Highlights of Portugal

12 Days / 11 Nights

Porto, Lisbon, Evora, Lagos

from$3,900 per person

Average Guest Rating 4.8 / 5

One of the most geographically diverse countries in Europe, Portugal awaits to seduce you with its charms during a trip that has it all. Your Portugal itinerary starts in Porto, a captivating city, defined by the beautiful Douro River, and renowned for its gorgeous architecture. In Porto, you'll love getting lost in narrow alleys, sampling local delicacies, and mingling with locals at Fado-inspired nights out. Of course, you can't leave Porto without a day trip to the Douro Valley, the land where the famous Port wine was born.
From there, continue to Lisbon, the westernmost European capital. From enchanting sunset cruises to funicular rides, Lisbon will take your breath away. And so will Sintra, a stunning town dotted with palaces and castles, easily seen on a day trip from Lisbon. Up next is Evora, a charming authentic town waiting to be discovered. As your journey draws to a close, head to the Algarve, Portugal's seaside heaven. In Lagos, you'll have the chance to enjoy a dolphin-watching boat tour or a relaxing cruise to the iconic Benagil Caves.
One of our team members in Portugal will be available to answer any questions and arrange local services leading up to and during your trip. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best Portugal has to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data you can use throughout your trip to reach your local JayWay contact - whom you will meet in person. In all our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

4 Nights in Porto

4 Nights in Porto

As the name suggests, Portugal’s second-largest urban area is a port city, located in the north of the country along the Douro River estuary. A small Celtic hamlet until a Roman invasion in the 4th century, Portus Cale, as it became known, distinguished itself as a major trading port for not just the region but the entire country. The old city center, Ribeira, has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996. It is an urban landscape with over 2,000 years of remarkably well-preserved history. Traversing the narrow streets, you can’t help but notice that the spirit of local life still remains despite the increasing number of tourists.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Porto

We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Porto's airport and take you to your centrally located accommodation. The duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.

Find Your Feet on the Street of Flowers

Suggestion to explore on your own

Embark on a magical first night in Porto along the captivating Rua das Flores. Begin with an intimate dinner at its charming restaurants, savoring authentic Portuguese flavors. Wander along the beautifully lit street, marveling at the historical architecture. Complete the night by discovering hidden gems like local wine bars, where you can unwind with a glass of exquisite Port wine. Rua das Flores sets the stage for an enchanting introduction to Porto's culinary and cultural delights.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Porto

Secret Porto Walking Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Embark on a journey through Porto's enchanting alleys, immersing yourself in the local culture and gaining a true insider's perspective. Are you ready to transform your visit into an authentic local experience?

Uncover hidden viewpoints, embrace the unique "Tripeiro" spirit, pause in serene gardens, and descend to the riverside, where the tranquil river contrasts with the lively, colorful chaos of a historical center that organically evolved, unconstrained by urban planning. Come, be captivated by the magic of this extraordinary place!

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 4 hours

Try(pe) The Local Specialties

Suggestion to explore on your own

Tripas a Moda do Porto originated in the 14th century, according to legend, when the renowned Henry the Navigator sought assistance from the people of Porto for supplies for caravels heading to conquer Ceuta. The generous locals donated all their meat, retaining only the offal, giving rise to one of the city's most famous dishes. Typically comprising veal tripe, white beans, smoked ham, pork sausage, pork or calf knuckles, carrots, onions, spices like paprika and cumin, and various cuts of pork and chicken, it has endured through the centuries. Another beloved treat in Porto is Francesinha, a sandwich filled with four or five types of meat, smothered in cheese, and drenched in a secret, often beer-based gravy.

