Porto, Douro Valley & Lisbon Road Trip

Suggestion for the day: Explore the “Rome of Portugal”

• Braga, known as the "Rome of Portugal," captivates visitors with its profound religious heritage, splendid churches, and captivating historic center. As one of the oldest cities in Portugal, Braga boasts a legacy dating back to Roman times, evident in its ancient architecture and archaeological sites. 

Don’t Miss:

• Braga Cathedral (Sé de Braga): Visit the oldest cathedral in Portugal, dating back to the 11th century. 

• Archbishop's Palace and Garden: Stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Archbishop's Palace, located near the cathedral. The gardens are well-maintained and provide a peaceful retreat in the city center.

• Bom Jesus do Monte Sanctuary (an absolute must-visit): Head to Bom Jesus do Monte, one of Braga’s most iconic sites.This iconic pilgrimage site boasts a baroque staircase with elaborate statues and stunning panoramic views of Braga. You can choose to walk up the stairs or take the funicular. 

• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sameiro (Santuário do Sameiro): Another significant religious site in Braga less crowded than Bom Jesus do Monte and offering stunning views over the city and surrounding countryside.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Braga’s historic center is best explored on foot.

• Start early to make the most of your day and cover all the highlights.

• Check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella or sun protection as needed.

Say goodbye to Gerês and drive to Douro (about a 2-hour drive following the A7 route). Check-in to your hotel in the Douro region. We recommend adding an early check-in to your hotel for a more comfortable arrival.

Suggestion for the day: Douro Boat Trip

• Go on an unforgettable Douro River Boat Trip: In the afternoon (or during sunset), embark on a tranquil boat trip along the Douro River and discover why it's one of the region's top experiences. Glide through stunning landscapes of terraced vineyards and quaint villages, soaking in the beauty of Portugal's renowned wine country. 
• In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as the "alheira de Mirandela" (typical Portuguese sausage), "leitão" (roasted suckling pig), or "bacalhau" (codfish), accompanied by a glass of one of the many incredible Douro wines.

Suggestion for the day: Douro's Finest "Quintas"

Visit one (or more!) of the fantastic wineries of the Douro Valley. Many of them offer tours and tastings, so you can learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region's finest wines.

• Quinta do Naval
• Quinta do Seixo
• Quinta da Vega Sicilia

In between winery visits, take some time to explore the charming villages and towns of the Douro Valley. Most of these villages are small and walkable, and they offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the region.

• Peso da Régua
• Pinhão
• Lamego
• Mesão Frio
• Favaios
• Alijó

Drive to Lisbon through Portugal's scenic highways, offering views of charming towns and beautiful landscapes.

Here are a few notable stops to consider:

• Coimbra – A historic city home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.
• Fátima – A spiritual landmark and sanctuary, perfect for a peaceful stop.

Suggestion for the day: Stroll Around Downtown Lisbon

Lace up your walking shoes and embark on a journey through Lisbon's captivating historical neighborhoods. It’s time to explore Lisbon's vibrant neighborhoods on foot. 

• Start in Chiado, a charming district with elegant shops and cafes. Don't miss Livraria Bertrand, a historic bookstore.
• Move to Baixa, the bustling downtown area with Praça do Comércio, a grand waterfront square. Climb the Arco da Rua Augusta for city views.
• Immerse yourself in Bairro Alto's lively nightlife scene. Wander its maze-like streets filled with bars, restaurants, and traditional Fado music venues.

Suggestion for the day: Unveiling Belém's Maritime Marvels

Head to Belém, a UNESCO site showcasing Portugal's maritime past. See the iconic Torre de Belém and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, and savor Pastéis de Belém, a delicious custard tart.

Don’t Miss:

• Torre de Belém (Belém Tower): Start your exploration at this imposing 16th-century fortress. Marvel at its Manueline architecture, a unique Portuguese style characterized by nautical motifs and intricate stonework. Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): A short walk away stands this impressive monument commemorating Portugal's Golden Age of Exploration.
• Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery): Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this magnificent 16th-century monastery. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, showcasing intricate stonework and stained-glass windows.
• Pastéis de Belém: No visit to Belém is complete without indulging in the world-famous Pastéis de Belém, a traditional Portuguese custard tart. This iconic bakery, established in the 18th century, follows a secret recipe that has been passed down through generations.
• MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology: If you have extra time, consider visiting the MAAT, a contemporary museum housed in a striking modern building on the waterfront. 

Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!