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Portugal was founded almost 900 years ago. Before that, the area experienced a period of Islamic rule, belonged to the mighty Roman Empire, and was home to various other peoples for thousands of years.
Why the history lesson? To emphasize just how rich Portugal is with “old world” heritage, even as a modern, 21st-century destination (and to help you in trivia).
Collette’s new Portugal’s Old-World Charms tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore that old-world heritage—while enjoying contemporary comforts. Discover UNESCO sites, stroll through charming villages and historic cities, and taste the grapes that have been cultivated there for centuries. Experience time-honored traditions, taste delicious food, and find yourself immersed in a rich culture.
And because this is a small group Explorations Tour, you can experience it all with a group of no more than 24 travelers, an itinerary designed by experts, and a knowledgeable Tour Manager who’s there to bring depth to the experience and guide you every step of the way. (If you want to learn more about the benefits of guided small group tours to Portugal, check out this blog.)
Meet The New Guided Tour to Portugal, Designed for Small Groups
Explore From the Douro River Valley to Lisbon
On Portugal’s Old-World Charms, traverse the charming countryside, enchanting cities and villages, and the country’s capital as you travel south from the Douro River Valley. Take in diverse landscapes, seeing both coastal and inland destinations as you make your way down to Lisbon.
While the itinerary includes a number of stops, travelers get to spend three nights each in the Douro River Valley, the Alentejo region, and Lisbon. This means that, rather than having to settle into a new hotel every day, guests can enjoy temporary home bases as they explore each area and nearby destinations.
A Douro River Cruise, Roman Ruins, and Other Must-Sees
With the terraced vineyards that mark its steep slopes and a tradition of wine production that’s spanned over 2,000 years, Portugal’s Alto Douro Wine Region is one of the country’s gems. On this tour, travelers get a glimpse of this UNESCO site, but from a unique perspective: a boat cruise along the Douro River.
Then later in the tour, step back in time in the medieval walled city of Evora, another UNESCO site. There, the 2nd-century Roman temple to Diana speaks to the area’s Roman history, while the 16th-century Chapel of Bones makes for a fascinating sight.
But these are only some of the memorable sights and locations included in the tour. Among other highlights is the enchanting city of Aveiro, known for its colorful moliceiro boats, the vibrant Ribeira neighborhood in Porto, and Lisbon’s historic streets.
Immersive Cultural Experiences in Portugal: From Horses to Fado
A rich equestrian culture thrives in the Alentejo region, which is home to the esteemed Lusitano horse breed. This tour immerses guests in that heritage with time in the village of Alter do Chão and a visit to the renowned Alter Stud Farm, founded in 1748.
However, that’s just one of the cultural experiences awaiting on this journey. On a day trip from Alentejo, travelers get to explore traditional olive oil production at an old oil press in hilly Marvão—which, on a clear day, has incredible views of the plains (and even Spain, if you’re lucky). The three-night stay in Lisbon includes a traditional fado performance, which no trip to Portugal would be complete without. And then, of course, there are the cultural interactions that occur throughout the tour.
Savor the Grapes and Local Flavors
This tour also treats travelers to gastronomic inclusions that go beyond your typical restaurant experience.
With a winery tour and tasting, guests can indulge in wines from the Alentejo region and get a look beyond the glass. The first leg of this tour also brings travelers to the only place in the world where Port wine can be legally produced: the Douro Valley. Where better to sip on Port wine with dinner?
The unique culinary inclusions aren’t limited to grapes alone. Travelers get an authentic taste of the local flavors—and local living—during a market visit and home-hosted lunch.
Book Your Small Group Tour to Portugal with Collette
From the Douro River Valley to Lisbon, Portugal’s traditions, customs, sights, and old-world charms await.
Learn more about this Portugal small group tour and its inclusions. Or, if you’re ready to book your Portuguese adventure, contact us or call your travel advisor and ask for Collette.
