12-Day Portugal Itinerary, a country full of history, culture, and fascinating curiosities. It is the oldest nation in Europe with the same borders since 1143. The famous Port wine, known worldwide, is not stored in Porto but in Vila Nova de Gaia, where aging conditions are ideal.
The Livraria Lello bookstore in Porto is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and served as inspiration for J.K. Rowling while writing Harry Potter.
This private itinerary will start and end in Lisbon, and for any questions, feel free to contact us.
Lisbon is home to Vasco da Gama Bridge, the longest in Europe, stretching 17.2 km, connecting the city to new development opportunities.
Nazaré has become one of the most sought-after destinations for surfers due to its giant waves, holding the world record for the largest wave ever surfed, measuring 26.2 meters. The tradition of Fado, a melancholic musical style deeply linked to the Portuguese soul, has been recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Coimbra, a historic university city, houses the Joanina Library, where bats help protect ancient books from insects, ensuring the preservation of rare documents.
12-Day Portugal Itinerary: History, Culture, and Landscapes
The twelve-day itinerary begins in Porto, exploring Ribeira, Clérigos Tower, and Livraria Lello. Crossing the D. Luís I Bridge, Vila Nova de Gaia offers wine cellar visits, tastings, and stunning views of the Douro River. Heading to Braga, the Bom Jesus Sanctuary impresses with its monumental staircase and panoramic views. Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal, features a medieval castle and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza.
In Aveiro, traditional moliceiro boats navigate the canals, while Costa Nova’s colorful seaside houses create a picturesque setting. Coimbra impresses with its university, Joanina Library, and the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Velha. Fátima, one of the world’s most important Catholic pilgrimage centers, moves visitors at its sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Batalha Monastery, a magnificent example of Manueline Gothic, and the towering cliffs of Nazaré are must-see stops before heading to Lisbon.
12-Day Portugal Itinerary: History, Culture, and Landscapes
The Portuguese capital blends tradition and modernity, with historic neighborhoods like Alfama, Chiado, and Bairro Alto. The Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and traditional custard tarts delight visitors in Belém. Parque das Nações presents a contemporary side of the city with a cable car and innovative architecture.
Sintra, with its palaces and mysterious gardens, is one of Portugal’s most magical destinations. Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe, are must-see sites. Cascais, with its beaches and sophisticated marina, offers a relaxing seaside retreat.
Itinerário
A full day dedicated to exploring Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its rich history and the world-famous Port Wine.
We begin at the Casa da Música, a striking modern architectural masterpiece, before heading to Matosinhos, known for its seaport and exceptional seafood, and then to Foz do Douro, an upscale residential area offering stunning ocean views.
In Downtown Porto (Baixa), we stroll along Avenida dos Aliados, one of the city’s main landmarks, home to the City Hall and the statue of Dom Pedro I of Brazil, who loved Porto so much that he left his heart here, preserved in the Church of Lapa.
Next, we visit São Bento Train Station, famous for its 20,000 azulejo tiles by Jorge Colaço, illustrating the history of Portugal and the Douro and Minho regions. A walk along Rua de Santa Catarina, Porto’s busiest shopping street, takes us to the legendary Café Majestic, a luxurious 1920s café that was a hub for intellectuals, writers, and politicians.
We continue to the Lello Bookstore, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, which inspired J.K. Rowling while writing Harry Potter. Next, we visit the Porto Cathedral (Sé), Palácio da Bolsa, and the Church of São Francisco, famous for its ornate baroque gilded interior.
Crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge, we arrive in Vila Nova de Gaia, where we visit one of the traditional Port Wine cellars, learning about the production of this iconic wine. We end the day at the Monastery of Serra do Pilar, which offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Porto and the Douro River estuary.
This tour of Porto is a perfect blend of history, culture, stunning architecture, and authentic flavors, making for an unforgettable experience in Portugal’s Invicta City.
Exploring this region means immersing yourself in the heart of Minho, starting in Guimarães, a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. Perched on its sacred hill, a towering statue of D. Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king, stands as a guardian of its rich history.
Here, we uncover the secrets of the Castle of Guimaraes, deeply connected to the foundation of Portugal, visit the Church of Sao Miguel, where the king was baptized, and explore the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a stunning medieval residence. Strolling through Guimarães feels like stepping into a medieval tale, with charming squares like São Tiago, Toural, and Oliveira, where history and tradition blend seamlessly. A stop to savor the Pastel de Santa Clara, a local delicacy, is a must.
