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Cultural Jewels & Beach Bliss: Train Tour
13 Nights: Porto, Lisbon & Algarve + Trains & Immersive Tours
Dates and Prices
Your Trip Itinerary
Make the most of your 13-night journey through Portugal with this suggested itinerary, combining the historic charm of Porto, the cultural treasures of Lisbon and the sun-soaked beauty of the Algarve. From Port wine tastings and scenic Douro Valley landscapes to the colorful streets of Lisbon, the fairytale setting of Sintra and the dramatic coastline of the Algarve, experience Portugal's rich history, vibrant culture, unforgettable flavors and breathtaking scenery - all connected by included flights, train travel and guided experiences.
Trip Code: 10421
- Day 1Arrival in Porto
Welcome to Portugal! Your adventure begins in Porto, where a friendly driver will be waiting to take you to your hotel. Settle in, relax, and get ready for an amazing journey ahead.
Suggestion for the rest of the day: Walk around downtown Porto and get to know the city's unique highlights! These are some that you can't miss:
- D. Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-decker bridge offers stunning panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Take a walk across the bridge for a unique perspective, or hop on a tram for a thrilling ride.
- Ribeira District: Explore the heart of Porto's historic center. Wander through the charming Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its colorful houses, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere.
- Livraria Lello: A haven for bookworms, this historic bookstore boasts a beautiful neo-gothic facade and a grand staircase said to have inspired J.K. Rowling. Be prepared for queues, though!
- Torre dos Clérigos: Climb the 225 steps of the Clérigos Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Don't miss the adjacent Igreja do Clerigos church, known for its baroque architecture.
- Porto Cathedral (Sé Catedral do Porto): This imposing Romanesque cathedral is the oldest church in Porto. Climb the bell tower for stunning city views and admire the intricate architecture.
- Day 2
Porto: City Train Tour, River Cruise & Wine Cellar (Included)
From 10 AM to 1 PM
*Pick-up at the hotel is not included. Meeting point: Sé Catedral do Porto.
Explore the picturesque and historic city of Porto aboard the Magic Train Tour. The train departs every 60 minutes from Sé Catedral do Porto and travels through the city center, with an audio guide. Visit Real Companhia Velha, one of Portugal’s oldest Port wine cellars, including a guided tour and tasting of 2 Port wines.
Continue the train tour past Porto’s main sights, including Batalha Square, Santa Catarina Street, Aliados Avenue, Clérigos Tower, and Carmo Church. Finish with a relaxing 1-hour traditional boat cruise along the Douro River.
Highlights & Included:
- City train tour of Porto
- Audio guide in 5 languages
- Visit to Real Companhia Velha
- Tasting of 2 Port wines
- 1-hour Douro River cruise
Know before you go:
- The train tour is not a hop-on hop-off tour
- The voucher must be exchanged at the meeting point
- The last boat departure is at 4:30 PM during winter and at 6:30 PM during summer
- The audio guide is on loudspeakers on the train and there is no audio guide on the boat cruise
*Lunch & pick-up are not included
- Day 3
Douro Valley Wine Tour (Included)
9 AM - 6 PM
*Includes hotel pickup when possible. However, due to ongoing roadworks, several hotels in the downtown area are not accessible by car. In those cases, guests will be assigned a nearby meeting point instead. We will let you know after booking.
Discover the world of Port wine in the Douro Valley, the globe's first demarcated wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique climate and stunning, winding scenery create the perfect environment for exceptional grapes and prestigious wines.
This comprehensive tour includes everything for a memorable day: you'll visit two amazing vineyards, enjoy a one-hour cruise on the Douro River, and savor local gastronomy during lunch at a charming winery.
Inclusions:
- Professional tour guide and air-conditioned minivan transport.
- Visit and wine tastings at two prestigious vineyards.
- One-hour Douro River cruise.
- Lunch at a winery.
- Day 4
Aveiro Half-Day Tour (Included)
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From 8:30 AM to 1 PM or from 2 PM to 6:30 PM
*Includes hotel pickup when possible. However, due to ongoing roadworks, several hotels in the downtown area are not accessible by car. In those cases, guests will be assigned a nearby meeting point instead. We will let you know after booking.
Embark on a captivating half-day guided tour from Porto to Aveiro, Portugal's "Venice." This tour immerses you in the region's unique charm, blending scenic waterways, historic architecture, and local flavors.
