Portugal Unveiled: Coastal Villages, Historic Cities & the Douro
April 7, 2027 thru April 19, 2027
Discover the beauty and diversity of Portugal on this immersive 13-day journey that blends vibrant cities, coastal landscapes, historic towns, and world-renowned wine regions. The adventure begins in Lisbon with guided exploration, authentic cuisine, and a traditional Fado dinner, followed by a full-day excursion to the fairy-tale town of Sintra, the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and the seaside charm of Cascais. Traveling south along the scenic Vicentine Coast, guests arrive in Lagos to experience the Algarve’s golden cliffs and hidden caves during a memorable coastal boat cruise.
The journey continues north with a stop in the historic Knights Templar town of Tomar before reaching the vibrant city of Porto. After exploring Porto’s historic center and local markets, guests embark on a small privately chartered scenic river cruise aboard the Spirit of Chartwell through the breathtaking Douro Valley, visiting charming villages such as Pinhão and Lamego while enjoying regional cuisine, wine tastings, and cultural experiences. Spirit of Chartwell is a luxurious hotel ship internationally recognized by Royal Barge, the luxurious ship that carried Queen Elizabeth II on the River Thames. Enjoy unique and authentic moments as you sail the serene waters of the Douro, immersing yourself in the different traditions and culture of Portugal.
The journey concludes back in Porto with a special farewell dinner and port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia, offering a perfect finale to this unforgettable exploration of Portugal.
Because of the private charter of the small ship on the cruise portion of the tour, this is limited to 14 booked cabins only, 28 passenger capacity.
Transportation
Roundtrip Economy Air Transportation Included
Transportation
Deluxe Motorcoach Transport in Portugal
Transportation
Small, private chartered boat to cruise the Douro River
Duration
13 Days, 11 Nights
Activity Level Rating
4 - Active
Availability
Call for Availability - limited to 26 passengers
Meals Included
24 meals (11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners) included
Documents Required
Passport
Tour Highlights
- Welcome to Lisbon with a traditional Fado dinner at Café Luso
- Guided walking tour through Lisbon’s historic districts and viewpoints
- Fairytale visit to Sintra including Quinta da Regaleira
- Scenic stop at Cabo da Roca with Atlantic Ocean views
- Leisure time in the seaside town of Cascais
- Coastal drive along the spectacular Vicentine Coast en route to Lagos
- Algarve boat cruise exploring sea caves, cliffs, and hidden beaches
- Visit to the Knights Templar stronghold at Convent of Christ in Tomar
- Guided discovery of Porto including tasting at Bolhão Market
- Scenic river cruise through the vineyards of the Douro Valley with wine tasting in Pinhão
Inclusions
- Roundtrip economy air transportation ABQ to Portugal
- Transfers and transportation by deluxe motorcoach in Portugal
- 11 nights lodging in excellent hotels
- Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
- 24 meals (11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 5 dinners)
- Admission to listed attractions
- Douro River Cruise
- Your professional SUN TOURS Escort (for groups of 15 or more)
- All taxes and gratuities for included items (except housekeeping)
Day 1 - Fly to Portugal
Embark from home and travel overnight to Lisbon, Portugal, one of Europe’s oldest capitals.
Day 2 - Welcome to Lisbon
Arrival in Lisbon with a private transfer to your hotel in the historic city center. Founded centuries before the Roman era, Lisbon has long served as Portugal’s gateway to the world. Enjoy free time to settle in or begin exploring the city’s lively streets and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River.
Overnight: Figueira by The Beautique Hotels
Day 3 - Lisbon
Begin the day with a guided walking tour through Lisbon’s historic districts, where narrow streets, colorful façades, and tiled buildings reflect centuries of cultural influences. The city rose to global prominence during the Age of Discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries, when Portuguese explorers set sail to Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Visit historic squares and viewpoints that showcase Lisbon’s distinctive hills and riverfront setting.
Lunch is served at the historic Cervejaria Trindade, a former 13th-century monastery known for its remarkable tile panels and traditional Portuguese cuisine.
The afternoon is free to continue exploring at your own pace.
