11 Days The Best of Portugal from Lisbon

A 11-Day Journey Through Portugal’s Best – A Genuine and Detailed Review

Portugal isn’t just about Port wine and pastéis de nata; it’s about discovering a country full of surprises, from medieval towns to vibrant cities, all wrapped in breathtaking landscapes. This 11-day guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Portugal’s most iconic spots and hidden gems, starting in Lisbon and ending in Algarve, with plenty of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights along the way. At a price of $3,849.31 per person, it’s a significant investment but one that many travelers find well worth the value for the depth and variety of experiences packed into this trip.

What we love about this tour? First, the balance between city sightseeing and authentic village visits provides a well-rounded experience. Whether wandering through the ancient walls of Óbidos or tasting port in Vila Nova de Gaia, you get a taste of Portugal’s diverse character. Second, the expert guides and well-chosen accommodations shine through in the reviews, with travelers praising their knowledge and comfort. The chance to indulge in Portugal’s legendary wines, explore UNESCO sites, and enjoy free time in scenic towns makes it a truly memorable journey.

One possible consideration is the tight schedule—11 days means a lot of ground covered, which may feel rushed for those wanting deep dives into each location. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a good tour to supplement with additional days or select destinations. However, for travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Portugal’s highlights without planning each detail, this guided experience hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time and see many iconic sights with ease, especially those who appreciate cultural stories, scenic drives, and authentic local flavor. It’s perfect for first-timers to Portugal or those wanting a curated overview that covers both the well-known and lesser-known spots.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major cities, UNESCO sites, and charming villages.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed for their knowledge and professionalism.
• Cultural highlights: Includes historic churches, castles, and religious sites.
• Taste of Portugal: Wine tasting in Porto and local food experiences.
• Flexible free days: Opportunities for personal exploration at some stops.
• Value for money: All entrance fees included, plus comfortable accommodations.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting in Lisbon: A Welcoming Introduction

Your adventure begins in Lisbon, with a pickup at Marquis of Pombal Square—a central spot that’s easy to find and a good starting point. From there, you’ll venture out into Portugal’s landscape, passing through windmills and orchards, setting a relaxed, scenic tone for the trip ahead. First stop: Óbidos, a beautifully preserved medieval town encircled by stone walls. Travelers consistently praise this stop, with one reviewer noting, “This tour lives up to its name. Not too short, not too long. It takes you to tourist places but also to gem places.” Expect to wander narrow streets, admire the whitewashed houses, and perhaps enjoy a sip of the famous ginginha cherry liqueur.

Next, you’ll visit Alcobaca, home to Portugal’s first and largest Gothic church. Here, the tombs of Pedro and Inês de Castro tell a story of love and tragedy that’s a cornerstone of Portuguese legend. The church’s soaring ceilings and detailed stonework make it a must-see for history buffs.

Finally, a stop in Nazaré introduces you to a classic fishing village famous for its giant waves and lively seaside atmosphere. It’s a great place to breathe in the ocean air and see the authentic side of Portuguese coastal life.

Portugal’s Heartland: Coimbra and Aveiro

Moving on to Coimbra, you’ll explore one of Europe’s oldest universities. The baroque library and student traditions like wearing black capes bring the town to life. A visit to Santa Clara Church reveals the tomb of Queen Santa Isabel. Reviewers often mention how these visits give insight into Portugal’s historical depth, like one who said, “You get a sense of the old traditions and melancholic Fado music that still echoes through the streets.”

In the afternoon, you’ll discover Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal,” with its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Here, the relaxed pace lets you soak in the charming atmosphere. The town is also known for its distinctive ceramics, which makes for great souvenirs.

Porto: Wine, History, and UNESCO Charm

Next is Porto, Portugal’s second city, renowned for its port wine and historic riverfront. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with winding streets, riverside cafes, and stunning architecture. We loved the way the guide explained Porto’s history and the significance of its Ribeira district. A highlight is sampling port wine in Gaia, across the river, which offers panoramic views and tastings that many reviewers found especially memorable.

The day in Porto also includes visits to Palácio da Bolsa and Sao Francisco Church, both praised for their ornate interiors and historical importance. Time permitting, some travelers enjoy wandering on their own, exploring local markets, or relaxing by the river.

Scenic Drives and Small Town Charm

Days 5 and 6 take you into the Minho region, with visits to Guimarães—the “birthplace of Portugal”—and Vila Real. The Palace of Mateus is a highlight, with its beautiful gardens featured in travel photos. The peaceful vibe of these towns offers a break from busier cities, and travelers often enjoy exploring local markets and sampling regional Vinho Verde wine.

