Portugal by Train: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve & Évora

A friendly driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to Porto’s train station, where you’ll board your included train to Lisbon. The journey takes approximately 2h45 to 3h.

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.

Can't-Miss Sights:

• São Roque Church: Admire its opulent interior.
• São Pedro de Alcântara Garden: Relax and enjoy panoramic views.
• Ruins of Carmo Church: Reflect on Lisbon's history.
• Santa Catarina Viewpoint: Capture stunning cityscapes.
• Luís de Camões Square: Pay homage to Portugal's literary icon.
• Terreiro do Paço: Soak in the lively atmosphere of this vast waterfront square.
• Santa Justa Lift: Enjoy a unique perspective from this neo-Gothic elevator.

Overnight in Lisbon

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. 

Tips:

• Belém is easily accessible by tram or train from Lisbon's city center.
• Consider purchasing a Lisboa Card for discounted entry to attractions and free public transportation.
• Arrive early at Pastéis de Belém, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.

Overnight in Lisbon

A driver will collect you from your hotel in Lisbon and transfer you to the train station, where you’ll board your included train to Évora. The journey takes about 1h30 to 1h45, offering a comfortable and direct ride through the Alentejo countryside.

Experience the historical richness and cultural charm of Évora on a day trip from Lisbon. This UNESCO World Heritage city is known for its well-preserved Roman and medieval architecture, as well as its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere. 

Don't Miss:

• Roman Temple: Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Roman Temple, also known as the Temple of Diana. This well-preserved structure dates back to the 1st century AD and stands as a testament to the city’s Roman heritage.
• Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora): Visit the Évora Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure that dominates the city’s skyline. 
• Chapel of Bones: Head to the Chapel of Bones, a fascinating and macabre site built from the bones of thousands of monks. This unique chapel serves as a reminder of the transience of life.
• Giraldo Square (Praça do Giraldo): Stroll through Giraldo Square, the vibrant heart of Évora.
• University of Évora: Visit the University of Évora, one of the oldest universities in Portugal.
• Aqueduct of Água de Prata: See the Aqueduct of Água de Prata, an impressive 16th-century aqueduct that once supplied water to the city. 

Tips for Your Trip:

• Consider joining a guided tour from Lisbon to Évora for a convenient and informative experience, including transportation and a knowledgeable guide (let us help with that!)
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and exploring historical sites.
• Respect religious and historical sites during your visit.
• Purchase local crafts, ceramics, or traditional Alentejo products as souvenirs.
• Start your journey early in the morning from Lisbon. Évora is approximately 1.5 hours away by car or train, covering a distance of about 130 kilometers (81 miles).

Overnight in Évora

Suggestions for the day: Évora's Surrounding Areas & Alentejo’s Charm

• Almendres Cromlech: A prehistoric megalithic site dating back to 6000 BC.  Explore the mysterious standing stones, some weighing up to 40 tons, and contemplate their significance in ancient rituals.
• Monsaraz: This is a charming hilltop village overlooking the vast Alqueva Lake.  Wander the narrow cobbled streets adorned with whitewashed houses, explore the imposing 13th-century castle, and savor the breathtaking panoramic views.
• Marvão: Take a day trip to the medieval town of Marvão, a fortified hilltop village offering stunning views and historical charm.
• Wines and Vineyards: Visit one of Alentejo's incredible wineries and vineyards. We recommend Herdade do Esporão, Monte da Raposinha, Cartuxa, Herdade do Sobroso, Dona Dorinda, Herdade das Servas, or Quinta do Carmo for a wine-tasting experience that can also include lunch or dinner and a visit to the incredible vineyards.
• Alentejo Flavors: Return to Évora and indulge in a traditional Alentejo dinner. Savor regional specialties like Migas Alentejanas (a shepherd's stew), Carne de Porco à Alentejana (pork with clams), and Azeitonas (marinated olives). Pair your meal with a glass of Alentejo wine, known for its bold and earthy character.

Overnight in Évora

For the last portion of your trip, you’ll be transferred from your hotel in Évora to the train station to board your included train to Faro, the gateway to the Algarve. The journey takes around 3h30, offering a comfortable ride through scenic landscapes before reaching the southern coast.

The Algarve's vastness, stretching from golden beaches to charming mountain towns, is best explored at your own pace with a rental car. Enhance your adventure with a rental car, which you can easily add during the booking process to ensure a truly personalized and flexible experience.

Suggestion for the day: Relax & Enjoy the Sun

Take some time to explore the hotel's amenities. Later, venture out for a leisurely stroll around the area, getting a first glimpse of your Algarve surroundings.

As the sun begins to set, head to a charming local beachy restaurant for your welcome dinner. Savor delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine, sampling fresh seafood dishes or a comforting cataplana stew. This culinary immersion is a perfect introduction to the Algarve's vibrant flavors.

Overnight in The Algarve

Suggestion for the day: Albufeira's Beaches, History, & Charm

Albufeira, a vibrant resort town on Portugal's Algarve coast, beckons with its golden sands, charming old town, and exciting activities. This itinerary offers a taste of Albufeira's diverse offerings, allowing you to soak up the sun, delve into history, and experience the local flavor.

Beach Bliss: Choose your perfect beach paradise! 

• Praia dos Pescadores
• Praia da Falésia 
• Praia da Oura
• Praia de São Rafael
• Praia dos Olhos de Água

Downtown Albufeira: Wander through the charming streets of Albufeira's Old Town

• Discover traditional whitewashed houses, quaint shops, and hidden squares. Explore the Igreja Matriz (Main Church), a landmark showcasing Gothic architecture.
• As the sun begins to dip, take a leisurely stroll along the Albufeira Marina. Admire the docked yachts and boats, and soak in the stunning sunset views.

Choose Your Benagil Caves Adventure:

• Relaxing Boat Tour: Board a comfortable boat and embark on a scenic journey along the Algarve coastline. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and rock formations as you cruise toward the Benagil Caves. Glide into the magnificent Benagil Cave, a natural wonder with a collapsed roof, allowing sunlight to create a magical spectacle. 
• Active Stand-Up Paddle or Kayak Adventure: For a more adventurous experience, opt for an SUP or kayak tour. Paddle along the stunning coastline, enjoying the serenity and unique perspective of the water. (Choose based on your comfort level and experience)

Other Suggestions Include:

• Praia de Marinha: Relax on the pristine sands of Praia de Marinha, a secluded beach considered one of the most beautiful in the Algarve. The turquoise waters, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs create a picture-perfect scene.
• Algar Seco: Explore this natural phenomenon – a collapsed cave accessible through a tunnel. Descend the wooden staircase and discover a hidden beach within the cove.

Overnight in The Algarve

We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

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!