Experience the Highlights:
- Canal Cruise & Tasting: Enjoy a relaxing 45-minute cruise on a traditional moliceiro boat through Aveiro's canals. Indulge in a tasting of local Bairrada Rosé Sparkling Wine paired with the delicious regional sweet, Ovos Moles.
- Art Nouveau Charm: Explore the city center on a guided walk, admiring the famous Art Nouveau buildings and main historical monuments.
- Costa Nova: Visit the picturesque Costa Nova beach, known worldwide for its iconic, brightly colored striped fishermen's houses, which provide a unique photo opportunity.
- Day 5
Train to Lisbon (approx. 3h30m) & Fado Dinner (Included)
Transfers from your Porto hotel to the train station and from Lisbon train station to your Lisbon hotel are included for your convenience. The train journey from Porto to Lisbon takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Suggestions for the day: Leisure Stroll
Discover the vibrant shopping streets, explore local boutiques, and take a break in one of the traditional cafés to enjoy a refreshing cup of Portuguese coffee. Visit Santa Justa Lift or Senhora do Monte viewpoint for a panoramic view of the city, stroll around Terreiro do Paço, and try a traditional "pastel de nata".
From 8 PM to 00:00 AM: Fado Show with Dinner and Wine in Alfama (included)
*Pick-up at the hotel is not included for this tour. The meeting point is Páteo de Alfama, Rua de São João da Praça 18, 1100-117, Lisbon.
Experience authentic fado in a 19th-century tavern tucked into Lisbon's historic Alfama neighborhood. As lights dim and candles flicker, listen to haunting voices accompanied by the distinctive 12-string Portuguese guitar. Singers choose fados in the moment, guided by emotion, just as they did in nights of old when the day's work ended and feelings found voice in the silence.
Includes: Traditional Portuguese dinner with starter, main course, dessert, 2 drinks (wine, soft drink, or water), and coffee in an intimate candlelit setting.
- Day 6
Sintra Full Day Tour (Included)
From 8 AM to 5 PM
*Pick-up at the hotel is not included for this tour. The meeting point is at 08:00 AM at Praça da Figueira (in front of the statue), 1100-240, Lisbon, and the drop-off will be at Marquês de Pombal.
Experience the multi-award-winning tour that is a must-do when visiting Lisbon! This full-day adventure combines history, dramatic nature, and coastal charm.
Your Journey Includes:
- Sintra (UNESCO Site): Enjoy free time to explore the historic village center, its cobblestone streets, and unique atmosphere.
- Quinta da Regaleira: Explore this enchanting estate's lush gardens, grottoes, and the mysterious Initiatic Well (Ticket & Guide Visit Included).
- Pena Park: Discover 85 hectares of unique natural beauty, stunning lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Cabo da Roca: Stand at the westernmost point of continental Europe and marvel at the dramatic coastal landscape.
- Cascais: Stroll through this elite and charming former fishing town, now a chic hotspot known for its beautiful bay.
Logistics:
- Meeting Point: 08:00 AM at Praça da Figueira (Front of the Statue).
- Drop-off: Marquês de Pombal.
- Languages: Tour conducted in English, Portuguese, and Spanish.
- The ticket to the Pena Palace and Lunch are not included.
- Day 7
Fátima Sanctuary Half-Day Tour (Included)
From 9 AM to 2 PM
*Pick-up at the hotel is included for this tour.
Begin the day at the Shrine of Fátima, one of the most visited religious sites in the world, with time to explore the Chapel of the Apparitions, the Museum of Fátima, the old Basilica of Our Lady of Rosary, and the striking modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity. From there, head to the charming village of Valinhos, where the childhood homes of the three seers have been preserved just as they were. The tour then returns to Lisbon with plenty of time to catch an afternoon flight or spend the rest of the day exploring the city.
Not Included (Excluded): Tickets for Monuments, Lunch, and Gratuities.
- Day 8
Évora & Monsaraz Full Day Tour + Wine Tasting (Included)
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From 8 AM to 5 PM
*Pick-up at the hotel is not included for this tour. The meeting point is at 08:00 AM at Praça da Figueira (in front of the statue), 1100-240, Lisbon, and the drop-off will be at Marquês de Pombal.
Journey into the past with this essential guided tour to the Alentejo. Our time machine begins in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history meets you at every corner.
