Classic Portugal: Mainland & Azores Adventure
12 days, Lisbon to Angra do Heroísmo
Itinerary
Day 1Lisbon
Arrive at any time.
If visiting the historic district of Belém is on your bucket list, we recommend arriving early on this day to explore its major sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Most attractions in Belém are closed on Mondays.
If you'd like to independently explore Lisbon before your tour begins, consider booking pre-tour accommodation with us. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Lisbon before Day 1 of this itinerary.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Sao Jorge Castle
15EUR per personClimb up to this Moorish castle for a wander around the impressive grounds on a guided tour, and a great view over Lisbon and Tagus River.
Santa Justa Lift
6EUR per personTake a ride up 147ft from the lowest to highest points of Portugal. Sit back and enjoy the views.
Alfama District Visit
FreeExplore Lisbon’s past in Alfama, one of the city’s oldest quarters. Wander along narrow medieval streets lined with typical tile-covered façades and take a step back in time; the area largely survived the great earthquake of 1755, and still retains much of its original layout. Listen for Portugal's traditional music, fado, gracing the streets at night.
Visit to Mercado da Ribeira Market (aka Time Out Market)
Take a wander through this traditional food market, Lisbon's main market since 1892. The stalls selling fresh produce are open between 6am and 2pm.
Rossio Square
FreeStop in this lively square to get a taste of the local hustle and bustle.
Belém District Visit
Free-10EUR per personDiscover Belém, a western suburb that's linked to Portugal’s Golden Age of Discoveries – it was the site where famous navigators once set sail to discover the world. While there, take some time to tour nearby must-see attractions: the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, the Tropical Botanical Garden, and the Berardo Museum of contemporary art. Please note: most attractions in Belém are closed on Mondays.
Belém Tower
8EUR per personTake a trip to the coastline to see this charming fort, built to protect Lisbon from raiders invading from the sea. Climb up the tower for great views of the ocean and surrounding city.
Day 2Lisbon
Enjoy a CEO-led orientation walk of Lisbon. The rest of the day is free for exploration. In the evening enjoy a Fado performance and traditional Portuguese dinner in one of Lisbon's oldest neighbourhoods.
Opt to take a day trip into the foothills of the surrounding mountains to Sintra. Get lost in the city's winding streets lined with pastel coloured houses, palaces, majestic gardens and lush forests. It doesn't get more postcard-worthy than this.
Opt to pre-book a spot on the Eats, Street Art and Undiscovered Lisbon tour during your free time in Lisbon.
Lisbon Orientation Walk
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Your Foodie Moment: Fado Night with Traditional Portuguese Meal
Sit down to a traditional meal and lend your ears to the sound of a performance by Portuguese folk music artists.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Alfama District Visit
FreeExplore Lisbon’s past in Alfama, one of the city’s oldest quarters. Wander along narrow medieval streets lined with typical tile-covered façades and take a step back in time; the area largely survived the great earthquake of 1755, and still retains much of its original layout. Listen for Portugal's traditional music, fado, gracing the streets at night.
Santa Justa Lift
6EUR per personTake a ride up 147ft from the lowest to highest points of Portugal. Sit back and enjoy the views.
Visit to Mercado da Ribeira Market (aka Time Out Market)
Take a wander through this traditional food market, Lisbon's main market since 1892. The stalls selling fresh produce are open between 6am and 2pm.
Rossio Square
FreeStop in this lively square to get a taste of the local hustle and bustle.
Sao Jorge Castle
15EUR per personClimb up to this Moorish castle for a wander around the impressive grounds on a guided tour, and a great view over Lisbon and Tagus River.
Visit to Sintra
Take a break from reality to visit the fairytale-like town of Sintra. Get lost exploring the colourful manors, medieval palaces, and lush gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lisbon Food Tour
Explore the undiscovered side of Lisbon most tourists don’t venture out to see. Still very central, this area of Lisbon is rich in culture and history and hosts some of the best restaurants Lisbon has to offer. Wander up and down the tile-filled streets with us in two local neighborhoods – Baixa, which translates to “downtown” followed by Mouraria, which is the old Muslim neighborhood. Our food tour takes you away from the tourist traps to the traditional and trending restaurants that are loved and frequented by the locals of Lisbon. Explore and really get to know the city through its amazing food and drinks. Not only will you try typical Portuguese food and drinks, but you’ll also learn about the international influences in Lisbon and discover some beautiful street art. Get away from the crowds and join us for an unforgettable day of eating, drinking, making new friends, and – above all – having fun!
