Day 1
Depart Australia in the evening travelling via Dubai.
Join us on this wonderful introduction to Portugal. Beautiful Lisbon with meandering cobble-stone alleys, the clatter of yellow trams, the grandeur of churches and cathedrals, vibrant plazas filled with cafes, bars and restaurants and the dramatic, soulful sounds of Fado. And between Lisbon and Porto, visit quaint villages, imposing forts, chic coastal towns and enjoy panoramic rural and Atlantic vistas.
This is a journey not to be missed.
Day 2
Connect with the flight to Lisbon, arriving in Lisbon in the middle of the day. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax.
Day 3
Visit the Belem quarter of Lisbon and discover two very different monuments to Lisbon’s maritime history – exquisite 16th century Torre de Belem, a small fortress at the mouth of the Rio Tejo and the art deco Padrao dos Descobrimentos, celebrating the great Portugese explorers.
Enjoy a renowned Belem custard tart in a factory that has been making them since 1837.
The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore Lisbon on your own.
Day 4
This morning explore the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery. The intricate carvings of stone in the shape of flowers, waves, globes and gargoyles are breath-taking.
Later discover 19th century Rossio Square built with typical Calcada Portuguesa stones to resemble waves of the nearby ocean. At Carmo Square learn of the Carnation Revolution which overthrew 48 years of dictatorship. Later, admire the spectacular views from the Sao Jorge Castle.
Tonight enjoy a traditional Portugese dinner and Fado show.
Day 5
Today leave the city to visit Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site once popular as the summer residence of Portuguese kings and aristocrats. Visit the Pena National Palace, and admire the Arab room and the spectacular views from the Queen’s throne. Wander through the charming historical centre of Sintra before taking a picturesque drive to the swanky coastal town of Cascais for lunch.
In the afternoon stroll the beaches, wander the charming cobbled streets and learn about the town’s maritime history before taking the lovely coastal route back to Lisbon.
Day 6
Travel to the gorgeous 13th century town of Obidos – a gift to Portugese Queen Isabel from her husband King Denis 1 (as you do!) Explore the fabulous castle with panoramic views of the countryside. Enjoy the higgledy-piggledy streets within the city walls, lined with whitewashed houses. After lunch, head off to the former capital, Coimbra. The brightly coloured old city perches on the hillside above Rio Mondeg – a photographer’s dream. Visit the grand 500 year-old university and its magnificent library. Tonight, enjoy this vibrant city on your own.
Day 7
Today travel to Porto where your tour will expose you to the work of some of Portugal’s most famous 20th century architectural buildings, including the minimalist Museum of Contemporary Art and the House of Music which looks a little like an angular alien landing craft. Perhaps less controversial are many earlier 20th century delights which have been restored and repurposed.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore Porto on your own before joining the cruise tomorrow which includes a more extensive tour of Porto.
This evening join the remaining delegates at a welcome cocktail party.
Day 8
Today you will be transferred on to your boat for your wonderful Douro River cruise.
End of arrangements
Please note that this itinerary and costs may be subject to change.