Your Day of Discovery:
- Évora's Ancient Wonders: Explore the historic core starting at the striking Bones Chapel (entrance included). We'll continue the walking tour through the medieval heart of the city to see the impressive Évora Cathedral and the ancient Roman Temple.
- Monsaraz Medieval Charm: In the afternoon, travel to the beautifully preserved hilltop village of Monsaraz, overlooking the stunning Alqueva Lake. Wander its narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses while taking in sweeping panoramic views over the Alentejo countryside. Top the experience with a regional wine tasting, sampling local Alentejo wines and learning about the area's winemaking traditions.
Inclusions: Guided Walking Tour of Évora, Entry and Guided Visit to the Bones Chapel, Regional Wine Tasting in Monsaraz, Free Time in Évora's Historic Centre.
Logistics:
- Meeting Point: 08:00 AM at Praça da Figueira (Front of Statue).
- Drop-off: Marquês de Pombal.
- Languages: Tour is multi-lingual (English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, Italian).
- Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off and Lunch are not included.
- Day 9Free Day in Lisbon
Suggestion for the day: Explore Belém
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries): A monument commemorating Portugal's Age of Exploration. Climb to the top for panoramic city views.
- Jerónimos Monastery: Delve into the fascinating world of seafaring exploration at the Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its intricate Manueline architecture, explore the cloisters and church, and learn about Portugal's role in maritime history. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance!
- Pastéis de Nata/Belém Paradise: No visit to Belém is complete without trying the world-famous Pastéis de Nata/Pastéis de Belém (custard tarts) from the original bakery, Pastéis de Belém. Savor these delightful pastries with a coffee or tea.
- Towering Presence: Explore the Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Portugal's maritime power. Climb the ramparts for stunning views of the Tagus River and the city skyline.
- Relax by the River: Take a stroll along the Belém waterfront, enjoying the scenic Tagus River views and the vibrant atmosphere. You can also rent a bicycle and explore the area on two wheels.
- Culinary Delights: End your day with a delicious seafood dinner at a traditional Portuguese restaurant in Belém. Savor fresh fish, shellfish, and other regional specialties.
- Day 10
Train to The Algarve (approx. 3h)
Transfers from your Lisbon hotel to the train station and from the Algarve train station to your Algarve hotel are included for your convenience. The train journey from Lisbon to the Algarve takes approximately 3 hours.
Suggestion for the day: Explore Faro
Faro, the capital of the Algarve, boasts a rich tapestry woven with ancient history and modern vibrancy.
Don't Miss:
- Faro Old Town Walls: Stroll along these historic ramparts for panoramic views of the harbor and charming old town below.
- Sé Cathedral (Faro Cathedral): Marvel at this Gothic landmark showcasing intricate architecture.
- Arco da Vila (Gate of the Town): Don't miss this majestic 18th-century archway marking the entrance to the old town.
- Largo da Sé: This charming cobbled square is the heart of Faro's historic district, home to the cathedral, town hall, and bishop's palace.
- Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market): Immerse yourself in the sights and smells of this lively market, overflowing with fresh produce, regional specialties, and local crafts.
- Beaches: While Faro itself offers beaches, nearby areas like Ilha de Faro (Faro Island) and Praia de Faro (Faro Beach) are popular choices for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. However, the true gems of this day trip lie in exploring the distinct characters of Faro and Olhão.
- Day 11
Benagil Boat Tour (Included)
Duration of 2 hours (several start times available)
*Pick-up at the hotel is not included for this tour. The meeting point is at Ed. Portisub, next to the Portimão Museum (a short drive from your hotel).
Discover the spectacular Algarve coastline on this two-hour boat tour, departing directly from the Portimão Naval Club. Our experienced guides will lead you through a journey of historical sights and natural wonders.
Here's what you'll experience:
- Ferragudo & History: See the charming fishing village of Ferragudo and its ancient castle while learning about local history.
- Coastal Wonders: Marvel at impressive rock formations, isolated cliffs, and hidden coves.
- Benagil Magic: The tour culminates in the region known for the famous Carvoeiro Caves, ensuring you see the awe-inspiring Benagil Caves and other spectacular marine formations.
Important:
- Duration: 2 hours.
- Check-in: 30 minutes before departure at Ed. Portisub (next to Portimão Museum).
- Parking: Free parking is available nearby.
- Safety First: Tours may be suspended due to rough seas. Please inquire on the morning of your trip to confirm sea conditions.