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Porto

Douro Premium Small Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

On this tour, you will be enchanted by the wonderful panoramic views offered by the Douro region, considered one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, where the Douro River winds the vineyard foothills. A magnificent boat trip on the Douro River and lunch in a restaurant where you can taste the local gastronomy are included. You will also be able to stroll along the N222 road, considered the most beautiful road in the world by the Michelin guide. You will also get to taste the nectars of the gods in the various wine tastings on offer. Not only the Port Wine that made the region famous but also DoC (Denomination of Controlled Origin) wines that have won many prizes nationally and internationally.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 10 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Your Third Full Day in Porto

Fado Dinner Show & Night Lights Private Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

On this private tour, you will experience Porto at night with a pick-up from your accommodations, a panoramic ride taking you to dinner and Fado show (some food and drinks included), and finally, a ride with your driver/guide through the city at night to be dropped off back at your accommodations? The views will usually be passing by the areas of Porto, Matosinhos, and Vila Nova de Gaia.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 5 hours

Tuk tuk Private Tour Porto Monastery and Cellars

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Would you like to learn about the religious history of Porto and combine with the traditional Porto wine? Join this tour!

This tour will drive you at the top of Serra du Pilar to visit the monastery, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage in December 1996 Serra do Pilar Monastery, ex-libris de Gaia, has preserved its church and cloister, in a circular plan, single copy in Portugal. The church is a replica of the church of Santa Maria Redonda, in Rome, and is covered by a hemispherical dome.

After your visit to teh Monastery you will be introduced to Port wines, and share with a great brand, a memorable moment. You can visit the cellars, taste the different Port wineslunch in the winery restaurant, and do your shopping.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 2 hours

Day 5

Day 5 - Traveling to Lisbon by Train

Today you will travel to the Portuguese capital Lisbon. We will arrange for a driver to transfer you from your hotel to Porto Campanha Train Sation. From there you will take the train to Lisbon. Your package includes 1st class tickets with seat reservations. The journey takes about 3-3.5 hours, depending on the stops.
If you'd prefer to make a day of it and see some countryside up close, rather than from the train, we can arrange for a private transfer which also offers the convenience of door-to-door service.

You can upgrade your transfer

Lisbon by Private Transfer with Stops in Nazare and Obidos

Upgrade for an additional cost

We also offer the following excursions in Porto

Braga & Guimaraes Small Group Tour

Moderate8 hours

Douro Gold Experience Day Small Group Tour

Moderate9 hours

Douro Private Tour

Moderate9 hours 30 minutes

Douro Small Group Tour

Moderate9 hours

3 Nights in Lisbon

3 Nights in Lisbon

The capital of Portugal since 1255 when King Alphonse II moved the court from Coimbra, Lisbon is not only regarded as one of the sunniest of the European capitals but one with a rich history on display. The soft white limestone facades of the oldest neighborhood, Alfama, welcome tourists, and locals, calling to them through the medium of Fado music drifting wistfully from the abundance of bars, or the smell of petisco (Portuguese tapas) wafting from a myriad of restaurants. Like its ancient rival Porto, Lisbon rests on mighty rivers originating from the eastern Spanish highlands. Remnants of human settlements in the vicinity of the city date back to the Neolithic period and since that time successful invasions have resulted in occupation by Carthaginians, Romans, Suebi, Visigoths, and Moors. The rich tapestry of Lisbon’s history has been woven into the very fabric of the city.

Day 5

Day 5 - Arrival in Lisbon

When you arrive at Lisbon's train station, we will have a driver there to meet you and take you to your accommodation.

First Steps in the City

Suggestion to explore on your own

Upon your arrival in Lisbon, the optimal way to acquaint yourself with the city is by strolling to Praça do Comércio and exploring the elegantly reconstructed Baixa neighborhood, which emerged after the earthquake. For a direct route to the Bairro Alto and Chiado, the most bohemian districts with lively nightlife and top-notch restaurants, take a ride on the Santa Justa elevator, an iron structure dating back to 1902.

Sunset Sailing on the Tagus River Small Group Tour

Take a Sunset Cruise

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

The Tagus River holds the distinction of being the longest river in both Portugal and Spain. Embracing your partner while cruising on the water as the sun sets is undeniably the most romantic experience. This journey provides a unique perspective on Lisbon's renowned landmarks, such as the vibrant Praça do Comércio square, the dome of the National Pantheon, the 25 de Abril Bridge, and the Belem Tower.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 2 hours

Day 6

Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Lisbon

Lisbon Tuk Tuk Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover Lisbon with a Tuk Tuk!