After lunch, we head to Braga, a dynamic city that, despite its modernity, preserves its Roman heritage. The Braga Cathedral, the oldest in Portugal, holds significant relics, including the cross used in the first Mass celebrated in Brazil. Inside, visitors are captivated by the magnificent pipe organs, the high choir, and the burial chapels of the parents of D. Afonso Henriques, Portugal’s first king.
A highlight of any visit to Braga is the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, surrounded by lush forests. Built between the 18th and 19th centuries, it showcases Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles, with Via Sacra chapels, a monumental church, and an impressive staircase adorned with fountains and symbolic statues.
A unique experience is taking the water-powered funicular, the oldest in the world still in operation without ever having an accident. Using a water counterweight system, the upper cabin is filled with water, descending by gravity while the other cabin rises. Upon reaching the bottom, the water is drained, and the cycle repeats.
To complete our journey, we explore some of Braga’s highlights, including the Episcopal Palace and its Santa Bárbara Gardens, the Largo and Church of the Cross, and finally, the Praça da Republica, where the city’s lively energy is palpable.
This day, filled with history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes, offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Minho.
On the third day of our journey, we leave Porto and set out on an exploration of Portugal’s wine country, filled with history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich traditions.
Our first stop is Amarante, a picturesque town on the banks of the Tamega River, the largest tributary of the Douro River. Here, we visit the Church and Convent of Sao Gonçalo, dedicated to the region’s famous matchmaker saint. We also admire the 18th-century bridge, a historic landmark that connects the city’s two sides, blending architectural beauty with deep historical significance.
Next, we travel to Vila Real, specifically to the parish of Mateus, home to one of Portugal’s most magnificent Baroque palaces, the Mateus Palace. Renowned for its exquisite gardens and striking façade, this palace is also famous for being the birthplace of the internationally known Mateus Rose wine, an iconic representation of Portuguese winemaking.
We continue our journey into the heart of the Alto Douro Wine Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, where vineyards carved into the hillsides create an awe-inspiring landscape. At the Casal de Loivos viewpoint, we pause to take in one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the Douro Valley. Moving on, we visit Pinhao Train Station, where 24 traditional azulejo tile panels depict the hard work involved in wine production, offering a visual tribute to the region’s rich viticultural heritage.
The highlight of the day is an optional visit to a wine estate, where we will gain insight into the entire winemaking process, from vineyard cultivation and pruning to harvesting, fermentation, and aging. After learning about the craftsmanship behind Port Wine, we conclude the visit with an exclusive wine tasting, allowing us to savor the essence of the Douro Valley.
This day offers an unforgettable immersion into Portugal’s winemaking culture, blending history, landscapes, and exquisite flavors in a unique and enriching experience.
On the fourth day of our journey, we begin by visiting Lamego, a city rich in religious and cultural tradition. Our first stop is the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, located atop Mount Santo Estêvão. Built in the 18th century, this sanctuary is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal.
Its monumental staircase, which connects the city center to the top of the hill, is a true symbol of devotion to Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. With 686 steps, adorned with azulejo tiles, statues, and fountains, it is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a path of faith walked by pilgrims for centuries.
Leaving Lamego, we continue to another historically and culturally significant city: Viseu. Known for its deep Portuguese identity, Viseu is a city of sacred art and religious architecture, reflected in its churches, the Museum of Sacred Art, and the grandiose Viseu Cathedral.
The Cathedral of Viseu, one of the city’s most iconic buildings, stands as a testament to the region’s importance as an episcopal seat. Located in the Adro da Sé, one of the most notable sites in the historic center, the cathedral is surrounded by other important landmarks, including the Church of Misericórdia, the pillory, and the Passeio dos Cónegos.
Strolling through Viseu’s historic center is like stepping back in time, where dark granite buildings, characteristic of the region, contrast beautifully with the immaculate white facades of churches and historic structures. This unique atmosphere immerses visitors in the city’s past, making a visit to this Beira town an unforgettable experience.
Today, we dedicate our day to Coimbra, a historic city that was Portugal’s first capital and is home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Our visit begins at the Paço da Universidade, where we find the magnificent Joanina Library, one of the most stunning Baroque libraries in Europe.