- Day 12Free Day in The Algarve
Suggestion for the day: Unveiling Lagos' Charm & Ponta da Piedade's Wonders
Lagos, a captivating coastal town in the Algarve, beckons with its rich history, stunning beaches, and dramatic natural wonders. Immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discover a treasure trove of experiences!
Don’t Miss:
- Historic Charm: Admire remnants of the city's defensive walls, a reminder of its past as a crucial port city.
- Santa Maria Church: Marvel at the ornate facade and intricate interior of this 18th-century church, a landmark in Lagos.
- Governor's Castle: Explore this imposing 16th-century fortress, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Beaches for Every Mood:
- Dona Ana Beach
- Praia do Camilo
- Meia Prai
- Praia da Batata
- Praia dos Pinhão
Beyond the Beaches:
- Ponta da Piedade: Embark on a boat tour to explore the dramatic cliffs, grottoes, and rock formations of Ponta da Piedade, a natural marvel sculpted by wind and waves.
- Water Sports: Thrill-seekers can enjoy a variety of water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding
- Let us help you connect with the perfect tour to add some fun to your experience!
- Day 13Free Day in The Algarve
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Suggestion for the day: Carvoeiro & Benagil Caves Adventure
Escape to the sun-drenched shores of the Algarve and embark on an adventure in Carvoeiro, leading you to the awe-inspiring Benagil Caves! This itinerary offers two options: a relaxing boat tour or a more active Stand Up Paddle (SUP) or kayak experience.
In the morning, discover Carvoeiro's charm
Start your day in the picturesque village of Carvoeiro. Explore its cobbled streets lined with colorful shops, cafes, and restaurants. Soak in the laid-back atmosphere and embrace the village's charm.
Choose Your Benagil Caves Adventure (let us help you!):
- 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.
- Day 14
Return Flight Home
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!
Plan This Trip to Fit Me!
More About Your Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
The Portugal Getaways Cultural Jewels & Beach Bliss package includes round-trip flights, 13 nights of hotel accommodation (4 Porto, 5 Lisbon, 4 Algarve), daily breakfast, 2 first-class train tickets (Porto to Lisbon and Lisbon to Algarve), all transfers between airports, train stations, and hotels, 8 included guided experiences, and all taxes and fees related to the booking. No rental car is needed. City taxes and additional meals are not included.
- Porto City Train Tour, Wine Cellar & River Cruise (day 2, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM): City train tour through Porto's historic center with audio guide, guided visit to Real Companhia Velha wine cellar, tasting of 2 Port wines, and a 1-hour Douro River cruise. No hotel pickup. Meeting point: Sé Catedral do Porto.
Douro Valley Wine Tour (day 3, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM): Visit to two vineyards with tastings, a 1-hour Douro River cruise, and lunch at a winery. Hotel pickup included where possible. Some downtown Porto hotels may require a nearby meeting point due to roadworks.
Aveiro Half-Day Tour (day 4, 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM): Canal cruise on a traditional moliceiro boat, wine and sweets tasting, guided walk through the Art Nouveau city center, and a visit to Costa Nova. Hotel pickup included where possible.
Fado Show with Dinner and Wine in Alfama (day 5, 8:00 PM to 12:00 AM): Traditional fado in a 19th-century tavern in Alfama, with dinner, 2 drinks, and coffee included. No hotel pickup. Meeting point: Páteo de Alfama, Rua de São João da Praça 18, 1100-117, Lisbon.
Sintra Full Day Tour (day 6, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM): Sintra village, Quinta da Regaleira (ticket and guided visit included), Pena Park, Cabo da Roca, and Cascais. No hotel pickup. Meeting point: Praça da Figueira, in front of the statue, 1100-240, Lisbon. Drop-off at Marquês de Pombal. Pena Palace ticket and lunch not included.
Fátima Sanctuary Half-Day Private Tour (day 7, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM): Private guided visit to the Shrine of Fátima, Chapel of the Apparitions, Museum of Fátima, and the village of Valinhos. Hotel pickup included.
Évora & Monsaraz Full Day Tour with Wine Tasting (day 8, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM): Guided walk of Évora's historic center, entry and guided visit to the Bones Chapel, afternoon in Monsaraz, and regional wine tasting. No hotel pickup. Meeting point: Praça da Figueira, in front of the statue, 1100-240, Lisbon. Drop-off at Marquês de Pombal. Lunch not included.