This itinerary presents the ideal way to discover the key landmarks in central Lisbon, beginning with the historic old city that has been inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors, pass through the sophisticated Chiado district, Lisbon's shopping and cultural center, home to the Rua Garrett shopping avenue, renowned for its upscale boutiques and restaurants and conclude the tour with a visit to the lively and historically significant Bairro Alto neighborhood.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 2 Hours

Ride in a Funicular

Suggestion to explore on your own

The lifts or elevators in Lisbon, also known as funiculars, assist both locals and tourists in ascending the steep and lengthy inclines that define the unique topography of the Portuguese capital. Lisbon boasts three notable funiculars: Elevador do Lavra, the oldest; Elevador da Gloria, the most frequented; and Elevador da Bica.

Day 7

Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Lisbon

Visit Sintra

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Sintra, a historic town perfect for a day excursion from Lisbon, is situated amid the pine-covered hills of the Serra de Sintra. The town's slightly cooler climate attracted Portuguese royalty to establish residences in its vicinity. Sintra boasts a variety of distinctive palaces, castles, and grand residences. Choose between a private or small-group day trip, depending on your budget. The small-group option sacrifices some time in Sintra to incorporate a visit to the coastal town of Cascais.

Sintra & Cascais Small Group Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

On this tour, you will head towards Sintra Mountain and start the day by visiting the fantastic Sintra village. You will have some free time to explore the town. Next, it is time to cross the mystic mountain of Sintra towards the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to see the quaint Colares village and learn more about local wines dating back to the 13th century. You will also stop at a midpoint in the wild Cabo da Roca. After a lunch break, you'll enjoy beautiful roads toward Cascais, a former fishing village. Then, you'll go to the Pena Palace. Then, it will be time to head back to Lisbon.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 9 hours

Sintra Full Day Private tour with Guide/Driver & Entrance to Pena Palace

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Why not experience a private day trip to Sintra, a picturesque village set in a lush Natural Park once favored by Portuguese royalty? Start with a guided tour of the iconic Pena Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders. Stroll through Sintra’s historic center, where you can savor traditional pastries like "Queijadas" and "Travesseiros." In the afternoon, visit Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, and enjoy a scenic coastal drive back to Lisbon, passing Guincho Beach, Cascais, and Estoril.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 8 hours

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Evora by Private Transfer

Today, our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Lisbon and transport you directly to the beautiful UNESCO-listed town of Évora, with an approximate journey duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.

We also offer the following excursions in Lisbon

2 Hour Private Catamaran Sailing Tour

Light2 hours

Alentejo Full Day Private Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch at a Winery

Strenuous8 hours

Exclusive Small Winery Visit and Lunch - Full Day Private Tour

Moderate8 hours

Fatima, Nazare & Obidos Small Group Tour

Moderate9 hours

1 Night in Evora

1 Night in Evora

Evora is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town has a rich history as it has been in the hands of many cultures along the centuries. During the Middle Ages it was one of the most dynamic cities in the Kingdom of Portugal. You will find roman remains like the Temple of Diana and walls, a Visigoth tower and the gothic Church of Saint Francis among some of the remarkable buildings in the town.

Day 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Evora

Our driver will take you directly to your accommodation.

Evora Half Day Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Evora is a city renowned for its museums, boasts a collection of monuments spanning various periods of Portuguese history. Would you like to know more about this wonderful Portuguese city? Join this tour!

During the 16th century, it held the distinction of being the second most significant city in the kingdom and is presently the capital of the Alentejo region. With its ancient roots, Evora gained true significance and beauty during the Roman era, notably marked by the Roman Temple, a prominent symbol of the city. Wandering through its streets reveals a charming display of traditional crafts and sweets.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 3 hours

Day 9

Day 9 - Traveling to Lagos by Private Transfer

Today, you will travel by private transfer from Evora to Lagos. A driver will pick you up from your accommodations in Evora at your preferred departure time and take you directly to the picturesque coastal town of Lagos. The journey will take about 3 hours.

We also offer the following excursions in Evora

Evora Private Tuk-Tuk Tour

Light1 hour 30 minutes

3 Nights in Lagos

3 Nights in Lagos

Day 9

Day 9 - Arrival in Lagos

Upon your arrival to Lagos a driver will greet you and take you to your hotel.

