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13 Day Portuguese Culture & Heritage - Friday Departure

Days
13
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Aug 30, 2024
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Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Countries Visited

Portugal

Cities Visited

Lisbon , Porto , Regua

DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Portugal
Depart for Porto, Portugal

DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive in Porto
Arrive in Porto, world-famous for its port wine and transfer to your hotel. Most flights arrive in the early morning and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to begin to explore the city on your own. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 7 PM, followed by dinner. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 5 PM
Overnight: Porto
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Sunday - Guimarães, Porto City Tour
Today, head to the medieval city of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "birthplace of Portugal." Stroll through the charming streets lined with medieval buildings and soak in the atmosphere. Make your way to the Ducal Palace, dating back to the 15th century. This magnificent palace, served as the residence of the Dukes of Braganza, one of Portugal's most prominent noble families. Tour the exhibits, showcasing the history and art of Guimarães, and the Braganza family. After, walk by the Guimarães Castle where Alfonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal was born. Spend some free time before returning to Porto. On arrival, take a panoramic drive to the city center. Then, during the walking tour, view Porto Cathedral, Bento Train Station, famous for its azulejos tiles, and the medieval S. Francisco Church. Visit the Stock Exchange, renowned for its exquisite neoclassical façade and ornate gilded Arabian Hall. End the tour at The Wine Box, where you savor tapas paired with port wine
Overnight: Porto
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Monday - Church and Monastery of Saint Gonçalo de Amarante, Douro River Cruise
TToday's journey takes you to the charming city of Amarante, set along the banks of the River Tamega. Upon arrival, visit the Church and Monastery of Saint Goncalo de Amarante. The church's interior is decorated with beautiful religious art and ornate altars. Continue to the attached monastery, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the religious order that once inhabited this place. Once of the highlights of your visit is the tomb of Saint Goncalo, an important pilgrimage site for Catholics, who come from far and wide to pay their respects and seek blessings. Later, sample some of the traditional local sweet treats, before driving to a wine estate for lunch. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the charming town of Pinhão, from where you embark on a boat tour along the picturesque Douro River. Discover the heart of Portugal's Douro Valley, a UNECO World Heritage Site. Cruise past terraced vineyards that adorn the hillsides, cultivating some of the world's finest port wines. Following the cruise, depart Pinhão and continue to your hotel in Regua. Check into your room with time to settle in before dinner tonight
Overnight: Regua
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Tuesday - Wine Tasting, Mateus Palace, Douro Museum
Your day of discovery begins with a visit to the family-run wine estate, and vineyard located in the heart of the Douro Valley. During the tour, gain insight into the various stages of grape cultivation and wine production. Then, indulge in tastings of the estate's wines. Next, tour Mateus Palace, a Baroque manor house, located in the city of Vila Real. Explore the beautiful palace with its elaborate carved ceilings, intricate woodwork and sumptuous tapestries. Venture outside and stroll through the manicured gardens, designed in the formal French style. In the afternoon, visit the Douro Museum, housed in a restored former wine warehouse, and learn about the wine making industry of the area. Stroll through the exhibits providing information on the history of the Douro region, including the geography, climate and people. Return to the hotel
Overnight: Regua
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Wednesday - Sanctuary Our Lady of Remedies, Cooking Class, Viseu City Tour
Morning departure for delightful Lamego, nestled among the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley. Here, visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a revered pilgrimage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. On arrival, you will be greeted by an impressive Baroque staircase consisting of 686 steps adorned with intricate tilework and statues, symbolizing the Way of the Cross. At the top, visit the 18th century sanctuary with its striking façade and ornate interior, showcasing a blend of Baroque and Rococo styles. The main highlight is the venerated image of Our Lady of Remedies believed to have miraculous powers, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. Next, participate in a cooking class. A local chef will guide you through the secrets of authentic Portuguese cooking. Learn to create traditional dishes and master the art of combining spices and herbs to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Then, it's time to savor the fruits of your labor. Following lunch, take a city tour of Viseu, dating back to Roman times. View some of the city's highlights, before continuing to Serra Estrella. Arrive at the hotel in time for dinner
Overnight: Serra Estrela
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Thursday - Discover Monsanto, Real Alter Stud Farm
Begin the day with a drive to the picturesque village of Monsanto, known as the "Most Portuguese Village of Portugal." Walk through the narrow streets, paved with large stones and surrounded by ancient granite houses. Admire the houses that seem to be carved into rocks, creating a seamless blend of man-made structures with the natural landscape. View the Chapel of Sao Miguel, to get a glimpse into the village's religious heritage. Free time to explore on your own and try some local gastronomic delights. In the afternoon, depart towards Alter do Chão to tour the Real Alter Stud Farm, dating back to the 18th century. Walk around the grounds to view stallions, graceful mares, playful foals and learn about the breeding and training practices that have made this place renowned for producing exceptional Lusitano horses. Afterward, check into the hotel for dinner and overnight