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 3Lisbon/Coimbra
Leave Lisbon behind and head north to the small hill town of Batalha, best known for its ornate gothic monastery built to commemorate Portugal's victory in the infamous battle of Aljubarrota. Visit the historic Monastery of Batalha with free time to wander the grounds. Continue to the medieval capital of Portugal, Coimbra.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Monastery of Batalha Visit
Visit the Bathala Monastery built to commemorate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians at the battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. The elaborate, Gothic-style architecture of this UNESCO site is considered to be one of the masterpieces of the region.
Free Time
Take time to wander around the jaw-droppingly gorgeous monastery, or get out and explore the surrounding area.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Coimbra
Enjoy a free day to explore Coimbra. Opt to visit the famous Coimbra University, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013 (and also the inspiration for Harry Potter's Hogwarts). Explore the winding streets and the riverfront filled with restaurants and bars, or opt for a day trip to the nearby coastal town of Aveiro or the pilgrimage sites of Fátima.
Free Time
Get out and explore.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Joanina Library
Located in Coimbra University, the Joanina Library (Biblioteca Joanina) is a must see and one of the most ornate libraries in the world with it's breathtaking frescoes, intricate carvings and gold-leaf touches.
University of Coimbra Visit
Portugal's most prestigious university, the University of Coimbra is a must see landmark. Explore the World Heritage Site as you enter through the Porta Férra, the old entrance to the citadel of Coimbra constructed in the 10th century. Walk through the campus along mosaic cobblestone paths, explore it's botanical gardens and Chapel of S. Miguel and opt to visit the ornate Joanina Library.
Fátima Visit
Fátima is known as a place where the Virgin Mary allegedly appeared in front of three local children in 1917. Stroll through the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, an astounding complex of churches and shrines in this rural Portuguese town that millions of pilgrims travel to every year. From Coimbra, direct buses run with approx. 1 hour travel time.
Aveiro Visit
A popular local getaway, Aveiro is known for its eye-catching Art Nouveau architecture and colourful boats (called moliceiro) that cruise through the city's canals. Dubbed the "Venice of Portugal", a moliceiro ride costs around 8-10€ person and is a lovely way to see this coastal town, approx. 1 hour from Coimbra by public transport.
Conimbriga Ruins
8EUR per personTake a visit to the best preserved Roman ruins in Portugal.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Coimbra/Porto
Continue to the historic and vibrant coastal town of Porto in the morning, and take an orientation walk upon arrival.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Porto
Free day to explore Porto. Opt to take a cruise down the Douro River, or explore the city which gained UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1996. In the evening enjoy a visit to the port wine cellars and a tasting.
Head down Allies Avenue to see the French-inspired buildings. Bargain at the Bolhão Market. Wander the city's World Heritage-listed Ribeira district, visit São Francisco church, the palatial former 19th-century stock market Palácio de Bolsa or head to the Clerigos Tower for a panoramic view of the city.
In the evening, become an Port wine connoisseur with a visit to the cellars and a port wine tasting.
Free Time
Take it all in.
Your Hands-On Moment: Port Wine Cellar Visit
Finish off the day with a tour of the cellars of the region's famed export - Port wine. Learn about the art of Port making and the processes that render its rich taste. Indulge in a tasting and raise a glass to a day well spent. Saúde!
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Ribeira Square
FreeTake some time to walk around this charming square and get in with the local hustle and bustle.
Porto Cathedral
FreeThe Porto Cathedral (called Sé do Porto in Portuguese) is a National Monument and one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Adorned with high ceilings, an exquisite courtyard and light-filled cloisters, the Sé has held deep religious and cultural significance for the people of Lisbon for centuries.
Porto Ribeira Cruise
20EUR per personBoard a boat down Portugal's Douro River, or "river of gold". Float along this ancient route used for centuries as a port wine shipper's route.
Sao Bento Railway Station
FreeThe blue painted tiles on the inside of São Bento railway station makes it one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. See for yourself.
Clerigos Church and Tower
8-6EUR per personBuilt by the same architect who constructed the Porto Cathedral, the Clérigos Church and Tower is a beautiful Baroque landmark in its own right. Opt to climb over 200 steps to the top of the bell tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Duoro River.
Lello Bookstore
8EUR per personTake a wander around this incredible, and beautifully ornate bookstore built in 1906.
