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Portugal
Portugal is a Southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain. It's location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of its culture: salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, the Algarve's beaches are a major turistic destination and much of the nation’s architecture dates to the 1500s–1800s, when Portugal had a powerful maritime empire.
As a member of the European Union and NATO, Portugal plays a greater role in both European and world affairs than it's size would suggest.
Portugal at a glance
Capital City: Lisbon
Population: 10.7 million
Currency: EURO
Language: Portugese
Time Zone: Continental Portugal and Madeira use UTC+00:00 and the Azores use UTC–01:00. Daylight saving time is observed in the whole country from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.
Electricity plug type: Type F plugs have two round pins but with an additional hole above them and two grounding clips.
Highlights of this tour
Discover the heart and soul of Portugal on this unforgettable journey through its most enchanting regions. Begin in Lisbon, the vibrant capital, where history and charm meet on every corner. Enjoy a guided city tour that reveals its iconic landmarks, followed by a relaxing cruise along the Tagus River with a refreshing welcome drink. In the evening, experience the passion of Portugal with a Fado live performance, accompanied by delicious tapas and local wines.
Venture beyond the capital to explore Portugal’s spiritual and cultural treasures on a guided tour of Fátima, Nazaré, Batalha, and Óbidos, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s faith, beauty, and medieval charm. Then, journey to the fairytale landscapes of Sintra, visiting the colorful Pena Palace, the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, and the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, before ending the day in the elegant seaside town of Cascais.
Continue north to Aveiro, the “Venice of Portugal,” for a delightful walking and boat tour through its picturesque canals and a tasting of its famous Ovos Moles sweets. In Porto, immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage with a guided tourthrough its historic center and riverfront. Then, savor the beauty of the Douro Valley on a full-day wine country experience, featuring a traditional lunch, wine tastings, and a serene river cruise through the terraced vineyards.
Finally, journey through Portugal’s northern gems on a guided tour of Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Guimarães, where medieval streets, grand cathedrals, and timeless traditions await.
Traditional Portuguese musical experience that expresses deep emotion, longing, and nostalgia - a feeling known as saudade. It usually takes place in small, intimate venues such as Fado houses (casas de Fado), often in Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto.
Fado singer (fadista) is accompanied by musicians playing the Portuguese guitar (a 12-string instrument) and a classical guitar. The music is soulful and heartfelt, telling stories of love, loss, destiny, and the struggles of everyday life.
One of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world and a symbol of deep faith in Portugal. This peaceful town became famous in 1917, when three shepherd children reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima includes the Basilica of the Rosary, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the modern Basilica of the Holy Trinity. Pilgrims often light candles, attend mass, or walk the grand esplanade in quiet devotion.
Also known as Quinta da Regaleira is one of the most enchanting and mysterious landmarks in Sintra, Portugal. Surrounded by lush gardens, hidden tunnels, and symbolic architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like a journey into a dream or a secret world. Built in the early 20th century by the wealthy visionary António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro and the Italian architect Luigi Manini, the palace blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles.
The Douro Valley is one of Portugal’s most stunning and historic regions, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned wines. Carved by the winding Douro River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a tapestry of terraced vineyards, traditional villages, and scenic viewpoints. For centuries, the valley has been the heart of Port wine production, where grapes are grown on steep slopes and transported downriver to the cellars of Porto. Today, visitors can explore family-owned wine estates, enjoy tastings of Port and Douro wines, and learn about the region’s rich winemaking traditions.