Overnight: Alter do Chão
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 8, Friday - Portalegre Tapestry Museum, Medieval Marvão
An excursion this morning, takes you to the town of Portalegre, known for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite tapestry production, which dates back centuries. Visit the famous Portalegre Tapestry Museum, where you can marvel at an impressive collection of hand-woven tapestries. These intricate artworks showcase a fusion of traditional and contemporary designs, reflecting the region's history and artistic prowess. Afterward, travel to the medieval town of Marvão, perched on a rocky hilltop in the Alentejo region, near the Spanish border. Arrive in time for lunch and indulge in traditional dishes and regional chesses. Next, explore the historic center and walk along the narrow cobbled lanes, lined with whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. View the 13th century Marvão Castle, the crown jewel of the village and well-preserved town walls that encircle Marvão. Return to Alter do Chão and have dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Alter do Chão
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Saturday - Explore Evora, Beja City Tour, Home Hosted Lunch, Travel to Lagos
Departing Alter do Chão, head south to the heart of Alentejo province. Evora, one of Portugal's most enchanting cities, rose to prominence under the Romans and was later patronized by a succession of Portuguese kings. Discover the town's well-preserved massive walls and Roman Temple, Evora Cathedral, built between 12th and 13th centuries and Sao Francisco Church. Visit the famous Chapel of Bones, located within the church. This macabre yet fascinating chapel is entirely decorated with thousands of human bones. Proceed to view Evora's main square, the Praça do Giraldo, and the cobbled streets of this former royal town. Afterward, continue the drive to Beja. Take a tour of the city and view Beja Castle, a historic fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Then, join a local family in their home for a home hosted lunch and savor traditional dishes. Later, travel to southern Portugal's Algarve region with its rugged coastline, sandy-brown cliffs and azure waters. Arrive in Lagos, known for its walled Old Town and dramatic cliffs for overnight
Overnight: Lagos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 10, Sunday - Cabo de San Vicente, Sagres
This morning, head to Cabo de San Vicente, which is the most southwestern point of Europe. Marvel at the stunning cliffs and vast Atlantic Ocean as you stand at the edge of the continent. The cape holds great historical and maritime significance with a lighthouse that has been guiding sailors since the 16th century. Continue to the coastal town of Sagres, known for its enchanting beauty and rich history. Walk along the cobblestone streets dotted with quaint shops and charming cafes. Next, visit the Fort of Sagres, an ancient citadel perched atop cliffs and offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. The fort was once a strategic military stronghold and is associated with Prince Henry the Navigator, a key figure in the Age of Discoveries. Afterward, return to the hotel. In the afternoon, take an orientation tour of Lagos. Stroll through the Old Town and discover ancient walls, churches and charming shops selling local crafts
Overnight: Lagos
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 11, Monday - Setubal, Lisbon City Tour
Depart Lagos, and travel north towards Lisbon. Along the way, stop in the coastal city of Setubal. Venture into the Old Town, boasting narrow cobbled alleys, grand plazas and historic buildings including the Monastery of Jesus, considered to be the first monument built in Manueline style (Portuguese late-Gothic). Then, continue to the market* (Mercado do Livramento), View a vast array of stalls selling regional produce, freshly caught fish and local handicrafts. Spend free time before continuing the drive to Lisbon. On arrival, take a city tour, which begins at the treasured 16th century Belem Tower. Next, tour Jeronimos Monastery**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that today serves as a reminder of Portugal's wealth and power during the Age of Discovery. It's considered the most prominent achievement of the Manueline style of architecture. Proceed to the Monument of Discoveries, built in honor of Henry the Navigator. The monument, shaped like a ship's prow, stands majestically at the marina in Belem, starting point for many of Portugal's explorers and where Vasco da Gama embarked on his voyage to India. End with a stop at the top of Edward VII's Park to enjoy a magnificent view over the hills of Lisbon and the River Tagus. Tonight, travel to one of Lisbon's oldest districts for an unforgettable Fado performance of local songs accompanied by guitars, while savoring a typical Portuguese dinner*The market is closed on Mondays, thus it will be replaced with Casa da Baía.**Jeronimos Monastery is closed on Mondays, therefore it will be replaced with the Maritime Museum.
Overnight: Lisbon
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12, Tuesday - Full Day in Lisbon
Spend the day at leisure to further explore the city. Perhaps, take Lisbon's iconic Santa Justa lift that transports you from the lower streets of Baixa to the higher Largo do Carmo. From the top admire panoramic views of the city. Tonight at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Overnight: Lisbon
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 13, Wednesday - Depart Portugal
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

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Inclusions

Package Includes

  • Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
  • Flights New York-Porto, Lisbon-New York
  • Other departure cities available.
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • 11 nights First Class accommodations
  • 2 nights Porto
  • 2 nights Regua
  • 1 night Serra Estrela
  • 2 nights Alter do Chão
  • 2 nights Lagos
  • 2 nights Lisbon
  • Hotel taxes, fees & service charges
  • Hotel porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 23 meals: 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners
  • Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
  • Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
  • Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
  • Active itinerary with unique cultural features
  •  

    Tour Highlights

    Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.

