|
 Discover the Wonders of Portugal: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Scenic Beauty. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our expertly curated gay group tour to Portugal. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon, rich with history and modern charm, to the enchanting palaces of Sintra, you’ll experience the magic of this captivating country. Wander the cobblestone lanes of Porto, famous for its iconic architecture and world-renowned port wine. Cruise through the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where rolling vineyards and tranquil rivers create a feast for the senses.
With curated experiences, and like-minded travelers, this group tour is more than a trip—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and pride. Join us as we explore Portugal’s timeless beauty, savor its exquisite cuisine, and create memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or a lover of stunning landscapes, this journey has something for everyone. Discover the magic of Portugal in a way that’s uniquely yours!
Day 1
Upon your arrival in Lisbon, our driver will warmly welcome you and provide a private transfer to our hotel.
Tonight, indulge in an exclusive welcome dinner.
Meals Included: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon, 5*
Day 2
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.
This morning, explore Lisbon, one of the oldest capitals of Europe. Lisbon is a city of pastel colors, cobblestone streets, spectacular vistas, and monuments.
Discover the historic district of Belém, where we can find many of the most prestigious monuments of the city, including the Jerónimos Monastery (entrance included, subject to availability) and Belém Tower (exterior), both good examples of the 16th century’s Manueline style, and the Monument to the Discoveries (exterior). You will have the opportunity to taste the delicious "Pastéis de Belém", the typical pastry of Lisbon. Belém also hosts several modern buildings, such as the CCB (Cultural Center of Belém), the futuristic MAAT (the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) and the Coach Museum, one of the largest collections of royal coaches in the world (entrance included).
Lunch in a local restaurant.
Afternoon at leisure to explore Lisbon on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon, 5*
Day 3
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.
We begin our journey in the medieval village of Sintra, once a Royal summer residence and a source of inspiration for writers and poets like Lord Byron, who deemed it “the Garden of Eden.” Located at the foot of the mountain that shares its name, Sintra has been a cherished retreat for princes, artists, and writers for centuries.
In the 19th century Sintra became the first center of European Romantic architecture. Ferdinand II turned a ruined monastery into a castle where this new sensitivity was displayed in the use of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance elements and in the creation of a park blending local and exotic species of trees. Other fine dwellings, built along the same lines in the surrounding serra, created a unique combination of parks and gardens which influenced the development of landscape architecture throughout Europe.
We embark on a small hike around Sintra Nature Park, passing iconic sites like Quinta da Regaleira (entrance included), immersing ourselves in the ancient history that still echoes through these hills. We traverse the lush and vibrant forest of Sintra, connecting with the ever-changing vibes of nature’s renewal.
In the village of Sintra, we savor the famous and delectable travesseiros de Sintra (puff pastry with an almond and sweet egg filling), before we enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Sintra’s most picturesque restaurants.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon, 5*
Day 4
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Leave Lisbon and proceed north, in direction of the Douro Valley.
On the way, stop at Coimbra, city of Arts and Letters, one of the oldest university cities in Europe. Coimbra houses the oldest university of Portugal. Visit to the main buildings of the Old University (upon availability), such as the Manueline style chapel with its 18th century organ and the senate room (Sala dos Capelos), the main room of the University. Marvel yourself in one of the most beautiful libraires in the world – the Biblioteca Joanina. Then walk through the narrow streets to admire the Cathedral (overview). Stroll in the oldest part of Coimbra, made of narrow streets that lead to the top of the hill.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Continue to Douro Valley, and checkin to our beautiful hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Quinta São José do Barrilário, Douro Valley, 5*
Day 5
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Today be amazed by Douro Valley, the first wine region in the world to be demarcated. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 2001, Douro is well known by its landscape, full of vineyards, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy the view of the Douro Valley and its vineyards from a different perspective, on a small private boat trip at the heart of the Douro. Get to know the simple but enchanting village of Pinhão, in the heart of the vineyards and on the banks of the Douro. Its charming railway station is renowned for the beauty of its azulejos (tiles panels). You will visit one of the typical "quintas" (wine-estate), where, in fact, Port and Douro wines are produced. You will learn about the production of Porto and Douro wines.
Enjoy lunch (with wine pairing) at a local quinta.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Quinta São José do Barrilário, Douro Valley, 5*
Day 6
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
In the morning, discover the superb gardens of the Solar de Mateus, one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Portugal.
Continue to Amarante, which stands on either side of the Tâmega river. The bridge of Amarante perpetuates the memory of the heroic resistance of the population against the Napoleonic troops which, at the beginning of the 19th century, invaded Portugal.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Continue to Porto, the charming capital of the north of Portugal, renowned for its age-old history and globally acclaimed port wine. This architecturally captivating city, situated at the mouth of the Douro River, has held the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is often hailed as the “invincible” city, characterized by a resilient and industrious population that has withstood constraints and attacks throughout its history.
Beyond its monuments, Porto’s charm lies in the distinct personality of the city and its people, beckoning discovery. We will wander through the streets adorned with typical houses and monuments crafted from granite stone.
Evening at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, Porto, 5*
Day 7
Begin your day with breakfast at our hotel.
Built on the right bank of Douro, Porto offers the contrasts of a city that is both ancient and modern. Visit of its highlights and the typical quarters, with its Baroque churches, the elegant metal bridges, and the wine cellars. Walk through the picturesque Ribeira district, the historic heart of Porto (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Follow our guide through this authentic neighborhood, meandering along winding streets adorned with colorful facades. Visit the Cais da Ribeira, the quayside of this characterful district, and explore some of the city’s most beautiful sites, such as the Stock Exchange Palace, a historical building with a mix of architectural styles. The highlight is the magnificent Arab room (Salão Árabe).
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon at leisure to explore Porto on your own.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, Porto, 5*
Day 8
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Day tour dedicated to the region of Minho. Start with Guimarães, the cradle of Portuguese nation and, according to tradition, the birthplace of D. Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. Visit to its historic center which was declared a UNESCO Heritage site, with its intertwined and very well-kept streets and medieval vibe. Highlights are the Castle (exterior) and the Ducal Palace (entrance included). Continue to Braga, episcopal city rich in religious buildings. Explore the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, with its spectacular baroque staircase. It is a symbol of Baroque in the north of the country, made of austere grey granite.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Return to Porto. A tour in Porto would never be complete without a visit to a Port wine cellar. We visit one of the finest, on the other bank of River Douro in Gaia, and learn about its production, storage methods and all the secrets that make this nectar one of the most appreciated in the world.
This evening, enjoy our Zoom Vacations farewell dinner event.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Vila Foz Hotel & Spa, Porto, 5*
Day 9
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the airport for flights home.
End of services
Meals Included: Breakfast
|