In the evening, experience Portugal’s soulful musical tradition during a Fado dinner at Café Luso, where the emotional songs of Lisbon’s historic Alfama district tell stories of love, longing, and maritime heritage.
Overnight: Figueira by The Beautique Hotels
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 4 - Sintra, the Land of Kings and Palaces
Travel to the magical hilltop town of Sintra, a UNESCO-listed destination long favored by Portuguese royalty and aristocrats for its cool mountain climate and romantic landscapes. Visit the remarkable Quinta da Regaleira, a 20th-century estate famous for its mysterious gardens, underground tunnels, and symbolic architecture inspired by alchemy and the Knights Templar. Continue to Cabo da Roca, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean.
The day concludes in the elegant seaside town of Cascais, once a royal summer retreat that today blends historic charm with vibrant coastal life.
Overnight: Figueira by The Beautique Hotels
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 5 – Vicentine Coast to Lagos
Depart Lisbon and journey south toward the Algarve region, stopping along the spectacular Vicentine Coast. This protected natural park is known for its rugged cliffs, untouched beaches, and powerful Atlantic scenery.
After lunch en route, continue to Lagos, a historic port city that played an important role in Portugal’s Age of Exploration. It was from Lagos that many early expeditions to Africa departed under Prince Henry the Navigator in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore the marina, historic center, or nearby beaches.
Overnight: The Editory by the Sea Lagos
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 6 – Algarve Coastal Cruise
Experience the natural beauty of the Algarve on a private boat cruise along the coast from Lagos. The region’s golden limestone cliffs, sea arches, and hidden caves have been sculpted by centuries of Atlantic winds and tides, creating one of Europe’s most dramatic shorelines. Cruise past secluded beaches and striking rock formations while enjoying tastings and lunch on board.
After returning to shore, the afternoon is free to explore Lagos’ charming streets, relax by the ocean, or discover local cafés and shops.
Overnight: The Editory by the Sea Lagos
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 7 – Tomar & Porto
Travel north toward Porto with a stop in the historic town of Tomar, closely linked to the medieval Knights Templar. Visit the extraordinary Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally founded as a Templar stronghold in the 12th century. The complex features Romanesque, Gothic, and Manueline architectural styles, reflecting Portugal’s evolving history.
After lunch, continue to Porto, where the evening is free to stroll along the Douro River or explore the city’s lively neighborhoods.
Overnight: Eurostars Aliados
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 8 – Discover Porto
Enjoy a guided walking tour through the historic center of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colorful riverside houses and medieval streets. Porto grew wealthy through maritime trade and later through the export of port wine produced in the nearby Douro Valley. During the tour, visit Bolhão Market, a beloved city landmark where locals gather to shop for fresh foods and regional specialties.
After a cheese tasting and lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is free to explore Porto’s cafés, viewpoints, and scenic riverfront.
Overnight: Eurostars Aliados
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 9 – Porto & Douro Cruise Embarkation
Enjoy a free day in Porto to explore museums, historic churches, or the lively Ribeira district along the Douro River.
In the afternoon, transfer to Vila Nova de Gaia, located across the river from Porto and famous for its historic port wine lodges where barrels have aged for centuries. Here you board your Douro River cruise and begin a scenic journey through northern Portugal’s famed wine region.
Dinner is served on board as the cruise experience begins.
Overnight: Spirit of Chartwell
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 10 – Douro Valley Cruise
Cruise through the spectacular landscapes of the Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest demarcated wine regions, established in 1756. Terraced vineyards carved into steep hillsides produce the grapes used to create Portugal’s famous port wines.
Arrive in Pinhão, a charming riverside village surrounded by vineyards.
This evening, enjoy dinner and wine tasting at a local farm, experiencing the traditions and hospitality of the Douro region.
Overnight: Spirit of Chartwell
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 11 – Lamego & Douro River
This morning visit the historic city of Lamego, known for its rich religious heritage and elegant Baroque architecture. The city is closely associated with the famous Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, whose grand staircase rises dramatically above the town.
Enjoy a guided visit and tasting of regional products before returning to the ship.