  • Explore the medieval city of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • In Porto, visit the Stock Exchange, renowned for its exquisite neoclassical façade and ornate gilded Arabian Hall
  • Embark on a Douro River cruise and sail past terraced vineyards, cultivating some of the world's finest port wines
  • Tour a family-run vineyard and taste some of the estate's high-quality wines
  • Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, a revered pilgrimage site
  • Participate in a cooking class and learn the secrets of authentic Portuguese cooking
  • Discover the picturesque village of Monsanto, known as the "Most Portuguese Village of Portugal"
  • Visit the Real Alter Stud Farm, renowned for breeding exceptional Lusitano horses
  • At the famous Portalegre Tapestry Museum, view an impressive collection of hand-woven tapestries
  • In enchanting Evora, view the unique Chapel of Bones of Sao Francisco Church
  • Savor a traditional home hosted lunch with a local family in Beja
  • Spend time in Portugal's Algarve region with its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs and azure waters
  • Tour Lisbon's impressive Jeronimos Monastery, a prominent achievement of the Manueline style of architecture. Friday departures do not include the Jeronimos Monastery but instead will visit the Maritime Museum.
  • †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.


    Accommodation Details:
    Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Triple rooms will be accommodated in a twin and single at Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto.

    Health and Safety Protocols for Discovery By Gate1 Tours

    At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.

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    Accommodations

    Eurostars Aliados Hotel Porto
    This first class hotel is located in Porto, just a short walk from the city center.

    Lamego Hotel & Life
    This first class hotel is located in Lamego, overlooking the Douro River.

    Vila Gale Collection Douro
    This first class hotel is located on the banks of the Douro River.

    Vila Gale Collection Douro
    This first class hotel is located on the banks of the Douro River.

    Hotel Vila Gale Serra da Estrela
    This first class hotel is located in middle of the Zezere River Valley in Manteigas.

    Vila Gale Collection Alter Real
    This superior first class hotel is located in Alter do Chao, part of the Alter Stud Farm.

    Tivoli Lagos Algarve Hotel
    This first class hotel is located in the city center of Lagos.

    AVANI Avenida Liberdade
    This first class hotel is situated in Lisbon's city center.

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    Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

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    Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

    Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

    Discovery By Gate1 Tours Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.3
    Accommodations
    4.1
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.6
    Repeat with Operator
    4.3
    Value for Money
    4.1

    Ratings based off 408 reviews about Discovery By Gate1 Tours - currently showing 15 reviews with comments only

    This was an amazing trip. It exceeded my expectations. I loved it. My tour guide did an excellent job. She made sure to assist us even late in the evening with tickets as we are still in Japan and not leaving until two after the tour. She surprised us with unexpected, unplanned experiences for all to enjoy. I loved her. We really had so much fun even though there older tourists with different personalities she went beyond the call of duty to understand and have patience with them. I will definitely book a future tour with Gate1.

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    The trip to Jordan was fabulous. The accommodations were lovely. Our guide was excellent. His knowledge was superb. He had good humor & was kind & patient. I have been on every continent & have traveled with different companies. This is in my top 3 trips of all the places I have been. I loved this country. The people & sites were wonderful. Please let Gate 1 know this guide deserves recognition. He was the best.

    This was a fantastic trip with varied activities and a superb tour guide.

    Exalent trip we are so pleased with the service we will call you to plan the next trip

    The Gate1 tour guide/managers were very knowledgeable, courteous, professional and entertaining.

    Gate 1's tour operators are very good. It is organized and follows the published itinerary. The hotels are nice and as described.

    Trip was great experience. Enjoyed the itinerary and tour manager.

    Great experience. Our personal guide very experienced and personal. First class hotels and great excursions.

    Our accommodations were excellent. The tour was fabulous. The logistics for booking and traveling were clear and easy.

    Everyone from our agent (Trena) to our our guide (Fred) were awesome. Would highly recommend gate 1 to any and all. Went above and beyond our expectations..JOB WELL DONE!!! Thanks for a great vacation..

    This was a great tour. All the places we visited were worth seeing, and the combination of activities was very good.

    The rooms, the meals, the bus, and the tour guide were superior. The tour was more than expected. All our questions and needs were met. The whole operation was well managed and smooth.

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