Portugal Signature
11 Days
from
$4,598
to
$5,324
per person*
Highlights:
Algarve
(Albufeira)
,
Portugal
(Lisbon, Porto)
Trip Start/End:
Faro
/
Porto
Explore some of the signature cities and regions of Portugal, such as the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto. Spend time on the southern coast of the Algarve discovering the magnificent sandy beaches, dramatic coastline and typical fishing villages and historical towns such as the ancient maritime town of Lagos, with its Moorish castle and 13th century cathedral. Off the coast, there are numerous natural rock formations and caves as well as dolphins who like the temperate waters just off the coast - ingredients for the perfect vacation day trip! Lisbon, the capital, was once the center of the spice trade route and meeting point for people from all over the world. The cosmopolitan feeling is still felt in this city with its medieval quarters and the rich history is evidenced by the Belem tower, a sentinel over the Tagus River that traditionally protected the entrance into Lisbon and the UNESCO of Jerónimos Monastery. The surrounding area holds delights such as Évora, a museum-city, with Roman roots, Estremoz, a town so rich in its natural production of marble that even the doorsteps, pavements and the cobble stones are made out of marble and Sintra, a World Heritage site known as "Lord Byron's Glorious Eden". The northern city of Porto has its own charm with its squares and historical center. Visit various places of interest in the region on guided day trips and discover the beauty of Northern Portugal to top off your vacation in Portugal.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Faro - Albufeira
| - Transfer - Private - Faro - Albufeira [Airport to Hotel (40 min) ] - Vehicle/Driver
- Portugal - Welcome Package
- Dinner (not included)
| Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*)
Classic (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Albufeira
| - Private - Historical Algarve (8hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*)
Classic (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Albufeira
| - Transfer - Private - Marina (departure) - Vehicle/Driver
- Shared - 1/2 Day Caves and Dolphin Watching (AM, 2hrs) - Boat/Skipper
- Transfer - Private - Marina (arrival) - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Afternoon at Leisure
- Dinner (not included)
| Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*)
Classic (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Albufeira - Lisbon
| - Transfer - Private - Train Station (departure) - Vehicle/Driver
- Train - Albufeira - Lisbon [3 hrs] - 1st Class - Highspeed Train
- Lunch (not included)
- Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Lisboa Plaza (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Lisbon
| - Private - 1/2 d City Tour (with Guide) (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Lisboa Plaza (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Lisbon
| - Private - Sintra, Cabo da Roca, Cascais & Estoril (with Guide) (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Lisboa Plaza (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Lisbon
| - Private - Estremoz, Evora and Vila Vicosa (with Guide) (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Lisboa Plaza (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Lisbon - Porto
| - Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Train - Lisbon - Porto [3-4 hrs] - 1st Class - Highspeed Train
- Transfer - Private - Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 d City Tour (4 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Dinner (not included)
| Pestana Porto (4*)
Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Porto
| - Private - Guimaraes, Braga & Barcelos (with guide) (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Pestana Porto (4*)
Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Porto
| - Private - Douro Valley (Amarante, Mesao Frio, Regua, Pinhao, Vila Real) (with Guide) (8 hrs) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver - Weekday
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Pestana Porto (4*)
Superior (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Porto
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Albufeira
Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa
Day 1: Faro - Albufeira
Enjoy a private transfer from Faro Airport to your hotel in Albufeira.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.
Accommodation: Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*) The Real Bellavista Hotel and Spa (4*) is located in Albufeira, Portugal. The hotel offers a selection of restaurants and bars which respect the traditions of Portuguese and international cuisine. This classic 195 room hotel has created a simplistic sense of elegance sure to satisfy guests of all ages with garden balconies in 185 rooms. The Health Club offers both invigorating physical activities and relaxing treatments to help you unwind after your exercise.
Silves Castle
Day 2: Albufeira
A private guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel and escort you on your full day guided discovery of the Algarve region. If you only have time for one tour, this is the one. The Historic past of the Algarve starts in Silves, former capital of the Algarve, where you can visit the Moorish Castle and the 13th century Cathedral. In Monchique, you will reach the highest point of Algarve at an altitude of 902 meters, offering a spectacular view. Here you will have some free time to taste the traditional strawberry tree firewater before you drive down the mountain where you can have lunch. In Lagos, known as the city of the discoveries, you will have free time to visit the Museum and Saint Anthony’s Gold Church, after which you will pass through Sagres Fortress, stopping at the westernmost point of mainlaind Europe, Cape St. Vincent. The cost of the tour does not include any food/beverages, or any entrance fees.