First Steps In The Area

Suggestion to explore on your own

Algarve region is located three hours drive from Lisbon. On the first day we suggest to just relax and enjoy the hotel facilities and the seaside. In the evening you can taste the local gastronomy in one of the many restaurants.

Day 10

Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Lagos

Another Side of the Algarve Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

On this tour, you will see typical Portuguese, centuries-old, almost untouched villages and walk on secondary roads (but not dirt roads) instead of the usual touristy locations. There will be a stop for a picnic where you will be served drinks (wine, water, juices), appetizers, fruit, bread, cheese, and typical Portuguese sweets. Then, you will be returned to your accommodations.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 6 hours

Day 11

Day 11 - Your Second Full Day in Lagos

Dolphin Watching on a Catamaran - Group Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

On this Lagos-based tour, you will get the chance to see dolphins swimming in their natural habitat while on board a purpose-built catamaran (from November to March, the catamaran may be changed to a RIB). The dolphin is now a protected species inside Portuguese territorial waters, with the population significantly increasing in recent years. Encounters are mostly with common dolphins and, occasionally, bottlenose dolphins, minke whales, blue sharks, moonfish, turtles, and many other species. There is no guarantee that you will see dolphins, but you should see some forms of sea life. There is no refund if dolphins are not encountered.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Benagil Caves Group Speedboat Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Hop onboard a specifically designed speedboat for your unique adventure to Benagil. The trip will start at the Lagos marina, and you can observe the coastline until reaching the destination. Once in Benagil, you can enter the famous “Gruta do Algar de Benagil”, the region's main attraction, and then visit all the other caves and discover the beaches along the way. The captain on board will explain everything observed so you can learn more about the Algarve coast. The total time of the tour is approximately 2 hours – 30 minutes on the way, 1 hour to know the entire coast of Benagil and enter the caves, and 30 minutes to return to the lakes.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 2 hours

Day 12

Day 12 - Departure Day

Today, our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Lagos and transport you directly to the airport of the nearby capital of the Algarve, Faro. The journey will take approximately 1 hour.

We also offer the following excursions in Lagos

4WD Jeep West Coast at Sunset Small Group Tour

Moderate4 hours

Benagil Caves Private Speedboat Tour

Light2 hours

Boat Group Tour to Benagil Caves with Catamaran

Light2 hours 30 minutes

Full-Day 4WD Jeep Southwest Algarve Small Group Tour

Light7 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Porto

4 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Porto Airport Transfer

Secret Porto Walking Group Tour

Douro Premium Small Group Tour

Porto Train Station Transfer

Porto - Lisbon Train

Lisbon

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Lisbon Train Station Transfer

Lisbon Tuk Tuk Private Tour

Lisbon - Evora Private Transfer

Evora

1 Night Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Evora Half Day Private Tour

Evora - Lagos Private Transfer

Lagos

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Another Side of the Algarve Private Tour

Lagos - Faro Airport Private Transfer

package excludes:

Flights to and from Europe.
Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.8 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations

Ken & Rebecca

Arkansas

I believe this was our third or fourth Jay Way adventure and as in the past, above our expectations in being spot-on every foot of the way.

Year : 2024
Visited : Portugal
Itinerary : Porto, Douro Valley, Lisbon, Algarve Resorts
Rating :

5 / 5

Joyce, Alan, Jennifer, Mike, Henry, Norma & Kenneth

Wisconsin

It was like a private tour! They did a great job planning our trip!

Year : 2024
Visited : Spain, Portugal
Itinerary : Barcelona, Porto, Lisbon
Rating :

4.5 / 5

Holly, Mark, Evan & Ryan

California

This is our 4th JayWay trip and we enjoyed the consistency of how you do things along with the staff who guided us along the way. It’s a great way to travel! Melita created an amazing trip and Andrea and Maria were absolutely fantastic guiding us through the process. The care they all put into their clients and their jobs is wonderful to be a part of.

Year : 2024
Visited : Spain, Portugal
Itinerary : Madrid, San Sebastian, Barcelona, Granada, Seville, Lagos, Lisbon, Porto
Rating :

4.5 / 5

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