10 Days Portugal Circuit with Santiago de Compostela

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL IN LISBON

Arrival at Lisbon airport, located on the north bank of the Tagus River, a few kilometers from the Atlantic. Reception and transfer to the hotel (most hotels in Europe accept check-in only after 2:00 PM). Free time. 

DAY 2 - LISBON

In the morning, panoramic tour of Lisbon, known for its unique luminosity and incomparable charm. According to legend, the Portuguese capital was originally built on seven hills, stretching along the Tagus River in a undulating landscape full of historic buildings, cobbled streets, and beautiful viewpoints. As the country's capital, Lisbon was the stage for some of Portugal's most important historical moments, including 400 years of Arab occupation, the flourishing era of overseas voyages, the great 1755 earthquake, the end of the monarchy, the years of 20th-century dictatorship, and the peaceful revolution of April 25, 1974. On this tour, we highlight the historic Belém district, home to the Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the famous Pastéis de Belém Factory, where we will visit with tasting. Afternoon and evening free. Consult optional tours for the day. 

DAY 3 - LISBON

Full day free for personal activities. Consult optional tours for the day. 

DAY 4 - LISBON > ÓBIDOS > NAZARÉ > FÁTIMA

In the morning, journey to Óbidos, the "village of queens." Walking tour through narrow streets and small squares to explore this beautiful historic village, considered one of Europe's best examples of a medieval citadel. Continuation to Nazaré, a stunning beach with one of Portugal's oldest fishing traditions. Recently, this city drew worldwide attention for its famous giant waves, attracting big-wave surfers and global media. Walk to the famous elevator. Lunch gastronomic. In the afternoon, journey to the Fátima Sanctuary, originating from the 1917 apparitions of Our Lady to three children. Overnight and opportunity to participate in or watch the Candlelight Procession. 

DAY 5 - FÁTIMA > SERRA DA ESTRELA > SABUGUEIRO > COIMBRA

In the morning, journey via Covilhã to Serra da Estrela, mainland Portugal's highest mountain, reaching 1,993 meters at its peak. In this region of rare natural and scenic beauty, sheep flocks live that have contributed to the local economy by providing wool for the textile industry and milk for Portugal's most famous cheese, serra cheese. Continuation to the mountain village of Sabugueiro and lunchgastronomic. The journey continues to Coimbra, located on the banks of the Mondego River; capital of Portugal until 1256 and home to the country's oldest university. Visit to the magnificent University Library, followed by a panoramic tour highlighting the Republics, the São Sebastião Aqueduct, and the Botanical Garden. 

Note - The Coimbra Library visit is subject to reconfirmation as it may not take place due to official ceremonies restricting public access. 

DAY 6 - COIMBRA > COSTA NOVA > AVEIRO > GUIMARÃES > BRAGA

In the morning, journey to Costa Nova to photograph the famous striped "palheiros" (traditional houses). Continuation to Aveiro, a city distinguished by its canals navigated by colorful boats called moliceiros, characteristics that sometimes earn Aveiro the nickname "Venice of Portugal." Upon arrival, we will take a moliceiro boat ride with tasting of traditional sweets. Free time to stroll and lunch. In the afternoon, we travel to Guimarães, the cradle of Portuguese nationality. Walking tour of the historic center, UNESCOlisted. Continuation to Braga. 

DAY 7 - BRAGA > SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA > VALENÇA > PORTO

On this day, we tour the beautiful regions of Minho and Galicia (Spain). First, we travel to Braga, one of Portugal's oldest cities and a prime religious tourism destination. Ascent to the iconic Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte via the famous water-powered funicular. Then, we cross the beautiful Minho region and the "Rías Baixas" to Santiago de Compostela (religious and pilgrimage center after the 9th-century discovery of Apostle James' tomb). Arrival and guided tour of the famous Cathedral housing the saint's tomb. Return to Portugal with a stop in Valença do Minho, a historic city symbolizing cross-border relations between Portugal and Spain, with one of Europe's largest and best-preserved military structures. Continuation to Porto, the "invincible city" and Portugal's second-largest city on the right bank of the Douro River. 

DAY 8 - PORTO

In the morning, tour of this city whose old quarter is UNESCO World Heritage. Highlights include Avenida da Boavista, Foz neighborhood, Clérigos Tower, Avenida dos Aliados, and Lapa Church. Interior visit to the 12th-century Sé-Cathedral and São Bento Station, richly decorated with azulejo panels. After crossing to Vila Nova de Gaia, visit to a Port Wine cellar with tasting. Consult optional tours for the day. 

DAY 9 - PORTO > LISBON

Departure toward Vila do Conde. Stop at Vila do Conde Porto Fashion Outlet. Free time for shopping. Continuation to Lisbon. Overnight. 

DAY 10 - DEPARTURE FROM LISBON

Hotel services end with breakfast (room may remain occupied until 10 or 12 noon, per each hotel's policy). Free time until airport transfer. Safe travels home.