Accommodation: Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*) 
Carvoeiro Beach
Day 3: Albufeira
Enjoy a private transfer to the Albufeira marina.
Cruise along the Algarve coast with your shared tour, between the Albufeira Marina and Carvoeiro beach, on a fantastic boat. Indulge in a relaxing time with pure emotions; during this cruise you will have the opportunity to discover fantastic caves, rock formations and a stop for a quick ocean swim. On the return, the boat shifts away from the coast to initiate the search for dolphins.
Enjoy a private transfer from the Albufeira marina to your accommodation.
In the afternoon, enjoy some time on your own to relax.
Accommodation: Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*) 
Lisbon
Lisboa Plaza
Day 4: Albufeira - Lisbon
Enjoy a private transfer to the Albufeira train station.
Enjoy a train ride from Albufeira to Lisbon. The journey will take between 2.5 - 3 hours.
Private train station transfer with vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Lisboa Plaza (4*) Lisboa Plaza (4*) charming boutique hotel in the historic center of Lisbon. Located close to Avenida da Liberdade, the Plaza is classic in decoration, and embues a 'grand' traditional feel. The beauty of the décor created by Graça Viterbo, one of the most famous Portuguese interior designers, the constant updating of services provided and the attention paid to even the smallest detail make this charming hotel one of the most character in Lisbon. All rooms at Hotel Lisboa Plaza blend the décor of Portuguese houses with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and DVD player. Facilities include a small gym and has a nice lounge/bar area.
Monument to the Discoveries
Day 5: Lisbon
With a private guide and driver, discover the wonderful city of Lisbon on this half-day tour. Visit the heart of the city, Rossio Square, then spend some time in Alfama, the Old Quarter. See the Lisbon Cathedral, and then walk up to St. George’s Castle, where you will pass by the Roman Theatre Ruins. You will then depart to Belém, the city's most monumental and historical area where you will visit the Patrimony of Mankind Jerónimos Monastery, and Belém Tower. Enjoy a short stop at the Monument to the Discoveries before a transfer back to your hotel. No entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Lisboa Plaza (4*) 
Cabo da Roca
Day 6: Lisbon
A private guide and driver will escort you on your full day guided tour along the coast of the Lisbon District. Your first stop will be in Sintra, a World Heritage site known as "Lord Byron's Glorious Eden". Sintra was used as a retreat by the Romans, the Moors and the Portuguese Kings due to its location, beauty, wooden ravines and fresh water springs. Next you will visit Cabo da Roca, the most western point in all of continental Europe. On your way back, you will discover Cascais, famed for being a resort area for Portugal's royal family in the late 19th and early 20th century. Finally, you will stop in Estoril, a seaside resort and tourist destination. At the end of the day you will be transfered back to your hotel. No entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Lisboa Plaza (4*) 
Palace of Vila Viçosa
Day 7: Lisbon
A private driver will meet you at your hotel to chauffeur you on your full day tour of Estremoz, Evora and Vila Vicosa. You will start with Estremoz, a town so rich in its natural production of marble that even the doorsteps, pavements and the cobble stones are made out of marble. Next you will visit Vila Viçosa, another town which impresses for the remarkable use of locally quarried marble, most notable the Palace of Vila Viçosa. Your tour continues to Évora, a museum-city, with Roman roots, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will end the day with a return transfer to your hotel. No entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Lisboa Plaza (4*) 
Porto
Pestana Porto Hotel
Day 8: Lisbon - Porto
Private train station transfer with vehicle and driver.
Enjoy a train ride from Lisbon to Porto. The regular trains take around 4 hours, while the highspeed trains take around 3 hours.
Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.
