Portugal by Train: Southern Elegance

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Lisbon & Transfer to Évora

   Welcome to Lisbon! Relish the convenience of a private transfer from Lisbon Airport to Évora, bypassing the need to rush for the train.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Once in Évora, start your day with a leisurely stroll through its charming downtown area.
     • Capela dos Ossos: Explore the intriguing Chapel of Bones.
     • Évora Cathedral: Admire the grand Évora Cathedral.
     • Roman Temple of Évora: Step back in time at the Roman Temple.
     • Diana’s Garden: Find serenity in Diana’s Garden.
     • Évora’s Winding Streets: Get lost in the picturesque streets of Évora.
     • Évora University: Explore the intellectual heart of the city.
2. Day 2 Free day for personal activities (Évora)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Évora Exploration & Beyond: This day offers a mix of history, culture, and wine, giving you a taste of the region's rich heritage.
     • City Walls & Aqueduct: Begin your day by visiting Évora's historic City Walls and the impressive Aqueduct.
     • Mosteiro da Cartuxa: Enjoy the tranquility of Mosteiro da Cartuxa, a serene monastery with beautiful gardens.
     • Almendres Cromlech: Journey to the ancient Almendres Cromlech, a mysterious stone circle from ancient times.
     • Monsaraz Trip: Take a short drive to the charming town of Monsaraz, with its cobblestone streets and stunning views.
     • Premium Wine Tasting: Treat your taste buds to premium local wines in Évora.
3. Day 3 Train to the Algarve

   The train journey to the Algarve spans approximately 4 hours, and once you arrive at the station, rest assured that a seamless transfer to your Algarve hotel is included in your itinerary. But before that, the transfer from your Évora hotel to the Évora train station is also included.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Explore Lagos: Begin your Algarve adventure by exploring the vibrant town of Lagos.
     • Black and White Coffee Shop: Start your day with a delightful coffee at the Black and White Coffee Shop.
     • Camilo Beach: Enjoy the sun and sea at Camilo Beach, known for its stunning cliffs and clear waters.
     • Ponta da Piedade: Discover the breathtaking rock formations and caves of Ponta da Piedade.
     • Sunset in Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres: Conclude your day with a mesmerizing sunset at Cabo de São Vicente in Sagres, a place where the land meets the ocean in a dramatic setting.
4. Day 4 Free day for personal activities (Algarve)

   Suggestions for the day:

   • Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour: Explore the captivating caves and rock formations along Lagos' renowned 'Ponta da Piedade' coast. Depart from the Marina de Lagos, where knowledgeable local skippers will unveil the hidden wonders of this extraordinary coastline.
   • Algar de Benagil Boat Tour: Algar de Benagil is a mesmerizing sea cave along Portugal's Algarve coast, known for its stunning natural architecture and the iconic shaft of sunlight that filters through its ceiling.
5. Day 5 Free day for personal activities (Algarve)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Discover Silves & Monchique: Start your adventure in the historic village of Silves, where you'll explore the castle, cathedral, and archaeology museum. Then, head to the Thermal Spa of Caldas de Monchique, taste local farm products and savor panoramic mountain views before returning to your hotel.
6. Day 6 Free day for personal activities (Algarve)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Indulge in a day of leisure and relaxation. Enjoy the amenities of your accommodation or explore the nearby area at your own pace.

    

7. Day 7 Train to Lisbon

   Experience a scenic 3-hour and 30-minute train journey from the Algarve to Lisbon, knowing that a seamless transfer from the Lisbon train station to your hotel in Lisbon is already arranged for your convenience. But before that, the transfer from your Algarve hotel to the Algarve train station is also included.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Stroll Around Lisbon’s City Streets: Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Lisbon, where you can soak in the city's unique atmosphere. 
   • • São Roque Church: Discover the exquisite architecture and artistry of São Roque Church.
     • Santa Catarina Viewpoint: Head to Santa Catarina Viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the city.
     • Luís de Camões Square: Enjoy the ambiance of Luís de Camões Square, a central gathering place steeped in history.
     • Torre de Belém: Explore the iconic Torre de Belém, a symbol of Portugal's Age of Discovery.
     • Mosteiro dos Jerónimos: Visit the impressive Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning Manueline architecture.
     • Pastéis de Belém: Don't miss the chance to savor delicious pastries at Pastéis de Belém, a beloved Portuguese pastry.
     • Terreiro do Paço: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Terreiro do Paço, a historic square by the waterfront.
     • Santa Justa Lift: Conclude your day with a ride up the Santa Justa Lift for breathtaking views of Lisbon from above.
   • Lisbon Fado Night with Dinner: Fado is a soulful and emotive genre of Portuguese music, often characterized by melancholic tunes and lyrics that express themes of longing and saudade.
8. Day 8 Free day for personal activities (Lisbon)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Visit Sintra: Set out on an enchanting day trip to Sintra, a place that has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. Today's journey transports you to the realms of fairytales and history in the enchanting town of Sintra, where every corner is a piece of wonder. 
     • Pena National Palace: Begin your adventure with a visit to the vibrant and whimsical Pena National Palace, a fairytale castle atop a hill that promises stunning views and jaw-dropping architecture.
     • Local Delights: Treat your taste buds to the delectable local pastries, travesseiros de Sintra, and sip on the sweet Ginginha liqueur, both of which are delightful Sintra specialties.
     • Quinta da Regaleira: Explore the mysterious and enchanting Quinta da Regaleira, a palace and estate filled with hidden tunnels, gardens, and symbolism.
     • Monserrate Palace: Discover the unique beauty of Monserrate Palace, known for its exotic gardens and eclectic architecture.
     • Moorish Castle: Ascend to the Moorish Castle, where ancient walls and towers offer commanding views of the surrounding landscape.
     • Old-Town Stroll: Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through Sintra's charming old town, where you can soak in the atmosphere of this historic gem.
9. Day 9 Free day for personal activities (Lisbon)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Visit Fátima: Those looking to delve deeper into Portugal´s religious roots need to look no further than Fatimá, which is famous for being the holy site where an apparition of Nossa Senhora de Fatima is said to have appeared. As the story goes, the apparition was seen by a pair of shepherd children in the early part of the 20th century. That sums it up, but there is far more to the story, which you will surely discover more about when you make your way to Fatima as a fabulous day trip from Lisbon (the Museu de Arte Sacra e Etnologia is the place with all the 411). Located just about an hour from Lisbon, Fatima and its Chapel of the Apparition and nearby Holy Trinity Cathedral top the list of Catholic pilgrimage sites. But even if you are not really a religious person, the architecture, energy, and history of the place will surely win you over, particularly the Sanctuary of Fatima.
10. Day 10 Return Flight Home

    As your memorable journey comes to a close, we wish you a safe and pleasant flight home. Thank you for exploring Portugal with us!