by a crenellated wall, is a perfect example of the fortresses of yesteryear. It is entered through a medieval gate decorated with beautiful azulejos dating from the 18th century and opening onto a maze of winding cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Take the time to walk through the streets of this real open-air museum.   Let's heading to the famous Nazaré. This typical fishing village is known for its clichés of old ladies with black pleated and superimposed petticoats as well as for its hudge waves. The panoramic view of the turbulent ocean from its promontory is exceptional. This viewpoint is also linked to the cult of Our Lady of Nazaré where a chapel and sanctuary have been built, a maritime stop giving the opportunity to observe the quiet life of a small Portuguese village whose traditions are entirely linked to the sea.   Night in a charming hotel in Batalha. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, room & breakfast

On your way, take a detour and join a guided tour of an olive grove in Abrantes Learn about olive cultivation, the history of the mill dating back to the 17th century (museum) and the olive oil production process. Tasting of three olive oils and a glass of wine from their production. This experience will be accompanied by local products such as cheeses and charcuterie. Duration: 2h/2h30 Visit of Evora. Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986, its centre surrounded by medieval ramparts resembles a medina with its small winding streets where terraces and colourful patios invite you to stroll. From Praça do Giraldo, a walking tour of about 2000 years can be made: the church of São Francisco, which began the Manueline period and is famous for its Chapel of the Bones, the Roman-Gothic cathedral, the Roman Temple of Diana and the Velha University founded in the 16th century.   Night in a guesthouse in Evora. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, local guide, olive oil tasting, snacks, wine tasting, room & breakfast

Évora is a good starting point for discovering the most beautiful towns in the Alentejo.   Pass through Estremoz for its beautiful marble houses, ramparts and old medieval quarter. Continue on to the Palace of the Dukes of Bragança at Vila Viçosa. Continue on to Corval, the village of potters, before reaching the ancient medieval village of Monsaraz. A little further down is the artificial Alqueva lake, one of the largest in Western Europe. The Alqueva reserve is ideal for star-gazing.       Night in a guesthouse in Evora. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, room & breakfast

Today, you leave the Alentejo region and head inland for the Algarve: To discover the cultural heritage of south-central Alentejo, choose the small village of Alvito and its Mudéjar-influenced paladin castle, or Viana do Alentejo, with its blend of white and ochre tones. Built under the reign of Don Dinis, its castle is surrounded by walls, themselves delimited by strange cylindrical towers. Its church is one of Portugal's most interesting Manueline temples, whose architect was none other than the founder of the Belem tower, We recommend combining these visits with a break at one of the wineries in the Vidigueira area, such as the Quinta do Quetzal in Vila de Frades, which not only offers a visit to its (modern) cellars, but also a pleasant lunch in its colorful restaurant... Next stop : Algarve.   Enjoyz and discover these places :   Faro, the capital of the Algarve. The old town is encircled by a Moorish wall that guards the Gothic Sé cathedral. Outside these walls you'll find the Ria Formosa nature park, which can be visited by boat, with stops on the immense sandbanks. Don't miss the marina, the Igreja do Carmo and the intriguing Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones). Tavira, a traditional Portuguese town with Moorish influences, let yourself be charmed by the serenity that emanates from the colorful or tiled houses, the streets of the old Arab quarter, or the Gilão River, crossed by the town's emblem: the Ponte Romana. Tavira boasts a rich historical heritage, with the ruins of the fortress offering a beautiful view over the town, as well as 37 churches, including the Igreja de Santa Maria, built on the foundations of the Algarve's largest mosque.   Night in a quinta in Algoz. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, room & breakfast

Departing from Portimão, take to the sea for a 1.5-hour cruise to discover the famous Benagil Cave. Note: Activity depending on weather conditions, possibility of snorkling. A picturesque gem, Carvoeiro is a must-see during your stay.   A fishermen's village with beautiful little houses clinging to the hillside overlooking the beach, it's also a small shopping town, a nature and gastronomy lover's paradise and the starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, which offers incredible panoramic views. Night in a quinta in Algoz. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, cruise, room & breakfast

Visit Sagres on your own. A surfing destination blessed with unspoilt natural beauty, where you can stroll over the cliffs of Cape St. Vincent, the tip of Western Europe. We also suggest a stroll through the village and fishing port, not forgetting the Sagres fortress and chapel. Take a moment to enjoy Lagos, the jewel of the Algarve which combines cultural riches and natural wonders. The historic centre has kept its authenticity with its cobbled streets and monuments such as the emblematic Igreja de Santo António, the Mercado dos Escravos - one of the first slave markets in Europe, and the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira. You can also enjoy a walk along the fishing ports. Visit Silves in the Algarve's hinterland, a charming medieval town. Discover its hilltop castle and 12th-century cathedral. Night in a quinta in Algoz. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, room & breakfast

Drive to Lisbon through the Alentejano South West Park and the Costa Vicentina. Along the way, take time to stop off at some of the region's villages.   Route Pontal da Carrapateira (à faire à pied, en vélo ou en voiture) Pontal da Carrapateira route (on foot, by bike or by car) Hikes from the village of Bordeira to the sea or inland Vale do Telha (panoramic tour from Monte Clerigo to Arrifana beach) Stroll through the historic center of Aljezur, up to the castle Visit to the pretty village of Odeceixe and its photogenic beach Walk in the Almograve dunes Discover Porto Covo, source of the fishermen's trail   Return the vehicle to the agency counter at Lisbon airport. Reception at rental agency by your driver. Private transport to your accommodation. Night in a guesthouse in central Lisbon, close to the Mercado da Ribeira. Included: car rental, insurance, unlimited mileage, private transport, room & breakfast

Today is dedicated to the discovery of the city of Lisbon. Walking though the streets of the different districts is the better way to feel the city of the seven hills. From the Baixa district with its amazing squares and palaces to the oldest district of Alfama, passing by all of the sight seeing that can offer this great city. At night, the Bairro Alto wake up with all of its restaurants and bars. Lisbon is a living city which will surprise you with its beauty, culture and contrasts, Suggested places to go shopping: The capital offers plenty of places to go shopping. You'll find major international names as well as small independent boutiques selling handicrafts.   Avenida de Principe Real Avenida da Liberdade LX Factory Rua Garett (Chiado) Overnight in a guesthouse in central Lisbon, close to the Mercado da Ribeira. Included: room & breakfast

Start your tour from the center of Lisbon: Discover the city by bike along the banks of the Tagus from the Place du Commerce to the emblematic Belém district. Stop at the Mirador of the MAAT museum to admire the view. You'll then pass the Monument das Descobertas, the Monastère dos Jerónimos and the famous Belém Tower. On the way back, enjoy a pastel de nata, the country's star pastry. Electrically assisted bike and helmet. Bottle of water and snack included (1 coffee and 1 pastry/person). English-speaking guide (French-speaking subject to availability). Duration: approx. 3h (10am-1pm or 2pm-5pm) Minimum height: 1.50m Maximum weight: 118kg   Discover by your own the LX Factory, a former textile factory in Lisbon's Alcântara district, where the factories have been refurbished to house a mix of artists, booksellers, restaurants... A concentration of Lisbon's latest trends. Night in a guesthouse in central Lisbon, close to the Mercado da Ribeira. Included: coffee break, equipment rental, excursion (shared), english speaking guide, room & breakfast

Private transfer from your hotel to Lisbon airport, according to your flight schedule.   Departure from Lisbon Included: private transport