Benagil Boat Tour (day 11, 2 hours, several departure times): Coastal boat tour from Portimão covering Ferragudo, dramatic rock formations, and the Benagil Caves. No hotel pickup. Meeting point: Ed. Portisub, next to the Portimão Museum. Check in 30 minutes before departure.
First-class train tickets are included for both connections. The Porto to Lisbon train takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. The Lisbon to Algarve train takes approximately 3 hours. Transfers from your hotel to the departure station and from the arrival station to your hotel are included at both connections. No driving is required at any point on this trip.
No. All transfers between airports, train stations, hotels, and tours that include pickup are fully arranged. For experiences without hotel pickup, including the Porto City Train Tour, meeting points are reachable by taxi or public transport from the hotels in this package.
The package offers 4 and 5-star hotels across all three destinations. The package price varies depending on the hotel selected. In Porto and Lisbon, all properties are centrally located with the main sights and tour meeting points reachable on foot, by public transport, or by a short taxi ride. In the Algarve, properties are resort-style hotels near the coast in the Alvor and Carvoeiro area, not in a town center. A short drive or taxi is needed to reach the Benagil tour meeting point and nearby towns. Exact options are shown when you click a date in the booking calendar. Contact the Portugal Getaways team to discuss preferences before booking.
Yes, daily breakfast is included at all hotels throughout the full 13 nights. Lunches and dinners are not included, with the exception of the Douro Valley Wine Tour (lunch at a winery included) and the Fado Dinner in Alfama (dinner and 2 drinks included).
All 8 experiences are light to moderate and suitable for most fitness levels. The Sintra and Évora tours involve walking on cobblestone streets and some uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended throughout. The Fátima tour is the most relaxed, with minimal walking. If you have specific mobility concerns, contact the Portugal Getaways team before booking and we will advise on which tours best suit your needs.
Yes, round-trip flights are included. You fly into Porto and return home from the Algarve, covering Portugal from north to south in one trip. Other departure cities are available on request. Checked luggage is not always included and depends on the airline and fare type. You can confirm what is included and add luggage during the booking process. Seat selection and cabin class upgrades can be arranged as paid add-ons, subject to availability.
No. City taxes are not included and are paid directly at each hotel.
Yes to both. The Portugal Getaways team can add Madeira or the Azores as an extension before or after this itinerary. The most common combination is flying into Porto, completing the train tour, and then flying from the Algarve to Madeira or the Azores for additional nights. Contact the team with your preferred dates and we will put together a combined itinerary. Additional costs apply.
Yes. The package price is based on two travelers sharing a room. Solo travelers pay a single supplement. You can check solo pricing by changing the number of guests from 2 to 1 in the booking calendar before clicking See Dates and Prices. Contact the Portugal Getaways team directly and we will make it easy.
This package works well year-round. Spring (April to June) offers mild temperatures around 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F), fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for the Douro Valley and Sintra. Summer (July to August) reaches 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F) in the Algarve, peak beach season but the busiest and most expensive period. Autumn (September to October) stays warm at around 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), quieter and excellent value. Winter (November to March) is mild at around 14°C to 17°C (57°F to 63°F), well suited to Porto and Lisbon city exploration with significantly fewer tourists.
Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe, with no active conflicts and not affected by the current conflicts in Europe or elsewhere. Standard precautions apply in busy tourist areas of Lisbon. US and Canadian passport holders do not currently need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. ETIAS is not yet mandatory.
The land portion of your package is refundable if cancelled at least 14 days before your travel date. Airfare is non-refundable from the moment it is issued. Travel insurance with cancellation cover is strongly recommended. This summary does not replace the full terms and conditions of your booking. For general support, contact the Portugal Getaways team every day from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM Azores Time. Outside office hours, an emergency number is provided in your trip documents. For local emergencies in Portugal, dial 112.
Yes. If one of the 8 included experiences does not suit your interests or physical ability, the Portugal Getaways team can discuss alternatives before booking. Some tours can be swapped for a different experience in the same destination. Contact the team when booking and we will do our best to adjust the programme to fit your preferences.
Yes. A Seville full-day guided bus tour can be added to your Algarve stay. Seville is approximately 2 hours from the Algarve by road and is one of the most popular day trips for travelers staying in the region. You can add it on the next step.
Available Experiences
