Day 1: Fly to Lisbon, Portugal
This is a big travelling day. Enjoy your overnight flight from Toronto to Lisbon Airport.
Stay:
n/a (in flight)
Day 2: Lisbon to Évora
Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city. Depart the airport and travel east through the Alentejo region to the city of Évora, a well-preserved medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a free afternoon to discover this historically rich town. Regroup in the evening for a welcome dinner.
Stay:
Villa Gale Evora or similar, Évora, PT (3 nights)
Meals:
B (on the plane), D
Day 3: Évora History, Cuisine, and Craftsmanship
Begin your day with a guided walking tour of Évora. Discover the city’s fascinating history as you wander through narrow streets lined with white houses. Highlights include the Cathedral of Évora, the largest cathedral in Portugal, the haunting Chapel of Bones, and the Roman Temple of Diana, one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the region. After your tour, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on food workshop. Learn about local delicacies and create your own traditional Alentejo lunch that celebrates the rich flavours of the region. After lunch, visit the Pardalinho Cowbell Factory, and discover the rich tradition of Portuguese craftsmanship. Tour the family-run factory and witness skilled artisans meticulously shape and tune each bell by hand, preserving time-honored techniques passed down through generations. Dinner tonight is on your own.
Meals:
B, L
Day 4: Vila Viçosa, Ducal Palace, Elvas Fortifications
After breakfast travel to Vila Viçosa, a charming village known for its rich history and marble quarries. Visit Ducal Palace, the former residence of the last king of Portugal. As you wander the Palace, marvel at the unique architecture, marble fireplaces, and beautiful 17th-century frescos. After an included lunch, arrive in Elvas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Garrison Town. Explore the well-preserved fortifications including the impressive 8km Amoreira Aquaduct, Nossa Senhora da Assunção, and Forte de Graça, one of the best bastioned fortresses in the world. Enjoy an included dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 5: Tapestry and Olive Oil Experience
In the morning, immerse yourself in a traditional tapestry workshop, where skilled artisans will guide you through the techniques behind these iconic works of art. After your workshop dive deeper into the history of tapestry during a walking tour of Arraiolos, a charming town known for its olive groves and hand-woven tapestries. Experience the local flavours during an included lunch. After lunch, indulge in an olive oil experience. Walk through the ancient olive groves, learn about the production process, and enjoy tasting the region’s finest oils. Check in to Pestana Pousada Beja, a historical convent converted into a magnificent luxury hotel. Freshen up for an included dinner, a gastronomical experience featuring traditional Alentejo dishes.
Stay: Pestana Pousada Beja (or similar), Beja, PT (3 nights)
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 6: Monsaraz, Wine Tasting, Pottery Workshop
After breakfast, visit the enchanting village of Monsaraz, a medieval town offering stunning views of the Guadiana Valley. Stroll through its charming, narrow cobblestone streets, lined with pristine whitewashed buildings, centuries-old churches, quaint shops, and inviting restaurants. Make your way to the iconic Monsaraz Castle, a proud national monument of Portugal. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this 14th-century fortress, where stories of ancient battles and bullfighting unfold amidst the stunning panoramic vistas. Indulge in a delightful wine tour and tasting, savouring some of the finest wines the region has to offer, before enjoying a leisurely lunch with panoramic views of lush vineyards and olive groves. Continue your journey to São Pedro do Corval, renowned as the pottery capital of Portugal. Here, you’ll witness master artisans shaping exquisite ceramics, a craft passed down through generations. Embrace the opportunity to try your hand at the pottery wheel and create your own unique piece. After a day of discovery, return to the serene Pousada Convento de Beja, where you can unwind and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Meals:
B, L
Day 7: Moura, Alqueva Dam and Boat Tour
In the morning, travel to the heart of the Alentejo region and visit Moura, a charming town known for its rich history, captivating architecture, and stunning natural landscapes. This quiet town, with its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, offers a glimpse into Portugal’s past, blending Moorish, Roman, and medieval influences. Visit Moura Castle, a 13th-century building offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is steeped in legend, particularly the story of the “Moura Encantada,” a mythical princess who is said to have been trapped in the castle for eternity. Travel to Alqueva, home to the largest artificial lake in Europe. After an included lunch, learn more about the Alqueva project with a visit to the Alqueva Interpretation Center. Learn about the remarkable Alqueva Dam, its construction, and its impact on the surrounding environment and communities. Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the Alqueva with stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. After your full day, return to the hotel for an included dinner.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 8: Setúbal, Livramento Market, Arrábida Mountains
After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Setúbal, a charming city known for its scenic beaches, vibrant fishing port, and rich history. Explore the Livramento Market, one of the world’s finest fish markets, before indulging in a traditional lunch dish (included). Following lunch, embark on a scenic drive through the stunning Arrábida Mountains, a protected natural reserve celebrated for its rich biodiversity and dramatic landscapes. Admire breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with lush greenery, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches below. Check in to The Editory Riverside Hotel, housed in the historic Santa Apolónia railway station, one of Portugal’s oldest. After freshening up, rejoin the group for an included dinner.
Stay: The Editory Riverside Hotel, Lisbon, PT (or similar) (3 nights)
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 9: Guided Lisbon Tour, Traditional Fado
Today, immerse yourself in the essence of Lisbon with a captivating half-day panoramic tour, exploring the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. Stroll through Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most atmospheric district, then visit the lively Restauradores Square, where the historic and modern parts of the city converge. Next, drive past the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both steeped in Portugal’s Age of Discovery history. The tour concludes in downtown Lisbon, where you can either return to the hotel or enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, regroup for a unique Fado dinner and show. Fado, a traditional genre of Portuguese music known for its soulful, melancholic sound, is deeply tied to Lisbon’s cultural identity and has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Savour a delicious meal while experiencing this powerful and moving musical tradition.
Meals:
B, D
Day 10: Half Day Tour to Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
After breakfast, set off for the enchanting town of Sintra, nestled in the hills and renowned for its fairytale palaces and lush landscapes. Stroll through its charming streets, immersing yourself in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site and soaking in the atmosphere of its historic center. Visit the Sintra National Palace, the oldest palace in Portugal, and explore its rich history and stunning architecture. Next, visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Stand atop the rugged cliffs, gazing out over the endless expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, and feel the raw power and beauty of nature at this dramatic, breathtaking spot. On the way back to Lisbon, enjoy a scenic drive along the coast, passing through the vibrant seaside town of Cascais, known for its mix of traditional charm and modern flair, and Estoril, a glamorous resort town with an elegant past. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. Wander through historic neighborhoods like the Mouraria district, where narrow streets, colorful murals, and a lively atmosphere showcase the area’s cultural diversity. Alternatively, head to Baixa, Lisbon's bustling downtown, for shopping, a coffee at a traditional café, or to admire the elegant squares and architecture.
Meals:
B
Day 11: Fly Home
In the morning, depart for the Lisbon Airport, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and captivating beauty of Portugal. As you board your flight home, carry with you cherished memories of this vibrant, historic land.
Meals:
B