Nature and Religious Heritage: Bussaco and Tomar

The drive through Bussaco introduces lush forests and a romantic royal hunting lodge-turned hotel, perfect for nature lovers. Later, in Tomar, you’ll visit the Knights Templar’s Convent, an impressive site tied to Portugal’s medieval roots. One reviewer noted, “The development of this lovely place is closely linked to the Templars,” giving context to Portugal’s history.

Sintra and Coastal Marvels

Your day in Sintra is a highlight, visiting the Palace of Sintra and walking through fairytale scenery. Then, at Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, travelers are often struck by the stunning views. The coast drive passes the Cascais and Estoril area, famous for beaches and luxury estates. Many reviews mention how beautiful and varied this day is, with one saying, “This superb day ends in Lisbon with relaxing evening strolls.”

The Charm of Évora and the Algarve

Évora offers a step back in time, with its Roman Temple, Gothic Cathedral, and Chapel of Bones. The local market scene adds authentic flavor. The town’s UNESCO status means it’s packed with history and character, as several reviewers pointed out.

The Algarve portion showcases gorgeous beaches, cliffs, and historic towns like Lagos and Silves. The visits to Ponta da Piedade and Cabo de São Vicente deliver spectacular views over the Atlantic, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The red sandstone castle in Silves and the lively marina in Lagos highlight both the history and modern charm of the region.

Practical Aspects and Comfort

Transportation is via air-conditioned bus or minivan, with a typical group size of under 50 travelers. The pace is generally comfortable, with many reviews praising the guided commentary, which adds depth to each stop. Accommodation is on a bed-and-breakfast basis, with some travelers noting the quality of hotels like the VIP Lisbon hotel and Aurea Hotel in Fatima.

Breakfast is included daily, giving a good start before busy sightseeing days. You’ll have some free afternoons, perfect for exploring on your own or relaxing. The tour also includes most entrance fees, like Batalha Monastery and Coimbra’s University, which adds value.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple travelers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides, mentioning Pedro and the professional driver Jose. One said, “Pedro Pinto knew everything about the history and the beautiful places,” which speaks to the quality of narration and storytelling. The hotels receive praise for their comfort, and many feel the value for money is excellent considering the diverse experiences, cultural insights, and included entrance fees.

Some Considerations

A common theme in reviews is that the itinerary is packed, which may feel rushed for those wanting to linger longer in each town. The long driving hours are unavoidable but are often seen as a small price for the breadth of sights covered. The non-refundable policy might concern travelers who prefer flexible plans, but it’s typical for this type of guided tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 11-day Portugal trip appeals most to first-time visitors or those eager to see a broad spectrum of highlights without the hassle of arranging logistics themselves. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and scenery seekers who want an organized, informative experience. If you’re traveling with a group or family and value expert guidance and curated sites, this tour offers excellent value.

If you prefer a very relaxed pace or want to explore each location more deeply, you might find this schedule a bit intense, but for most, it provides a memorable, well-rounded introduction to Portugal.

Final Thoughts

In sum, this 11-day guided tour of Portugal delivers a well-balanced mix of cultural sights, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences. The combination of knowledgeable guides, diverse destinations, and comfortable accommodations makes it a practical choice for those wanting to see Portugal’s highlights efficiently. The included entrance fees and hotel stays on a bed-and-breakfast basis add to its appeal as a solid value.

Designed for travelers who enjoy learning about history and culture while soaking in beautiful views and tasting regional wines, it’s a journey that many will remember fondly. Whether exploring medieval walls, sipping port, or marveling at ocean cliffs, you’ll come away with a true sense of Portugal’s charm and character.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does the tour last?
It lasts for 11 days, covering major cities, towns, and scenic locations across Portugal.

Are flights included?
No, international flights are not included in the price. You’ll need to arrange your arrival and departure.

Is airport transfer included?
The tour offers a pickup at Marques de Pombal Square in Lisbon and drop-off at the same point at the end, but airport transfers are not specified.

What type of accommodations can I expect?
You’ll stay in hotels on a bed-and-breakfast basis, including options like the VIP Lisbon hotel and Aurea Hotel in Fatima.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, most entry fees listed in the itinerary, such as Batalha Monastery and Coimbra University, are included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for Portugal’s climate, sun protection, and perhaps a hat and mosquito repellent for outdoor stops.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Portugal’s history, scenery, and culture—perfect for travelers who want an organized, insightful introduction to this captivating country.