A private driver and guide will pick you up at your hotel to escort you on your half day guided tour of Porto. Enjoy a visit to Sé Cathedral, followed by the panoramic viewpoint of Gaia. Head to Batalha Square, then walk Santa Catarina Street. You will stop next at Liberdade Square, and the Clérigos Church and Tower. Visit the beautiful Lello bookshop, venture to Ribeira Square and conclude with a visit to Porto Wine Cellars with a tasting. You will then be transferred to your hotel. No entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Pestana Porto (4*) Pestana Porto Hotel (4*) located in the heart of historic Porto, in Praca da Ribeira. This Porto hotel is built in a magnificent building that belongs to the UNESCO as part of the world heritage site. Its privileged location allows beautiful views of the Douro River. There are 48 guestrooms including double, single, superior double and Suite. Rooms are fully fitted and nicely decorated, all of them featuring views overlooking the river or the city. Guests can dine at the Vintage Restaurant, serving Potuguese and International cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere. Bar Heritage is the ideal place where guests can have a drink and relax after a long day visiting the beautiful city of Porto.
Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, Guimaraes
Day 9: Porto
A private guide and driver/vehicle will pick you up at your hotel and escort you on a full day journey as you learn about and visit the region where the country of Portugal was born in the 12th century. The first stop will be the "birth of the nation", the 9th century settlement of Guimarães. Then, travel through the capital of Minho and on to Braga with its three sanctuaries shaping the triangle of faith, devotion and pilgrimage. Visit Barcelos' historical center known for its ceramic handicraft: the colorful Rooster of Barcelos, its main icon. At the conclusion of the day you be returned to your Porto hotel. No entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Pestana Porto (4*) 
Sao Gonçalo Monastery, Amarante
Day 10: Porto
Your private driver and guide will chauffeur you from your hotel to various stops along your full day tour of Amarante, Mesao Frio, Regua, Pinhao and Vila Real. In each area you will discover something wonderful; In Amarante, visit the Sao Gonçalo Monastery and historical city centre. Enjoy the views as you are driven through a picturesque valley before arriving at Mesão Frio, home of the Gothic parish church of São Nicolau. Afterwards, take a walk on the seaside wharf in Régua if this is of interest. From here, you'll get to visit the renowned train station in Pinhão before taking a lunch break (lunch not included). Visit a Port Wine farm to learn more about this drink synonymous with Portugal. Lastly, enjoy the historic city centre of Vila Real before being transfered back to your hotel. One port wine farm visit but no other entrance fees included.
Accommodation: Pestana Porto (4*) Day 11: Porto
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa
Real Bellavista Hotel & Spa (4*) - Albufeira
The Real Bellavista Hotel and Spa (4*) is located in Albufeira, Portugal. The hotel offers a selection of restaurants and bars which respect the traditions of Portuguese and international cuisine. This classic 195 room hotel has created a simplistic sense of elegance sure to satisfy guests of all ages with garden balconies in 185 rooms. The Health Club offers both invigorating physical activities and relaxing treatments to help you unwind after your exercise.
- Lisboa Plaza
Lisboa Plaza (4*) - Lisbon
Lisboa Plaza (4*) charming boutique hotel in the historic center of Lisbon. Located close to Avenida da Liberdade, the Plaza is classic in decoration, and embues a 'grand' traditional feel. The beauty of the décor created by Graça Viterbo, one of the most famous Portuguese interior designers, the constant updating of services provided and the attention paid to even the smallest detail make this charming hotel one of the most character in Lisbon. All rooms at Hotel Lisboa Plaza blend the décor of Portuguese houses with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and DVD player. Facilities include a small gym and has a nice lounge/bar area.
- Pestana Porto Hotel
Pestana Porto (4*) - Porto
Pestana Porto Hotel (4*) located in the heart of historic Porto, in Praca da Ribeira. This Porto hotel is built in a magnificent building that belongs to the UNESCO as part of the world heritage site. Its privileged location allows beautiful views of the Douro River. There are 48 guestrooms including double, single, superior double and Suite. Rooms are fully fitted and nicely decorated, all of them featuring views overlooking the river or the city. Guests can dine at the Vintage Restaurant, serving Potuguese and International cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere. Bar Heritage is the ideal place where guests can have a drink and relax after a long day visiting the beautiful city of Porto.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Portugal
VISA/PASSPORT
Portugal is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Portugal for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/portugal.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Lisbon.
Government: Republic since 1910.
Language: Portuguese. English is widely spoken within the business community.
Religion: Roman Catholic.
Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Continental two-pin plugs are in use.
Telephone: Country code +351.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage exists across the whole country.
Internet: There are Internet cafes in all urban areas, and some post offices offer Internet facilities. Wi-Fi access is available in various hotels and public buildings.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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