Lisbon, Sintra and Santiago de Compostela
Program Length:
9 Days
Program Dates:
July 20-28, 2024
Countries Visited:
Portugal and Spain
An All-Inclusive Experience
Roundtrip Airfare
Twin Room Accommodations
Full Time Local Program Director
All Transportation to Included Activities
2 Meals Daily
Entrance Fees to All Attractions and Activities
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour On-Program Support
All Taxes and Fees
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Board your overnight flight bound for Lisbon.
Day 2 - Lisbon
Arrive in Lisbon. Meet your Travel Director at the airport and transfer to your centrally located hotel. Start exploring the city on an orientation welcome before your group welcome dinner.
Day 3 - Lisbon
This morning a local guide introduces you to the jewels of Lisbon. You will see the Monument of the Discoveries, Alfama district, Rossio Square, St. George's Castle and the inside of the Jerónimos Monastery. This afternoon learn about the famous Portuguese ceramic tiles, or azulejos, that are all over the city and decorate your own piece during a hands-on ceramic tile workshop.
Did You Know?
Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe. It is believed to be about four centuries older than Rome. King Afonso Henriques was appointed its king in 1139.
Day 4 - Lisbon
Today visit the hillside town of Sintra and the colorful Palacio Nacional da Pena, which was the summer residence of Portuguese kings and is famed for its tile work. This 19th century Romanticist castle sits atop a rocky outcrop at one of the highest points in Sintra and offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding area. Then return to Lisbon with time to explore more at your own pace.
Day 5 - Porto
Drive to Porto. En route stop at the university town of Coimbra for a visit. Continue to Porto, the birthplace of port wine, it has long been a favorite destination for those who appreciate a fine vintage. Dinner with port wine tasting.
Day 6 - Porto
This morning enjoy a panoramic city tour, which will lead you past colorful buildings, seemingly piled one atop the other as they cascade down steep cliffs to the water's edge. You will see the Palacio de Bolsa. Serving as the city's stock market, this Neo-classical building was constructed in the 19th century after a fire destroyed the Franciscan convent that originally stood on the spot. Next, you will discover Sao Francisco Church, the most extravagantly decorated church in all of Porto.
Did You Know?
The Pena Palace in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the ultimate expression of Neo-Romanticism architecture. On a clear day, it can be seen from just about any part of Lisbon.
Day 7 - Santiago de Compostela
Drive north and cross the border in to Spain. You will stop in Vigo for a visit and a seafood lunch before continuing to the capital of the region of Galicia - Santiago de Compostela. This Galician capital boasts one of the oldest universities in Spain and a beautiful old city center that combines Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture. The faithful also recognize it as the burial site of St. James the Apostle, which leads to its role as an important center for Christian traditions and the final destination on the Camino de Santiago, or “Way of St. James” pilgrimage route.
Day 8 - Santiago de Compostela
A guided sightseeing tour will help you uncover the city’s most interesting sights and stories and will include a visit inside the famed Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, beneath which lies the tomb of St. James. Free afternoon. Farewell dinner.
Day 9 - Departure Day
Transfer to the Lisbon airport for your return flight home.