Built between 1717 and 1728 over the former Royal Palace prison, the library features an ornate ceiling painted by António Ribeiro and Vicente Nunes, while the portrait of King João V, displayed at the end of the hall, was painted by Italian artist Domenico Dupra.
IMPORTANT: If a visit to the Joanina Library is essential for you, please inform us at the time of booking, as entries are numbered and limited. Tickets must be reserved in advance and which will be charged at the end of the tour, regardless of any cancellations or delays.
Beyond the library, we continue our exploration of Coimbra University, visiting historic sites such as São Miguel Chapel, the Sala dos Capelos, where solemn ceremonies take place, and the University Tower, known as the “cabra”, which for centuries has regulated student life.
Descending into Baixa de Coimbra, we explore the historic center, where the city is divided between the “Alta”, traditionally home to the nobility, clergy, and students, and the “Baixa”, a lively district filled with shops, craftsmen, and riverside neighborhoods along the Mondego River.
This is the perfect time to relax and soak in the city’s charm, strolling through narrow streets, hidden alleys, and picturesque squares, where you’ll find charming cafés, pastry shops, and restaurants. Baixa de Coimbra is not only culturally rich but also renowned for its exceptional gastronomy, having been the city’s commercial heart for centuries.
Some suggested sights include the 12th-century Romanesque Cathedral, the Arco da Almedina, and the Church of Santa Cruz, where Portugal’s first king, D. Afonso Henriques, is buried.
For food lovers, there is the option of lunch in Mealhada, a town famous for its roast suckling pig, one of the most celebrated dishes in Portuguese cuisine.
This day in Coimbra provides an unforgettable journey through Portuguese history, culture, and tradition, making for a truly memorable experience.
Today we leave Coimbra and head to Fatima, one of the most important Marian shrines in the world. In this sacred place, we visit the two great basilicas: the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, as well as the Chapel of the Apparitions, where Our Lady appeared to the three shepherd children in 1917.
The Chapel of the Apparitions was the first structure built after the visions and remains the spiritual heart of the sanctuary, not for its size, but for its deep significance.
On one side, we find the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, inaugurated in 1928, with its Neobaroque architecture and the tombs of the three shepherds: Francisco, Jacinta, and, more recently, Sister Lucia, who passed away in 2005. On the opposite side stands the grand Basilica of the Holy Trinity, completed in 2007, designed by Greek architect Alexandro Tombazis, with a seating capacity of over 8,000 worshippers and an impressive 40,000 m² of space.
Next, we head to Valinhos, a small village three kilometers from Fatima, where we visit the homes where the three shepherd children were born. These houses are well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the simple life of the young visionaries.
Leaving Fatima, we travel to Tomar, a city rich in history and Templar heritage, home to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary monument served as the headquarters of the Knights Templar in Portugal and showcases architectural influences from the medieval to the Renaissance periods.
Inside the convent, we marvel at the famous Manueline Window, one of the most stunning examples of Portuguese Manueline architecture. The Castle of Tomar, part of the same complex, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and transports us back to the era of the Crusades.
Exploring Tomar’s historic center is a charming experience, with quaint streets, lively squares, and the Church of São João Baptista, located in the picturesque Praça da República. The Nabão River, which flows through the city, adds to its peaceful and scenic beauty.
For those visiting Tomar in July, the Festa dos Tabuleiros transforms the city into a spectacle of color and tradition, making it one of Portugal’s most impressive festivals.
This day perfectly blends faith, history, and culture, creating an unforgettable journey through two of Portugal’s most fascinating destinations.
Today, on our journey through Portugal, we leave Tomar and head toward Marvao, a medieval hilltop village that seems straight out of a storybook. With its enchanting landscapes and rich history, Marvão offers breathtaking views from an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. Its strategic location once allowed control over the Sever River, making it a highly contested region between the northern and southern civilizations.
Marvao is home to one of Portugal’s most significant fortresses, the Marvao Castle, which played a crucial role in the conquest of Alcácer do Sal from the Moors by King Afonso Henriques in 1158. Other must-see landmarks include the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Estrela, the Roman ruins of Ammaia de Lusitânia, and the medieval stone bridge. This region offers a profound sense of history, where the border between Portugal and Spain fades into the vast landscape, allowing us to rediscover the essence of the Iberian Peninsula.
Continuing our journey, we arrive in Évora, a city that was once a residence for Portuguese royalty and a cultural hub for artists, supported by royal patronage. During the Age of Discoveries, Évora flourished, leading to the construction of numerous aristocratic mansions and the establishment of the Jesuit University.
