Sunny Portugal

Ancient castles and Roman ruins, groves of lemon and almond trees, quiet whitewashed villages, and welcoming locals – Portugal is waiting for you.

Say hello to the Portuguese Riviera, your home for the next three nights. With mansions scattered about Cascais and Monte Estoril – all hint at its history as a haven for exiled European royals and nobility. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Embark on a panoramic Lisbon city tour and uncover the city’s most famous sights. Travel to Belém where you’ll see the iconic Belém Tower (UNESCO World Heritage site), and the Monument to the Discoveries. Step into the past at the 16th-century Jerónimos Monastery (UNESCO), one of the prime examples of the Portuguese Gothic style. Back in Cascais, enjoy some time to discover the narrow cobblestone streets, meandering past seaside cafés or pausing to shop for ceramics, lace, and hand-woven works. You’re on your own for the remainder of the day. You may choose to join an optional experience to savor Portuguese cuisine and wine while local artists perform traditional Fado, included in UNESCO’s list as a World Cultural Heritage. (B)

Explore the picture-perfect city of Obidos, where white-washed houses sit snug within medieval city walls. Continue on to Sintra (UNESCO), a breathtaking hub that served as the summer residence of Portuguese kings for six centuries. Then, it’s your choice! Explore this quaint hilltop village and wander through the winding streets lined with cork products and pastries -OR- venture into the National Palace of Sintra and learn about its 1000-year old history. On your return to Lisbon stop to admire the stunning Cabo da Roca, the western most point of continental Europe. (B)

Make your way through Portugal’s charming countryside. Visit Arraiolos, known as the “village of rugs,” and delve into the history and art of Portuguese tapestries. Visit a family-owned cork factory, where you’ll learn about the product’s importance to the local economy and why Portugal is the world’s top cork producer. Your journey then takes you to Evora (UNESCO) – the “Museum City of Portugal.” In addition to Evora’s 2nd-century Roman temple to Diana, this medieval walled city is also the home to the mysterious 16th-century Chapel of Bones. (B)

Journey to the stunning coasts of the Algarve - the southernmost region of Portugal. On the way, pause to take in the dramatic vistas from the village of Monsaraz. Indulge in full-bodied wines from the Alentejo region during a winery tour, tasting and light lunch. Then, explore the historic resort town of Lagos, where Moorish and Renaissance influences meet towering seaside cliffs. From this bustling port city, many celebrated voyagers began their explorations. (B,L)

The day is yours to experience the incomparable Algarve on your own. Geraniums, camellias, and oleanders grow alongside fig, orange, and almond trees, while brightly colored fishing boats bob on the seas. Protected by hills to the north and warmed by the sea, the Algarve’s mild climate and beautiful beaches attract visitors from all over the world. You may choose to join an optional experience that will get you closer to the some of the most famous coastal scenery in Portugal. (B,D)

Journey to Faro, the capital of the Algarve. Explore the city’s historic center and see the 9th-century city walls. During lunch, discover the flavors of the region as a local chef highlights Algarve gastronomy during a cooking demonstration. Enjoy a tasting menu featuring iconic dishes of the region complete with local liquors and pastries. Continue to charming Tavira, an ancient Moorish city and one of the best-kept secrets in the Algarve. Here you will feel the unspoiled Algarve when walking its narrow lanes filled with whitewashed buildings. Return to Lagos for an evening at leisure. (B,L)

En route to Lisbon, make a stop in Azeitao, a charming agricultural village known for red wine, olive trees and beautiful country estates. Meet local artisans at a family-run shop and learn how the famous hand-painted Portuguese tiles, azulejos, are made. Bid Portugal goodbye during a dinner in Lisbon and celebrate the end of your unforgettable journey. (B,D)

Your tour of Portugal comes to a close today. Return home to Detroit, MI. (B)