Palacio da Bolsa
12EUR per personJoin a half-hour guided tour of this neoclassical monument.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Porto/Ponta Delgada
Transfer to the airport this morning and board an unescorted flight to Ponta Delgada. Enjoy free time to settle in upon arrival and meet with your new CEO this evening at the hotel.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Ponta Delgada
Hike from Ribeira Funda to Maia along the dramatic and beautiful north coast of the island of São Miguel. Pause to eat lunch at Praia da Viola, also known as the 'secret beach.' Along the way pass many viewpoints along the coast of the island. The tour ends in the friendly parish of Maia. After returning from the hike the group will head into Furnas town for a visit to the Terra Nostra Gardens and geothermal hot springs. While there, the group will have a chance to take a dip in the natural hot waters or wander around the 24-acre botanical garden.
Ribeira Funda to Maia Hike
Hike from Ribeira Funda to Maia along the dramatic and beautiful north coast of the island of São Miguel. Pass by several ruins of old water mills that once used the force of the Ribeira do Salto river to transform wheat and corn into flour that was mostly used to bake bread. Bread was a key staple in the eating habits of the many families in the village and of the island. Lunch will be had at Praia da Viola also known as the 'secret beach'. The hike ends in the friendly parish of Maia, right next to a little beach area where we can cool off if the weather is nice.
Length: 8km
Avg duration: 4 hours.
Elevation: approx 180-200m
Terra Nostra Geothermal Hot Spring Visit
Visit the 24 acre thermal springs and botanical garden in a town of Furnas. There will be time to dip into the natural waters or wander the grounds.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 9Ponta Delgada
Spend the morning on a hike to the highest body of water in the Azores, Lagoa do Fogo, "lake of fire". Wander down to the shores of the lake through a forest of Eucalyptus and Japanese Cedars. Later, after a picnic lunch, travel to the Sete Cidades Parish and hike the trails for stunning views of the lakes within the caldera.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Lagoa do Fogo Hike
Known as the "lake of fire," Lagoa do Fogo is the highest body of water in the Azores. Embark on a hike down to the shores of the lake which has formed in the bottom of the caldera. Walk through a forest of Eucalyptus, Japanese Cedars and along a levada water way.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sete Cidades Parish Hike
Walk the rolling hills along groomed trails in the Sete Cidades parish. Hike around the caldera for spectacular views of the crater lakes formed within the former volcano. Marvel at the blue-green lake reflecting two different colours due to sunlight and algae growth.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Jardim António Borges
Visit Jardim António Borges, a local urban botanical garden with trails and grottoes that dates back to 1858.
Forte de São Brás
3EUR per personVisit Forte de São Brás, a Renaissance-style fortress dating back to 1552 which is home to the Azores military history museum.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 10Ponta Delgada/Angra do Heroísmo
Fly from São Miguel to Terceira island, considered the capital of Azorean culture. Meet your CEO and hit the trails. Hike 9.5km on a circular route right in the middle of the island. Enjoy beautiful views of the Azinhal Valley and Biscoitos village with its rocky lava formations that meet the sea. Later, enjoy a walking tour of Angra do Heroísmo, the capital city, and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Rocha do Chambre hike
This 9.5km circular route takes place in the middle of the island explores the rich agriculture of Azorean Heather, Laurel and Juniper plants. The Rocha do Chambre trail is considered rolling terrain. It has some flat sections through the forest which provide very dramatic scenery and a few steep inclines. It crosses a forest and meanders along a small stream up to the top of the Pico Alto crater at just over 700 meters. Enjoy beautiful views of the Azinhal Valley and Biscoitos village with its rocky lava formations that meet the sea. Total elevation gain is about 360 meters.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Angra do Heroísmo Walking Tour
Enjoy a walking tour of the capital city, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city maintains its stunning Renaissance architecture, housing fortresses, churches and manor houses. Walk through this beautiful city and discover the hidden history of the main streets, squares and monuments.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Angra do Heroísmo
Head to the middle of the island with stunning views of the agricultural patchwork fields contrasted by the centuries old lava flow (often called the Black Lagoon). Here we hike the Mistérios Negros trail and visit the Algar do Carvão lava caves.
Mistérios Negros trail Hike and Algar do Carvão lava caves
Hike the Mistérios Negros trail which starts near the site of the last volcanic eruption on Terciera, in 1761. Learn about this incredible landscape while traversing uneven trails, over hardened lava flows and volcanic rock. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Algar do Carvão lava caves, which are a naturally formed tunnel of air developed under the warm lava.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle - its a short 30 minute drive each way.
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 12Angra do Heroísmo
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.