One of Evora’s most famous landmarks is the Church of São Francisco, particularly its Chapel of Bones, a remarkable yet eerie attraction. Lined with the skulls and bones of 500 monks, the chapel carries a solemn message at its entrance: “We bones, here we are, for yours we will wait.” This unique site draws thousands of visitors each year, reflecting on the passage of time and mortality.
For those interested in local industry and sustainability, we also offer an optional visit to a Cork Factory. Cork, the bark of the cork oak tree, possesses unique properties, including lightness, elasticity, and fire resistance. The bark regenerates over time, but it can only be harvested once every nine years, forming a protective layer against extreme weather and wildfires.
Portugal produces 55% of the world’s cork, which is used not only for wine bottle stoppers but also for floor and wall coverings, sporting goods, and even baseball cores and fishing rod handles. Its natural permeability allows wine to breathe, making it the ideal material for aging wines.
From medieval castles to royal residences and sustainable industries, today’s journey offers a deep dive into Portugal’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
We embark on a journey to the south of Portugal, passing through lush green landscapes and Mediterranean forests filled with olive trees (oliveiras) and cork oak trees (sobreiros), two of the region’s most iconic natural resources. Before reaching our final destination, we will explore Monsaraz, one of the most picturesque and well-preserved medieval villages in Portugal.
Walking through its narrow stone streets, surrounded by whitewashed houses, transports us back in time to an era of knights and fortresses. The castle walls provide breathtaking panoramic views of the vast golden plains of the Alentejo and the Alqueva Reservoir, the largest artificial lake in Western Europe, which forms a natural border between Portugal and Spain.
The Alentejo region is not only known for its stunning landscapes but also for its renowned cuisine and exquisite wines. A stop at a local winery will give us the opportunity to learn more about the winemaking traditions of the region, with an optional wine tasting experience to savor some of Portugal’s best reds and whites.
After this immersive experience in the heart of the Alentejo, we will continue our journey to the Algarve, where we recommend spending the night in Albufeira, a vibrant coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and excellent gastronomy. This will be the perfect place to relax and prepare for the next adventures.
Today, we will explore some of the most historically significant cities in the Algarve, starting with Tavira, a charming town that blends Moorish, medieval, and Renaissance influences. Here, we will visit the City Hall and the Islamic Museological Nucleus, which holds an impressive archaeological collection from the Islamic period. We will also admire the Misericórdia Church, built between 1541 and 1551, considered the finest example of Renaissance architecture in the Algarve.
Next, we continue to Faro, the capital of the Algarve and arguably the region’s most historically rich city. Encircled by ancient walls, Faro reveals a history of prosperity and devastation, marked by periods of wealth and destruction, particularly during the great earthquake of 1755.
Our journey then takes us to Lagos, a city with a complex history. Here, we will visit the historical slave market, a somber reminder of Portugal’s past, as Lagos was one of the first European cities to engage in the Atlantic slave trade. Despite this dark past, Lagos is today known for its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite gastronomy, particularly fresh seafood. If weather conditions allow, we will take a boat tour to the breathtaking caves of Ponta da Piedade, a coastal gem with dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
We will end our day at the Sagres Fortress, also known as Promontorium Sacrum, built by Prince Henry the Navigator, the mastermind behind Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Inside, we will explore cannons, a sixteenth-century defensive tower, and the Church of Our Lady of Grace. One of the most intriguing features is the Rosa dos Ventos, a massive sundial, which some believe dates back to the time of Prince Henry and his legendary nautical school, the first of its kind in the world.
This day in the Algarve will be a journey through time, uncovering the region’s Moorish heritage, maritime history, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Today, we leave the Algarve behind as we journey north toward Lisbon, passing through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Portugal. Our first stop is the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a pristine stretch of European coastline that extends over 100 kilometers from Porto Covo in the Alentejo region. This untouched natural reserve is known for its rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and stunning Atlantic views, offering a perfect farewell to the coastline before heading inland.
Continuing our route, we arrive at Arrábida Natural Park, a true masterpiece of nature, where the white limestone cliffs, the deep blue waters, and the lush greenery combine to create an ever-changing landscape, painted by the seasons of the year. Along this stunning coast, we find some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, including Figueirinha, Portinho da Arrábida, Galapos, and Galapinhos, which was voted Europe’s Best Beach in 2017.
