Portugal: Lisbon & Sintra

Monday 24th February

Arriving into Lisbon in the early afternoon we will transfer to our first base in Sintra. Surrounded by a stunning landscape of rippling mountains and dewy forests, filled with exquisite palaces, villas, and luxuriant gardens Sintra is a magical place and our base for the next two nights.  

Dinner included. Overnight in Sintra. 

Tuesday 25th February  

The cultural landscape of Sintra, with its grand and imposing buildings and monuments, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. Our adventure starts at one such grand building – the Monserrate Palace. Built-in the 18th century, this fantastic romantic construction is a testament to architectural splendour and historical richness. From the beautiful gardens and architecture to the peaceful natural setting, you will have enough time to discover its history and admire its plants from all over the world. The gardens have lakes, waterfalls, a rose garden, and many other incredible sights. Make sure to take a moment to enjoy the scents and sounds that make this place a unique experience.

For lunch, we’ll visit a charming local restaurant in Colares to savour the authentic flavours of Portuguese cuisine. You’ll also have the opportunity to delve into the history and winemaking philosophy of the region while enjoying a wine tasting at a nearby adega.  

This afternoon, we will head to Sintra for a guided walking tour around the village maybe taking some time to stop for a coffee and the chance to try its famous pastries – Queijadas de Sintra.  This evening is left free for you to discover some of the local Portuguese delights. 

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Sintra.

Wednesday 26th February 

Our day starts at the Moorish Castle, isolated high up on one of the peaks of the Sintra mountains. This fortification was founded in the 10th century, during the Muslim occupation of the Iberian Peninsula and, due to its high and isolated location in the mountains, offers the experience of being between the silence and nature, where the wind echoes through our skin, offering you the peaceful feeling of being in contact with nature. 

After our visit to the castle, we will take lunch in a local restaurant before driving to Lisbon, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Here we will have time to admire its stunning viewpoints, explore its rich history, and indulge in traditional Portuguese delicacies. 

This afternoon, you’re free to explore at your own pace. Take this time to start to discover the vibrant city of Lisbon. Wandering through the streets, you might wonder how the city is known for having only seven hills when nearly every street seems to rise or fall. Despite being influenced by various cultures over the centuries, each historic neighbourhood retains its charming, village-like atmosphere. Maybe choose one of the old quarters like Alfama, Graça or Chiado to explore; or walk the Pombaline grid of streets in the Baixa district, which opens onto the Tagus River at Praça do Comércio. Take this afternoon to delve into Lisbon and uncover some of its hidden gems. 

Breakfast and lunch included. Overnight in Lisbon. 

Thursday 27th February 

Today, we’ll have a guided tour which explores the scenic Tagus River and the historic district of Belém. Our guide will lead you through this picturesque riverside neighbourhood, rich in history and deeply connected to the Age of Discoveries. Belém is renowned not only for its impressive monuments and captivating stories of the past but also for its iconic sweet pastry, the famous pastéis de Belém. 

Recognised by The Guardian as one of the world’s 50 best things to eat, the Pastel de Belém is an absolute must-try and, what better moment to indulge than after our walk? The original recipe, dating back to 1837, was created by the monks of the Jerónimos Monastery. Today, only the custard tarts made at the Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém can be called pastéis de Belém, while those crafted elsewhere in Lisbon are known as Pastéis de Nata. Be sure to try this unique delicacy. 

Following our guided walk, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch and explore at your leisure. After a day filled with discoveries, we will conclude our holiday with a dinner steeped in Portuguese tradition, accompanied by the soulful and melancholic strains of Fado, Portugal’s deeply expressive music. 

Breakfast and dinner included. Overnight in Lisbon. 

Friday 28th February 

After a leisurely start this morning, with maybe some last-minute souvenir shopping, we will head to the airport for our return flights.  

Breakfast included.