Continue cruising along the Douro River, where vineyard-covered hills and picturesque villages create one of Portugal’s most iconic landscapes.
In the evening, celebrate Portuguese culture with a themed dinner and folklore show on board.
Overnight: Spirit of Chartwell
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 12 – Porto Farewell
Return to Porto and enjoy free time to revisit favorite places or explore more of the city’s historic streets.
In the evening, visit Graham’s Port Lodge, one of the most prestigious port wine houses, founded in 1820. Learn about the aging process and traditions behind this iconic fortified wine before enjoying a tasting.
The journey concludes with a farewell dinner at Vinum Restaurant & Wine Bar, overlooking the Douro River.
Overnight: Eurostars Aliados
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 13 - Depart Portugal
Private transfer to the airport for your departure. As your journey ends, take with you memories of Portugal’s historic cities, dramatic coastlines, and world-famous wine regions that together tell the story of this remarkable country.
Meals included: (B)
Itinerary subject to change. Passport required.
Hotel Information
Figueira by The Beautique Hotels
Lisbon, PT
The Editory by the Sea Lagos
Lagos, PT
Eurostars Aliados
Porto, PT
Spirit of Chartwell Hotel Ship
Douro River, PT
Package Pricing
$7,895 per person
Double Occupancy
Deposit: $250
$9,325 per person
Single Occupancy
Deposit: $250
Second Deposit Due:
October 29, 2026
Deposit: $350
Final Payment Due:
November 30, 2026
Deposit: n/a
Price Includes
• Roundtrip economy air transportation ABQ to Portugal
• Transfers and transportation by deluxe motorcoach in Portugal
• 11 nights lodging in excellent hotels
• Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
• 24 meals (11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 5 dinners)
• Admission to listed attractions
• Douro River Cruise
• Your professional SUN TOURS Escort (for groups of 15 or more)
• All taxes and gratuities for included items (except housekeeping)
Booking Policy
**Passport Required!**
CANCELLATION FEES:
- None – through October 7, 2026
- $1200 – October 8 – November 30, 2026
- 60%* – December 1, 2026 – January 28, 2027
- 100%* – After January 28, 2027
*Fee as percentage of total package price.
We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (505) 889-8888.
Travel Insurance
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. TRAVEL PROTECTION IS ENCOURAGED. Travel protection starts at $1112. Please click here for more information.
ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING
Level 4: Active
Expectations: The tour includes well-paced walking tours with regular breaks. Up to 2-4 hours of walking each day. To fully take advantage of all this tour has to offer, guests need to be able to walk longer distances, climb several flights of stairs and navigate steps and uneven terrain walking for extended periods of time over more difficult terrain (e.g. cobblestones, city hills, stairs without handrails, limited or no access to elevators). Your itinerary can include significant changes in temperature and altitude and may require a higher number of longer travel days with morning and/or evening activities. Most trips will feature long touring days, many full-day excursions and a full and active itinerary with a faster pace and longer distances. Excursions require standing and walking to city centers where coaches are prohibited.
Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit, expect a vigorous pace and enjoy participating in two to three hours of physical activity per day.
ITINERARY
For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.
The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.
AIRLINE TICKETS
You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Sunport. If you have a frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.
If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.
AIRPORT SECURITY
Do not forget to bring your government issued picture ID to show at the airport. A Driver’s License or Passport is preferred. If you do not have the proper ID, the airline will turn you away.
BAGGAGE
We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carryon baggage and contents due to enhanced security.
CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES
On our scheduled airline for this tour, passengers are assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.
GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE
All hotel baggage handling fees are included. We also include basic gratuities for the Tour Director, Coach Driver, Livery Drivers and local Tour Guides. If someone has truly gone above and beyond additional tipping is permitted, but never required.
LODGING REQUESTS
If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.
Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.
TRAVEL REQUESTS
We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.
RESPONSIBILITY
SUN TOURS acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS
The temperature and weather in Portugal in April is generally pleasant. Storms can come through the area. Prepare yourself by bringing clothing for a lot of sunshine and the possibility of precipitation. There are no dress codes where we dine or visit on this tour.
Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!
If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.
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