Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Departure Day!

Your journey begins as you depart on an overnight flight to Lisbon, Portugal. Get ready for an unforgettable experience exploring Portugal’s vibrant cities, rich history, coastal landscapes, and unique cultural traditions.

Day 2: Arrival in Lisbon & Introduction to Portuguese Culture

Arrive in Lisbon and meet your Program Director before transferring into the heart of the city. Head out on an orientation walk through Lisbon’s colorful historic neighborhoods, where tiled facades, lively plazas, and steep winding streets create one of Europe’s most unique atmospheres. Begin getting to know the city’s culture and energy before gathering for a traditional Portuguese welcome dinner with your group.

Day 3: Lisbon – History, Culture & Local Life

Spend the day exploring Lisbon’s fascinating blend of history and local culture. Wander through Alfama, the city’s oldest neighborhood, where narrow alleyways, scenic viewpoints, and local cafés offer a glimpse into traditional Lisbon life. Continue to Belém to visit two of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks—Belém Tower and the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery—both tied to Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Enjoy free time to browse local shops, relax at cafés, and experience the rhythm of the city before participating in a hands-on Azulejo tile-painting workshop inspired by Portugal’s famous artistic tradition.

Day 4: Sintra & the Atlantic Coast

Travel outside the city to the fairytale town of Sintra, a UNESCO-listed destination known for its lush hillsides, colorful palaces, and storybook atmosphere. Visit the stunning Pena Palace, perched high above the surrounding countryside, before exploring Sintra’s charming village center filled with cafés, bakeries, and local shops. Later, continue to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where dramatic cliffs overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Return to Lisbon in the evening for dinner and time to enjoy the city.

Day 5: Lisbon to the Algarve – Coastal Landscapes

Depart Lisbon and travel south to Portugal’s breathtaking Algarve region, famous for its dramatic coastline, golden beaches, and seaside towns. Stop in Lagos to learn about the region’s maritime history and explore the charming coastal atmosphere. Continue to Praia da Marinha, widely considered one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, before visiting Ponta da Piedade, where towering cliffs, sea arches, and rock formations create some of Portugal’s most iconic coastal scenery. Settle into the Algarve for the evening and enjoy dinner with your group.

Day 6: Algarve – Boat Tour, Beaches & Local Culture

Experience the Algarve from the water during a scenic coastline boat tour past sea caves, hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. This unforgettable experience offers a unique perspective on one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions. Later, visit the historic town of Silves, once an important Moorish center in southern Portugal. Explore Silves Castle, wander through local markets and streets, and experience another side of Portuguese culture and history before returning to the coast for the evening.

Day 7: Return to Lisbon & Farewell Cooking Experience

Depart the Algarve and return to Lisbon for your final full day in Portugal. Enjoy time to explore more of the city, pick up souvenirs, relax at a local café, or revisit favorite neighborhoods before gathering for a hands-on Portuguese cooking class. Working together with local ingredients and traditional recipes, learn how to prepare authentic Portuguese dishes before sitting down to enjoy a special farewell dinner with your group.

Day 8: Departure Day

Enjoy some final free time in Lisbon for shopping, neighborhood exploration, or one last pastel de nata before transferring to Lisbon Airport for your return flight home. Leave Portugal with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the country’s culture, history, and coastal beauty..