In the charming village of Azeitao, we stop at a traditional tile factory, an authentic gem for art lovers and collectors. Here, visitors can admire European, Islamic, and Chinese tile designs, many in the Hispano-Arabic style of the 15th and 16th centuries. The factory offers a unique experience, where we can witness the entire tile-making process, from shaping the clay to glazing and painting. For those who wish, there is also the opportunity to paint their own tile, creating a personalized souvenir of Portugal’s rich artistic heritage.
Setúbal’s old town offers a mix of modern shops and traditional stores, where one can find rare and unique items alongside globally recognized brands. The city’s history is reflected in its architecture, blending ancient charm with contemporary life, always staying true to its maritime roots.
At the heart of the city, Praça do Bocage is the central meeting point, bustling with life. Named after one of Portugal’s greatest poets, the square is filled with cafés and esplanades, where locals gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The statue of Bocage, with his gaze fixed toward the sea, stands as a tribute to the city’s deep connection with its maritime past.
As we approach Lisbon, we carry with us the essence of the sea, the culture of the Alentejo, and the artistry of Portugal, bringing a perfect end to this scenic journey.
Today is dedicated entirely to discovering Lisbon, a city that was almost completely destroyed by the 1755 earthquake, the most powerful ever recorded in Europe. In response, a new city was designed with pioneering anti-seismic constructions, featuring a grid of straight, perpendicular streets centered around Rua Augusta. The names of these streets reflect the trades of the time, honoring artisans such as cobblers, goldsmiths, and leatherworkers.
Lisbon’s Baixa district is a testament to the resilience of its people. The grandeur of its buildings reflects a new social order, where the merchant and financial class gained prominence. To test their strength against future earthquakes, military troops marched inside the buildings to assess their stability, marking one of the first seismic resistance tests in history.
In Belém, we encounter the heart of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, home to UNESCO World Heritage monuments that celebrate the country’s maritime achievements. The Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower, masterpieces of Manueline architecture, symbolize Portugal’s global influence. More modern yet equally grand, the Monument to the Discoveries and Praça do Imperio complete this striking tribute to the golden era of Portuguese exploration.
This entire experience unfolds in a scenic area along the Tagus River, surrounded by green spaces, marinas, sailing clubs, and a picturesque cycling path, where the fresh ocean breeze enhances the breathtaking views. No visit to Belém is complete without indulging in the legendary Pasteis de Belem, a secret recipe passed down through generations, offering a taste of Portugal’s sweetest tradition.
Sintra, a paradise of Portuguese aristocracy, invites us to explore its narrow alleys, charming stores of regional products, and delightful pastry shops. A stop at Piriquita is a must, where the famous Queijadas de Sintra and Travesseiros await, offering a taste of Sintra’s unique sweet traditions.
The choice of which palace to visit is yours, with the guide providing recommendations based on your preferences. Among the options is the Quinta da Regaleira, a 19th-century palace filled with Masonic symbolism and mysterious gardens, though its Gothic and Manueline-inspired architecture makes it look older. Another option is the Moorish Castle, a testament to the Islamic presence in the region, built between the 8th and 9th centuries and later expanded after the Christian Reconquest. Perhaps the most famous is the Pena Palace, a fairy-tale-like palace that exemplifies 19th-century Romanticism, created by D. Ferdinand of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, consort of Queen Maria II, whose imagination and passion transformed this former monastery into an extravagant royal retreat.
From Sintra, we continue to Cabo da Roca, a place described by Camoes in “Os Lusíadas” as “where the land ends and the sea begins”. This breathtaking cliff, known as the westernmost point of continental Europe, is also referred to as “The Snout of the Rock” or poetically as the “Promontory of the Moon”. Part of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Cabo da Roca offers a perfect starting point for ecological trails through the Sintra Mountains, with stunning coastal views.
Next, we head to Cascais, a former fishing village turned into a charming and cosmopolitan seaside resort, with its picturesque streets and vibrant marina. Just next to it, we find Estoril, famous for its casino, the largest in Europe, and its fascinating wartime history—Ian Fleming wrote the first James Bond novel, “Casino Royale”, here during World War II, inspired by the town’s espionage-filled atmosphere.
Our journey back to Lisbon takes us along the Marginal Road, a scenic coastal drive where we enjoy breathtaking ocean views, ending a day filled with history, romance, and natural beauty.
