Portugal by train: North to south
Portugal
- 12 days
- 10 nights
- 17 meals
Departure: May 21, 2026
On demand price
PortugalCharming Portugal
Discover the charms of Portugal on this 8-day tour in 4-star hotels. Depart from Lisbon for the fascinating historical sites of Óbidos, Porto, and Coimbra before taking in spectacular views of the Douro Valley and Sintra Mountains. A guided trip you’ll never forget, brimming with culture, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Cities on itinerary:
Lisbon, Óbidos, Alcobaça, Nazaré, Batalha, Figueira da Foz, Aveiro, Porto, Braga, Guimarães, Trancoso, Coimbra, Fátima, Leiria, Marvao, Évora, Sintra
- Moderate
- Local guide
- Group meets at destination
Highlights:
- Medieval city of Óbidos
- University of Coimbra
- Palace of Sintra
- Tastings of local fare
Itinerary
- Day 1: Lisbon
Airport pickup and transfer to the hotel. Omid Saldanha Hotel 4* or similar
- Day 2: Óbidos – Alcobaça – Nazaré – Batalha – Figueira da Foz (230km)
Discover Óbidos, a magnificent medieval walled city with timeless appeal. Then drive to charming Nazaré, an Atlantic Coast fishing town known for its authentic ambiance and spectacular scenery. In the afternoon, tour the Cistercian Monastery of Santa Maria d’Alcobaça, a Gothic masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then head to Batalha to view its monastery. Palace Hotel & Spa Termas do Bicanho 4* or similar (B-L-D)
- Day 3: Aveiro – Porto – Braga – Guimarães – Porto (195km)
Visit Aveiro, “the Venice of Portugal.” Then tour Porto, starting with the legendary Ribeira neighbourhood with its colourful houses and riverside restaurants. Then it’s off to Braga and the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte before heading to Guimarães for a guided walking tour of the historic centre. Rubens Hotel & Spa 4* (2025) / Guimaraes Hotel 4* or similar (B-L-D)
- Day 4: Douro Valley
Spend the day exploring the Douro Valley, known for its breathtaking landscapes and terraced vineyards where iconic port wine is produced. Tour a quinta, where port is made, and enjoy a tasting. Then head to Sernancelhe, near the Serra da Lapa hills. Savour local cuisine in a distinctive setting where history and fine dining come together for an unforgettable evening. Hotel Rural Nossa Senhora do Carmo 4* or similar (B-L-D)
- Day 5: Trancoso – Celorico da Beira – Coimbra – Fatima – Leiria (250km)
Drive to Trancoso, a city steeped in history featuring a thousand-year-old castle. Then stop at Celorico da Beira, known for its delicious cheese. Tour a local cheese factory and enjoy a tasting of artisanal cheeses paired with Portuguese wine. In the afternoon, explore Coimbra starting with its famous university, one of the oldest in Europe. Then visit the Shrine of Fátima, one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites. Dinner and overnight accommodation in the Leiria area. Essence Inn Marianos Hotel 4* or similar (B-L-D)
- Day 6: Marvão – Évora – Lisbon (330km)
Leave for Marvão to tour an olive oil mill and enjoy lunch prepared by the local association. Then drive to Évora through the rolling hills, vast plains, and picturesque vineyards of this region rich in history and tradition. Take a walking tour of Évora. Continue to a local cork factory to learn how this quintessential Portuguese resource is carefully processed. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and fado show. ($) Lagoas Park Hotel 4* or similar (B-L-D)
- Day 7: Sintra – Lisbon (195km)
Head to Sintra, a charming town in the heart of lush mountains. Visit the National Palace of Sintra, famous for its iconic chimneys and royal architecture. Then visit vibrant Lisbon, a city rich in history. Explore the Belém district, famous for its monuments, including the imposing Monument to the Discoveries honouring the Portuguese explorers. View the exterior of the magnificent Monastery of the Hieronymites and the Tower of Belém, two UNESCO World Heritage architectural gems. Dinner and overnight accommodation in the Lisbon area. (B-L-D)
- Day 8: Lisbon
Transfer to the Lisbon airport. (B)
Inclusions
Transportation by tour bus
Transfers
7 nights in 4* accommodations
Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary
Services of a French-speaking tour guide
Applicable taxes
Travel insurance
International flights
Baggage handling
Tips and personal expenses
Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section
Get the right coverage with CAA-Quebec Travel Insurance
Take off with peace of mind thanks to protections tailored to your needs and budget. As a member, you enjoy up to 20% off your premium.
No departure on the date you wanted? Trip fully booked?
For personalized assistance, call 1-844-869-2439 or email us.
Other organized tours that may interest you
Our explore pledge: Travelling differently together
Our exclusive group tours are designed to ensure an enriching, friendly, and fuss-free experience:
- French-speaking tour host
- Generous inclusions and exclusive excursions
- Members earn CAA Dollars back
- 15% back in CAA Dollars at the Boutique
- Rewards for loyal travellers
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The accommodation establishments listed may be changed without prior notice. Please note that group flight contracts do not allow for seat selection. We therefore recommend that you check in with the airlines 24 hours before departure. This offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Read the full terms and conditions.
If the scheduled flight is operated by Air France or KLM, only the Air France/KLM shuttle bus service will be available for passengers departing from Québec City.